School of Future Tech

How to Become a Data Scientist After 12th in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide (Degree, Skills & Roadmap)

ITM Guide

8 min
How to Become a Data Scientist After 12th in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide (Degree, Skills & Roadmap)

How to Become a Data Scientist After 12th? (Quick Overview)

If you’re searching how to become a data scientist after 12th, here’s the clean roadmap: choose the right subjects → pick a relevant degree → learn core tools → build projects → get internships → apply for entry roles.

The data scientist career path after 12th usually starts with a strong base in Maths + logical thinking. After that, you pursue a bachelor’s degree like B.Tech/B.Sc/BCA in a related field. Alongside college, you learn Python, SQL, statistics, and basic machine learning.

The most important part is practice. Projects (like sales prediction or customer analysis) prove your skills better than marks alone. With steady learning and 6–12 months of real project work, you’ll be ready for internships and entry jobs.

These are the real steps to become a data scientist—simple, practical, and achievable.

Who is a Data Scientist & What Do They Do?

A data scientist is someone who uses data to answer business questions and predict future outcomes.

Instead of guessing, companies use data scientists to make informed decisions.

Common responsibilities of a data scientist include:

  • Predicting future sales and demand trends
  • Identifying fraud or unusual behavior in transactions
  • Building recommendation systems (Netflix, Amazon-style)
  • Analyzing customer behavior and preferences
  • Supporting healthcare, finance, and marketing decisions

A data scientist doesn’t just code-they:

  • Understand why data behaves a certain way
  • Choose the right analytical approach
  • Explain insights clearly to non-technical teams

With digital transformation across industries, the data science career in India continues to grow in startups, MNCs, consulting firms, and government projects.

Can You Become a Data Scientist After 12th from Any Stream?

Yes. Data science is open to students from all streams-Science, Commerce, and Arts.

Stream-wise clarity:

  • Science (PCM)
    • Strong advantage due to Maths and logical thinking
    • Easier transition into statistics and machine learning
  • Commerce
    • Ideal if you enjoy numbers, analytics, and business logic
    • Works well with data analysis, SQL, and BI roles
  • Arts
    • Absolutely possible with extra effort
    • Requires focused learning in Maths basics and programming

What actually matters more than stream:

  • Comfort with numbers and patterns
  • Willingness to learn programming
  • Consistent practice through projects
  • Logical and analytical thinking

If you can build these skills, your stream does not limit your data science career.

Step-by-Step Guide: Data Scientist Roadmap After 12th

Introduction

The data scientist roadmap after 12th is not about shortcuts—it’s about building skills in the right order. You start with basics (Maths + logic), add coding, learn how to analyze data, and then move into machine learning. Here’s the data science career path step by step.

Step 1: Choose the Right Stream in 12th

If you can, pick subjects with Maths. Maths helps in statistics, probability, and model thinking. Even if you’re not from PCM, you can still learn Maths basics later - but starting early makes the journey smoother and faster.

Step 2: Pursue a Relevant Bachelor’s Degree

Your data science education path usually begins with a degree like:

  • B.Tech (CSE / Data Science / AI-ML)
  • B.Sc (Data Science / Statistics / CS)
  • BCA (with analytics/data electives)

The “best” option depends on your stream and learning style. The goal is a strong foundation plus practical exposure.

Step 3: Learn Programming & Analytical Tools

Start with Python for data handling and basic ML. Add SQL for databases (used everywhere in real jobs). Learn data analysis with libraries (like pandas) and simple visualization. You don’t need advanced theory first—learn by doing small tasks weekly.

Step 4: Work on Real Projects & Internships

Projects make you job-ready. Build 4–6 solid projects like churn prediction, dashboards, or trend analysis. Then try internships, even small ones, to learn real datasets, deadlines, and teamwork.

Step 5: Certifications / Postgraduate Degree

Certifications can help you specialize. Later, you can consider M.Sc / M.Tech / PG programs for deeper roles, but projects + skills remain the main proof.

Best Courses to Become a Data Scientist After 12th

Choosing the right degree is like choosing the right road—it decides your foundation, internships, and entry roles. The best data science courses after 12th are the ones that teach strong basics and give hands-on practice.

BTech data science is a great option if you want a deep tech pathway. You learn programming, databases, ML basics, and engineering-style problem solving. This often aligns well with product companies and tech roles.

BSc data science is another strong choice, especially if you like statistics, analysis, and structured learning. Many B.Sc programs focus on data concepts, tools, and business interpretation - useful for analyst-to-data scientist growth.

If you want a flexible route, BCA in data science or BCA with analytics is popular. It’s practical and coding-oriented, and works well for students from different streams. Pairing BCA with internships and projects can create strong career outcomes.

You can also consider B.Tech AI & ML if you want a stronger machine learning focus. It’s close to data science, but often leans more toward model-building and AI systems.

Integrated programs (where available) can combine degree + specialization smoothly. In short: pick a degree you can finish strongly, and build skills weekly. That’s how data analytics courses after 12th turn into real jobs.

Skills Required to Become a Data Scientist

The best data scientist skills required are a mix of tools + thinking. A data scientist doesn’t just write code—they solve problems using data.

