Background: National education system is based on academic achievements of students. Psychologists stated that emotional intelligence is one of the factors that influences students’ learning process and evidently, it contributes significantly  an implication towards their academic achievements.  Aim: A study was conducted to assess the impact of emotional intelligence on academic achievement of students studying in secondary schools of Amritsar, Punjab. Methods and Material: Sample consisted of 100 students studying in 9th standard between ages 13 and 16 years from three selected English medium schools. Stratified proportionate randomized sampling technique was followed to select sample. Emotional intelligence scale developed by Schutte’s et al (1998) was used to assess levels of emotional intelligence of students and to assess academic achievement of students, scores of previous semester were collected.  The study was conducted from 6th Jan. 2012 to 29th Jan. 2012. The data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics wherever required. Results: The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was computed and findings (F = 20.14, p< 0.001) showed high significant impact of emotional intelligence of students on academic achievement. Emotional intelligence and academic achievement had no significant association with sociodemographic variables like age, gender, place of living and type of family. Conclusion: In light of these findings there is need to generate awareness among teachers and parents about how good emotional intelligence can lead to better academic achievement.
Keywords: Emotional Intelligence; Academic Achievements; Students;  Secondary Schools.