Roadmap for becoming an astronomy or astrophysics researcher in India

Astronomy and Astrophysics are very well-known and interesting branches of Physics. India has a rich ancient culture deeply rooted in astronomy. If you are interested in studying or doing research in astronomy or astrophysics, there is no dedicated route for it. I am explaining the educational ladder step by step if you want to be a researcher in astronomy or astrophysics in India.

10+2 (Higher Secondary)

Complete your 10+2 with a good basic knowledge of physics and mathematics. I encourage everyone to take computer science (CS) as a subject in their 10+2 because nowadays coding in astronomy or astrophysics has become a very important part. Taking a computer course will help to develop the basic computational thought in your mind.

BSc/BS

Take admission in a good college or university for BSc or BS, or BS-MS in Physics. Some research institutes like IISC, IISERs, NISER, etc BSc or BS-MS courses, which are very good compared to choosing a BSc in a decent college. You can also prefer central universities and some good state universities for the BSc in Physics. Strengthen your fundamentals in physics during the BSc. Half of the colleges or universities offer astrophysics or astronomy as an elective or optional paper during the last year of your BSc. Please opt for that paper, which will be the building blocks for your astrophysics journey.

MSc/MS

Some indian institutes offer a dedicated MSc in Astrophysics or Astronomy. You can go for these courses, but make sure that if you opt, your degree will be in astronomy or astrophysics. But some of the job exams require an MSc in Physics as a qualification, and you will not be eligible for it. If you are 100% sure in choosing astrophysics or astronomy as your goal, then you should go for a dedicated MSc in Astronomy. Otherwise, opt for an MSc in Physics degree at any top institution in India and do some internships in this field. I recommend doing the MSc thesis in astronomy or astrophysics-related topics, which will give you research exposure in it.

During BSc/ MSc, do not miss any internship, school, or workshop opportunity in astronomy and astrophysics.

PhD

Crack any entrance examinations with a good rank and join any top research institutes in India as a PhD in astrophysics-related topics. Please prefer to join the dedicated astrophysics research institutions (IUCAA, IIA, IISC, RRI, TIFR, ARIES, etc), which will give you a good environment.