Diploma Courses After 12: Eligibility, Fees & Career Options

Some students want to start their careers early after Class 12.

They look for options that don’t require three or four years in college. Diploma courses after 12 offer that path. These are short-term, skill-focused programs that prepare students for specific jobs in less time.

Why students choose diploma courses after 12:

• Course duration is between 6 months to 2 years
• Lower tuition fees than regular degrees
• Focus on practical training and hands-on learning
• Available in areas like IT, business, design, and healthcare
• Opens doors to jobs or further study abroad

This blog covers everything you need to know — eligibility, course fees, top diploma options, and future career scope. If you're looking for a quicker route to job opportunities or international education, diploma courses after 12 are worth considering.

Check out:

Diploma Courses in USA

Diploma Courses in Australia 

Diploma Courses in Medical Field Abroad

Best Diploma Courses After 12th for Indian Students

Countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, and Germany offer industry-relevant diploma programs that are well-recognized globally.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular diploma courses after 12th in these countries:

Course	Available In	Duration
Business Management	Canada, UK, Australia	1–2 years
Computer Science/IT	Canada, Australia, Germany	1–2 years
Hospitality Management	Canada, Australia, Germany	1–2 years
Engineering Technician	Canada, Germany	2–3 years
Digital Marketing	UK, Canada, Australia	1 year
Nursing/Healthcare	Australia, Germany, UK	2–3 years
Graphic Design	UK, Australia	1–2 years
Travel & Tourism	Canada, UK, Australia	1–2 years
Early Childhood Education	Australia, Canada	1–2 years
Mechatronics/Automobile	Germany, Canada	2–3 years

Note: 

Many of these diploma programs are aligned with skill shortages in these countries — which means better job prospects and a higher chance of getting work permits post-study. 

Read: Complete List of Documents Required to Study Abroad

Note on Eligibility for Indian Students

Most diploma courses abroad accept students directly after Class 12. Here's what Indian students usually need to apply:

• Academic Qualification:
  Completed Class 12 from a recognized board (stream should match the course – science for tech/medical, commerce for business, etc.)
• Language Proficiency:
  • IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall (some programs accept 5.5 in individual bands)
  • TOEFL/PTE scores are also accepted in most countries
  • German A2–B1 level required for many diplomas in Germany (especially Ausbildung courses)
• Documents Required:
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
  • Academic transcripts
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of funds (for visa purposes)
• Extra Tip:
  Some colleges prefer students with at least 60% marks in Class 12, especially in core subjects related to the diploma course.

Check out: Student Visa - Documents Needed, Application Process & More

Top Diploma Courses After 12th in Science, Commerce & Arts

Your stream already gives you a head start. Irrespective of your fields - Science, Commerce, or Arts, there are diploma courses that match your interests, skills, and long-term goals.

Each stream gives access to job-ready programs from top countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, and Germany. 

Summary Table – Diploma Streams Compared

Stream	Best For	Fields	Top Countries	Job-Ready?
Science	Technical and health-focused students	Engineering, IT, Healthcare	Germany, Canada, Australia	Yes
Commerce	Business-minded students	Finance, Business, Marketing	Canada, UK, Australia	Yes
Arts	Creative or service-oriented students	Design, Media, Tourism	UK, Australia, Canada	Yes

Science Stream – Best Diploma Courses After 12th

Who it’s for:

Students who studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Maths and want a career in engineering, healthcare, IT, or science-backed industries.

These diploma courses are packed with hands-on training and industry exposure — ideal for those who enjoy practical work and problem-solving.

Top Courses:

Course	Duration	Career Roles	Top Countries
Mechanical Engineering	2–3 years	Technician, Junior Engineer	Germany, Canada
Computer Science	1–2 years	IT Support, Software Testing	Canada, UK
Radiology	2 years	X-Ray Tech, Imaging Assistant	UK, Australia
Medical Lab Tech	2 years	Lab Assistant, Path Lab Tech	UK, Germany
Biotechnology	2 years	Lab Research, Clinical Trials	Canada, Germany
Nursing	2–3 years	Nurse Assistant, Elder Care	Australia, Germany

Tips:

• Germany’s vocational programs (Ausbildung) include paid training
• Healthcare diplomas abroad often lead to PR routes
• Some programs require science subjects + minimum marks

Read: Top Career Options After 12th Science

Commerce Stream – Best Diploma Courses After 12th

Who it’s for:
Students from Accounts, Business Studies, or Economics background. Perfect for those interested in business operations, money management, and hospitality.

Commerce diplomas are job-oriented and widely accepted in business-driven economies like Canada and the UK.

