Choosing the right career path after matriculation is one of the most important decisions a student can make. In cities like Rawalpindi, where education and career competition are intense and opportunities diverse, students often find themselves confused between the three primary intermediate streams offered after matriculation: FSc (Pre-Medical/Pre-Engineering), ICS (Intermediate in Computer Science), and I.Com (Intermediate in Commerce).
Each of these options has its own merits, challenges, and future prospects. But which one is better? Is ICS a better option than I.Com? Is there a future in I.Com in Pakistan? Can you get a job after ICS? Let’s explore these questions in detail to help you make a more informed choice.
Understanding the Three Streams
1. FSc (Faculty of Science)
- Options: Pre-Medical, Pre-Engineering
- Subjects:
- Pre-Medical: Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Pre-Engineering: Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics
- Future Fields: MBBS, BDS, Engineering (Electrical, Civil, Mechanical, etc.), Pharmacy, Biotech, Agriculture Sciences, etc.
2. ICS (Intermediate in Computer Science)
- Subjects: Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics/Statistics
- Future Fields: Software Engineering, IT, AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, etc.
3. I.Com (Intermediate in Commerce)
- Subjects: Principles of Accounting, Principles of Commerce, Business Mathematics, Economics, Banking
- Future Fields: BBA, B.Com, CA, ACCA, Banking, Finance, Marketing, Business Management
ICS vs I.Com – Which One is Better?
This question depends on your personal interests, career goals, and aptitude.
➤ Choose ICS if:
- You are good at mathematics and logical thinking.
- You’re interested in computers, programming, or technology.
- You want a career in the IT industry (software, data science, web development, etc.).
- You plan to pursue degrees like BSCS, BS IT, Software Engineering, or AI.
➤ Choose I.Com if:
- You enjoy accounting, business studies, and economics.
- You see yourself working in finance, banking, or entrepreneurship.
- You plan to pursue CA, ACCA, BBA, or economics-related degrees.
- You want to work in the corporate or banking sector.
ICS and I.Com lead to very different industries, so it’s not about which is “better” in general, but which is better for you. In Rawalpindi, both fields have growing markets – software companies, banks, and startups are flourishing.
Is There Any Scope of I.Com in Pakistan?
Yes, I.Com has good scope in Pakistan, especially in cities like Rawalpindi and Islamabad where the banking, finance, and business sectors are growing.
Key Opportunities After I.Com:
- CA and ACCA: Chartered Accountancy and ACCA are among the highest-paying careers in Pakistan.
- BBA and MBA: Business Administration is a flexible degree with wide scope in marketing, HR, and management.
- Banking Jobs: Banks like HBL, MCB, UBL, and others regularly recruit I.Com/B.Com graduates.
- Entrepreneurship: Business-minded students can start their own ventures.
- Freelance Bookkeeping/Accounting: Digital bookkeeping and freelance services are in demand globally.
So, if you have a head for numbers and business, I.Com is a solid choice with excellent long-term prospects.
Is FSc Better Than ICS?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions, especially among science students.
➤ Choose FSc if:
- You want to become a doctor, engineer, or scientist.
- You are ready to study hard for competitive exams like MDCAT or ECAT.
- You are interested in core sciences (Biology, Physics, Chemistry).
➤ Choose ICS if:
- You have an interest in IT and programming.
- You want to pursue modern, fast-growing careers like AI, cyber security, or software development.
- You’re not interested in biology or chemistry but enjoy logic and computers.
FSc is more traditional and competitive, especially Pre-Medical, where a vast majority of students fight for a limited number of MBBS/BDS seats. ICS, on the other hand, is less crowded and more adaptable to the global digital economy.
In Rawalpindi, due to proximity to Islamabad’s IT parks, many ICS students can find internships, jobs, and freelance work even during their degree.
Can I Get a Job After ICS?
Yes, you can get a job after ICS, but most students pursue a bachelor’s degree (BSCS, BSIT, etc.) before entering the job market.
Jobs and Career Options After ICS:
- Web Developer – Learn HTML, CSS, JavaScript
- Software Developer – With programming skills (Python, Java, C++)
- Freelancer – Start freelance work on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr
- Tech Support/IT Assistant – Entry-level office jobs in IT
- Internships in Software Houses – Rawalpindi has many tech firms
- Digital Marketing – Learn SEO, content creation, social media management
The IT industry in Pakistan is booming, and Rawalpindi/Islamabad is a hub for software houses and startups. With skills in coding and software, you can start earning even before completing your degree.
Final Verdict: Which One Is Best?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each stream has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your interests, aptitude, and career goals.
| Criteria | FSc | ICS | I.Com |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Doctors, Engineers | IT Professionals | Accountants, Businessmen |
| Subjects | Biology/Chemistry/Physics | Math, Computer, Physics | Accounting, Commerce, Business |
| Job After Inter? | Rare | Possible (freelancing/IT jobs) | Possible (banking/accounting) |
| Scope in Pakistan | Competitive | High & Growing | Moderate but Stable |
| Study Difficulty | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| University Admission Options | Limited to Science Programs | CS, IT, AI, Math | BBA, CA, ACCA, Economics |
Career Advice for Rawalpindi Students
Living in Rawalpindi gives you access to some of Pakistan’s top universities and career hubs, including:
- NUST, FAST, and COMSATS (for ICS/IT students)
- Punjab University and Virtual University campuses
- Banking hubs and CA institutes
- Software houses and freelance networks
Whether you choose FSc, ICS, or I.Com, the key is to:
- Know your interest – Don’t follow the crowd.
- Focus on skill-building – Degrees alone are not enough anymore.
- Explore internships and freelancing – Even during your studies.
- Aim for higher education – Most careers now require at least a bachelor’s degree.
Conclusion
Choosing between FSc, ICS, and I.Com is a decision that shapes your future, but it’s not irreversible. Many students shift paths later on by acquiring new skills or changing disciplines. However, making an informed choice from the beginning can save you time and help you reach your goals faster.
- If you want to be a doctor or engineer, go for FSc.
- If you’re passionate about technology, choose ICS.
- If you dream of business, accounting, or finance, I.Com is your path.
Success comes not from the subject you choose, but from how committed and proactive you are in learning, growing, and adapting. In Rawalpindi’s fast-evolving career landscape, every stream offers opportunities—if you’re willing to pursue them with dedication.