GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test)

 GPAT 2026

Notification | Exam Dates | Application Form | Eligibility | Exam Pattern | Syllabus | Admit Cards | Results | Counselling

GPAT 2026 notification will be available in the 4th week of February 2026 following with the online application submissions starting in the 1st week of April 2026. The last date for the submission of online applications is 3rd week April 2026 (with fee).  GPAT exam will be conducted between 4th week of May 2026 although the official dates are yet to be released by the authorities.

The GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance examination which is conducted for aspirants seeking admission into postgraduate pharmacy programs across India. Recognized by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the GPAT exam assess a candidate’s fundamental knowledge in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The GPAT 2026 exam will serve as a gateway to M. Pharm programs in top Pharmacy colleges and universities pan India.

Preparation for GPAT 2026 will demand a thorough understanding of core subjects such as Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and Pharmacology. As the competition intensifies each year, candidates appearing for GPAT 2026 exam are encouraged to begin their studies early, focusing on both conceptual clarity and application-based learning.

Utilizing standard textbooks, previous years' question papers, and mock tests can help in enhancing one's performance during the GPAT 2026 exam. With a well-structured study plan and consistent practice, medical aspirants can maximize their chances of securing a high rank and gaining admission to prestigious institutions across India. However, candidates are encouraged to ensure they are eligible for the GPAT 2026 before applying for the said exam.

GPAT 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on GPAT

The GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance examination in India that assesses the eligibility of pharmacy graduates for admission into Master of Pharmacy (M. Pharm) programs across various AICTE and Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)-approved institutions. Conducted in a computer-based format, GPAT evaluates candidates' knowledge in Pharmacy subjects and serves as a key criterion for M. Pharm admissions and scholarship awards. Initially conducted by AICTE until 2018, GPAT was managed by the National Testing Agency (NTA) from 2019 to 2023, and since 2024, the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) through the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has been responsible for its conduct. The GPAT exam is typically held once a year, offering Pharmacy graduates an opportunity to pursue higher education and specialized fields within Pharmacy.

GPAT 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative)

GPAT 2026 Exam Highlights

GPAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

GPAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria require candidates to be Indian citizens who possess a Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy (B. Pharm) of at least four years after 10+2, or be in the final year of such a program. There is no age limit to apply for the GPAT 2026 exam, and candidates with B. Tech degrees in Pharmaceutical and Fine Chemical Technology or equivalent are not eligible. The eligibility ensures that only suitably qualified pharmacy graduates or candidates can appear for the GPAT exam, which is essential for admission to M. Pharm courses.

• Candidate must be an Indian citizen.
• Must have a 4-year B. Pharm degree from a recognized university or be a final-year candidate.
• No age limit to apply.
• Tech (Pharmaceutical and Fine Chemical Technology) degree holders are not eligible.
• Unlimited number of attempts allowed for the exam.

Read more about-eligibility criteria

GPAT 2026 Application Form

GPAT 2026 Application Form is the first crucial step for pharmacy graduates aspiring to pursue M. Pharm programs across India. The GPAT 2026 application process is entirely online and managed by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS). Candidates must carefully register on the official GPAT portal, fill in personal and educational details, upload required scanned documents, pay the application fee, and submit the form within the stipulated deadlines. Ensuring accuracy in the GPAT application form is critical, as mistakes may lead to disqualification.

Steps to Apply for GPAT 2026

Online Mode

• Registration and application form submission will begin in the first week of April 2026 via the official website (natboard.edu.in).
• Candidates need to provide a valid mobile number and email ID during registration to receive login credentials.
• The form requires details such as personal information, educational qualifications, and choice of examination city.
• Upload recent passport-sized photograph and signature in prescribed formats and sizes.
• Application fee payment is mandatory online, with INR 3,500 for General/ OBC/ EWS candidates and INR 2,500 for SC/ ST/ PwD categories.
• A correction window will be available in the fourth week of April 2026 to edit certain details except name, exam city, nationality, mobile number, and email.
• Applicants must download and keep printouts of the submitted form and fee receipt for future reference.

Read More About-application process

GPAT 2026 Exam Pattern

GPAT 2026 Exam Pattern consists of a Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted in English, lasting 3 hours (180 minutes). The GPAT exam includes 125 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) divided into five sections: Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Allied Subjects (38 questions), Pharmaceutics & Allied Subjects (38 questions), Pharmacognosy & Allied Subjects (10 questions), Pharmacology & Allied Subjects (28 questions), and Other Subjects (11 questions). Candidates can navigate freely among questions within the given time, as there are no sectional time limits.