Top Courses:

Course	Duration	Career Roles	Top Countries
Business Administration	1–2 years	Executive, Business Support	UK, Canada
Accounting & Finance	1–2 years	Accountant, Payroll Clerk	Australia, Canada
Banking & Insurance	1.5 years	Bank Teller, Insurance Advisor	UK, Canada
Digital Marketing	1 year	SEO Specialist, Content Marketer	UK, Canada
Hotel Management	2 years	Front Office Exec, F&B Manager	Australia, Switzerland

Tips:

• Opt for co-op or internship-based diplomas for better job exposure
• Canada’s 2-year programs can help with 3-year post-study work visas
• Choose a course that links well with your 12th subjects for easier admission

Arts Stream – Best Diploma Courses After 12th

Who it’s for:
Students from Humanities, Fine Arts, or Social Science background. Ideal for those with creative thinking, communication skills, or an interest in service industries.

These courses are skill-based and allow quick entry into creative and client-facing careers.

Top Courses:

Course	Duration	Career Roles	Top Countries
Graphic Design	1–2 years	Visual Designer, Illustrator	UK, Australia
Fashion Design	2 years	Fashion Assistant, Stylist	Italy, Australia
Mass Communication	1.5 years	Reporter, Content Writer	UK, Australia
Event Management	1 year	Event Planner, PR Coordinator	Canada, UK
Travel & Tourism	1–2 years	Travel Consultant, Tour Operator	Australia, Canada

Tips:

• Portfolios matter for design programs – start building one early
• Language skills help in tourism and hospitality diplomas
• Internships boost your global exposure and resume

Can Also Check Out: List of Best Courses after 12th Arts 2024

Diploma Courses After 12th: Fees & Cost Breakdown

Studying abroad costs money. While tuition is one part., living costs add up fast too. If you're planning to take up diploma courses after 12th, being aware of the full cost helps avoid last-minute stress.

Here’s a country-wise division of fees and expenses Indian students should expect.

Tuition Fees – Country-Wise

Country	Average Tuition (per year)
Canada	CAD 13,000–20,000 (₹8–12 lakh)
UK	GBP 10,000–15,000 (₹10–15 lakh)
Australia	AUD 12,000–22,000 (₹7–13 lakh)
Germany	€0–3,000 (₹0–2.5 lakh)

Tip: Most diploma programs in Canada and Australia offer strong job links. The UK has shorter course durations but higher tuition. Germany has some of the most affordable options, especially for technical diplomas.

Tuition Fees by Course Type

Costs vary depending on what you choose to study. Here’s a course-wise estimate based on popular streams:

Course Type	Avg. Tuition Range (per year)
Business, Hospitality	₹7–10 lakh
IT, Computer Science	₹8–12 lakh
Engineering, Trades	₹9–13 lakh
Healthcare, Nursing	₹10–15 lakh
Design & Media	₹9–14 lakh

Tip: Engineering and healthcare programs often charge extra for lab access. Design students may need to buy software or tools separately.

What Affects Tuition Fees?

Two students applying for similar courses in the same country may still pay different fees. These are the factors:

• Type of College: Private colleges usually charge more than public ones
• Location: Colleges in metro cities or capital regions cost more
• Course Duration: 2-year diplomas cost more than 1-year fast-track programs
• Special Facilities: Courses with labs, workshops, or practical training may add extra charges
• Student Status: International students always pay more than locals

Payment Options for Tuition Fees

Most colleges abroad offer flexible fee payment plans. But some parts of the fee are fixed at the time of admission and visa.

Things to Know:

• First-year tuition must be paid upfront to get your student visa
• Semester-wise payment is common for 2-year diploma programs
• Monthly payments are allowed in some private colleges but may include extra charges
• Germany has low or no tuition but may require block account deposits to show financial proof

Living Expenses – Monthly

Country	Monthly Living Cost	What It Covers
Canada	₹60,000–₹90,000	Rent, food, transport, phone
UK	₹80,000–₹1,00,000	Housing, meals, travel
Australia	₹70,000–₹95,000	Shared living, groceries, local commute
Germany	₹50,000–₹75,000	Dorms, meals, insurance

Tip: Shared housing lowers monthly costs. Student ID cards in Germany cover public transport.

Total Annual Cost (Tuition + Living)

Country	Estimated Yearly Cost
Canada	₹16–22 lakh
UK	₹18–24 lakh
Australia	₹16–23 lakh
Germany	₹5–10 lakh

Other Expenses

• Visa Fee: ₹9,000–₹20,000
• Health Insurance: ₹25,000–₹60,000/year
• Flight Ticket (One-way): ₹40,000–₹90,000
• Books & Personal Costs: ₹50,000–₹1,00,000/year

So, How Do You Choose?

