Sainik School Entrance Exam (AISSEE): Complete Guide

The All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to Class 6 and Class 9 in Sainik Schools across India. This comprehensive exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), evaluates students’ knowledge in subjects like Mathematics, Intelligence, Language, and General Knowledge. The exam is a crucial step for students aspiring to join Sainik Schools, including both existing and newly approved institutions under the Sainik Schools Society.

Key Takeaways

• AISSEE is mandatory for admission to both existing and newly approved Sainik Schools across India. Check complete list of schools at Sainik Schools List.
• The exam evaluates students in multiple subjects with a comprehensive syllabus structure designed for each class.
• There is no negative marking in the exam, making it less stressful for young aspirants.
• Students can choose from 13 different languages for Class 6 examination, while Class 9 exam is conducted only in English.
• The selection process includes entrance exam, medical fitness test, and document verification.

About AISSEE 2025

AISSEE 2025 opens opportunities for admission to the academic year 2025-26. The exam is conducted by NTA under the guidance of Sainik Schools Society. Let’s understand the key aspects of this entrance examination.

Exam Conducting Authority

The National Testing Agency (NTA) holds the responsibility of conducting AISSEE. Their role includes:

• Managing the complete application process for AISSEE through their official portal
• Conducting the entrance examination across various centers in India
• Processing the results and preparing the final merit list
• Coordinating with Sainik Schools Society for smooth admission process

Important Dates and Timings

The examination is scheduled in January of the admission year. Here are the key timing details:

• Class 6 examination is conducted from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
• Class 9 examination takes place from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Students must reach the examination center at least one hour before the exam
• Late entry is strictly not permitted under any circumstances

Exam Duration and Mode

AISSEE follows a structured examination pattern with specific duration for each class. Let’s understand the exam mode details:

• The exam is conducted in pen and paper mode using OMR answer sheets
• Class 6 students get 150 minutes to complete their paper
• Class 9 candidates have 180 minutes to attempt all questions
• All questions are multiple-choice type with no negative marking

AISSEE Exam Pattern 2025-26

Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for proper preparation for Sainik School entrance exam. The pattern varies for Class 6 and Class 9, with different subjects and marking schemes.

Class 6 Exam Pattern

For Class 6, the exam tests students in four main subjects. Here’s the detailed breakdown:

Total questions for Class 6: 125 questions carrying 300 marks. Students can refer to previous year question papers for better understanding.

Class 9 Exam Pattern

The Class 9 exam is more detailed with five subjects. Here’s the structure:

Total questions for Class 9: 150 questions carrying 400 marks. Check detailed syllabus for Class 9 for thorough preparation.

Medium of Examination

The exam offers flexibility in language choice, especially for Class 6 students:

• Class 6 students can choose from 13 languages: English, Hindi, Marathi, Odia, Bengali, Assamese, Punjabi, Tamil, Gujarati, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Urdu
• Class 9 examination is conducted only in English medium
• Students choosing English or Hindi get bilingual question papers
• Regional language papers include questions in both chosen language and English

AISSEE Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for AISSEE, candidates must ensure they meet all the eligibility requirements. The criteria mainly focus on age limits and qualifying marks.

Age Limit for Class 6

For admission to Class 6, candidates must follow these age guidelines:

• Age should be between 10 and 12 years as on 31 March of the admission year
• Both boys and girls can apply within this age bracket
• Date of birth should fall between 1st April to 31st March of specified years
• Age relaxation is available for certain categories as per government norms

Age Limit for Class 9

Students applying for Class 9 must meet these age requirements:

• Age should be between 13 and 15 years as on 31 March of the admission year
• Admission is open for both boys and girls
• Must have completed Class 8 from a recognized school
• Should check seat availability before applying

Important Guidelines for AISSEE

Following the exam guidelines is crucial for a smooth examination experience. Here are the essential instructions that every candidate must follow during AISSEE.

Exam Day Instructions

Candidates appearing for AISSEE must follow these important instructions:

• Carry the printed copy of admit card with a recent passport-size photograph
• Reach examination center at least one hour before the scheduled time
• Wear comfortable clothes and bring transparent water bottle
• Follow all COVID-19 related protocols as per center guidelines
• Use only blue/black ballpoint pen for marking answers on OMR sheet

Prohibited Items

To maintain exam integrity, certain items are strictly prohibited in the examination hall:

• Mobile phones, calculators, or any electronic devices
• Watches, jewelry, or any metallic items
• Books, notes, or any written material
• Any communication devices
• Bags, food items (except medical requirements)

Unfair Means and Consequences

The examination authority takes strict action against unfair practices:

• Using unfair means leads to immediate disqualification
• Candidate may be debarred from future examinations
• Result will be cancelled if malpractice is discovered later
• Legal action may be taken in serious cases

AISSEE Result and Merit List

The AISSEE result declaration process is systematic and transparent. Understanding the evaluation criteria helps candidates prepare better.

Result Declaration Process

• Results are published on the official NTA website
• Candidates receive notification through SMS and email
• Each school publishes its own merit list based on cut-off marks
• Separate merit lists are prepared for different categories
• Medical fitness test follows the result declaration

Tie-Breaking Criteria

In case of equal marks, the following criteria resolve ties:

• For Class 6:
  • Higher marks in Mathematics
  • Higher marks in Intelligence
  • Higher marks in Language
  • Younger age preference
• For Class 9:
  • Higher marks in Mathematics
  • Higher marks in Intelligence
  • Higher marks in English
  • Higher marks in General Science

E-Counselling Process

After qualifying AISSEE, candidates participate in e-counselling:

• Register on the counselling portal with required documents
• Fill choice of schools in order of preference
• Seat allocation based on merit and choices
• Document verification at allotted school
• Complete admission process after medical fitness

Frequently Asked Questions About AISSEE

• Is there negative marking in AISSEE?
  No, there is no negative marking in AISSEE for both Class 6 and Class 9 examinations.
• Can girls apply for Sainik School admission?
  Yes, admission is open for both boys and girls in Sainik Schools. Check Sainik Schools for girls for specific details.
• What are the minimum qualifying marks?
  General category candidates need 25% in each subject and 40% aggregate. For SC/ST categories, only qualifying the exam is required.
• Is medical fitness mandatory?
  Yes, medical fitness is mandatory for admission after qualifying the written examination.
• Can I change my exam center after application?
  No, exam center cannot be changed once it is allotted by NTA.