GPAT 2026 Syllabus

The GPAT 2026 syllabus broadly covers core subjects from the Bachelor of Pharmacy curriculum. Key areas include Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutical Analysis, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Pathophysiology. The GPAT 2026 syllabus ensures candidates have a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications within pharmacy. Aspirants are advised to study the latest B. Pharm syllabus and focus on important topics in each subject for effective preparation.

Read more- about-Syllabus

GPAT 2026 Preparation Tips

Effective preparation for GPAT 2026 demands a strategic, consistent approach, focusing on mastering the core subjects from the B. Pharm curriculum. Candidates are advised to create a realistic study plan, thoroughly understand the exam pattern, and prioritize topics with higher weightage. Regular practice through solving previous years’ question papers and taking mock tests is crucial for improving speed and accuracy. Summarized notes, revision schedules, and the use of standard Pharmacy textbooks enhance content retention. Maintaining good health, staying motivated, and participating in study groups or mentorships can further improve the chances of achieving a competitive score in the GPAT exam.

Read more about-preparation tips

GPAT 2026 Admit Card

The GPAT 2026 Admit Card is an essential document for candidates appearing for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test. It is released online by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) on the official website. Candidates must log in using their application number and password to download their GPAT 2026 admit card. The GPAT admit card contains crucial details such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam center, exam date and timing, photograph, and important instructions for the exam day. It is mandatory to carry a printed copy of the GPAT admit card along with a valid photo ID to the examination center for entry and verification.

GPAT 2026 Cut Offs

GPAT 2026 cut offs represent the minimum marks or percentile required for candidates to qualify for admission into M. Pharm programs across participating institutions in India. The GPAT cut off varies each year based on factors such as exam difficulty, number of test-takers, seat availability, and government reservation policies. While the official GPAT cut offs will be announced after GPAT result declaration, candidates can refer to previous years’ trends for an estimate. Separate GPAT cut offs are released for different categories such as General, OBC, EWS, SC, ST, and PwD, and meeting the required cut off is essential for participating in subsequent counselling rounds.

 Read more about-cut off

GPAT 2026 Results

GPAT 2026 results are expected to be announced in the fourth week of June 2026 on the official NBEMS website. The GPAT result includes the candidate’s marks scored out of 500, All India Rank (AIR), percentile, qualifying status, and other details. Candidates can download their scorecard by logging into the official portal using their application credentials. The GPAT scorecard is valid for three years and is used for admission and counselling in M. Pharm programs. No re-evaluation requests are entertained after the GPAT result declaration.

GPAT 2026 Counselling Process

GPAT 2026 counselling is conducted individually by participating institutes and universities across India, rather than by a central authority. After the GPAT results are declared, candidates must register on the official websites of their chosen institutes to participate in counselling. The GPAT counselling process typically involves document verification, choice filling and locking of preferred courses and colleges, seat allotment based on merit and reservation policies, and reporting to the allotted institute for admission. Dates and procedures may vary by institution, so candidates must monitor institute notifications closely.

 Read more about- counselling

GPAT 2026 Instructions

1. Candidates should upload their photograph and signature with the preferred size in the portal which should be clearly visible.
2. Candidates need to carry their admit card/hall ticket to the exam centre. Candidates will be prohibited from entering the exam hall without this document.
3. Candidates will also be required to carry a valid ID proof such as – Voter ID Card/ Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Driving License, etc.
4. It is advisable for all candidates to enter the designated exam hall before time for a smooth security process before the beginning of exam.
5. Any candidate violating the rules will be strictly dealt as per the norms of the exam centre.
6. Any candidate pursuing any unfair means in the exam hall will be dealt with as per the rules and regulations of the test centre.

GPAT 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is GPAT 2026 and who conducts it?

Ans. The GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test) 2026 is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) for admission into M. Pharm courses across India.

Q2. Who is eligible to appear for GPAT 2026?

Ans. Only Indian nationals with a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy (B. Pharm) or those in the final year of such a program are eligible to apply for GPAT 2026. Candidates with B. Tech degrees in Pharmaceutical and Fine Chemical Technology are not eligible. There is no age limit for the exam.

Q3. What is the exam pattern and marking scheme of GPAT 2026?

Ans. GPAT 2026 is a 3-hour online computer-based test comprising 125 multiple-choice questions. Each correct answer awards 4 marks, and each incorrect answer results in a deduction of 1 mark. The total marks are 500.

Q4. When will the GPAT 2026 results be declared, and how can candidates check them?

Ans. The GPAT 2026 results are expected to be declared in the fourth week of June 2026. Candidates can check and download their scorecard from the official NBEMS website by logging in with their application number and password.

Q5. How is the counselling process for GPAT 2026 conducted?

Ans. GPAT counselling is conducted separately by participating institutes and universities that accept GPAT scores. Candidates must register individually at their desired institutes for the counselling process, which usually includes document verification, choice filling, seat allotment based on merit, and reporting for admission.