Preparing 30,000+ Cadets Annually for National Defence Academy Through Military-Style Residential Education
The AISSEE 2026 admission process provides entry to 102 Sainik Schools (33 existing + 69 newly approved) across India offering military-style residential education for Class VI and IX students. Sainik Schools Society, an autonomous organization under Ministry of Defence, runs these English-medium CBSE-affiliated institutions preparing young cadets for National Defence Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy through comprehensive academic curriculum, physical training, and character building serving nation's defense aspirations.
Sainik Schools Network:
- 33 Existing Sainik Schools: Established institutions across India with proven track record (operating since 1961)
- 69 New Sainik Schools: Recently approved schools expanding reach to more states and districts (operational from 2022-23)
- State-wise distribution: Every state has minimum 1 Sainik School ensuring nationwide accessibility
- Total enrollment capacity: 30,000+ students across all schools (Class VI to XII)
- Annual admissions: Approximately 5,000-6,000 seats available for Class VI and 2,000-3,000 for Class IX
Education and Training:
- Academic curriculum: CBSE syllabus with special emphasis on mathematics, science, and English language
- Physical training: Daily PT, sports, games, outdoor activities building stamina and fitness for military service
- Military training: Basic drill, discipline, leadership qualities, parade, weapon handling (senior classes)
- Character building: Values of courage, integrity, selfless service, teamwork, and patriotism instilled
- Co-curricular activities: NCC, debates, quizzes, cultural programs, adventure activities, horse riding
Fee Structure and Scholarships:
- Annual fee: ₹3.5-4 lakh per year (including boarding, lodging, uniform, study material)
- Scholarship schemes: Defence personnel children, meritorious students, economically weaker sections eligible
- State sponsorship: Many state governments sponsor students ensuring financial accessibility
- Sibling concession: Fee reduction for siblings studying in same Sainik School
Sainik Schools provide unique opportunity for young students aspiring military careers receiving world-class education, physical training, and character development in disciplined residential environment preparing them for challenges of National Defence Academy examination and eventual commissioning as officers in Indian Armed Forces serving nation with pride and honor.
Comprehensive Assessment Testing Academic Knowledge, Intelligence, and Physical Fitness for Military Education
The AISSEE 2026 selection process follows systematic approach combining written entrance examination testing academic subjects and intelligence quotient followed by medical examination ensuring physical fitness, document verification authenticating credentials, and online counselling for school allotment based on merit rank and preference ensuring transparent, merit-based admission to prestigious Sainik Schools nationwide.
Written Examination Pattern (Class VI):
- Total marks: 300 (300 questions, each 1 mark)
- Duration: 150 minutes (2 hours 30 minutes)
- Mathematics (100 marks): Arithmetic, geometry, mensuration, data handling (Class V NCERT level)
- Intelligence (50 marks): Pattern recognition, series completion, logical reasoning, spatial reasoning
- Language (100 marks): English (50 marks)—grammar, vocabulary, comprehension; Hindi (50 marks)—similar pattern
- General Knowledge (50 marks): History, geography, civics, current affairs, sports, science facts
- Medium: Available in 13 languages (Hindi, English, Punjabi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam, Kannada, Odia, Assamese, Urdu)
- No negative marking: Every question carries 1 mark, wrong answer gives zero marks
Written Examination Pattern (Class IX):
- Total marks: 400 (400 questions, each 1 mark)
- Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours)
- Mathematics (100 marks): Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, mensuration (Class VIII NCERT level)
- Intelligence (50 marks): Analytical reasoning, logical deduction, pattern recognition, problem-solving
- English (100 marks): Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension passages, sentence formation, writing skills
- General Science (100 marks): Physics, chemistry, biology concepts (Class VIII NCERT)
- Social Studies (50 marks): History, geography, civics, economics (Class VIII NCERT)
- Medium: English only (no regional language option for Class IX)
- No negative marking: Encourages attempting all questions without penalty for wrong answers
Seat Allocation and Reservation:
- 40% All India Merit: 40% seats filled purely on merit basis without state/category reservation
- 60% State Quota: 60% seats reserved for state domicile candidates with category reservations
- Category reservation: SC (15%), ST (7.5%), OBC (27%), EWS (10%), Defence (25% in state quota)
- Home State advantage: Higher chances for candidates from school's state due to state quota
Medical Examination Standards:
- Physical fitness: Height, weight, chest measurements as per age-specific norms
- Vision test: 6/6 vision without glasses preferred, glasses permitted within prescribed limits
- General health: No chronic diseases, physical deformities, dental issues affecting fitness
- Medical board: Conducted by authorized medical authorities at designated centers
- Disqualification factors: Flat foot, knock knees, severe visual impairment, hearing defects
Expected Cutoffs (Based on Previous Trends):
- Class VI General: 200-220/300 (67-73%)
- Class VI Reserved: 180-200/300 (60-67%)
- Class IX General: 260-280/400 (65-70%)
- Class IX Reserved: 240-260/400 (60-65%)
- Cutoff varies: School-wise, state-wise cutoffs differ based on demand and seat availability
Preparation Strategy:
- NCERT books: Thoroughly study Class V (for Class VI exam) and Class VIII (for Class IX exam) NCERT textbooks
- Previous papers: Solve last 5 years AISSEE papers understanding question patterns and difficulty level
- Mock tests: Regular practice tests (30-40 recommended) building speed and exam temperament
- Intelligence section: Practice reasoning books (RS Aggarwal, Arihant) developing logical thinking skills
- General knowledge: Read newspapers, current affairs magazines, GK books covering diverse topics
- Time management: Practice completing entire paper in stipulated time ensuring all questions attempted
Candidates advised to focus on conceptual clarity rather than rote learning, develop strong foundation in mathematics and science, enhance English language skills through reading and writing practice, and maintain regular study schedule ensuring comprehensive preparation for competitive entrance examination.
