Just completed your NEB +2 exams? The first question in every Nepali student’s mind is the same: “अब के गर्ने?” (What to do next?)
If studying abroad is your dream, this is exactly the right moment to start. Every year, thousands of Nepali students successfully go abroad directly after completing 12th grade to Australia, Canada, the UK, the USA, New Zealand, and beyond.
This guide covers everything you need: the best countries, exact requirements, IELTS/PTE preparation, scholarships, and a step-by-step process specifically for Nepali students completing NEB or A-Level examinations.
Can Nepali Students Go Abroad Directly After 12th?
Yes absolutely. Nepali students can apply to foreign universities directly after completing +2 (Grade 12) from NEB, A-Level, or CBSE boards. You do not need a bachelor’s degree first.
Here is what you do need:
- Completed 12th grade with passing marks (most universities accept 45 to 60% minimum in any stream, Science, Management, Humanities, or Education)
- English proficiency score IELTS or PTE (more on this below)
- Financial proof, bank balance certificate showing you can support your studies
- Valid passport
- Offer letter from a recognized foreign university
Many Nepali students worry about whether their +2 results are “good enough.” The truth is: most international universities care more about your English score and financial documents than your +2 percentage. A student with 55% in +2 and a strong IELTS score will get admission.
Gap year after 12th: Several countries, including Australia, Canada, and the UK, allow a 1 to 2-year gap after 12th grade. You must be able to explain the gap (e.g., “preparing for IELTS,” “family reasons”). A gap does not automatically disqualify you.
Which Country Is Best to Study After 12th from Nepal?
This is the biggest question, and the honest answer is: it depends on your budget, career goals, and long-term plans. Here is a clear breakdown of the top destinations for Nepali students after 12th.
Australia is best for Post-Study Work Rights
Australia is the most popular destination for Nepali students after 12th, and for good reason. Australian universities accept NEB results directly, courses are 3 years (shorter than India or Nepal’s 4-year bachelor’s), and the post-study work visa allows you to work for 2–6 years after graduation.
| Details | |
| Minimum +2 percentage | 45–55% |
| English requirement | IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 overall |
| Average tuition per year | AUD 20,000 – 35,000 |
| Part-time work | 48 hours per fortnight |
| Top courses | Nursing, IT, Business, Engineering |
| Top universities | La Trobe, CQU, USQ, University of Melbourne |
Best for: Students who want to work and settle abroad long-term.
Canada is the best for PR Pathways
Canada has become the second most popular choice for Nepali students after 12th. The country offers affordable tuition at colleges, a clear pathway to permanent residency (PR), and 20 hours/week part-time work during studies.
| Details | |
| Minimum +2 percentage | 50% |
| English requirement | IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Average tuition per year | CAD 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Part-time work | 24 hours per week (2024 update) |
| Top courses | Business, Data Analytics, Accounting, HR Management |
| Top universities/colleges | Trinity Western, Acsenda, University of Niagara Falls |
Best for: Students who want a PR pathway after studies.
UK Best for Shorter Degree Duration
UK bachelor’s degrees are only 3 years long (vs 4 in Nepal/India), which saves one full year of tuition and living costs. The UK also has a Graduate Route visa that allows 2 years of post-study work.
| Details | |
| Minimum +2 percentage | 50 to 60% |
| English requirement | IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Average tuition per year | GBP 12,000 – 20,000 |
| Part-time work | 20 hours per week |
| Top courses | IT, Business, Architecture, Health |
| Top universities | Arden, UHE, Huddersfield, De Montford, Leeds Beckett, Ravensbourne, University of Roehampton |
Best for: Students who want a globally recognized degree in less time.
USA Best for Research & Top Rankings
The USA has the most globally ranked universities, but it is also the most expensive and has a more complex visa process. Most US universities require SAT scores in addition to IELTS/TOEFL for undergraduate admissions.
| Details | |
| Minimum +2 percentage | 60 – 70% |
| English requirement | TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5 |
| Average tuition per year | USD 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Part-time work | 20 hours/week on campus only (F-1 visa) |
| Top courses | Nursing, Engineering, Economics, Chemistry |
| Top universities | Herzing University, Bridgeport University, Oregon University |
Best for: High-achieving students targeting research careers or top global rankings.
