How to Apply for Sainik School Admissions 2026: The registration process for the All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) 2026 is now open, offering students across India a valuable opportunity to gain admission into Class 6 and Class 9 at both existing and newly-approved Sainik Schools. The online application window is closing soon, and eligible students are encouraged to apply before the last date to avoid missing out.
The admission process is being conducted for the academic session 2026–27, and thousands of seats are available for deserving candidates.
How to Apply for Sainik School Admissions 2026?AISSEE 2026: Important Dates to Remember
Candidates applying for AISSEE 2026 must carefully note all key dates related to registration, fee payment, correction, and the exam.
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Application Start Date: October 10, 2025
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Last Date to Apply Online: October 30, 2025 (up to 5 PM)
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Last Date for Fee Payment: October 31, 2025
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Application Correction Window: November 2 to November 4, 2025
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AISSEE 2026 Exam Date: January 2026 (Exact date to be notified soon)
Applicants should ensure all steps are completed within the timeline — including payment and correction if needed — since late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
About AISSEE and Sainik Schools
The All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) is a national-level entrance test conducted every year for admission into India’s prestigious Sainik Schools. These schools aim to prepare young students for careers in the Armed Forces, while also providing a strong foundation in academics, discipline, and leadership.
Currently, there are 33 established Sainik Schools and 69 newly-approved Sainik Schools across the country. The 2026 admission cycle also includes 19 new schools offering Class 9 entry for the first time.
This expansion ensures that more students from different regions can access Sainik School education under the Ministry of Defence’s Sainik School Society initiative.
AISSEE 2026: Classes and Admissions Covered
The AISSEE 2026 exam is being held for:
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Class 6: Admission available in all existing and new Sainik Schools
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Class 9: Admission available in existing Sainik Schools and 19 newly-approved ones
Candidates can select up to four preferred schools while applying online. Admission will depend on the student’s rank, category, and availability of seats in their chosen schools.
Eligibility Criteria for AISSEE 2026
To appear for AISSEE 2026, students must meet the following eligibility conditions related to age, class, and educational qualification:
For Class 6 Admission
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Age between 10 and 12 years as on March 31, 2026.
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Birthdate must fall between April 1, 2014, and March 31, 2016 (both days inclusive).
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Candidates must be studying in Class 5 at a recognized school.
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Both boys and girls are eligible for admission in Class 6.
For Class 9 Admission
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Age between 13 and 15 years as on March 31, 2026.
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Birthdate must fall between April 1, 2011, and March 31, 2013 (both days inclusive).
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Candidate must have passed Class 8 from a recognized school.
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Both boys and girls can apply where seats are available.
Admission Categories for New Sainik Schools
Admissions to newly-approved Sainik Schools will take place under two categories:
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Category A (40% Route): Open admission route for any eligible student who appears for AISSEE 2026.
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Category B (60% Route): Reserved for students already studying in the newly-approved Sainik School, wishing to continue under the Sainik School vertical.
This dual route ensures both continuity and accessibility to a wider pool of aspirants.
AISSEE 2026 Application Fee
The registration fee for AISSEE 2026 can be paid online using debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI.
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General/OBC/Defence/Ex-Servicemen: ₹850
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SC/ST Candidates: ₹700
Applicants are advised to download and save the payment receipt and confirmation page after successful submission for future reference.
AISSEE 2026 Exam Pattern and Structure
The AISSEE exam is conducted in offline (pen-and-paper) mode using an OMR sheet. The pattern and subjects differ for Class 6 and Class 9 admissions.
For Class 6
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Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (150 minutes)
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Total Marks: 300
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Medium: Available in 13 languages including English and Hindi
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Subjects & Questions:
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Mathematics – 50 Questions (150 Marks)
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Intelligence – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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Language – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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General Knowledge – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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For Class 9
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Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
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Total Marks: 400
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Medium: English only
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Subjects & Questions:
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Mathematics – 50 Questions (200 Marks)
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English – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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Intelligence – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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General Science – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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Social Science – 25 Questions (50 Marks)
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To qualify, candidates must score at least 25% in each subject and 40% in aggregate. For SC/ST candidates, minimum marks may vary as per reservation norms.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online
Follow these simple steps to complete your AISSEE 2026 registration successfully:
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Visit the official website: exams.nta.nic.in/sainikschool
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Click on the link “AISSEE 2026 Registration.”
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Register using your name, email ID, and mobile number.
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Log in with the credentials and fill in the application form with personal, academic, and exam details.
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Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and certificates as per the prescribed format.
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Pay the application fee online using available payment methods.
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Download and print the confirmation page for reference.
Candidates can edit their applications during the correction window (November 2–4, 2025). It’s important to review all details before final submission.
AISSEE 2026 Result and Counselling
The AISSEE 2026 results are expected to be announced four to six weeks after the exam. Students who qualify will be invited for E-counselling, where seat allotment is based on rank, school preference, category, and medical fitness.
The final admission process includes:
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Document verification
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Medical examination
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Confirmation of seat and fee payment
Once selected, candidates will join one of India’s most respected educational systems with a focus on discipline, leadership, and holistic development.
Why Choose a Sainik School?
Sainik Schools are renowned for their disciplined environment, excellent academic structure, and focus on physical and moral development. They serve as a strong foundation for students aspiring to join the National Defence Academy (NDA) or other branches of the Indian Armed Forces.
These schools also provide exposure to sports, leadership programs, and national-level competitions — shaping students into responsible and confident individuals.