• Canada: Balanced cost, part-time jobs, easy visa rules
• UK: High cost, fast-track courses, strong industry tie-ups
• Australia: Similar to Canada, work rights depend on course duration
• Germany: Cheapest overall, language barrier exists, great for technical fields

Top Countries for Diploma Courses After 12th

Where you study matters. The right country can give you better training, work opportunities, and long-term career options. 

Here’s what you need to know before choosing a destination.

Criteria	Canada	UK	Australia	Germany
Work During Study	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited (depends)
Post-Study Work Visa	Up to 3 years	2 years	Up to 2 years	18 months
PR Possibility	Strong	Moderate	Strong	Strong (skilled roles)
Language Requirement	IELTS	IELTS	IELTS	German (A2–B1)/IELTS
Tuition Fee	Moderate	High	Moderate	Low/Free
Best For	IT, Healthcare, Trades	Design, Media, Business	Construction, Childcare, Nursing	Engineering, Technical Skills

Canada

Canada is a leading choice for Indian students. Its colleges offer job-ready diploma programs, and students are allowed to work while they study.

• Course Duration: 1–2 years
• Part-Time Work: Allowed during study (20 hours/week)
• Post-Study Work Visa: Up to 3 years (for 2-year diplomas)
• In-Demand Fields: IT, healthcare, hospitality, business, and skilled trades

Visa Requirements: Requires GIC (₹6–7 lakh) as proof of funds. Public colleges under DLI (Designated Learning Institution) are eligible for post-study work permits. A clear SOP and academic documents are needed.

United Kingdom

The UK offers short diploma courses with good industry links. Students often choose the UK for business, design, or social care programs.

• Course Duration: 1–2 years
• Part-Time Work: Allowed
• Post-Study Work Visa: 2 years (Graduate Route)
• Popular Fields: Digital marketing, media, business, and healthcare

Visa Requirements: A CAS letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is mandatory. Funds must be shown for at least 9 months of living expenses. Personal Statement required instead of SOP.

Australia

Australian diplomas are hands-on and match the skills employers need. Many lead to jobs in areas that also offer permanent residency pathways.

• Course Duration: 1–2 years
• Part-Time Work: Up to 24 hours/week
• Post-Study Work Visa: Up to 2 years
• Popular Fields: Nursing, construction, IT, early childhood education

Visa Requirements: You must submit a GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement that explains your intent to study and return. Interview or extra documents may be needed for high-risk countries.

Germany

Germany is known for its training-focused diploma system, especially the Ausbildung model, which includes paid work during the course.

• Course Duration: 2–3 years
• Work Options: Paid apprenticeships included
• Post-Study Work Option: 18-month job search visa
• Popular Fields: Engineering, IT, manufacturing, nursing, hospitality

Visa Requirements: Most diploma programs are in German. Need A2–B1 level certification. A blocked account (~€11,000) is required to show financial proof. Some programs accept IELTS for English-taught diplomas.

Admission Process for Diploma Courses Abroad

Unlike full degree programs, most diploma courses have fewer steps and quicker timelines. Still, you’ll need to meet the basic requirements and follow each country’s admission process carefully.

Here’s how Indian students can apply for diploma courses after 12.

Step-by-Step Admission Process

Step	What You Need to Do	Important Notes
1. Choose a Course & Country	Select a diploma based on your stream (Science, Commerce, Arts) and career goals	Check course duration, fees, work rights, and visa policies
2. Check Eligibility	Make sure you meet academic and language requirements	Most countries ask for Class 12 completion and IELTS 5.5–6.0
3. Shortlist Colleges	Pick 3–5 colleges based on location, cost, and job outcomes	Public colleges are preferred for work visa eligibility
4. Prepare Documents	Gather marksheets, passport, SOP, LORs, IELTS/PTE/TOEFL scores	Germany may require German language proof
5. Submit Application	Apply through the college website or through authorized agents	Some colleges charge an application fee
6. Wait for Offer Letter	If accepted, you’ll receive a conditional or unconditional offer	Read the offer letter carefully before accepting
7. Pay Initial Tuition Fee	Most colleges ask for 1st semester or 1st year fee	Payment receipt is required for visa application
8. Arrange Finances	Show proof of funds in a bank account or GIC (varies by country)	Blocked account required in Germany
9. Apply for Student Visa	Fill visa form, book biometrics, attend interview if required	Submit all documents carefully
10. Book Flight & Prepare for Travel	Once visa is approved, arrange travel and accommodation	Check health insurance, currency exchange, and document copies

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Start the process at least 6–9 months before your preferred intake
• Double-check visa timelines to avoid last-minute issues
• Write a clear, honest SOP that explains your goals
• Keep digital and physical copies of all documents
• Track deadlines for both college admission and visa filing

Scholarships for Indian Students Pursuing a Diploma Abroad

While most full scholarships are offered for degree programs, there are several partial scholarships and support schemes available for diploma students—especially at public colleges and through government partnerships.