New Zealand is best for a Balanced Lifestyle
New Zealand is gaining popularity among Nepali students who want quality education in a peaceful, safe environment. New Zealand universities accept NEB results, and the country has an excellent post-study work visa.
| Details | |
| Minimum +2 percentage | 45 – 55% |
| English requirement | IELTS 6.0 |
| Average tuition per year | NZD 22,000 – 32,000 |
| Part-time work | 20 hours per week |
| Top courses | Animation, Design, Healthcare Management |
| Top universities | Yoobee University, ATMC, University of Auckland |
Best for: Students who want a quality of life with good education.
Germany Best for Affordable, English-Taught Degrees
Germany is one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe, with many public universities charging little to no tuition. Private universities like Arden University Berlin, GISMA, SRH, and University of Europe offer English-taught degrees with strong industry links. Germany also offers an 18-month job-seeker visa after graduation, making it a smart long-term choice for Nepali students.
| Details | |
| Minimum +2 percentage | 55 – 60% |
| English requirement | IELTS 6.0 / PTE 50+ (English-taught programs) |
| Average tuition per year | EUR 8,000–15,000 (private); public unis near free |
| Part-time work | 20 hours per week |
| Top courses | Business, Engineering, IT, Data Science, Design |
| Top universities | Arden University Berlin, GISMA Business School, SRH University, University of Europe (UE) |
Best for: Students looking for affordable European education with English-taught programs and an 18-month post-study job-seeker visa.
Do You Need IELTS or PTE After +2?
Yes, for almost every country except some in Europe (Germany, France), you will need an English proficiency test. The two most accepted tests for Nepali students are IELTS and PTE Academic.
IELTS vs PTE: Which Should You Choose?
| IELTS | PTE Academic | |
| Test format | Paper-based + speaking with examiner | Fully computer-based |
| Result time | 3 to 13 days | 24 to 48 hours |
| Accepted by | All countries and universities | Australia, UK, Canada, NZ (widely accepted) |
| Cost in Nepal | NPR 25,000 – 27,000 | NPR 22,000 – 24,000 |
| Scores required | 6.0 – 6.5 for most programs | 50 – 58 for most programs |
| Best for | Students comfortable with human interaction | Students who prefer computers and fast results |
Recommendation for Nepali students: If you are applying to Australia or New Zealand, PTE is faster and widely accepted. If you are applying to the UK or USA, IELTS is safer as some universities do not accept PTE.
When to start preparing? Ideally, start your IELTS/PTE preparation while your +2 exam results are still being processed (April to June). This way, you have your English score ready when you apply for intake in September or January.
Exclusive Offer: Get IELTS/PTE preparation at just Rs. 2083/- till the end of Baisakh. +2 students must bring their admit card to avail this offer. Learn more about ETG’s IELTS/PTE classes →
Requirements to Study Abroad After 12th from Nepal
Here is the complete checklist of what you need:
Academic Documents
- +2 marksheet (provisional marksheet accepted if final results not out)
- Character certificate from school/college
- Migration certificate (required for some countries)
- SLC/SEE marksheet
English Proficiency
- IELTS or PTE score (minimum 6.0 IELTS / 50 PTE for most programs)
- Some universities accept Duolingo scores (Australia and Canada mostly)
Financial Documents
- Bank balance certificate (typically NPR 20 to 30 lakhs depending on country)
- Bank statement for last 6 months
- Sponsor letter (if parents are funding)
- Income proof of sponsor
Other Documents
- Valid Nepali passport (minimum 18 months validity)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a 1 – 2 page letter explaining why you want to study abroad
- Visa application form (country-specific)
How to Apply for Foreign Universities After 12th: Step-by-Step
Here is the exact process Nepali students follow, from decision to departure:
Step 1: Choose your country and course (Month 1 – 2). Research the country that matches your budget, career goals, and long-term plans. Narrow down to 3 to 5 universities.
Step 2: Start IELTS/PTE preparation (Month 1 – 3). Do not wait for your +2 results to start preparing. Begin immediately after your exams. Most students take 2 to 3 months to prepare adequately.
Step 3: Get your English test score (Month 3 – 4). Book your IELTS or PTE exam and sit for the test. Scores are valid for 2 years.
Step 4: Apply to universities (Month 4 – 5) Submit your application with transcripts, SOP, and English scores. ETG can help you prepare a strong SOP and select the right universities.
Step 5: Receive your offer letter (Month 5 – 6). Once accepted, you receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter from the university.
Step 6: Prepare financial documents (Month 6). Open or update your bank account, prepare the balance certificate, and gather all sponsor documents.
Step 7: Apply for a student visa (Month 6 – 7). Submit your visa application with your offer letter, proof of funds, IELTS score, and other supporting documents. ETG’s visa counseling team guides you through this.
