Can I study abroad without Maths in 11 and 12? (Indian student)
Why Dropping Maths Was the Best Decision I Made
"You won’t have a future if you don’t take Maths."
That’s what I was told when I chose to complete my +2 without Maths. Instead, I opted for Entrepreneurship and I’m so glad I did.
This choice allowed me to focus on my strengths: Economics, Business, and English. I scored:
90 in English
94 in Business
95 in Economics
My overall high school percentage was 89.5%, and it didn’t stop me from choosing the college I wanted. I pursued a Bachelor’s in Marketing, even though it was an unconventional choice.
In my college, there were 400 students in the evening batch alone doing a Bachelor’s in Accounting. I was one of only four girls who chose Marketing Honours. I graduated with 63%, ranked:
Third in the State Level University
First in my College for Marketing Honours
I was also awarded the Times Knowledge Icon Award 2019 at ITC Sonar, Kolkata.
The Journey Continues
I later moved to New Zealand to pursue a Graduate Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality, where Sales and Marketing was one of my subjects. I completed the course successfully, with no failed attempts.
The Myth About Maths
One of the most common fears students have is that not studying Maths in their final years will stop them from pursuing a career abroad.
The truth is it doesn’t.
University Requirements
Yes, many universities do require senior-level Maths. But alternatives exist, such as:
Foundation or pathway programs
Additional Maths qualifications (A-levels, AP, or online accredited courses)
Building Your Profile
Even if your academics aren’t “perfect,” you can strengthen your profile through:
Coding projects
Online certifications
Volunteering
Internships
Scholarships & Costs
Fully funded scholarships are competitive but achievable especially if you combine good grades with a strong personal story.
Conclusion
Not having Maths doesn’t slow you down. Yes it will limit your ability to choose certain career pathways, but why would you be interested in something that sucks the life out of you.
Yes you may have a small house, a small car, a small salary as compared to your other friends who are aiming for those career, but you will be happy and peaceful. You will learn something new that no one is interested in, which is absolutely okay!
With the right planning, foundation courses, and self-learning, you can still make your dream of studying abroad a reality.
Life doesn’t stop if you don’t have Maths.
In fact, my quality of life improved the moment I dropped it. I advise future students to assess their strengths and turn them into power, rather than trying to make their weaknesses their strengths.
So, if you don’t have maths in 11th and 12th standard and you are from India, and you want to study abroad, let’s talk. Fill out your details and I will be in touch with you. Don’t let negative people drive your life story.