What to Study After SEE in Nepal: A Career Guide

Completing the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) is a major turning point in every Nepali student’s life. It’s not just the end of secondary schooling — it’s the beginning of new academic choices, potential career paths, and future aspirations.

However, with numerous options available, the post-SEE phase can feel overwhelming. Should you choose Science or Management? Is Humanities right for you? What about technical and vocational education?

This comprehensive guide is designed to help students and parents make informed decisions based on their interests, aptitudes, and future opportunities in Nepal and beyond.

Understanding the Importance of Your Decision

What you study after SEE lays the foundation for your future education and profession. It determines your higher education options, shapes your skills, and influences your chances in a competitive job market. The choice should align with your passions, strengths, and the evolving demands of the workforce.

Major Streams Available After SEE in Nepal

After SEE, students in Nepal generally choose from the following mainstream educational paths:

• Science Stream

• Management Stream

• Humanities Stream

• Technical and Vocational Education

• Diploma and Certificate Programs

Let’s explore each in detail to help you understand which path best matches your interests and long-term goals.

Science Stream

Why Choose Science?

The Science stream is ideal for students with an interest in logical reasoning, experimentation, and problem-solving. It opens doors to professional fields such as medicine, engineering, agriculture, and information technology.

Subjects Offered

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Biology

• Mathematics

• Computer Science

• English

• Optional subjects depending on the institution

Career Prospects

• Medicine: MBBS, Nursing, BPH, Pharmacy

• Engineering: Civil, Computer, Electrical, Mechanical, Architecture

• IT: Software Development, Data Science, AI, Cybersecurity

• Agriculture and Forestry: B.Sc. Ag, BSc Forestry

• Research and Academia: BSc, BSc CSIT, and M.Sc. programs later

Key Considerations

• Requires strong academic performance in SEE, especially in Math and Science.

• Involves intense study, practical labs, and preparation for competitive entrance exams like MBBS, IOE, B.Sc. Ag., and more.

• Suitable for students aiming for high-demand technical and professional careers.

Management Stream

Why Choose Management?

If you're business-minded, analytical, or interested in entrepreneurship, economics, or finance, the Management stream offers broad flexibility and strong employability.

Subjects Offered

• Accountancy

• Economics

• Business Studies

• Marketing

• Computer Science / Mathematics

• English and Nepali

Career Prospects

• Business Management: BBA, BBM, BBS, MBA

• Finance & Banking: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst, Banker

• Entrepreneurship: Start-ups, SMEs, Online Businesses

• Tourism & Hospitality: BTTM, BHM, Travel Agency Management

Key Considerations

• Suitable for students who prefer practical applications over lab-based science.

• Offers broad career flexibility in Nepal’s growing service and financial sectors.

• Strong scope for students planning to go abroad for business-related education.

Humanities Stream

Why Choose Humanities?

Often underrated, the Humanities is a diverse and rewarding stream for students interested in society, communication, human behavior, arts, and cultural studies.

Subjects Offered

• Sociology

• Psychology

• Political Science

• History

• Rural Development

• Mass Communication and Journalism

• English, Nepali, and other languages

• Law

Career Prospects

• Social Work and Development: BSW, NGO/INGO jobs, Counseling

• Education: Teaching, B.Ed., M.Ed., Training

• Media and Journalism: BJMC, News Reporting, Content Writing

• Public Administration: BA, MA, Lok Sewa Preparation

Key Considerations

• Strong emphasis on reading, writing, analysis, and communication.

• Well-suited for students passionate about social change, advocacy, and education.

• Humanities graduates often succeed in civil service, law, and media sectors.

Technical and Vocational Education

Why Choose Technical Education?

This path is designed for students seeking practical, employment-ready skills and a quicker path to the workforce. These programs focus on real-world technical training rather than academic theory.

Available Programs (Affiliated with CTEVT and other bodies)

• Pre-Diploma and Diploma in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering

• Health programs: CMA, ANM, Lab Technician, Radiography

• Agriculture and Veterinary Science

• Information Technology (Hardware, Networking, Web Design)

• Hospitality and Culinary Arts

Career Prospects

• Engineering Technicians: Site Supervisor, AutoCAD Operator, Maintenance Engineer

• Healthcare Assistants: Lab Technician, ANM, Health Worker

• IT Technicians: Web Developer, IT Support, Networking

• Skilled Jobs Abroad: Especially in the Gulf, Malaysia, and East Asian countries

Key Considerations

• Many programs are offered through government-affiliated institutes under CTEVT.

• Courses range from 1 to 3 years and provide direct job skills.

• Scholarships are often available for students from marginalized communities.

Diploma and Certificate Programs

Why Choose a Diploma or Short-Term Program?

If you want to learn job-ready skills in a shorter time, diploma or certificate programs offer targeted training in specific industries. They can also serve as stepping stones to further education.

Common Fields

• Automobile: Mechanics, Electric Vehicle Repair

• Fashion Design and Tailoring

• Graphic Design and Animation

• Beautician and Cosmetology

• Tourism and Hotel Management

Career Prospects

• Freelance or employment opportunities in creative and service-based sectors.

• Quick pathway to entrepreneurship in sectors like beauty, design, or hospitality.

• Opportunity to expand into degree-level courses or international certifications.

How to Choose the Right Stream After SEE

Making the right decision involves more than simply following trends or succumbing to peer pressure. Here’s a step-by-step framework to guide students and parents.

