By the Education Karnataka Editorial Team · Last updated: November 2026
Quick answer: The school year in Karnataka usually begins in late May or June. Most private boarding schools take enquiries from October to April, with campus visits peaking in the winter months. Government and defence-school entrance exams follow their own calendars:
- JNVST: applications around June–July
- RMS CET: applications around September–October
- AISSEE: applications around October–November
- KREIS: applications around January–February
- RTE: applications around April–May
Key takeaways
- Start early. Many families shortlist schools 6–9 months before the academic year.
- Government and defence-school exams have fixed calendars. Missing them means waiting a year.
- PU admissions usually follow the SSLC and Class 10 results in April and May.
- Dates change every year, so always confirm on official websites.
Typical admission calendar (based on recent cycles)
| Month | What usually happens |
| June–July | JNVST (Navodaya Class 6) applications. For 2027–28, they closed on 31 July 2026 |
| September–October | RMS CET applications. For 2027–28, they opened in September 2026 |
| October–November | AISSEE (Sainik Schools) applications. For 2026–27, they ran from October to November 2025 |
| November–January | Many private boarding school visits and admissions; JNVST exam (28 November 2026 for 2027–28) |
| December | RMS CET written exam (December 2026 for 2027–28) |
| January | AISSEE exam (January 2026 for 2026–27) |
| January–February | KREIS (Morarji Desai and other residential schools) applications. For 2026, they closed on 7 February |
| February–March | 2nd PUC Exam-1, then SSLC Exam-1 |
| April | 2nd PUC results; RTE applications open |
| April–May | SSLC results; PU admissions; RTE lottery rounds |
| Late May–June | The academic year begins |
These timings are based on recent years. Check the official websites for current dates.
Planning steps for private boarding schools
- October–November: Research and shortlist schools.
- November–January: Visit campuses and attend admission tests.
- January–March: Confirm a seat and complete the documents.
- April–May: Prepare your child, shop for supplies and plan travel.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start looking for a boarding school? Ideally 6 to 9 months before the academic year, around October or November.
Can I get admission in April or May? Often yes, if seats remain, but popular classes may already be full.
When are Navodaya applications? Recently around June and July, for an exam later in the year. Check the NVS website.
When is the Sainik School exam? Recent AISSEE exams have been held in January. Check the NTA notification.
When do PU admissions start? Usually after the SSLC and Class 10 results, around April and May.
Need help shortlisting schools? Browse our directory of boarding schools in Karnataka and residential PU colleges in Karnataka, or message us on WhatsApp for guidance.
About Education Karnataka: a directory of residential schools and PU colleges across Karnataka, helping parents compare their options.
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