Like Jagadesan, thousands of students across TN have appeared for the aptitude test with enthusiasm. More than 12 lakh Class 9 and 10 government and government-aided school students are appearing for aptitude tests for three days to assess their areas of interest so they pursue the right courses.

The computer-based test, which at present, is conducted only in CBSE schools, is expected to help students select proper career options for the future.

A senior official from the Education Department told DT Next that at present, these students come under a lot of pressure from various quarters while going for higher education. “Most parents, friends and family members do not give the wards choices for selecting streams based on individual interests after the Class 10 board exams,” he added.

Stating that the test, which is mandatory, is being conducted for both classes, he said the students could not only select a career option but also provide an explanation for choosing the particular stream or subject. The official added that the Class 9 students who attend the special exam should once again appear for the test in Class 10 to know whether their interest have remained unchanged. “Exam details of the Class 9 students will be stored and compared when they appear for the same exam next year,” he said.