A comprehensive comparison to help you make the best decision for your child's defence career.
Compare key parameters side-by-side
| Parameter | Sainik Schools (AISSEE) | RIMC Dehradun | Rashtriya Military Schools (RMS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) | Rashtriya Indian Military College | Integrated HQ of MoD (Army) |
| Total Schools | 33 + 19 New Sainik Schools | 1 (Dehradun, Uttarakhand) | 5 (Ajmer, Bangalore, Belgaum, Chail, Dholpur) |
| Entry Class | Class 6 & Class 9 | Class 8 Only | Class 6 & Class 9 |
| Age Limit | 10-12 yrs (Cl 6) / 13-15 yrs (Cl 9) | 11.5 - 13 years | 10-12 yrs (Cl 6) / 13-15 yrs (Cl 9) |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate to High | Very High (Toughest) | Moderate |
| Annual Fees (Approx) | ₹1.4 Lakhs - ₹1.6 Lakhs | ₹60,000 - ₹1 Lakh | ₹4,800 - ₹70,000 (Based on Rank) |
| Girls Admission | Yes (Class 6 & 9) | Yes (Limited Seats) | Yes (Class 6 only currently) |
What is it? Sainik Schools are a system of schools established and managed by the Sainik Schools Society under the Ministry of Defence. Their primary objective is to prepare students academically, physically, and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA).
Admission is via the All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE). It includes a written test followed by a medical examination. The written test covers Maths, GK, Language, and Intelligence.
What is it? The Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, is an 'A' category premier institution. It is often considered the "Nursery of Leadership" for the Indian Armed Forces.
The exam is descriptive and subjective, unlike the MCQ-based AISSEE. It tests deep conceptual understanding in English, Maths, and GK. A rigorous Viva-Voce (Interview) follows the written test.
What is it? Formerly known as King George's Royal Indian Military Schools, these are run directly by the Director General of Military Training (DGMT). They cater primarily to the wards of defence personnel, though civilians can also apply.
Common Entrance Test (CET) comprising Maths, GK, English, and Intelligence. The difficulty level is typically slightly lower than RIMC but competitive due to limited seats for civilians.