₹3.5-4 Lakh Annual Fee with Comprehensive Boarding, Lodging, and Character Development Programs
The Sainik School life offers unique residential experience combining rigorous academic curriculum, intensive physical training, military discipline, and character building activities. Cadets live in supervised hostels, follow structured daily routine from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM, participate in sports and co-curricular activities, develop leadership qualities, and prepare for challenging careers in Indian Armed Forces while receiving quality CBSE education and holistic personality development.
Daily Routine and Schedule:
- Morning routine (5:30-8:00 AM): Wake up, PT, games, breakfast, room inspection
- Academic classes (8:30 AM-4:00 PM): Regular classes as per CBSE curriculum (7-8 periods daily)
- Sports period (4:00-6:00 PM): Games, athletics, swimming, horse riding, adventure activities
- Evening routine (6:00-8:00 PM): Drill/parade, prep (supervised study time), dinner
- Night study (8:00-10:00 PM): Self-study, homework completion, additional prep for weak students
- Lights out: 10:00 PM (strict sleep discipline maintained)
Academic Performance and Results:
- CBSE board results: Sainik Schools consistently achieve 95-100% pass percentage in Class X and XII
- Average percentage: Most students score 75-85% in board examinations
- NDA selection rate: 40-50% of Class XII students clear NDA written exam (compared to 2-3% national average)
- Subject focus: Mathematics, physics, English emphasized for NDA preparation
- Coaching support: Additional classes, NDA preparation coaching provided in senior classes
Infrastructure and Facilities:
- Hostel accommodation: Well-furnished dormitories with 8-10 cadets per room, individual lockers, study tables
- Academic facilities: Modern classrooms, laboratories (physics, chemistry, biology), computer labs, library with 10,000+ books
- Sports infrastructure: Football, hockey, cricket grounds, basketball courts, swimming pool, gymnasium, shooting range
- Medical facilities: 24x7 medical center with qualified doctors, nurses, ambulance for emergencies
- Dining hall: Nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, dinner) meeting dietary requirements
Comprehensive Fee Structure:
- Tuition fee: ₹1,20,000 per year (academic instruction, study material, examination fees)
- Boarding charges: ₹1,50,000 per year (hostel accommodation, meals, utilities)
- Uniform and kit: ₹50,000 (ceremonial uniform, PT dress, sports kit, shoes, accessories)
- Other charges: ₹30,000 (medical insurance, activity fees, excursion charges)
- Total annual fee: ₹3,50,000-₹4,00,000 approximately (varies school-wise)
- One-time admission fee: ₹15,000-₹20,000 (at time of joining)
Scholarship and Financial Assistance:
- Defence personnel children: 25% seats reserved with fee concessions (50-75% reduction)
- State sponsorship: State governments sponsor 20-30% students covering full/partial fees
- Merit scholarships: Top 10% students receive 25-50% fee waiver based on academic performance
- EWS quota: Economically weaker section students get 100% fee waiver under government schemes
- Corporate CSR: Many schools have corporate sponsorships supporting deserving students
Career Pathways After Sainik School:
- National Defence Academy: 40-50% graduates join NDA for Army, Navy, Air Force commission
- Technical Entry Scheme: 10-15% join 10+2 TES (Army) or other technical entry schemes
- Engineering/Medical: 20-25% pursue engineering (IITs, NITs) or medical careers after Class XII
- Other competitive exams: Many crack UPSC, state services, banking exams after graduation
- Direct commission: Some join Indian Armed Forces through various direct commission schemes
Sainik School education provides transformative experience developing students into confident, disciplined, physically fit young individuals with strong academic foundation, leadership qualities, and commitment to national service ensuring successful careers in Indian Armed Forces or civilian professions while maintaining values of integrity, courage, and selfless service throughout life.
