File No. SS-PB-EDU-002 · Punjab State Scheme · Department of School Education, Government of Punjab

Schools of Eminence

A wholesale upgrade of 117-118 government schools across Punjab into flagship institutions with modern labs, sports facilities and merit-based admission, specifically designed to prepare students for competitive entrance exams — MBBS, IIT, law and management — that government-school students have traditionally had far less structured support for. Launched in January 2023 with an initial ₹200 crore, later part of a ₹1,600 crore package for a broader overhaul of Punjab's school infrastructure including boundary walls, washrooms, furniture and new classrooms.

What this scheme offers

Most government-school students preparing for a competitive exam like JEE or NEET have to do it without the structured coaching support that private-school and coaching-centre students take for granted. Schools of Eminence is Punjab's attempt to close that gap directly within the public system — 117-118 government schools rebuilt with modern labs, sports infrastructure and specifically merit-based admission, oriented toward preparing students for entrance to MBBS, IIT, law and management programmes. The first school opened in Chheharta, Amritsar in September 2022, and the wider rollout came with a ₹1,600 crore package that also funded boundary walls, washrooms, furniture and new classrooms across thousands of other government schools.

Who is eligible

  • Student in Punjab seeking admission to a Schools of Eminence campus.
  • Selected through the state's merit examination for admission (competitive, seat-limited).
  • Studying under the Punjab school education system.

Documents required

  • Previous school marksheet/report card
  • Aadhaar card
  • Residential proof (Punjab domicile)
  • Passport-size photograph

How to apply

  1. Apply through the Schools of Eminence admission portal when the application window opens (typically announced ahead of the academic year).
  2. Register and appear for the merit-based entrance examination for admission.
  3. Selected students are allotted to a Schools of Eminence campus based on merit rank and seat availability.
  4. Check the admission portal for the current year's timeline, as this shifts annually.
  5. Contact your nearest Schools of Eminence campus or the district education office for guidance on application.