Sainik School Admission 2026 – Complete Guide for Students & Parents
Sainik Schools are among the most prestigious educational institutions in India, designed to prepare young students academically, physically, and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Naval Academy, and other careers of leadership. Every year, thousands of parents and students search for Sainik School admission details, eligibility criteria, fee structure, hostel facilities, exam syllabus, and exam pattern.
About Sainik Schools (School Profile)
Established in 1961 under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, Sainik Schools are residential schools affiliated with the CBSE Board. Currently, there are 33 Sainik Schools across the country, managed by the Sainik Schools Society.
The main purpose of these schools is to prepare students for the UPSC NDA Exam, while also offering a strong academic foundation, discipline, and holistic personality development.
Mission, Vision & Aim
Mission: To nurture students with the right blend of academics, discipline, leadership, and patriotism to serve the nation.
Vision: To provide quality education in an environment that encourages all-round development and prepares students for a career in the armed forces and beyond.
Aim: To prepare students for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) and instill qualities of leadership, teamwork, and service before self.
Facilities at Sainik Schools
Sainik Schools provide state-of-the-art facilities to ensure students develop academically, physically, and mentally:
Modern Classrooms – Digital learning, smart classes
Well-equipped Library – Books, journals, e-resources
Sports Facilities – Football, hockey, cricket, athletics, basketball, swimming, horse riding, boxing, etc.
Science & Computer Labs – Hands-on experiments and technology learning
Training Grounds – Physical fitness and parade practice
Cultural & Co-curricular Activities – NCC, debate, drama, music, arts, and leadership camps
Hostel & Boarding Facility
As fully residential schools, Sainik Schools provide:
Separate hostel blocks (houses) for students
Nutritious meals in mess facilities
24/7 warden & medical care
Comfortable dormitories with study space
Strict discipline and daily routine (parade, classes, physical training, prep time)
This environment builds camaraderie, independence, and leadership skills among students.
Admission Process
Admission to Sainik Schools is through the All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Application Form Release: Usually in September/October
Exam Date: January
Result & Medical Exam: February–March
Final Admission & Counselling: March–April
Parents can apply online at aissee.nta.nic.in.
Eligibility Criteria
For Class VI Admission:
Age: 10 to 12 years (as on 31st March of admission year)
Gender: Boys & Girls both eligible
For Class IX Admission:
Age: 13 to 15 yearsh
Must have passed Class VIII from a recognized schooll
Only Boys are eligible (in most schools, some allow girls)
Training at Sainik Schools
Sainik Schools emphasize a military-style routine that includes:
Morning parade & PT
NCC Training (Army, Navy, Air Force wings)
Sports and obstacle courses
Leadership camps & adventure activities
Regular interactions with defence officers
This training instills discipline, courage, and patriotism in stud
Sainik School Exam Syllabus
The AISSEE Syllabus is based on the CBSE curriculum of the previous class.
Class VI Syllabus
Mathematics
General Knowledge (Science & Social Science basics)
Language (English)
Intelligence / Reasoning
Class IX Syllabus
Mathematics
Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
English
Social Science (History, Civics, Geography)
Intelligence / Reasoning
Exam Pattern (AISSEE)
Mode: Pen & Paper (OMR based)
Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Class VI Exam Pattern:
Mathematics – 50 questions (150 marks)
Intelligence – 25 questions (50 marks)
Language – 25 questions (50 marks)
GK (Science & Social Studies) – 25 questions (50 marks)
Total Marks: 300
Class IX Exam Pattern:
Mathematics – 50 questions (200 marks)
Science – 25 questions (100 marks)
English – 25 questions (50 marks)
Social Science – 25 questions (50 marks)
Intelligence – 25 questions (50 marks)
Total Marks: 500
Students must also qualify in the medical examination after the written test.
Why Choose Sainik School?
National-level reputation and discipline
Focus on all-round development (academics + physical + leadership)
Pathway to NDA, INA, and Defence careers
Affordable fees compared to private boarding schools
Scholarships & government support
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