Step 8: Pre-departure and departure (Month 7 – 8) Book flights, arrange accommodation, attend pre-departure orientation, and fly!
Scholarships for Nepali Students After 12th
Yes, scholarships are available for Nepali students studying abroad after 12th. Here are the main types:
Merit-based scholarships from universities Most universities offer automatic merit scholarships if your academic performance is strong. These range from 10 to 50% tuition reduction. La Trobe University, for example, offers scholarships specifically for Nepali students.
Government scholarships The Government of Nepal, through the Ministry of Education, offers scholarship seats for government-funded slots in various countries every year. These are competitive and require an entrance examination.
Country-specific scholarships
- Australia: Australia Awards Scholarships (for masters/PhD not for undergraduate)
- UK: Chevening Scholarships (for postgraduate build credentials for this after your bachelor’s)
- USA: Fulbright Program (postgraduate)
- New Zealand: NZ Scholarships (some undergraduate slots available)
ETG’s scholarship guidance Education Tree Global provides dedicated scholarship counseling. They help you identify universities offering partial scholarships for undergraduate programs, which is the most realistic option right after +2.
Is It Good to Study Abroad After 12th?
This is a question many Nepali students and parents ask and the honest answer is: yes, for most students, it is one of the best investments you can make in your future.
Here is why:
- Career advantages: A degree from Australia, Canada, the UK, or the USA carries significantly more global weight than a degree from Nepal. Employers in Nepal and abroad recognize these degrees.
- Earning potential: Students who work part-time abroad during studies often cover 30–50% of their living expenses. After graduating, salaries in these countries are many times higher than in Nepal.
- Personal growth: Living independently in a foreign country at 18–19 builds life skills, confidence, and resilience that cannot be taught in a classroom.
- PR and settlement opportunities: Countries like Canada and Australia offer realistic pathways to permanent residency after graduation, something that was not possible a decade ago.
The only students for whom studying abroad after 12th may not be ideal are those who are not financially prepared or who have not chosen a career direction yet. In that case, it is worth spending 6 to 12 months on proper planning before applying.
FAQs Study Abroad After 12th for Nepali Students
Can I go abroad directly after completing +2 in Nepal?
Yes. Nepali students can apply to foreign universities directly after completing +2 from NEB, A-Level, or CBSE. You do not need a bachelor’s degree first. Most countries accept NEB results with passing grades.
Which country is best for study after 12th from Nepal?
Australia is the top choice for post-study work rights, Canada for PR pathways, the UK for shorter degree duration, and New Zealand for quality of life. The best country depends on your budget and long-term goals.
What exams do I need to study abroad after 12th?
For most English-speaking countries, you need IELTS (minimum 6.0) or PTE Academic (minimum 50). For the USA, TOEFL (80+) or IELTS (6.5) is required. Some countries also require SAT/ACT for undergraduate admissions.
What is the minimum percentage in 12th to study abroad?
Most countries and universities accept 45 to 60% in +2 from Nepal. Australia and New Zealand have lower thresholds (45-50%), while the USA and the UK typically require 55-65%. Your English score matters more than your +2 percentage.
Do foreign universities accept a gap year after 12th?
Yes. Australia, Canada, and the UK generally accept a gap of 1 to 2 years after 12th grade. You should be able to explain the gap in your SOP (e.g., “IELTS preparation,” “personal or family reasons”). A gap does not disqualify you.
How much does it cost to study abroad after 12th?
Costs vary by country. Australia and the UK have higher tuition (NPR 25 – 40 lakhs per year), while Canada and New Zealand are more affordable (NPR 17 – 28 lakhs per year). Add living costs of NPR 10 – 18 lakhs per year, depending on the city.
Are scholarships available for Nepali students after 12th?
Yes. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (10 – 50% tuition reduction). The Government of Nepal also offers scholarship slots for government-funded programs annually. ETG can guide you toward universities with scholarship opportunities.
How long does the process take from +2 to departure?
On average, 6 – 9 months from starting the process to departure. This includes IELTS preparation (2–3 months), university application (1 – 2 months), visa processing (1 – 3 months depending on the country), and pre-departure preparation.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Education Tree Global (ETG) is one of the best education consultancies in Nepal, having helped thousands of Nepali students go abroad after completing their +2 exams. From choosing the right country and university to IELTS preparation, SOP writing, visa counseling, and pre-departure guidance, ETG handles every step.
Kamalpokhari 01, Kathmandu (Opposite City Centre, 5th Floor)