Sainik Schools are one of the most prestigious institutions in India, preparing young minds for leadership roles and careers in the Indian Armed Forces. Every year, thousands of students compete for limited seats, making the Sainik School Admission 2026 highly sought after. Admission is conducted for Classes VI and IX through the All India Sainik School Entrance Examination (AISSEE), managed by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
The application process, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and selection process are critical for parents and students aiming for admission this year. This article provides a detailed guide to help candidates successfully apply and secure their seats in Sainik Schools.
Sainik School Admission 2026
Sainik Schools aim to develop academic excellence, physical fitness, and leadership qualities in students. They follow a military-oriented curriculum alongside regular academics, which gives students a solid foundation for the National Defence Academy (NDA) or other defence career paths.
The AISSEE 2026 is the official examination for admission. The last date to apply is October 30, 2025, so timely action is crucial.
Eligibility Criteria for Sainik School Admission 2026
To apply for Sainik School Admission 2026, students must meet specific eligibility requirements based on age, class, and nationality.
1. Age Criteria
- Class VI: 10 to 12 years as of March 31, 2026.
- Class IX: 13 to 15 years as of March 31, 2026.
- Age limits are strictly enforced, and a valid birth certificate is required.
2. Nationality
- Only Indian citizens are eligible.
- Children of NRI or Defence personnel can also apply under specific categories.
3. Academic Requirements
- Class VI: Must have passed Class V from a recognized school.
- Class IX: Must have passed Class VIII with good academic records.
4. Category Requirements
- Categories include General, OBC NCL, SC, ST, and Defence.
- Defence candidates must provide valid proof of identity and service records.
AISSEE 2026 Application Process
The Sainik School Admission 2026 process is completely online. Parents and students must follow the steps carefully to avoid errors.
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official NTA website: exams.nta.ac.in/AISSEE
- Click ‘New Registration’ and create an account.
- Provide basic details such as name, date of birth, contact information, and category.
Step 2: Profile Creation
- Create a strong password for secure login.
- Upload scanned documents including birth certificate, school records, and category certificate.
Step 3: Application Form Filling
- Fill in detailed personal and educational information.
- Ensure all information is accurate; corrections are limited after submission.
Step 4: Category Selection
- Select the correct category.
- Defence candidates must attach proof of service to validate eligibility.
Step 5: Fee Payment
- Pay the examination fee online (₹700–₹850 depending on category).
- Payment can be made via Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI.
Step 6: Confirmation
- After payment, download the confirmation page.
- Keep both hard and soft copies for future reference.
Important Dates for Sainik School Admission 2026
| Event | Date 2025–26 |
| Application Start Date | October 1, 2025 |
| Application Last Date | October 30, 2025 |
| AISSEE Exam Date | January 2026 (exact date to check NTA website) |
| Result Declaration | March 2026 (tentative) |
| Admission Confirmation | April 2026 |
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The Sainik School Admission 2026 exam, known as AISSEE, is the gateway for students seeking admission into Classes VI and IX. The exam is designed to test academic knowledge, reasoning ability, and general awareness. Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is crucial for effective preparation and higher chances of selection.
Class VI Exam Pattern – Sainik School Admission 2026
The Class VI entrance exam is the first step for young students to enter the prestigious Sainik Schools. The exam is designed to evaluate not only academic knowledge but also reasoning skills, language proficiency, and general awareness. The goal is to identify students who can handle the structured learning and disciplined environment of Sainik Schools.
1. Subjects Covered
The exam is divided into four main sections:
- Mathematics
- Focus on arithmetic, geometry, basic algebra, and problem-solving.
- Tests logical thinking and numerical ability.
- Language Skills (English & Hindi)
- English: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and sentence construction.
- Hindi: Grammar, comprehension, and usage of words.
- Assesses communication skills and understanding of language.
- Intelligence & Reasoning
- Logical reasoning, pattern recognition, series, coding-decoding, and analytical thinking.
- Measures a child’s ability to think critically and solve problems.
- General Knowledge (GK)
- Current affairs, everyday science, history, geography, and basic general knowledge.
- Encourages awareness of the world and enhances curiosity.