Here’s a list to help Indian students find and apply for scholarships for diploma courses abroad.

Government Scholarships for Indian Students

Scholarship Name	Covers	Eligibility
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)	Tuition, living, visa, and travel expenses	For SC, ST, and minority students pursuing diplomas in listed fields
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation	Tuition + living (partial)	Strong academic record + admission from a reputed institution
J. N. Tata Endowment Fund	Partial tuition loans (low-interest)	Based on academic merit + financial need
State-Specific Schemes	Tuition support or partial aid	Some states offer support under minority, merit, or backward class categories

University and College-Specific Scholarships

Many colleges abroad offer scholarships to international students, including those in diploma programs. These are usually based on academic merit, entrance scores, or student need.

Country	Scholarship Examples	Who Can Apply
Canada	Humber College Entrance Scholarship, Seneca International Student Scholarship	Indian students applying for 1–2 year diplomas
UK	Chevening is not available for diplomas, but colleges like Leeds, UWE, and Coventry offer partial merit scholarships	Students with strong Class 12 results
Australia	TAFE Queensland International Scholarship, South Australia VET Scholarships	Students enrolling in vocational diplomas
Germany	Most diplomas are low-cost; DAAD rarely applies to diploma courses	Need to explore individual state-level aid if any

Tip: Public colleges and polytechnic institutions are more likely to offer entry-level scholarships or tuition discounts than private ones.

Financial Aid for Living Expenses

• Part-time work: Most countries allow 20–24 hours/week work during study
• Earn & Learn programs: Some colleges offer paid internships or co-op modules
• Subsidized accommodation: Student housing is often cheaper than renting privately
• Discounts with Student ID: Transport, food, software tools, and more

How to Apply for Scholarships

1. Check the college website: Look for “Financial Aid” or “Scholarships for International Students”
2. Apply early: Some scholarships close before the admission deadline
3. Prepare the documents:
   • Class 12 marksheets
   • SOP or essay explaining your need and goals
   • Letter of recommendation (if required)
   • Proof of admission (offer letter)
4. Track deadlines separately: Scholarship applications often have different timelines than the main course application

Career Opportunities After Diploma Courses

The future after diploma courses after 12 depends on the field you choose and the country you study in. Many students start working soon after their diploma. Others continue with an advanced diploma or degree.

Here’s what you can expect after completing a diploma:

Job Roles After Diploma (Field-wise)

Field of Study	Common Job Roles
Computer Science/IT	IT Support, Web Developer, Technical Assistant
Engineering & Trades	Junior Engineer, CAD Designer, Maintenance Technician
Healthcare & Nursing	Nursing Assistant, Medical Lab Technician, Patient Care Worker
Hospitality & Tourism	Hotel Staff, Front Office Executive, Travel Coordinator
Business & Management	Office Admin, Sales Assistant, Operations Support
Creative Fields	Graphic Designer, Media Assistant, Fashion Trainee

Salary Expectations

Salaries depend on your field, location, and job role. Here's an estimated range for diploma graduates at entry level:

Country	Avg. Salary After Diploma
Canada	CAD 35,000–50,000/year (₹21–30 lakh)
UK	GBP 18,000–25,000/year (₹18–25 lakh)
Australia	AUD 40,000–55,000/year (₹23–32 lakh)
Germany	€28,000–40,000/year (₹25–35 lakh)

Source: Glassdoor

Note: Technical, healthcare, and IT fields often pay more than hospitality, business, or creative sectors at entry level.

What You Can Study After a Diploma

Many students continue their studies after diploma to grow their skills or improve job options.

Further Study Options:

• Advanced Diploma (1-year add-on) – Offered in Canada, Australia, and the UK
• Bachelor’s Degree – Many colleges allow diploma holders to join the second or third year
• Short Certifications – In areas like software, business tools, or communication
• In India – Appear for lateral entry exams (JELET, LEET, ECET) to move into engineering or technical degrees

Tip: Choose a diploma from a government-recognized or public college. It gives better value and more chances for work and study later.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Choose the Right Diploma Course

There are too many options, different rules in every country, and tight deadlines. upGrad Abroad helps you sort it out.

Here’s what we do:

• Access to simple, reliable blogs written for Indian students — covering everything from course fees to visa interviews
  • Choose the right course and college based on your marks, stream, and career goals
  • Shortlist countries that fit your budget and offer strong job prospects
  • Get information on scholarships and part-time work rules
• Connect you with experts for 1:1 support whenever you need it

Whether you want to study business in Canada, hospitality in Australia, or IT in Germany—our team will help you plan it the right way.

Ready to apply? Speak to an upGrad Abroad counsellor today.