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GPAT 2026 Notification Highlights: Application Dates, Exam Pattern, Eligibility and Key Details

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Praful Bhatnagar
College Admin | Updated on Jan 9, 2026

GPAT 2026 Notification Highlights: Application Dates, Exam Pattern, Eligibility and Key Details: The Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) 2026 is one of the most important national-level entrance examinations for pharmacy graduates aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies in India.


The exam is conducted for admission to M.Pharm programmes and for awarding scholarships to eligible candidates. Key details related to GPAT 2026, including important dates, exam pattern, marking scheme and eligibility criteria, have now been highlighted.

GPAT 2026 Important Dates

According to the information available, the GPAT 2026 application process is scheduled to begin in the last week of December 2025. Candidates will be able to submit their applications online within the prescribed window.

  • Application Window: December 23, 2025 to January 12, 2026

  • GPAT 2026 Exam Date: March 7, 2026

  • Result Declaration (Tentative): April 7, 2026

Aspirants are advised to complete the registration process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

GPAT 2026 Exam Pattern

GPAT 2026 will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) at designated exam centres across the country. The examination structure remains in line with previous years, ensuring a standardized assessment process.

  • Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

  • Total Questions: 125 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

  • Exam Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)

The test evaluates candidates’ knowledge and analytical ability in various pharmacy-related subjects.

Marking Scheme

The marking scheme for GPAT 2026 rewards accuracy while discouraging random guessing.

  • Correct Answer: +4 marks

  • Incorrect Answer: -1 mark (One Negative Mark)

  • Not Attempted Question: 0 mark

Candidates are encouraged to attempt questions carefully to maximise their overall score.

GPAT 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria clearly define which candidates can appear for the examination.

  • Fourth-year B.Pharm students are eligible, provided they complete their final year results before admission to the M.Pharm 2026–27 session.

  • Third-year B.Pharm students are also eligible, subject to completion of their pre-final year before admission to the M.Pharm 2027–28 session.

  • There is no upper age limit for appearing in GPAT 2026.

  • There is also no restriction on the number of attempts.

This inclusive eligibility policy allows a wider pool of pharmacy students to compete for postgraduate opportunities.

Purpose and Importance of GPAT

GPAT serves as a gateway for admission into M.Pharm programmes offered by universities, colleges, and institutions across India. In addition to admissions, the exam also plays a key role in awarding scholarships to meritorious candidates, making it a crucial step for those aiming to advance their careers in pharmaceutical education and research.

Candidates planning to appear for GPAT 2026 should begin their preparation early and keep track of official announcements for further updates regarding the application process, admit card release and exam guidelines.

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