AT WHAT AGE THE PROFESSIONAL GOALS OF A STUDENT MUST BE SET ?

I THINK WE AS PARENTS SHOULD NOT DECIDE PROFESSIONS FOR THEM,, WE MUST GIVE THEM GUIDENCE AND ADVICE FOR THEIR FUTURE BUT NOT ENFORCE OUR VIEW POINT.

At an early age where the notes to the students some of the skills that we must direct them toward the goal that fits those skills and this needs to be specialized for the attention of the child and some children appear from the age of four years

Year12 is the best time to finalize the profession of a student. This is being practised all over the world.

At year9 -10 they have the opportunity to select the group of their choice. Year11 -12 he/ she has to narrow down their selection. So after year12 they select a tdiploma in a trade or University degree in a specific field. 

This is due to their age in year12 that they are enough mature to take a decision, of course of their choice, as Zafar mentioned in his answer.

part of the guidance and counselling, when a teacher  guide them, acoording to their abilities,

but after the teen age every students try to establish professional goals,

want to enter in professional degrees,

Human beings have basic needs such as water, air, and food. But we also need a feeling of "belongingness"—a knowledge that we are part of a group and are recognized by that group.

Psychologists tell us that children are no different. Take a look at the following chart, which outlines some of the needs of students at various levels.

Note that at all ages and at all levels, students want and need to be respected members of a group. Effective group membership is essential to establishing positive learning environments where collaboration, meaningful student interaction, class cohesion, and individual motivation are valued.

I refer to this as a community of learners—a classroom that celebrates all its members and provides a supportive, inspirational, and motivational environment. Composed of four elements, a community of learners…

• Celebrates student events and accomplishments.

• Provides success for all.

• Celebrates humor.

• Has a fair, purposeful classroom structure.

I think the best method is for schools to introduce students to professionals from different careers at a realistic age ideally13-15 where they get to meet different professionals and know their perspectives as to why they chose those careers. It is an age where the child may falter easily in terms of character, career choice and attitude. No wonder then that at times children in these age brackets are at their mischevious best. If their efforts are directed to a more positive and contributive cause we may lead them to a better tomorrow for themselves and for our future generations