How to Become a Scientist
Last updated: April 20, 2026

Becoming a scientist was the dream for many of us during childhood. This article discusses how to make that dream a reality. The term "scientist" was first coined by theologian and philosopher William Whewell. It's a proud and highly honored career. If you're interested in this field and enjoy inventing new things, this post provides complete information on how to become a scientist, including which courses to take.
Everyone dreams of becoming a scientist, but few successfully convert that dream into reality. It requires significant hard work. Becoming a scientist in India is not an easy task, but following the important points mentioned here can set you on the path to becoming a good scientist. Most students decide which career field to pursue after 10th class. If you've also passed 10th, now is the time to plan your next steps.
What to do after 10th if you want to become a Scientist
If you want to become a scientist, you should start preparing from 10th onwards. You must choose the science stream, but selecting your specific field is the most important part. Choose wisely between PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) and PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
What to do after 12th if you want to become a Scientist
After passing 12th class with good marks, you'll have clearer knowledge about your chosen field. You can select subjects like Physics, Mathematics, Biology, Social Science, Geology, or Astronomy for your Bachelor's degree. You can also follow subjects like B.Tech, B.Sc, or B.Pharma according to your interest.
A common question is: what percentage is needed to be a scientist? Or how many marks are required in 12th? No strict criterion is set, but we advise aiming for above 60% marks in your academics.
Degree needed to become a Scientist
It is recommended to pursue a master's degree to become a scientist. A bachelor's degree strengthens your foundation, but a master's degree sharpens your knowledge in your chosen subject. Your master's could be an M.Sc., M.E., or M.Tech, etc., depending on your field. You can also apply for a Ph.D. after obtaining a Master's degree. After your Ph.D., you can apply to various Research Institutes or Labs for higher education and research positions.
Educational Qualification to become a Scientist
To become a scientist, you must choose subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Maths after 10th. Next, you can opt for graduation and post-graduation in these subjects (M.Sc., M.Phil, Ph.D., Engineering, etc.). You can then apply for scientist posts if you meet the requirements.
Age Limit
You can apply at any age, as there is no age limit to become a scientist. You can continue your research even while working in another department and successfully achieve your goal.
How to Become Scientist in ISRO
ISRO stands for Indian Space Research Organization. If you dream of becoming a scientist at ISRO, this section is for you.
First, what is the educational qualification for joining ISRO? You must take admission to IIST (Indian Institute of Space Technology) to become a scientist in ISRO directly. Admission to this institute leads to recruitment by ISRO for the post of Scientist. To take admission in IIST, you must have studied Maths and Science in class 12th.
You can pursue either a 4-year B.Tech degree or a 5-year Dual Degree Program at IIST. You must maintain a 7.5 CGPA, after which ISRO offers you a post based on available vacancies. Almost all IIST students get recruited by ISRO.
Additionally, the Indian Space Research Organization visits top colleges like IIT, IIIT, and NIT every year to interview candidates for scientist posts.
ISRO exam to be a scientist
Every year, ISRO conducts an exam called the 'ICRB' (ISRO Centralized Recruitment Board) Examination. This exam is conducted in three categories:
- Electronic
- Mechanical
- Computer
You can take this exam after completing a Bachelor of Engineering, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Technology. To be eligible, you need at least 65% marks or a CGPA of 6.84 or higher.
Salary of a Scientist
A scientist's salary depends on eligibility, the institution from which the degree was obtained, qualifications, and experience. Scientists typically receive a very good starting salary, ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per month, which increases with time and experience. In the research field today, many scientists are offered packages worth millions annually.







