AISSEE 2026 new Sainik schools list Tamil Nadu Goa Maharashtra announced by NTA

NTA has released the AISSEE 2026 new Sainik schools list including Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra. Registration open till October 30, 2025. Check eligibility, process, and updates here.

NTA Expands Sainik School Network for AISSEE 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an important notification introducing new Sainik Schools for the upcoming All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) 2026. The latest inclusion features new institutions from Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra, marking another major step toward broadening access to military-style education across India.

The notice, published on the official NTA website, highlights the government’s ongoing effort to strengthen the Sainik School system and to ensure more students from diverse states can pursue quality education integrated with leadership training and national values.

As per the circular, AISSEE 2026 registration remains open till October 30, 2025, with fee payment allowed until October 31, 2025. The entrance exam serves as the sole gateway for admission to classes VI and IX across all recognized Sainik Schools in the country.

Understanding the Vision Behind Sainik Schools Expansion

The inclusion of new schools in Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra reflects the Ministry of Defence’s initiative to make Sainik education more geographically inclusive. These schools aim to blend rigorous academics with values of discipline, patriotism, and physical fitness — preparing young citizens for future leadership roles, particularly in defence and civil services.

An official from the Ministry emphasized,

“This expansion reflects our vision of educational inclusivity and national integration. Every addition strengthens the backbone of India’s value-driven education.”

This statement highlights how the Sainik Schools model, which began in the 1960s, continues to evolve through the partnership between NTA and the Sainik Schools Society under the Ministry of Defence.

AISSEE 2026: Key Dates and Application Details

The NTA notification specifies the following important details:

• Exam Name: All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) 2026
• Application Window: Open till October 30, 2025
• Fee Payment Deadline: October 31, 2025
• Exam Mode: Pen-and-paper based
• Classes Covered: VI and IX
• Admitting Schools: Existing and newly approved Sainik Schools

Students can apply through the official portal at exams.nta.ac.in/AISSEE.

The online application process has been simplified for easier access. Aspirants must register, fill in their details, upload documents, and pay the examination fee within the prescribed window.

New Additions to the Sainik Schools Network

The main focus of this year’s announcement is the AISSEE 2026 new Sainik schools list Tamil Nadu Goa Maharashtra, representing significant geographical diversification.

These new institutions will operate under the New Sainik Schools initiative, which partners with existing schools (private or government) to implement the Sainik education model through a memorandum of agreement with the Ministry of Defence.

Some of the recently approved institutions include:

• Sainik School Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu)
• Sainik School Panaji (Goa)
• Sainik School Nagpur (Maharashtra)

This addition brings the total number of functional and approved schools to over 40, a record expansion aimed at serving rural and semi-urban areas where access to quality education is limited.

Eligibility Criteria for AISSEE 2026

For those applying through the AISSEE 2026 registration portal, the eligibility criteria remain unchanged from previous years:

• Class VI Admission:
  • Student must be aged between 10 and 12 years as of March 31, 2026.
  • Must have passed or be studying in Class V in a recognized school.
• Class IX Admission:
  • Student must be aged between 13 and 15 years as of March 31, 2026.
  • Must have passed or be studying in Class VIII in a recognized institution.

Both boys and girls are eligible for admission under this model, reinforcing gender inclusivity in military-style education.

AISSEE 2026 Exam Pattern

The AISSEE 2026 exam will follow a pen-and-paper format, with separate question papers for classes VI and IX.

For Class VI:

• Mathematics, Intelligence, Language, and General Knowledge
• Duration: 150 minutes
• Maximum Marks: 300

For Class IX:

• Mathematics, English, Intelligence, General Science, and Social Studies
• Duration: 180 minutes
• Maximum Marks: 400

All questions are multiple-choice based. Candidates are encouraged to refer to NCERT textbooks, available for free download at Edunovations NCERT PDFs, and prepare using structured notes, mind maps, and previous-year question papers.

How to Apply for AISSEE 2026 Entrance Exam

Students can complete their registration in simple steps:

1. Visit the official NTA AISSEE portal at exams.nta.ac.in/AISSEE.
2. Click on “New Registration” and provide the required details.
3. Upload documents such as photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
4. Pay the examination fee online.
5. Save and print the confirmation page for reference.

