How to Apply for AISSEE 2026? Complete Admission Process & Exam Details

The All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) 2026 is a national-level entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to Classes 6 and 9 in Sainik Schools across India. It serves as the gateway for thousands of students aspiring to study in one of India’s most disciplined and prestigious educational systems. The exam not only ensures quality education but also prepares young minds for a future in the Indian Armed Forces. AISSEE 2026 Admission will be based on the performance in the entrance exam followed by a medical examination. Students and parents looking for Sainik School Admission 2026 must carefully go through the eligibility criteria, important dates, and registration process before applying online through the official NTA website.

About Sainik Schools and Their Objectives

Sainik Schools were established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Defence with the vision of preparing students for a career in the National Defence Academy (NDA) and other branches of the armed forces. These schools combine high-quality academics with physical training, leadership development, and discipline.


Currently, there are over 33 Sainik Schools in India, spread across different states. Each school follows the CBSE curriculum and focuses on nurturing students with values of patriotism, responsibility, and confidence. The main objective behind Sainik Schools is to create a strong foundation for students from a young age, especially those from rural and middle-class families, giving them equal opportunities to pursue defence careers. The AISSEE 2026 Exam is the first and most crucial step toward this journey, determining admission into these prestigious institutions.

What is AISSEE 2026?

The AISSEE 2026 Exam stands for All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination 2026, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Sainik Schools Society. It is held once a year for admission to Class 6 and Class 9 in all Sainik Schools across India.

The exam assesses students’ knowledge in subjects like Mathematics, General Knowledge, Language, and Intelligence. For Class 9, it includes advanced topics like Mathematics, Science, English, and Social Science. The AISSEE 2026 Admission process is entirely online — from filling out the application form to downloading the admit card and checking results.

Candidates who qualify in the written test must undergo a medical fitness test before the final merit list is released. Hence, AISSEE is not just an academic test but a gateway to a well-rounded education system that builds the foundation for leadership and defence careers.

AISSEE 2026 Important Dates

Candidates must keep track of the important dates to avoid missing any crucial step in the AISSEE 2026 Admission process. The official schedule will be released by NTA on its website – aissee.ntaonline.in.

  • AISSEE 2026 Application Form Release: September 2025 (Expected)

  • Last Date to Apply Online: October 2025

  • Application Correction Window: October 2025 (Tentative)

  • Admit Card Release Date: December 2025

  • AISSEE 2026 Exam Date: January 2026 (Expected)

  • Answer Key Release: February 2026

  • Result Declaration (Written Test): February–March 2026

  • Medical Examination: March–April 2026

  • Final Merit List: April–May 2026

Students are advised to visit the official website regularly for updates regarding AISSEE 2026 Exam Dates and notifications.

AISSEE 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for Sainik School Admission 2026, candidates must ensure they meet the age and qualification criteria prescribed by NTA.

For Class 6 Admission:

  • The student must be between 10 and 12 years as of 31 March 2026.

  • The student should have passed Class 5 from a recognized school.

  • Both boys and girls are eligible to apply.

For Class 9 Admission:

  • The student must be between 13 and 15 years as of 31 March 2026.

  • The student should have passed Class 8 from a recognized school.

  • Only those currently studying in Class 8 can apply.

Nationality: Only Indian students are eligible to apply.
It’s essential to verify the AISSEE 2026 Age Limit and Qualification before submitting the online form to avoid disqualification during document verification.

Documents Required for AISSEE 2026 Application

While filling out the AISSEE 2026 Application Form, candidates must upload several documents in the correct format and size. The following are typically required:

  1. Passport-size Photograph (Recent, in JPG format)

  2. Signature of the Candidate (Scanned copy in JPG format)

  3. Birth Certificate or Transfer Certificate for proof of age

  4. Caste Certificate (if applicable)

  5. Domicile Certificate

  6. Certificate of Service (for children of Defence personnel)

  7. Aadhaar Card or Valid ID Proof

  8. Class 5 or 8 Marksheet/Progress Report (as applicable)

Ensure that all documents are legible, authentic, and uploaded in the correct size as per NTA’s instructions. Incomplete or incorrect documentation may lead to rejection of the AISSEE 2026 Registration Form during verification.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for AISSEE 2026

Applying for AISSEE 2026 is a completely online process conducted through the official NTA website – aissee.ntaonline.in. Follow the steps below carefully:

Step 1: Registration
Visit the official website and click on “Apply for AISSEE 2026.” Create an account by entering your email ID, mobile number, and password. You will receive login credentials via email/SMS.

