Career guides · Medicine

How to become a Nurse

Nurses look after patients through the day and night: giving medicines, checking how they are and noticing when something changes. They are the people in a hospital that patients see most.

The route from Class 10

  1. Class 10
    Choose your stream
  2. Class 11–12
    Science (PCB)

    In Class 11–12, take the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry & Biology (PCB).

  3. After Class 12
    NEET-UGState entrance tests

    It depends on the state and the college: some use NEET-UG marks, others their own state test. AIIMS runs its own exam for its nursing colleges.

  4. Then
    Study, skills and first job

    Set out step by step in the Career Blueprint.

  5. Where this path leads
    Nurse

What the work involves

  • Checking patients and recording their condition
  • Giving medicines, injections and dressings
  • Supporting doctors and explaining care to families

You might enjoy it if

  • You like looking after people
  • You stay calm and practical in a crisis
  • You are fine with shift work, including nights

Is it right for you?

This page is the same for every student. The free Career Sketch looks at your interests, personality and learning style, and shows the career that matches you best. It takes about 20 minutes.

Take the free Career Sketch

Still choosing a stream? Compare all four in the Stream Matrix, or talk it through with a counsellor.

Also check

DoctorPhysiotherapistPharmacistAll career guides

Exam rules checked October 2026. They change from year to year, so confirm with the official body before you apply.