GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance exam for pharmacy graduates seeking admission into M.Pharm programmes across India. GPAT 2026 will evaluate candidates’ knowledge of pharmaceutical subjects and help determine eligibility for postgraduate pharmacy courses. Students or professionals planning further studies may explore financing options like loans for doctors to support exam-related preparation or professional courses. Check your doctor loan eligibility to understand suitable funding options for your professional development.
What is the GPAT exam?
GPAT is conducted annually by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to assess candidates’ aptitude in pharmacy. The exam serves as a gateway for M.Pharm admissions in AICTE-approved colleges. Additionally, a professional loan can help candidates fund their higher education or skill development in pharmacy-related fields. Check your pre-approved doctor loan offer to streamline financial planning for professional courses or practice-related expense
GPAT 2026 exam dates
| Event | Tentative dates 2026 |
|---|
| Release of notification | January 2026 |
| Registration start | February 2026 |
| Registration end | March 2026 |
| Admit card release | April 2026 |
| Exam date | May 2026 |
| Result declaration | June 2026 |
GPAT eligibility
To be eligible for GPAT 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must have a B.Pharm degree from a recognised university
- Final-year B.Pharm students can also apply
- Minimum age requirement as per AICTE norms
- Must meet residency or nationality requirements
GPAT registration 2026
The registration process includes:
- Visit the official NTA GPAT website
- Fill in personal, academic, and contact details
- Upload required documents and photograph
- Pay the registration fee online
- Submit the application before the deadline
GPAT exam pattern 2026
- Mode: Computer-based test (CBT)
- Number of questions: 125
- Type: Multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 3 hours
- Marking scheme: +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect answers
- Sections: Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacognosy, and other related topics
GPAT syllabus
| Subject | Topics |
|---|
| Pharmaceutical chemistry | Organic, Inorganic, Medicinal chemistry |
| Pharmacology | General and clinical pharmacology |
| Pharmaceutics | Formulation, Drug delivery, Biopharmaceutics |
| Pharmacognosy | Natural products, Herbal drugs |
| Other topics | Pharmaceutical analysis, Microbiology, Biotechnology |
GPAT expected cutoff 2026
| Category | Expected cutoff marks |
|---|
| General | 115-120 |
| OBC | 110-115 |
| SC/ST/PwD | 90-100 |
GPAT reservation and seats
| Category | Reservation percentage | Approx. seats |
|---|
| General | 50% | Varies |
| OBC | 27% | Varies |
| SC | 15% | Varies |
| ST | 7.5% | Varies |
| PwD | 5% | Varies |
Top GPAT books 2026
| Subject | Recommended books |
|---|
| Pharmaceutical chemistry | “A Textbook of Pharmaceutical Chemistry” by Bahl & Bahl |
| Pharmacology | “Lippincott’s Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology” |
| Pharmaceutics | “Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy” |
| Pharmacognosy | “Trease and Evans’ Pharmacognosy” |
| Others | “Pharmaceutics: The Science of Dosage Form Design” |
Courses offered after GPAT
| Course | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|
| M.Pharm | 2 years | GPAT qualified |
| Pharm.D | 6 years | B.Pharm |
| MBA in Pharmaceutical Management | 2 years | Graduation in Pharmacy or Science |
| Ph.D. in Pharmacy | 3-5 years | M.Pharm |
GPAT preparation tips
- Understand the complete syllabus and exam pattern
- Prepare a study timetable focusing on weak areas
- Practice previous years’ question papers
- Take mock tests to improve time management
- Focus on conceptual clarity rather than rote learning
- Utilise reference books and online resources
- Plan finances for courses or preparation using loans for doctors or a professional loan
Conclusion
GPAT 2026 is a crucial exam for pharmacy graduates aiming for postgraduate studies. By understanding the eligibility, registration process, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation strategies, candidates can improve their chances of success. Financial planning using options like loans for doctors or professional loans can help manage exam-related and professional expenses efficiently.