On the technical side, technical skills for data scientist include:

  • Python to clean, analyze, and model data
  • SQL to pull data from databases (very common in jobs)
  • Statistics to interpret results correctly, not guess
  • Machine Learning basics to build predictions and classifications
  • Visualization tools like Power BI/Tableau to explain insights clearly

But soft skills matter equally. Strong soft skills for data science help you stand out:

  • Communication (explaining findings to non-tech people)
  • Critical thinking (choosing the right approach, not just the fastest)
  • Curiosity (asking better questions from data)

In real jobs, a model is only useful if people understand it and trust it. That’s why skills are not a checklist—they’re what makes your work usable.

Entrance Exams for Data Science Courses After 12th

The entrance exams for data science depend on the degree you choose.

For B.Tech programs, many colleges accept JEE for data science routes (JEE Main), along with state exams like MHT CET and other state engineering tests. Private universities may conduct their own entrance exams too.

For B.Sc programs, CUET for BSc data science is becoming common in many universities. Some colleges also admit through merit, depending on their rules.

In short:

  • B.Tech → JEE / State CET / private university entrance tests
  • B.Sc → CUET / university process
  • BCA → Often merit-based or university-level tests

Always check the college admission page before applying.

How Many Years Does It Take to Become a Data Scientist?

If you’re wondering how long to become data scientist, the realistic answer is: 3–4 years minimum, because most people start with a bachelor’s degree.

The duration of data science course after 12th depends on the program:

  • Degree programs: 3 years (B.Sc/BCA) or 4 years (B.Tech)
  • Certifications: a few weeks to months (for skill boosting)

But job readiness depends on exposure. With consistent projects, internships, and tool practice during college, many students become employable before graduation. Skills + projects decide speed more than the calendar.

Data Scientist Salary in India

Data scientist salary in India varies with skills, degree, internship experience, and location. The bands below are realistic ranges—not guarantees.

Entry-level (0–2 years)

A fresher data scientist salary (or closely related entry roles like data analyst/BI analyst) often starts around ₹4–10 LPA. Strong projects, good SQL + Python, and internships can push you toward the higher end.

Mid-level (3–6 years)

With real business impact and model-building experience, salaries commonly move to ₹12–25 LPA. Roles like Machine Learning Engineer or Senior Analyst also fit here depending on company and complexity.

Senior-level (7+ years)

Senior roles (Lead Data Scientist, ML Architect, Head of Analytics) can go ₹25–50+ LPA, especially in top tech and product companies. These are often the highest paying data science jobs, but they demand leadership + deep experience.

Salary by city (general trend)

  • Bangalore / Hyderabad: Strong tech demand, competitive packages
  • Mumbai / Delhi NCR: Strong BFSI + Consulting + Product Roles
  • Tier-2 cities: Growing demand, slightly lower pay but good growth

Remember: Salary rises faster when you show measurable results through projects and work outcomes.

Career Opportunities After Becoming a Data Scientist

There are multiple data science career opportunities after graduation, and many students enter through nearby roles first.

Common jobs after data science degree include:

  • Data Analyst: Cleans data, builds reports, supports decision-making
  • Business Intelligence Analyst: Creates dashboards, tracks KPIs, tells performance stories
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Builds and deploys ML models into products
  • AI Specialist: Works on model experimentation, automation, and AI use-cases
  • Big Data Engineer: Handles large-scale data pipelines and infrastructure

Simple comparison: Data Analyst vs Data Scientist

A data analyst focuses more on reporting and insights. A data scientist often goes deeper into prediction, modeling, and experimentation. Many professionals grow from analyst → senior analyst → data scientist with the right projects and ML skills.

Is Data Science a Good Career After 12th?

Yes. Data science remains a strong career option in India in 2026, especially for students who enjoy logic and problem-solving.

Why data science has a long-term scope:

  • Used across industries, not just tech
  • Supports AI and automation growth
  • Focuses on decision-making, not trends

Competition is rising, but students with real skills and project experience will always stay ahead.

Why Choose ITM School of FutureTech for Data Science?

If you want structured learning plus practical exposure, ITM School of FutureTech positions its programs around industry readiness. A B.Tech CSE in AI & Data Science at ITM typically focuses on building foundations (coding + data thinking) and then moving into real-world application.

What students usually look for in ITM B.Tech CSE in AI & Data Science admission options:

  • Industry-aligned curriculum with data + AI orientation
  • Emerging tech focus (analytics, ML basics, applied problem solving)
  • Industry projects that build portfolio quality
  • Internship exposure to work with real datasets and deadlines
  • Placement support and interview preparation
  • Modern tech labs for hands-on learning

If you’re searching for the best data science college in Mumbai, evaluate curriculum depth, project quality, internship ecosystem, and placement outcomes. You can explore ITM’s B.Tech CSE in AI & Data Science admissions and program structure to see fitment with your career goals.

FAQs on How to Become Data Scientist After 12th

Is data scientist after 12th PCM easier?

Yes. Maths and logic from PCM help, but projects and coding still matter most.

What is the eligibility for data science after 12th?

Eligibility for data science varies; Maths helps, and most programs accept 12th pass students.

Can I do data science without maths?

Data science without maths is possible, but you must learn basic statistics to grow.

What is the best degree for data scientist?

Best degree for data scientist includes B.Tech CSE/Data Science, B.Sc Data Science, or BCA analytics.

What is entry level data scientist salary India?

Entry level data scientist salary India typically ranges ₹4–10 LPA, depending on skills and internships.

Is coding required for data science?

Yes. Coding required for data science usually includes Python and SQL for real jobs.

Is data science for commerce students possible?

Yes. Data science for commerce students works well with analytics, SQL, and strong problem-solving skills.