You’ve just walked out of your 10th boards, probably relieved—and maybe a little dazed. Before you can even exhale, boom! The big, looming question hits: "Which stream should I choose now?" Science? Commerce? Humanities? Your relatives have already declared, “Take Science. It's the only serious option!” Your friends whisper, “Commerce is easier, bro.” Meanwhile, the artsy kid says, “People are sleeping on Humanities—it’s the future!” Sound familiar? Let’s cut through the noise. No clichés. No bias. Just facts, trends, and a real-world look at what your choice actually means in 2025 and beyond.

Let’s Compare—Stream by Stream

Factor Science (PCM/PCB) Commerce Humanities (Arts)
Difficulty High (Brace yourself) Moderate Flexible (But not a free ride)
Top Careers Engineering, AI, Doctor, Space Scientist CA, MBA, Marketing, Fintech Law, Civil Services, Journalism, Psychology
Entrance Exams JEE, NEET, IAT, NEST CA Foundation, IPMAT CLAT, UPSC, CUET
Starting Salary ₹5–10 LPA (Varies widely) ₹4–8 LPA ₹3–6 LPA (Big upside in niche fields)
Government Jobs? Yes—ISRO, DRDO, BARC Banking, SSC, CGL UPSC, Teaching, PSUs

1. Science – For the Builders, Dreamers, and Problem-Solvers

Go for it if:
  • You genuinely enjoy subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Math or Biology. 
  • You’re fascinated by how things work—from atoms to AI. 
  • You can handle the pressure of high-stakes exams like JEE, NEET, or IAT. 
Top Careers in 2025:
  • AI/ML Scientist – ₹10–25 LPA (Yes, that’s real.) 
  • Doctor (MBBS) – ₹8–15 LPA (Once you survive med school!) 
  • Space Scientist (ISRO) – ₹12–20 LPA (Cosmic, right?) 
Reality Check: It’s not for the faint-hearted. Science is tough—mentally, emotionally, and financially. Coaching classes, relentless competition, burnout... it’s a package deal. But if you're built for it, the payoff can be out of this world.

2. Commerce – For the Strategists, Hustlers, and Number Crunchers

Choose Commerce if:
  • You enjoy understanding how money moves—through markets, brands, or banks. 
  • You’re into subjects like Business Studies, Accounts, and Economics. 
  • You're okay grinding through exams like CA, CMA, or CS. 
Top Careers in 2025:
  • Chartered Accountant (CA) – ₹12–20 LPA (If you crack it—pass rate is brutal) 
  • Investment Banker – ₹10–30 LPA (Stress + spreadsheets = 💰) 
  • Digital Marketer – ₹5–15 LPA (Data + creativity = growth rocket) 
Reality Check: Everyone says Commerce is easy. Spoiler alert: it’s not. Especially if you’re aiming for the top-tier roles. Math still matters. And CA? Only the persistent survive.

3. Humanities – For the Curious, the Creative, and the Change-makers

Pick this if:
  • You find joy in History, Politics, Psychology, Literature, or Philosophy. 
  • You dream of becoming a civil servant, writer, lawyer, or public policy expert. 
  • You prefer exploring over memorizing. 
Top Careers in 2025:
  • IAS/IPS Officer (UPSC) – ₹10–18 LPA + perks + power. 
  • Lawyer (Corporate/Constitutional) – ₹7–20 LPA (Debate team kids, unite!) 
  • Journalist / Content Creator – ₹4–15 LPA (Media is morphing fast!) 
Reality Check: Yes, the starting pay can be lower. And sure, people still say, “Arts? What’s the point?” But in 2025? Creativity, storytelling, empathy—these are the new gold. Humanities opens doors in ways you won’t see until you’re halfway through.

What’s Hot in the 2025 Job Market?

  • Science: AI, biotech, clean energy, and quantum computing are hiring like crazy. 
  • Commerce: Fintech, e-commerce, and global marketing roles are exploding. 
  • Humanities: Psychology, policy, and digital media are rising like wildfires. 

Not Sure What to Pick? Ask Yourself:

  • What subjects make me forget time? 
  • Do I want a clear roadmap or an open field to explore? 
  • Am I ready to compete at a national level (like JEE or UPSC)? 
  • How much does salary matter to me in the first few years? 
You’re not just picking a stream. You’re choosing a lens to see the world through for the next few years—and maybe your whole life.

A Quick Note From SciAstra

Hey, if Science is your calling and you want to pursue research, we’ve got your back. At SciAstra, we mentor curious minds aiming to crack IAT, NEST, and get into top-tier institutes like IISER, NISER, CEBS, ICAR, CMI, and more. Our team of mentors is actual researchers from places like IISC, ISI, IACS—basically, people who’ve walked the path and know the way. Want to prep smart with live sessions, doubt-solving, mocks, and killer study material?

To know more about us, click here OR download the SciAstra App from Play Store or App Store!