If you thought getting into a Sainik School was easy – think again.
This year, the Sainik School Admission Test 2025–26 drew a record-breaking 1,55,085 applicants from every corner of India — from the bustling cities of Bihar and Karnataka to the remote islands of Andaman & Nicobar.
That’s more than 1.5 lakh dreams marching toward one goal — to earn the honour of wearing that crisp uniform, saluting with pride, and living a life of discipline, courage, and leadership.
📊 State-Wise and Category-Wise Participation Data – Sainik School Admission Test 2025–26
Below is the complete data showing how many students participated in the Sainik School Admission Test 2025–26, categorized by state, gender (male/female), and reservation category.
This data reflects the wide reach of the exam across India and the growing enthusiasm for joining Sainik Schools.
👩🎓👦 Boys, Girls, and the Spirit of Equality
Out of these, 1,15,231 were boys and a remarkable 39,854 were girls – proof that the Sainik spirit now beats in the hearts of both sons and daughters of India.
When Sainik Schools first opened their doors to girls, participation was limited to a few hundred students. Today, with nearly 40,000 female candidates, India is witnessing a remarkable transformation. States such as Karnataka, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh have the highest female participation.
The era of “girls can’t be cadets” is over.
The next generation of officers is already rising – together.
🌏 From Every Corner of India
The Sainik School test has truly become India’s exam of pride.
- Bihar recorded the highest number of applicants (21,715), followed by Karnataka (18,611) and Andhra Pradesh (13,465).
- States like Rajasthan (9,132), Uttar Pradesh (16,282), and Maharashtra (12,209) also showed massive participation, highlighting strong awareness and competition in northern and western India.
- Among smaller regions, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (29 candidates) and Dadra & Nagar Haveli (21 candidates) had limited participation, but their consistent representation reflects pan-India reach.
It’s heartwarming to see that whether a child comes from a metro or a village, a hill state or an island — their dream of wearing the Sainik badge burns just as bright.
Total Participation Overview
| Gender | Number of Candidates |
|---|---|
| Male | 1,15,231 |
| Female | 39,854 |
| Total | 1,55,085 |
Source: LIST OF CANDIDATES WHO QUALIFIED or NOT QUALIFIED AISSEE 2025 EXAM HELD ON 05.04.2025 FOR ADMISSION TO CLASS VI (ACADEMIC YEAR 2025-26) at https://exams.nta.ac.in/
This year marks another significant milestone as female participation continues to rise, showcasing India’s growing commitment to gender equality in defence-oriented education.
🎖️ Reservation Category Breakdown
The Sainik School entrance follows the Government of India’s reservation norms. Here’s a broad distribution of participation across categories:
| Category | Trend |
|---|---|
| OBC-NCL (Other Backward Classes – Non-Creamy Layer) | Consistently high participation, especially in Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | Good representation across all states, showing inclusiveness. |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | High participation from North-Eastern and Central Indian states like Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. |
| Defence/Ex-Servicemen Category | Thousands of candidates from defence families continue to show strong interest, maintaining the schools’ original ethos. |
Every number here is more than data – it’s a story of ambition, hope, and pride.
💪 For Future Aspirants: The Road Ahead
If you’re preparing for the 2026–27 Sainik School Admission Test, here’s what these numbers tell you:
Competition is tough. But it’s also achievable – with the right mindset and preparation.
Here’s how to begin your journey:
- Competition is Rising:
With over 1.55 lakh candidates competing for a limited number of seats, aspirants must focus on conceptual clarity and disciplined preparation. - Start Early:
Begin preparation at least a year in advance. Master key subjects like Mathematics, English, General Science, and GK. - Mock Tests & Practice:
Regular practice through previous year papers, online mock tests, and time-bound practice sessions is essential. - Physical Fitness Matters:
Remember, Sainik Schools focus on both academic excellence and physical discipline. Maintain a healthy routine with sports and physical training. - Stay Updated on Notifications:
Keep visiting the official Sainik School Society website for updates on admission dates, exam schedules, and result announcements.
🚀 The Bigger Picture
Each year, the number of applicants rises. But so does the passion.
The 2025–26 data isn’t just a set of statistics — it’s proof that India’s young minds are hungry for challenge, structure, and purpose.
In every classroom today sits a potential cadet — a child who may one day serve the nation, fly a fighter jet, lead a battalion, or protect the tricolour at the border.
And it all begins here — with a dream, an exam, and a uniform that stands for something far greater than oneself.
🏆 Final Words
The Sainik School Admission Test is not just an exam – it’s the first step toward a career in leadership, discipline, and service to the nation. The data from 2025–26 shows that more students, especially girls, are stepping forward with determination and courage.
“The exam is just the beginning. The real test is of courage, character, and consistency.”
Keep working, keep believing, and keep dreaming. Because the gates of Sainik Schools don’t just open for the best scorers – they open for those who refuse to give up.