Sainik Schools are among India’s most respected institutions for young students aspiring to build a career in the armed forces or develop strong leadership skills. These schools offer a disciplined, structured, and academically rich environment focused on shaping future leaders.
What Are Sainik Schools?
Sainik Schools are a network of English-medium, residential schools in India, established and managed by the Sainik Schools Society under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. They are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and admit students primarily in Class 6 and Class 9 through a national-level entrance exam called the AISSEE (All India Sainik School Entrance Examination).
The primary aim of these schools is to prepare students academically, physically, and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and other prestigious institutions of the Indian Armed Forces.
History, Purpose, and Role in Defence Forces
History
Sainik Schools were conceptualized by V. K. Krishna Menon, the then Defence Minister of India, in 1961. The objective was to rectify the regional and class imbalance in the officer cadre of the Indian Armed Forces.
The first Sainik School, Sainik School Satara (Maharashtra), was established in 1961. Since then, the model has expanded across various states in India.
Purpose
- To provide quality education to children, especially from rural and middle-class backgrounds.
- To instill discipline, national pride, and leadership qualities.
- To create a pipeline of students capable of joining defence academies.
- To ensure regional representation in the officer cadre of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
How Many Sainik Schools Are There? Where Are They Located?
As of 2025, there are:
- 33 Traditional Sainik Schools established by the government across various states.
- 18 New Sainik Schools launched under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model with NGOs and private institutions, bringing the total to 51 operational schools.
Important Note: These numbers may increase as more states are adopting the Sainik School model.
Eligibility Criteria & Admission Overview
| Criteria | Class 6 Admission | Class 9 Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Boys & Girls | Boys only (limited schools for girls in pilot phase) |
| Age Limit | 10 to 12 years as on 31 March 2025 | 13 to 15 years as on 31 March 2025 |
| Educational Qualification | Should be studying in Class 5 (appearing) or passed Class 5 | Should have passed Class 8 from a recognized school |
| Nationality | Indian citizens only | Indian citizens only |
| Entrance Exam | AISSEE – All India Sainik School Entrance Exam | AISSEE – All India Sainik School Entrance Exam |
| Exam Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Subjects in Exam | Mathematics, Intelligence, Language, General Knowledge | Mathematics, Intelligence, English, Science, Social Science |
| Exam Medium | English, Hindi, and Regional Languages | English only |
| Selection Process | Written Exam → E-Counselling → Medical Examination | Written Exam → E-Counselling → Medical Examination |
How to Apply?
- Visit the official website: https://exams.nta.ac.in/AISSEE
- Register online: Create a student account
- Fill the form: Add personal, educational, and choice of school details
- Upload documents: Photo, signature, birth certificate, caste certificate, etc.
- Pay application fee: As applicable
- Submit and print confirmation page
Note: All applications are done online. No offline submission is accepted.
Exam Pattern Overview
Class 6 Exam Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 150 |
| Intelligence | 25 | 50 |
| Language | 25 | 50 |
| General Knowledge | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 125 | 300 |
Class 9 Exam Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 50 | 200 |
| English | 25 | 50 |
| Intelligence | 25 | 50 |
| General Science | 25 | 50 |
| Social Science | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 150 | 400 |
How to Prepare for AISSEE Sainik Schook as a Beginner?
Preparing for the Sainik School Entrance Exam (AISSEE) can feel overwhelming for first-timers. Whether you’re a student starting out or a parent guiding your child, this step-by-step guide will help you build a smart, effective study strategy from the ground up.
Before you start studying, know what you’re preparing for. The AISSEE exam tests knowledge in subjects like Mathematics, Intelligence, Language, and General Knowledge (for Class 6) and adds Science, Social Studies, and English for Class 9.
The right study material makes preparation efficient and focused. Here are the recommended books for beginners:
For Class 6
- NCERT Class 5 Math & EVS (for basics)
- Arihant or Oswaal AISSEE Guide for Class 6
- R.S. Aggarwal (for basic maths practice)
- Local GK books in Hindi/English for your region
For Class 9
- NCERT Class 8 books (Maths, Science, SST, English)
- Arihant / Oswaal Sainik School Entrance Guide Class 9
- Reasoning books (Verbal & Non-Verbal) by RS Aggarwal
Parent’s Guide to Sainik School Admission
Is your child preparing for the Sainik School Entrance Exam? As a parent, your support, awareness, and involvement play a vital role in your child’s success. This guide is specially written to help you understand the process, make informed decisions, and support your child throughout the journey.
Sainik Schools are government-supported, fully residential schools that follow the CBSE curriculum and prepare students for a disciplined, leadership-driven future — especially for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA) and other defence forces.
They aim to:
- Build character, discipline, and patriotism
- Provide affordable, quality education to middle-class and rural children
- Shape future leaders in the armed forces and beyond
Note for Parents: Your Role in Your Child’s Sainik School Journey
While your child is the one preparing for the entrance exam, your support and involvement as a parent can make a world of difference. For children aged 10–13, self-discipline and exam strategy are still developing – and that’s where you come in.
Here’s how you can actively support your child’s success:
💡 1. Build a Study-Friendly Environment at Home
- Ensure a quiet, distraction-free study space
- Maintain a fixed daily routine with study and break time
- Avoid pressuring them — focus on consistency over long hours
🕵️ 2. Monitor Progress (Gently)
- Track their practice test scores and improvement areas
- Use wall planners or weekly checklists to make progress visible
- Celebrate small wins — it builds motivation and confidence
📚 3. Help Select the Right Study Material
Your child may not know which books or tests are reliable. You can:
- Purchase age-appropriate and syllabus-matched books
- Download previous year papers and practice sets
- Bookmark trusted websites like this one for daily use
🗓️ 4. Handle Administrative Tasks
Children may struggle with:
- Registering online
- Uploading documents
- Meeting deadlines
Step in to complete these tasks correctly and on time. Refer only to the official AISSEE website for form filling and notifications.
❤️ 5. Be Their Coach, Not Just a Guardian
- Listen to their struggles without judgment
- Help them manage exam anxiety with calm reassurance
- Remind them that doing their best is more important than being perfect
Your presence, patience, and practical help can lighten your child’s burden and boost their confidence. Even if you’re not involved in teaching, your emotional and logistical support is the foundation of their preparation.
“Behind every child preparing for a dream, there’s a parent helping them believe it’s possible.”
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