Sainik School Entrance Exam 2026: AISSEE Registration Begins, Check Dates, Fees & Eligibility

AISSEE 2026 Registration Open for Class 6 and 9 — Apply Online at exams.nta.nic.in Before October 30

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially opened the online AISSEE 2026 registration window for students seeking admission to Class 6 and Class 9 in Sainik Schools and New Sainik Schools across India. This entrance exam serves as a gateway for students aspiring to join these prestigious institutions that focus on discipline, academics, and leadership development.

According to the notification, the last date to apply online for AISSEE 2026 is October 30, 2025, up to 5:00 PM, while the last date to pay the examination fee is October 31, 2025 (till 11:50 PM). The entire process — from filling the application form to downloading the admit card — will be handled online through the official portal exams.nta.nic.in.

Overview of AISSEE 2026 Registration

The All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) is an annual national-level test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admissions to 33 traditional Sainik Schools and over 30 new Sainik Schools affiliated under the Ministry of Defence.

These schools aim to prepare students for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and other elite defence training institutions. Apart from academic excellence, Sainik Schools emphasize physical fitness, leadership, and discipline among students.

Key Highlights of AISSEE 2026:

• Conducting Authority: National Testing Agency (NTA)
• Exam Name: All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) 2026
• Classes Covered: Class 6 and Class 9
• Mode of Exam: Pen and Paper (OMR Based)
• Official Website: exams.nta.nic.in
• Last Date to Apply: October 30, 2025
• Exam Date: January 2026 (exact schedule to be announced)

Important Dates for AISSEE 2026

Students must carefully note all the important dates related to AISSEE 2026 registration and examination:

It is important for candidates to submit their forms well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

AISSEE 2026 Registration — Step-by-Step Process

The registration process is completely online. Here’s how students can apply:

1. Visit the official NTA website:
   Go to exams.nta.nic.in.
2. Click on AISSEE 2026 Registration link:
   Choose “AISSEE 2026 – Application Form for Class VI or Class IX”.
3. Fill in the registration details:
   Enter basic information such as name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.
4. Complete the application form:
   Fill academic and personal details, upload scanned images of photo and signature.
5. Upload documents:
   Upload required certificates in the specified format (birth certificate, domicile, category, etc.).
6. Pay the examination fee:
   Use debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI to make payment online.
7. Download confirmation page:
   Once payment is successful, download and save the confirmation page for reference.

AISSEE 2026 Application Fee

The fee varies by category as follows:

The payment can be made through online modes only — including credit/debit cards, internet banking, or UPI. No offline payment is accepted.

Eligibility Criteria for AISSEE 2026

Candidates applying for AISSEE 2026 registration must fulfill the following criteria:

For Class 6 Admission

• The child should be between 10 and 12 years of age as on March 31, 2026.
• The candidate should have passed Class 5 from a recognized school at the time of admission.
• Both boys and girls are eligible for Class 6 admission.

For Class 9 Admission

• The student must be between 13 and 15 years of age as on March 31, 2026.
• The candidate must be studying in Class 8 in a recognized school.
• Only boys are eligible for Class 9 admission in traditional Sainik Schools (some New Sainik Schools may allow girls).

AISSEE 2026 Exam Pattern

The exam will be conducted in offline (pen and paper) mode and will have objective-type questions (MCQs).

For Class 6:

• Duration: 150 minutes
• Languages Offered: 13 regional languages including English and Hindi
• Subjects: Mathematics, Intelligence, Language, and General Knowledge

For Class 9:

• Duration: 180 minutes
• Medium: English only
• Subjects: Mathematics, Science, English, Social Studies, and Intelligence

There will be no negative marking, and each correct answer carries one or more marks as per the subject weightage.

AISSEE 2026 Admit Card and Result

The AISSEE 2026 admit cards will be released in December 2025 on the NTA website. Candidates must log in using their registration number and password to download it.

The results will likely be declared 4–6 weeks after the exam. Qualifying candidates will then undergo medical fitness tests and document verification before the final merit list is announced.

Documents Required for Registration

Before applying, candidates should keep the following documents ready:

• Passport-size photograph
• Scanned signature of the candidate
• Birth certificate
• Domicile certificate
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• Previous class mark sheet (if available)

Ensure all documents are uploaded in the required size and format mentioned in the notification.

About Sainik Schools

Sainik Schools were established to prepare students academically, physically, and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA) and other Defence Services. They operate under the Ministry of Defence and follow the CBSE curriculum.

Each Sainik School offers a residential environment with modern facilities, trained faculty, and extracurricular opportunities to shape students into disciplined leaders. Over the years, thousands of Sainik School alumni have gone on to join the Indian Armed Forces and other prestigious services.

Key Tips for AISSEE 2026 Preparation

1. Understand the Syllabus: Go through the detailed syllabus for each subject as per NTA guidelines.
2. Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving sample papers will help in understanding question patterns.
3. Focus on Time Management: Since the test is lengthy, practice mock tests within the given time limit.
4. Revise Regularly: Make short notes for quick revision before the exam.
5. Stay Updated: Regularly visit the NTA or Sainik School websites for updates regarding admit cards and results.

Helpline Details

For any issues related to AISSEE 2026 registration, students and parents can contact the NTA Helpdesk:

• Helpline Number: 011-40759000
• Email: aissee@nta.ac.in
• Website: exams.nta.nic.in

Conclusion

The AISSEE 2026 registration offers an incredible opportunity for students to secure admission into India’s renowned Sainik Schools, which have produced some of the finest officers in the Armed Forces. Aspiring candidates must apply before October 30, 2025, and start their preparation early to ensure success.

Joining a Sainik School not only provides quality education but also nurtures leadership, patriotism, and discipline — key qualities that shape the future defenders of the nation.