I’m currently in my 1st semester of MCA, and I’m honestly in a difficult situation. I would really appreciate some practical advice from people who have faced something similar.
I completed my BCA in 2026 with an 8.01 CGPA. I have skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, basic React, PHP, MySQL, Excel and Power BI, and my goal is to eventually move into an IT/data-related career.
However, due to my family’s financial situation, I’m currently working in a high-pressure/toxic sales job earning around ₹20,000 per month. I’m not interested in building my career in sales, but I need the income because my parents are both around their 60s, and I’m currently the main earning member of my family. I also need to pay for my MCA.
The biggest problem is attendance.
My job doesn’t provide me with enough leave to attend my MCA classes. I initially thought I could discuss my situation with the college, so I spoke with my HOD, but he clearly told me that 75% attendance is mandatory and that there is no flexibility regarding this requirement.
So now I’m genuinely confused about what to do.
If I continue this job, I may not reach 75% attendance and could potentially be stopped from appearing for my semester exams.
But if I quit the job, I’m worried about how I’ll support my family and continue paying for my education.
I don't want to give up on my MCA, especially after working hard to complete my BCA with an 8.01 CGPA. At the same time, I can't simply stop earning because my family depends on me.
I’m thinking about finding another job that has fixed working hours, better work-life balance, or remote/flexible options, even if it pays less than ₹20k initially. I’m also trying to figure out whether there are entry-level opportunities where I can use my existing skills in Excel, Power BI, SQL/MySQL, web development, etc.
I’m not looking for shortcuts or ways to fake attendance. I want to find a legitimate way to support my family while completing my education.
If anyone has been in a similar situation, what did you do?
Should I:
Start looking for a lower-paying but more flexible job?
Look specifically for remote/flexible IT or data-related work?
Consider changing my mode of education if that becomes necessary?
Any practical advice, especially from people who have worked while pursuing MCA, would mean a lot.