Best Career Options after Class 12th Commerce in 2025

Introduction

Choosing the right career options after 12th commerce for students is vital in shaping their career ahead. There is a plethora of options available. But how do you navigate and choose the right course to set yourself on the path of success in 2025 and beyond?

To those who are looking for career options in commerce without maths, fields like digital marketing, business, management and law provide excellent opportunities.

Students exploring career options for commerce with maths can pursue finance, investment banking, data analytics, and accounting.

Demand for commerce in future

Indian economy is on a growth trajectory and with this significant growth, comes an increase in demand for professionals with a strong foundation in commerce. From MNC’s to Start ups, all require skilled professionals - to manage their finances, strategize their growth and ensure efficient operations.

How to choose the right course after 12th commerce?

Identify your interest and aptitude:

You need to identify your interest and aptitude to choose the right course for you. Which are the subjects you enjoy the most? Are you fascinated by numbers, business strategies, law or design? Identifying your interests to determine your course can lead you to a fulfilling career path.

Take our FREE Career assessment test linked below to identify your interests:
FREE Career assessment test

Consider Future demand:

Research future demand for the courses you are planning to take up. Will the course be relevant 10 years down the line? Choosing a course with strong growth opportunity will increase your career security.

Talk to Professionals and Seniors:

Take advice from career counsellors, alumni and professionals currently working in the field that interests you. This can give you clear insights about their first-hand experience in the field.

Think about your long-term goals:

Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years. Do you see yourself studying abroad, doing a desk job, starting your own business or freelancing. Your long-term goals should influence your decisions today.

Here are Top Career options after 12th Commerce with Eligibility, duration, and expected salary:

1. Chartered Accountant

Becoming a Chartered accountant is one of the most prestigious careers in the commerce field. A Chartered accountant work encompasses Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, Costing and financial management.
Eligibility: You can enrol for the CA Foundation course after 12th, followed by Intermediate and Final levels. You can directly attempt for Intermediate exams if you decide to pursue CA after graduation.
Duration: Typically, 3-4 years, depending on preparation and exam completion.
Salary: Starting salaries generally range from ₹6-8 LPA, with substantial growth based on experience.

2. Company Secretary

The role of Company secretary has been a respected role within the corporate landscape. Company secretary's operator as advisors for board of directors ensuring that companies operate within legal frameworks, compliance and adhere to best practices in corporate governance.
Eligibility: Students can enrol for the CS Foundation course after completing their 12th grade in commerce.
Duration: Usually, 3-5 years depending on preparation and exam completion.
Salary: Freshers generally earn ₹5-6 LPA, with potential for higher earnings with increased expertise.

3. Chartered Financial Analyst

CFA’s have a deep understanding of advance investment analysis, portfolio management, and wealth planning. They are highly sought-after by financial institutions and corporations. To become a CFA, you need to undertake a three-level examination conducted by the CFA Institute, including relevant work experience.
Eligibility: Students can enrol for the CS Foundation course after completing their 12th grade in commerce.
Duration: Usually, 3-5 years depending on preparation and exam completion.
Salary: Freshers generally earn ₹5-6 LPA, with potential for higher earnings with increased expertise.

4. Cost and Management Accountancy (CMA)

A CMA analyses costs, prepares budgets and acts as a advisory to company to improve their financial performance. CMA help organizations to minimize costs based on financial data and achieve strategic goals
Eligibility:
• Foundation: Passed Class 10th.
• Intermediate: Passed CMA Foundation OR Graduation in any discipline (except Fine Arts).
• Final: Passed CMA Intermediate and completed practical training (currently 15 months)
Duration: 3-4 years after Class 12th if candidate successfully clears exams at each level. Graduates can complete it in around 2.5 years.
Starting Salary: ₹4 - ₹8 Lakhs per year after clearing all exams (can be ₹3 - ₹6 LPA after clearing a few stages).

5. Actuarial Science

Actuarial science is a profession that involves applying mathematics and statistical principles to understand probability of financial risks in finance, pension and insurance industries. Actuaries play a big role in designing and pricing insurance policies, ensuring the financial stability of organizations, and advising on risk management strategies.
Eligibility: Post 12th grade - pass from any stream with 50%
Duration: 3 years
Salary: 3-5 lakhs per annum

6. Graphic Designing

Graphic designers create visual concepts and design layouts to communicate ideas and captivate consumers. Their work involves creating logos, websites, marketing materials, and working closely with the marketing team.
Eligibility: No strict degree needed, but a Bachelor's in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or related field is common. You need to have a strong portfolio. It is important to have knowledge of important tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Figma
Starting Salary: ₹2.5 Lakhs to ₹4 Lakhs per annum (can vary a lot based on skills, portfolio, and company).
Course Duration: Bachelor's: 3-4 years; Learning new software and keeping pace with industry trends is important.

