What kind of education is required to become a space scientist, and how much does it cost after 12th grade?

Space Scientist: If you dream of becoming a scientist at NASA, this news is for you. Let's find out which courses you can pursue and what preparation you need to do.

If you dream of joining the world of space and becoming a space scientist, and want to work in major agencies like NASA or ISRO, then this news is for you. With the right education, the right direction, and consistent hard work, this dream can be fulfilled. Let's understand in simple terms what kind of education is necessary to become a space scientist and how much it might cost after 12th grade.

Preparation for becoming a space scientist begins right after 10th grade. Taking Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in 11th and 12th grade is considered very important. A strong foundation in these subjects provides a solid base for further studies. Special attention should be paid to Physics and Mathematics, as space science is based on these subjects.

After passing 12th grade, students need to pursue a graduation degree in a STEM field, i.e., Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Several options are available. You can pursue a B.Sc. in Physics, followed by an M.Sc. and then a PhD.  Besides this, Astronomy or Astrophysics are also good options.

Students interested in engineering can choose Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, or Computer Science. Today, AI and Data Science also play a significant role in space research, so these courses are also considered quite beneficial.

Having a degree alone is not enough. Becoming a space scientist requires certain specific skills. Students should be proficient in programming languages ​​like Python, C++, or Java. Along with this, problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, the ability to work in a team, and good communication skills are also essential. All these qualities are very useful in any major research project.

NASA and other space agencies periodically conduct internship programs for students. Some of these programs are exclusively for US citizens, but many opportunities are also available to international students.

The cost of studying to become a space scientist depends on where you study. If you pursue engineering at a government college, such as an IIT or NIT, the entire B.Tech course can cost approximately ₹4 to ₹8 lakhs. In private colleges, the same course can cost ₹10 to ₹20 lakhs or even more.

If you pursue courses like B.Sc and M.Sc at a government university, the cost is lower, ranging from approximately ₹1 to ₹4 lakhs. Many institutions offer scholarships for PhD programs, which significantly reduces the cost of education, and in some cases, students even receive a stipend.