Which Subjects Are Required in 11th/12th to Become a News Anchor?
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20262 min read
Quick Summary
Eligibility: Any Stream (50% Min) | Path: BJMC/BA Journalism
There are no specific mandatory subjects in 11th or 12th grade to become a news anchor; students from any stream—Arts, Commerce, or Science—are eligible. Success depends on pursuing a Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) or similar media degree after 12th grade, focusing on communication, current affairs, and camera presence.
Many students mistakenly believe that studying Humanities or English Literature is a strict prerequisite for a career in news anchoring. In reality, Indian media houses and top journalism schools prioritize skill over stream-specific subjects. Whether you are a Science student with a knack for analytical reporting or an Arts student with a flair for creative storytelling, you are eligible for the top BJMC programs in the country.
While no specific stream is required, developing a strong foundation in the following areas during your school years will provide a competitive edge:
• English and Hindi Proficiency: Essential for clear articulation and script reading.
• General Knowledge: Keeping up with current affairs, politics, and global events.
• Public Speaking: Participating in debates, elocution, and school presentations.
• Digital Literacy: Basic familiarity with video editing and social media content creation.
Key Points for Students
- ✓No mandatory stream requirement (Arts/Commerce/Science accepted).
- ✓Minimum 50% aggregate in 10+2 is the standard institutional benchmark.
- ✓Strong command over language and current affairs is more valuable than academic subjects.
After completing your 12th grade, the standard professional pathway involves enrolling in a Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) or a BA in Journalism. According to 2026 institutional disclosures and NIRF-aligned benchmarks, these programs are designed to transition students from theoretical knowledge to practical broadcast training. Most top-tier universities, including those accepting CUET or IPU CET scores, emphasize a curriculum that covers news gathering, studio production, voice modulation, and camera confidence.
It is important to note that while a degree is the most common route, the industry values practical experience. Many successful anchors supplement their undergraduate studies with specialized diploma courses in broadcast journalism. Verification of university credentials is essential; always check if the institution is UGC-recognized and if their placement reports reflect roles in reputable news networks rather than just generic media firms.
Institutional Fee vs Placement ROI Matrix
Compare tuition fees, program duration, packages, and ROI ratings
Quick Comparison
| College / Institution | Total Fee | Duration | Real Avg Package | Top Recruiters | ROI Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Private Univ | ₹6L - 10L | 3 Years | ₹4.5 - 6 LPA | NDTV, Zee, Aaj Tak | High |
| State/Central Univ | ₹1L - 3L | 3 Years | ₹3.5 - 5 LPA | Regional News | Very High |
| Private Media Inst | ₹4L - 8L | 3 Years | ₹4 - 5.5 LPA | Digital Media Co. | Medium |
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Build Your Portfolio
Start a YouTube channel or blog during your 12th grade to demonstrate content creation skills.
2Step 2
Select the Right Degree
Prioritize BJMC programs that offer mandatory studio internships and live production labs.
3Step 3
Verify Placement Data
Check official institutional disclosures for alumni placement in broadcast news rather than just PR or advertising.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Can a Science student become a news anchor?
Yes, news anchoring is open to students from any stream. Science students often bring a unique analytical perspective that is highly valued in specialized reporting.
Is a journalism degree mandatory to be a news anchor?
While not strictly mandatory, a BJMC or BA in Journalism provides the necessary technical training, networking, and studio experience that significantly increases your employability in top news channels.
What skills are most important for a news anchor?
The most critical skills include excellent command over language, strong general knowledge, voice modulation, camera confidence, and the ability to remain calm under pressure during live broadcasts.
Institutional Data & Fee Transparency Disclaimer
Fee structures, cutoff percentiles, and placement statistics published on Kampus Filter are compiled from official university prospectuses, NIRF statutory filings, UGC/AICTE public notifications, and institutional disclosures. All figures represent comparative historical benchmarks and are subject to periodic revisions by respective university governing bodies.
Prospective students and guardians are advised to verify current academic session fees, seat matrices, and admission deadlines directly with the official university admissions office prior to financial commitments. Kampus Filter is an independent higher education research directory and does not solicit donations or represent university administration.