Training 2 Lakh+ Cadets Since 1961 with 40% NDA Selection Rate and 100% CBSE Pass Percentage
The Sainik Schools Society established in 1961 operates premier residential institutions preparing young boys (now co-ed in new schools) for National Defence Academy through comprehensive military-style education. With 33 existing schools producing distinguished alumni including Army Chiefs, Air Marshals, Admirals, corporate leaders, and civil servants, and 69 new schools expanding reach, Sainik Schools represent India's most successful pre-NDA training institutions with unmatched track record in military education and character development.
Historical Background and Evolution:
- 1961: First Sainik School established at Kunjpura (Haryana) pioneering residential military education concept
- 1960s-1990s: Gradual expansion to 20 schools covering most states with consistent quality standards
- 2000s: Further expansion to 33 schools strengthening nationwide network
- 2022: Government approved 69 new Sainik Schools in PPP mode revolutionizing accessibility
- 2025: Total 102 Sainik Schools operational serving 30,000+ cadets annually
- Co-education: New Sainik Schools admit girls promoting gender equality in military education
Notable Alumni (Graduated from Sainik Schools):
- General V.K. Singh: Former Indian Army Chief, Union Minister (Sainik School Kunjpura)
- Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne: Former Indian Air Force Chief (Sainik School Goalpara)
- Admiral Sunil Lanba: Former Indian Navy Chief (Sainik School Kapurthala)
- Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore: Olympic medalist, Union Minister (Sainik School Chittorgarh)
- Hundreds of generals, admirals, air marshals serving in Indian Armed Forces
- Many IAS/IPS officers, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs contributing to nation building
State-Wise Sainik Schools Distribution:
- Northern States: Haryana (Kunjpura, Rewari), Punjab (Kapurthala), J&K (Nagrota), HP (Sujanpur Tira), Uttarakhand (Ghorakhal)
- Western States: Rajasthan (Chittorgarh), Gujarat (Balachadi), Maharashtra (Satara)
- Southern States: Karnataka (Bijapur, Kodagu), Andhra Pradesh (Korukonda), Tamil Nadu (Amaravathinagar), Kerala (Kazhakootam)
- Eastern States: West Bengal (Purulia), Odisha (Bhubaneswar), Jharkhand (Tilaiya)
- North-Eastern States: Assam (Goalpara), Nagaland (Punglwa), Manipur (Imphal), Mizoram (Chhingchhip)
- Central States: MP (Rewa), Chhattisgarh (Ambikapur)
- 69 New Schools: Distributed across all states ensuring every district has access to quality military education
Administration and Governance:
- Governing body: Sainik Schools Society under Ministry of Defence (autonomous organization)
- Society President: Defence Secretary, Government of India
- School principals: Retired armed forces officers (Colonel/equivalent rank) with educational qualifications
- Teaching staff: CBSE qualified teachers (many ex-military personnel) ensuring quality education
- Administrative officers: Retired military personnel managing discipline, training, administration
NTA Partnership and Examination:
- 2021 onwards: National Testing Agency conducts AISSEE ensuring transparency and standardization
- Previous system: Each school conducted separate entrance exams creating confusion
- NTA benefits: Single application, common exam, transparent process, online counselling, dispute resolution
- Technology integration: Computer-based registration, OMR answer sheets, online result declaration
- Reach expansion: NTA's infrastructure enables conducting exam in 500+ cities facilitating rural candidates
Success Statistics:
- NDA selection: 40-50% Class XII students clear NDA written exam annually (vs 2-3% national average)
- SSB success: 60-70% of NDA qualified students clear Services Selection Board interviews
- Eventual commission: 25-30% of each batch eventually commissioned as officers in Indian Armed Forces
- CBSE performance: 95-100% pass percentage in Class X and XII consistently
- Sports achievements: National-level athletes, Olympians, Khel Ratna awardees produced regularly
Future Vision and Expansion:
- Target enrollment: 50,000+ students by 2030 across 150+ Sainik Schools nationwide
- Co-education mandate: All new schools admitting girls promoting gender equality
- Technology integration: Smart classrooms, digital learning, AI-based personalized education
- Skill development: Adding vocational courses, entrepreneurship training alongside traditional curriculum
- International standards: Benchmarking with global military schools ensuring world-class education
AISSEE 2026 represents golden opportunity for young students (Class V and VIII pass) aspiring military careers joining India's premier residential military education institutions. With rigorous academic curriculum, intensive physical training, character development, and proven track record of producing military leaders and successful professionals, Sainik Schools offer unparalleled platform for personal growth, national service, and rewarding careers in Indian Armed Forces or civilian sectors serving nation with pride, honor, and distinction. Visit exams.nta.nic.in/sainik-school-society/ and sarkaariresult.org for updates as of 8:52 AM IST, October 16, 2025.