- Subjects: Mathematics, Language (English & Hindi), Intelligence, General Knowledge
- Type: Objective questions
- Duration: 2 hours
2. Exam Mode and Duration
- Mode: Pen-and-paper (offline)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Question Type: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions – MCQs)
- Marking Scheme: Usually 1 mark for each correct answer; negative marking is minimal or none.
3. Preparation Tips for Class VI Exam
- Mathematics: Practice mental math, simple word problems, and geometry exercises.
- Language: Read storybooks, practice comprehension passages, and learn grammar rules.
- Intelligence & Reasoning: Solve puzzles, series questions, and reasoning worksheets regularly.
- GK: Read newspapers, watch educational programs, and explore simple general knowledge books.
4. Strategy for Success
- Time Management: Practice completing sections within the given 2-hour limit.
- Mock Tests: Take sample papers to get familiar with question patterns.
- Consistency: Study regularly instead of last-minute preparation.
- Balanced Approach: Focus equally on all four sections to maximize overall score.
Class IX Exam Pattern – Sainik School Admission 2026
The Class IX entrance exam is designed for older students who are preparing to join Sainik Schools at a higher academic level. Unlike Class VI, this exam tests deeper understanding of subjects along with reasoning and language skills. It ensures that candidates are ready to handle the rigorous curriculum of Sainik Schools.
1. Subjects Covered
The exam for Class IX typically includes four major sections:
- Mathematics
- Covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic problem-solving.
- Emphasizes logical reasoning and analytical thinking.
- Science
- Questions are based on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology topics studied in Class VIII.
- Tests conceptual clarity, observation, and application skills.
- Social Studies
- Includes History, Geography, Civics, and basic Current Affairs.
- Evaluates understanding of society, environment, and national awareness.
- English
- Grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills.
- Measures communication and language proficiency.
2. Exam Mode and Duration
- Mode: Pen-and-paper (offline)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and some short-answer questions
- Marking Scheme: Usually 1 mark per correct answer; some schools may include negative marking
3. Preparation Tips for Class IX Exam
- Mathematics: Solve previous years’ questions, practice problem-solving, and focus on weak areas.
- Science: Revise key concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Use diagrams and examples to understand concepts better.
- Social Studies: Read NCERT books for History, Geography, Civics, and keep up with current events.
- English: Practice comprehension passages, improve grammar, and expand vocabulary.
4. Strategy for Success
- Divide Time Wisely: Spend adequate time on all four sections.
- Mock Tests: Take sample exams to get comfortable with timing and question patterns.
- Regular Revision: Revise subjects weekly to retain concepts better.
- Analytical Practice: Focus on reasoning and problem-solving for Maths and Science sections.
5. Syllabus Highlights
- Mathematics: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Logical reasoning
- Science: Basic concepts from Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- English/Hindi: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension
- Intelligence & GK: Logical reasoning, current affairs, general awareness
Selection Process
The Sainik School Admission 2026 follows a three-step selection process:
- Written Examination: Merit is evaluated based on scores.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates appear for personal interviews to assess personality and communication.
- Medical Examination: Ensures students meet physical fitness standards for defence careers.
Fee Structure for Sainik Schools
- Tuition Fee: ₹58,500 (lumpsum)
- Hostel Fee: ₹1,44,000 (lumpsum)
- Incidentals/Pocket Money: ₹10,000 (lumpsum)
- Security Deposit: ₹5,000 (lumpsum)
- Annual fees generally range between ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000.
- Includes tuition, boarding, uniforms, and other facilities.
- Defence category candidates may receive fee concessions.
Reservation and Quotas
- Defence candidates: 25% seats
- SC: 15% seats
- ST: 7.5% seats
- OBC & General: Remaining seats
Top Sainik Schools in India
- Sainik School, Amaravathi (AP)
- Sainik School, Ghorakhal (Uttarakhand)
- Sainik School, Rewa (MP)
- Sainik School, Kapurthala (Punjab)
- Sainik School, Kazhakootam (Kerala)
Tips to Prepare for AISSEE 2026
- Start Early: Begin preparation at least 6–8 months in advance.
- Practice Sample Papers: Helps in understanding exam patterns.