Those needing detailed guidance can refer to study aids and video tutorials at Edunovations Videos or check current affairs updates relevant to Sainik School exams at Edunovations Current Affairs.

Benefits of Studying in a Sainik School

Enrolling in a Sainik School not only offers academic excellence but also instills a sense of discipline, national pride, and leadership. Key advantages include:

• Comprehensive CBSE-based curriculum with a strong focus on physical fitness.
• Affordable residential schooling supported by government scholarships.
• Exposure to NCC training, leadership programs, and defence-oriented activities.
• Preparation for NDA and other defence academies through structured mentorship.

Parents seeking to open new Sainik Schools under partnership programs can reach out to Mart India Infotech for website and digital support for institutional setup.

Expert Opinions and Insights

Dr. S. Rajesh Kumar, an education policy analyst, observed:

“The addition of new Sainik Schools in Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra ensures equitable access to leadership-oriented education. The focus is shifting from urban centers to inclusive rural empowerment.”

Education experts also highlight that the AISSEE 2026 new Sainik schools list Tamil Nadu Goa Maharashtra will encourage more students from southern and western states to pursue defence careers, contributing to regional balance in national institutions.

Preparation Strategy for AISSEE 2026

Students aiming to excel in the AISSEE 2026 should adopt a well-rounded approach:

• Focus on conceptual understanding using NCERT materials (download here).
• Use topic-wise notes available at Edunovations Notes.
• Practice daily MCQs from Edunovations MCQs.
• Follow the official syllabus and pattern at Edunovations Syllabus.
• Stay updated with national education developments through current affairs sections.

This strategic preparation can help candidates secure top ranks and admission to their preferred Sainik School.

Government’s Commitment to Education and Inclusion

The expansion aligns with the broader National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which emphasizes holistic learning and character development. The addition of new schools under the AISSEE framework aims to democratize access to structured and value-based education.

The Sainik Schools Society, in collaboration with the NTA, plans to continue adding schools in underserved regions, making the military education model more accessible nationwide.

Final Thoughts

The inclusion of new Sainik Schools in Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra for AISSEE 2026 is a transformative step for Indian education. With admissions open until October 30, 2025, students and parents are encouraged to review the eligibility, syllabus, and exam details promptly.

The AISSEE 2026 new Sainik schools list Tamil Nadu Goa Maharashtra announcement not only strengthens India’s defence preparatory education but also fulfills the government’s mission to build an equitable and inclusive learning ecosystem.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the AISSEE 2026 new Sainik schools list Tamil Nadu Goa Maharashtra about?
It refers to the addition of new schools from Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra under the Sainik Schools Society for the AISSEE 2026 admissions.

Q2. How many new schools have been approved for AISSEE 2026?
Three new institutions have been included, expanding access to military-style education in new regions.

Q3. What is the last date to apply for AISSEE 2026?
The registration window closes on October 30, 2025, and fee payments can be made until October 31, 2025.

Q4. How can I apply for AISSEE 2026 entrance exam?
Applications can be submitted online at the NTA AISSEE portal exams.nta.ac.in/AISSEE.

Q5. Which classes are eligible for admission under AISSEE 2026?
Admissions are open for classes VI and IX only.

Q6. Are both boys and girls eligible for admission to Sainik Schools?
Yes, both genders can apply as per the revised guidelines promoting inclusivity.

Q7. What are the eligibility criteria for Class VI admission?
Students aged between 10 and 12 years as of March 31, 2026 are eligible, provided they have completed Class V.

Q8. What subjects are covered in the AISSEE 2026 exam?
For Class VI: Mathematics, Intelligence, Language, and GK.
For Class IX: Mathematics, English, Science, Social Studies, and Intelligence.

Q9. Where can I find AISSEE preparation materials?
Students can access NCERT courses, notes, and practice questions via Edunovations Learning Resources.

Q10. How does the inclusion of new schools benefit students?
It expands regional opportunities, ensuring more students from diverse backgrounds can pursue quality defence preparatory education.