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Sainik School Admission 2026: Registration and Eligibility Details

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced the AISSEE 2026 for Sainik School admissions for classes 6 and 9. Online registration opens from October 10 to October 30, 2025, with eligibility criteria based on birth dates and previous schooling. The annual fees range from ₹1.25 lakh to ₹1.75 lakh, with scholarships available for eligible students. This article provides essential details on the application process, eligibility, and the benefits of studying at Sainik Schools, which prepare students for prestigious defense academies and civil services.
 

Sainik School Admission 2026 Notification Released



Candidates aspiring for admission to Sainik Schools should note that the National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued the notification for the All India Sainik School Entrance Exam (AISSEE) for classes 6 and 9. This exam requires online registration.


Application Process for Sainik Schools

The application window for Sainik School admissions is now open, presenting a valuable opportunity for students aiming for classes 6 and 9 in Sainik Schools nationwide. The NTA has officially announced the AISSEE 2026, which facilitates admissions to various Sainik Schools across the country.


Important Dates for Registration

Online registration for the AISSEE will be available from October 10, 2025, until October 30, 2025. Candidates must ensure that the application fee is submitted by October 31, 2025. The registration process is exclusively online and can be completed on the NTA's official website.


Eligibility Criteria for Admission

Who Can Apply?


Only those students who meet the following criteria are eligible to apply for Sainik School Admission 2026:



  • For Class 6: Candidates must be born between April 1, 2014, and March 31, 2016.

  • For Class 9: Candidates must be born between April 1, 2011, and March 31, 2013.

  • Additionally, candidates must have completed their previous class from a recognized institution.


View the AISSEE 2026 Notification Here


Steps to Register for Sainik School Admission

How to Register:



  1. Visit the NTA website at exams.nta.nic.in.

  2. Locate the "AISSEE 2026 Registration" link on the homepage and click on it.

  3. If you are a new applicant, select "New Registration" and fill in your details, including name, date of birth, mobile number, and email.

  4. Upload the required documents, such as a scanned passport-size photo, signature, birth certificate, etc.

  5. Verify the information and submit the application. Save a printout for future reference.


Annual Fee Structure for Sainik Schools

The annual fees for Sainik Schools can vary slightly based on the state and specific school, typically ranging from ₹1.25 lakh to ₹1.75 lakh. This fee covers tuition, hostel accommodations, uniforms, books, and meals. Scholarships are available for certain student categories.


Further Details on Admission Criteria

For Class 6, students must be born between April 1, 2014, and March 31, 2016, while for Class 9, the birth date range is from April 1, 2011, to March 31, 2013. Candidates must have passed their previous class from a recognized school. The selection process includes an entrance exam and a medical examination.


Career Prospects for Sainik School Graduates

Sainik Schools aim to instill discipline, leadership, and a commitment to national service in their students. Graduates often pursue careers in the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Military Academy (IMA), and various civil services, with many becoming officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.


Cost of Education at Sainik Schools

While education at Sainik Schools is not entirely free, the government offers partial or full scholarships to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and defense personnel, significantly easing the financial burden and enabling talented students to access quality education.