Step 2: Fill in the Application Form
Log in using your credentials and enter details such as name, date of birth, gender, category, school preference, exam centre, and contact details.

Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload your photograph, signature, and all required certificates in the prescribed format and size.

Step 4: Pay Application Fee
Pay the fee online using debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking.

  • General/Wards of Defence Personnel/OBC (NCL): ₹650

  • SC/ST: ₹500

Step 5: Preview & Submit
Check all details carefully before final submission. Once submitted, download and print the confirmation page for your records.

Applicants should regularly check the website for updates and ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid cancellation of their AISSEE 2026 Admission.

AISSEE 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The AISSEE 2026 Exam Pattern is designed to evaluate the candidate’s aptitude and academic proficiency. The paper is conducted in offline mode (OMR-based) and includes multiple-choice questions.

For Class 6:

  • Mathematics: 50 Questions – 150 Marks

  • Intelligence: 25 Questions – 50 Marks

  • Language: 25 Questions – 50 Marks

  • General Knowledge: 25 Questions – 50 Marks
    Total: 125 Questions – 300 Marks

For Class 9:

  • Mathematics: 50 Questions – 200 Marks

  • Intelligence: 25 Questions – 50 Marks

  • English: 25 Questions – 50 Marks

  • General Science: 25 Questions – 50 Marks

  • Social Studies: 25 Questions – 50 Marks
    Total: 150 Questions – 400 Marks

The AISSEE 2026 Syllabus is based on the NCERT curriculum for Classes 5 and 8, respectively. Students should focus on conceptual clarity, accuracy, and time management to perform well.

AISSEE 2026 Admit Card

The AISSEE 2026 Admit Card will be released by NTA in December 2025, approximately two weeks before the exam date. Candidates can download it from the official website using their application number and password.


The admit card contains essential details like the candidate’s name, roll number, exam centre, timing, and instructions. It is mandatory to carry the printed admit card along with a valid ID proof (Aadhaar card or school ID) to the exam centre.


Without the admit card, no candidate will be allowed to enter the examination hall. Candidates are also advised to check all details on the card for any discrepancies and contact the NTA helpline if needed. Keeping a copy of the admit card safe until the admission process concludes is highly recommended.

AISSEE 2026 Result and Merit List

The AISSEE 2026 Result will be declared online on the official NTA website in February or March 2026. Candidates can log in using their application number and date of birth to check their scores and qualifying status.


After the declaration of written exam results, shortlisted candidates will be called for a medical examination. The final AISSEE 2026 Merit List is prepared based on the combined performance in both the written test and medical exam.


Each Sainik School releases its separate merit list and cut-off marks for admission. Candidates whose names appear in the final list must complete the document verification and admission formalities within the given timeline to secure their seat for Sainik School Admission 2026.

NDA Connection – How AISSEE Builds the Foundation for Defence Aspirants

Sainik Schools play a vital role in grooming students who aspire to serve the nation through the National Defence Academy (NDA). The AISSEE 2026 Exam is the entry point into this ecosystem of discipline, leadership, and patriotism.


From Class 6 onwards, students receive holistic education — focusing on physical fitness, leadership training, and moral development, alongside academics. This structured environment cultivates qualities like teamwork, integrity, and confidence — all essential for success in the armed forces.


A large percentage of NDA cadets every year are alumni of Sainik Schools, showcasing their strong preparatory foundation. Students trained in these schools are well-versed with time management, goal orientation, and adaptability — skills that directly align with NDA’s rigorous training environment.


Thus, AISSEE 2026 Admission doesn’t just open doors to prestigious education; it sets the path for a lifelong career in national service and defence leadership.

Conclusion

The AISSEE 2026 Admission Guide serves as a complete roadmap for parents and students aiming to join India’s esteemed Sainik Schools. From understanding eligibility and important dates to following the registration and exam process, every step is crucial for successful admission. Preparing early, staying updated with official notifications, and maintaining discipline during preparation are key to success.


Sainik Schools lay the perfect foundation for a career in the Indian Armed Forces, and cracking AISSEE 2026 is the first milestone toward that dream. For students who aspire to take their preparation further and aim for the National Defence Academy (NDA) after Sainik School, joining a reputed defence coaching institute like ShoorVeer Defence Academy can provide expert guidance, focused training, and the right mentorship for future success.

📞 Call +91-7240372408
🌐 Website: www.shoorveerdefenceacademy.com