Step 1: Self-Assessment

Ask yourself:

• What subjects did I enjoy and score well in during school?

• Do I prefer practical or theoretical learning?

• Am I more people-oriented or problem-solving-oriented?

• What are my long-term dreams?

Example: If you’re naturally curious about how machines work, technical education or science might suit you. If you enjoy organizing events or managing money, management could be your path.

Step 2: Explore Career Options

Look beyond just the +2 years. Consider:

• What undergraduate courses become available after this stream?

• What is the job market like for graduates in that field?

• Are there opportunities for study abroad or in Nepal?

Tools: Use official websites like CEHRD, MOEST, CTEVT, TU, KU, and international portals to research higher education opportunities.

Step 3: Talk to Mentors and Seniors

• Career counselors can offer structured guidance.

• Teachers can help assess your academic readiness.

• Seniors and alumni from colleges can share real-life experiences.

Step 4: Attend Educational Fairs and Orientation Programs

Events organized by NEB-affiliated colleges, CTEVT institutions, and scholarship bodies provide information on programs, requirements, scholarships, and campus life.

Tip: Shortlist at least 3–5 institutions or streams before finalizing.

Alternative Options After SEE

For students seeking alternatives outside traditional education:

1. Bridge Courses

Short-term preparation courses in Science, Management, or competitive entrance exams (MBBS, IOE, etc.) that help clarify interest and improve readiness.

2. Skill-Based Courses

Offered by institutions like British Council Nepal, NEFEC, and private training centers focusing on soft skills, public speaking, computer literacy, and design.

3. Online Learning Platforms

Websites like Khan Academy, Coursera, Udemy, and MeroSchool offer introductory courses in IT, business, and more, useful for early career exploration.

Scholarships and Support

Financial concerns should not hold back potential. The Government of Nepal and various organizations offer:

• CTEVT Scholarships for marginalized, rural, and Dalit students

• Local Government Subsidies for +2 education

• INGO/NGO Partnerships providing support for girls and underprivileged students

• Institutional Scholarships based on SEE performance or entrance exams

Final Checklist Before You Decide

- Are you choosing this stream based on interest, not pressure?

- Do you understand the long-term education and career path this leads to?

- Have you explored alternative programs or diploma options?

- Have you consulted a teacher, counselor, or industry expert?

- Are you aware of the scholarships or financial assistance available?

Conclusion

The decision of what to study after SEE is a deeply personal one — and a powerful one. There is no “right” or “wrong” choice. What matters is that your path aligns with your strengths, aspirations, and the real-world possibilities available to you.

Whether you choose Science for innovation, Management for enterprise, Humanities for social impact, or Technical education for hands-on skills, remember — your future is built not just by your choice but by your commitment to learning and growing in that field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the most popular courses after SEE in Nepal?

The most commonly chosen courses are in the Science, Management, and Humanities streams under the NEB curriculum. However, Technical and Vocational Education and Diploma programs offered by institutions like CTEVT are also gaining popularity due to their job-focused nature.

2. Which stream should I choose after SEE for a career in medicine?

To pursue a medical career, you must take the Science stream with Biology as a core subject. This path prepares you for entrance exams for programs such as MBBS, BDS, BSc Nursing, BPharm, and Pharmacy.

3. Can I study IT or computer science without choosing the Science stream?

Yes. While the Science stream offers a deeper technical foundation, many Management and Technical diploma programs also include subjects like Computer Applications, Web Development, and Networking. CTEVT also offers a Diploma in Computer Engineering for SEE graduates.

4. What are the advantages of technical education after SEE?

Technical education focuses on skill-based learning. It allows students to:

• Enter the workforce quickly

• Gain hands-on experience

• Learn job-relevant skills in engineering, health, or IT fields
  This is especially helpful for students seeking employment-oriented education.

5. How long are +2 programs in Nepal?

The Ten Plus Two (10+2) programs affiliated with the National Examinations Board (NEB) span two years, covering Grade 11 and Grade 12. They follow an annual exam system or board-based evaluation in Grade 12.

6. What is the difference between NEB programs and CTEVT programs?

• NEB programs (Science, Management, Humanities) are academic streams leading to bachelor’s degrees.

• CTEVT programs focus on technical and vocational education, offering diplomas and pre-diplomas designed to develop skills and enhance employment opportunities.

7. Are scholarships available for students after SEE?

Yes. Scholarships are offered by:

• Government institutions (based on merit or category)

• CTEVT (targeted at rural, Dalit, and economically disadvantaged students)

• Local municipalities and NGOs 

Many private colleges also provide entrance-based or SEE-grade-based scholarships.

8. Can I switch streams after completing +2?

Generally, it is easier to switch from Science to Management or Humanities at the bachelor's level, but not the other way around. Switching is subject to the entry requirements of the specific bachelor’s program and university.

9. What are some job-ready options after SEE if I can’t study full-time?

If full-time study is not an option, consider:

• Short-term technical training

• Skill development programs (e.g., tailoring, IT support, plumbing, electrical work)

• Diploma and certificate courses through CTEVT, Skill Nepal, or other verified providers

10. How do I choose the right college or institution?

When choosing a college:

• Check affiliation (NEB, CTEVT, or university)

• Review faculty, facilities, and past results

• Visit the college in person, if possible

• Talk to former students or check verified reviews

• Ensure the college is registered and recognized by the relevant education boards