2024 Board Exams: More girls cleared Class 12 in science stream than in arts

By | June 19, 2025

More Girls Cleared Science Than Arts in 2024 Class 12 Exams

In a major academic trend this year, more girls passed the Class 12 science stream than the arts stream, according to data from the 2024 board exams. Traditionally, arts has seen higher female enrollment, but this year marks a clear shift in academic preferences among young women.

📊 Key Highlights

  • Science Stream: Over 52% of science stream pass-outs were girls.
  • Arts Stream: Around 49% of students who cleared the arts stream were girls.
  • The number of female science students surpassed female arts students for the first time in several boards.

This trend indicates a growing inclination among girls toward science, technology, engineering, and medical (STEM) fields.

🔍 Why the Shift?

1. Career-Focused Mindset

Science offers multiple lucrative career paths like medicine, engineering, biotechnology, and research. The growing awareness of these options has driven more girls to choose the stream early on.

2. Government and NGO Support

Initiatives like:

  • Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
  • INSPIRE Scholarships
  • KVPY Fellowships
  • Local state incentives for girls in STEM
    have contributed to increased enrollment and performance.

3. Changing Social Mindsets

Families are increasingly supportive of daughters pursuing science-based careers. The old gender stereotypes that labeled science as a “male stream” are gradually disappearing.

4. Role Models in Science

Women like ISRO’s rocket scientists, Nobel laureates, and tech leaders have inspired the next generation of girls. Visibility matters — and it’s helping.

🧠 Expert Opinions

Dr. Anjali Mehta, Educationist, said:

“This is a reflection of societal change. Girls are no longer being steered into traditional streams like arts or commerce. They are confidently choosing science and succeeding.”

Prof. Kumud Singh, BHU, added:

“While this shift is welcome, we must not undervalue arts. All disciplines matter, and students should feel free to choose based on passion, not perception.”

📍 Regional Trends

  • Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi led with the highest female pass percentage in science.
  • Rajasthan and Maharashtra also showed notable growth in girls opting for science.
  • In states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, arts still sees higher female enrollment, but the science numbers are catching up.

🎓 Future Implications

The long-term impact of this trend could include:

  • More women in STEM colleges and research roles
  • Greater diversity in traditionally male-dominated fields like engineering and AI
  • A possible decline in female enrollment in arts, unless balanced educational counseling is offered

However, this shift must be seen as expansion, not replacement. Both science and arts are vital for societal growth.

🏁 Conclusion

The 2024 board results mark a historic moment in India’s academic landscape. More girls are choosing and excelling in science, breaking old patterns and setting new benchmarks. As this trend continues, it not only transforms classrooms but also reshapes the future workforce of the country.

The rise of girls in science is not just a number — it’s a symbol of equal opportunity and changing mindsets.