7. Aviation Management

Aviation Management involves the operations of airlines, airports, and related businesses. Employees in this field handle flight operations, safety regulation, ground services, and customer services.
Eligibility: A pass in 12th from any stream with 50%
Duration: 3 years
Salary: 3-8 LPA

8. Travel and Tourism Management - BCom Tourism & Travel Management

In travel and tourism management industry, people manage operations in the hospitality and travel business. They handle travel agencies, tour operations, customer satisfaction, hotels, attractions, marketing, and destinations.
Eligibility: A minimum requirement is to have completed Class 12 from a recognized board.
Salary: Starting salaries for graduates can range from INR 3 to 6 LPA, with potential for growth as they gain experience.
Course duration: B.Com in Tourism and Travel Management programs typically span 3 to 4 years.

9. Bachelor of UX/UI Design

A Bachelor of UX/UI Design program provides a solid foundation in developing user-friendly digital experiences for users. The course curriculum focuses on key areas such as design fundamentals, user research, prototyping, wireframing and usability testing. This equips students with the necessary skills to create engaging, intuitive interfaces for a wide range of digital platforms.
Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream), possibly entrance exams.
Duration: 3 to 4 years.
Salary: ₹3 LPA – ₹6 LPA for freshers

10. Law

Students who are interested in the legal field can pursue an integrated 5-year LLB. This degree allows students to practice law and work in various legal fields, such as corporate law, litigation, and legal advisory roles.
Eligibility: Minimum 50% marks in 12th grade.
Duration: 5 years.
Salary: Starting salaries are typically between ₹4-6 LPA

11. BBA/BMS

BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) or BMS (Bachelor of Management Studies) is an undergraduate program that prepares students for careers in business management and administration. The program focuses on providing knowledge of management principles, organizational behaviour, economics, marketing, finance, and business strategies, making graduates ready for roles in various industries.
Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream), entrance exams may apply.
Duration: 3 years.
Salary: ₹3 LPA – ₹6 LPA (freshers), ₹7 LPA – ₹12 LPA (mid-level)

12. B.Com

B.Com is a three-year undergraduate program that provides a strong foundation in accounting principles, financial analysis, taxation, and auditing. The B.Com in Accounting and Finance is one of the best courses after 12th commerce with good salary potential. It opens doors to a wide range of career paths in accounting firms, financial institutions, corporations, and even government agencies.
Eligibility: 10+2, preferably with a commerce stream, with an aggregate score of 50%
Duration: 3 years
Salary: 3.5 - 6 LPA for freshers

13. Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM)

Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) is the best course for Students who are interested in the hospitality, tourism, and hotel industry can pursue Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM). Students learn operations, customer service, and event management.
Eligibility: Students must have completed their class 12 (or equivalent) from a recognized board or university. Most colleges require a minimum aggregate of 50% to 60% marks in the qualifying examination. Some colleges also have specific requirements like English as a core subject
Duration: 3-4 years
Salary: ₹5-12 Lakh per annum

14. Digital Marketing

Today most businesses depend heavily on digital marketing to increase their online presence and improve their growth and success. Students can pursue the BBA in Digital Marketing. It helps you to learn and manage effective digital marketing campaigns.
Students can learn about various digital marketing tools and techniques like Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing etc
Eligibility: A pass in 12th from any stream with 50%
Duration: 3 years
Salary: 3-5 LPA

FAQ

Q1. What are the best career options after 12th Commerce in 2025?
After 12th Commerce, top career options include Chartered Accountancy (CA), Company Secretary (CS), CFA, and BBA. Students can also pursue Law, Economics, or Management courses. Creative fields like UX/UI Design, Digital Marketing, and Journalism are growing. Travel & Tourism and Aviation Management are also popular. These careers offer both growth and global opportunities.

Q2. Which careers can I choose if I don’t have Maths in Commerce?
Even without Maths, Commerce students have many options like BBA, BMS, B.Com, CS, Law and Mass Communication are good choices too. Creative fields such as Graphic Design, Content Writing, and Digital Marketing suit non-Maths students well. Travel & Tourism and Hotel Management also don’t need Maths. These careers focus more on communication, management, and creativity.

Q3. What are some high salary careers after 12th Commerce?
High-paying careers include Chartered Accountancy, CFA, and Law. Experienced CAs and CFAs can earn ₹10+ lakhs per year. Cost Accountants and Management professionals are also well paid. UI/UX Designers and Digital Marketers can earn big in tech firms. With skills and experience, Commerce offers great salary growth.

Q4. What should I consider before choosing a course after 12th Commerce?
Students should consider their interests, strengths, and long-term career goals. Research job trends and salary prospects for different fields. Talk to mentors, career counsellors, or industry experts. Think about work-life balance and job locations. Choose a course that matches both passion and potential.

Q5. Is Commerce a good stream for future jobs in 2025?
Yes, Commerce is a strong stream with rising job demand in business, finance, and tech. It offers careers in accounting, management, marketing, and law. With digital growth, e-commerce and fintech have increased opportunities. Skilled commerce graduates are needed globally. The stream is future-ready and versatile.