To become a chemical engineer one should have a graduate degree (B.E / B.Tech) or postgraduate degree (M.E) in Chemical Engineering. There are both degree as well as diploma courses. One can go for the 3 year diploma course after the 10th standard (SSC).

The basic eligibility criteria for a BE / B.Tech is 10+2 or equivalent examination, with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. 

Duration : BE / B.Tech courses are of 4 years' duration.

Academic Programme : The focus of the BE/B.Tech programmes in Chemical Engineering is on Industrial Chemistry, Polymer Technology, Polymer Processing, Polymer Testing, Polymer Synthesis etc. The ME level course generally offers specialized training and research in the areas like computer aided plant design, petroleum refining, fertilizer technology, processing of food and agricultural products, synthetic food, petrochemicals, synthetic fibres, coal and mineral based industries etc.

Selection : Selection to the graduate courses ( BE / B.Tech ) is based on merit i.e the marks secured in the final exams of 10+2 and through entrance exams. Entrance to the IIT's is through JEE (Joint Entrance Exam) and for other major institutions through AIEEE (All India Engineering/ Architecture Entrance Examination) OR their own separate entrance exams and other state level and national level exams. There is also the AMIE (Associate Membership Examination of the Institute of Engineers) which enables working people in the private and public sector, or diploma holders to acquire a Bachelor's degree through distance education for career advancement.  

Personal Skills : A successful chemical engineer must posses strong technical ability and high motivation. Excellent analytical, communication and teamwork skills is a necessity and the candidate should be hardworking, good at organizing and solving problems. It is also necessary to like working with tools, drawing sketches of complex things and operations, and conceptualising forms and structures. Good computer skill is also essential as they use computer technology to optimize all phases of research and production. As the knowledge and duties of chemical engineers overlap many fields, they must be aware of all aspects of chemicals manufacturing and how it affects the environment, the safety of workers and customers.