- Focus on Physical Fitness: Running, exercises, and sports improve medical scores.
- Improve GK & Intelligence: Read newspapers and practice reasoning exercises.
- Mock Interviews: Build confidence and communication skills for the selection interview.
Important Guidelines for Parents and Students
- Read the NTA information brochure before applying.
- Ensure all documents are valid and accurate.
- Submit the application before the deadline to avoid server overload.
- Keep a copy of the confirmation page and payment receipt to prove that the college is lost.
- Follow all medical and fitness instructions carefully.
Benefits of Sainik School Admission
Getting admission into a Sainik School is considered a prestigious opportunity for students who aspire to build a career in the Indian Armed Forces. Beyond academics, these schools focus on holistic development, ensuring students grow into disciplined, confident, and responsible individuals. Here’s why Sainik School Admission can be highly beneficial:
1. Academic Excellence
- Sainik Schools offer a strong academic curriculum aligned with CBSE standards.
- Students are trained to develop logical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and conceptual understanding.
- The academic rigor prepares them for competitive exams, including the NDA and other defence entrance exams.
2. Leadership and Discipline
- These schools emphasize discipline, punctuality, and responsibility from a young age.
- Students learn leadership qualities through activities like drills, team sports, and group tasks.
- Exposure to structured routines builds strong character and resilience.
3. Physical Fitness and Sports
- Daily physical training is a part of the curriculum.
- Students engage in sports, drills, yoga, and fitness activities, enhancing stamina, agility, and overall health.
- This focus on fitness ensures they meet the physical standards required for defence services.
4. Career Opportunities in Defence
- Sainik Schools are designed to prepare students for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and other armed forces branches.
- Early exposure to military training and discipline gives students a competitive edge in defence careers.
- Even if students choose other professions, the skills learned—discipline, leadership, teamwork are valuable in any career.
5. Affordable Boarding Education
- Sainik Schools provide quality education at subsidized costs.
- Fees cover tuition, boarding, uniforms, and co-curricular activities, making it a cost-effective option for parents.
- Scholarships and fee concessions are also available for defence category students and meritorious candidates.
6. Holistic Development
- Students participate in cultural activities, debates, NCC training, and community service.
- The schools emphasize mental, emotional, and social growth alongside academics.
- This ensures students are well-rounded individuals ready to face real-world challenges.
7. Networking and Peer Learning
- Students come from diverse regions and backgrounds, promoting cultural awareness and mutual respect.
- Collaborative activities foster teamwork, friendship, and communication skills.
- The environment encourages healthy competition and motivation, pushing students to excel.
Conclusion
Sainik School Admission 2026 is an opportunity to build a strong foundation for a career in the Indian Armed Forces. With a structured preparation strategy, timely application submission, and adherence to eligibility criteria, students can maximize their chances of securing a seat. Parents should act today, as October 30, 2025, is the final day to apply. Early preparation, consistent academic efforts, and physical fitness are the keys to success.
FAQs on Sainik School Admission
Q1: Who can apply for Sainik School Admission 2026?
Ans: Boys aged 10–12 for Class VI and 13–15 for Class IX are eligible. Some schools admit girls for Class VI. Candidates must be Indian citizens or children of Defence personnel.
Q2: What is the last date to apply for AISSEE 2026?
Ans: The final date for online application submission is October 30, 2025. Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted.
Q3: How can parents apply for Sainik School Admission?
Ans: Visit the official NTA website, register a profile, fill in the application form, select category, upload documents, pay the fee, and download the confirmation page.
Q4: What is the fee structure for Sainik Schools?
Ans: Annual fees range from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000, covering tuition, boarding, and other facilities. Defence candidates may get concessions.
Q5: What is the selection process for Sainik Schools?
Ans: Selection is based on written exam, interview, and medical fitness, following reservation policies. Final merit combines all these factors.
Q6: Are there reservations for Defence and SC/ST candidates?
Ans: Yes, 25% seats are for Defence candidates, 15% for SC, and 7.5% for ST, with the remaining seats for General and OBC candidates.
Q7: What is the AISSEE syllabus for Class VI and IX?
Ans: Class VI includes Mathematics, English/Hindi, Intelligence, and GK. Class IX includes Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and English.