Quick Comparison at a Glance
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) |
Sainik Schools
The Wider Gateway to Defence
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).
Key Features:
- Widespread Presence: With schools in almost every state, students can study closer to home compared to RIMC or RMS.
- CBSE Curriculum: Validated by CBSE, ensuring that even if a student chooses not to join the armed forces, they have a robust academic foundation for other careers like Engineering or Medicine.
- Infrastructure: Known for sprawling campuses with horse riding, swimming pools, and obstacle courses.
Selection Process:
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 via multiple-choice questions (OMR based).
RIMC Dehradun
The Elites' Forge
What is it? The Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, is an 'A' category premier institution. It is heavily revered and often considered the "Nursery of Leadership" for the Indian Armed Forces.
Key Features:
- Absolute Exclusivity: There is only ONE RIMC in the entire country. Admitting only ~25 cadets every 6 months, it is incredibly selective.
- State Quota: Usually, only 1 or 2 top students from each state get selected. Being the absolute topper of your state is often a prerequisite.
- Alumni Network: Has produced several Chiefs of Army, Navy, and Air Staff.
Selection Process:
The exam is highly descriptive and subjective, unlike the MCQ-based AISSEE. It tests deep conceptual understanding in English, Maths, and GK. A rigorous Viva-Voce (Interview) and Medical Exam follow the written test.
Rashtriya Military Schools
Legacy of the Army
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.
Key Features:
- Affordability: The fees are heavily subsidized, especially for JCOs and ORs (Other Ranks) of the Army, making it the most affordable quality education option.
- Reservation: 70% of seats are reserved for wards of JCOs/ORs, 30% for Officers and Civilians.
- Tradition: These schools are steeped in British-era military traditions and offer a very regimental, disciplined lifestyle.
Selection Process:
Common Entrance Test (CET) comprising Maths, GK, English, and Intelligence. The difficulty level is typically slightly lower than RIMC but highly competitive due to the extremely limited seats for civilian candidates.
Final Verdict: Which is right for your child?
Target RIMC if:
- Your child is exceptionally brilliant (State Topper level).
- You want the absolute highest probability of NDA selection.
- You are aiming for Class 8 admission exclusively.
Target Sainik School if:
- You want a solid balance of military training and CBSE education.
- You prefer a prestigious school closer to your home state.
- You are looking for Class 6 or Class 9 entry.
Target RMS if:
- You come from a Defence background (JCO/OR).
- You are looking for the most affordable, yet elite option.
- You want specific locations like Ajmer, Bangalore, or Chail.
