The Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) 2026 is around the corner, and aspirants are already gearing up for the big day. If you’re planning to take this test, you probably want to know everything about the GPAT 2026 exam dates, registration process, eligibility, and what to expect. Well, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into all the crucial details you need to know for a successful GPAT 2026 preparation journey.
Important GPAT 2026 Exam Dates 🗓️
Knowing the exam dates is the first step in planning your preparation. Timing is everything when it comes to cracking competitive exams like GPAT. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key dates you need to remember for GPAT 2026:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Online Registration | December 2025 |
| End of Online Registration | January 2026 |
| Admit Card Release Date | February 2026 |
| GPAT 2026 Exam Date | February 2026 (Tentative) |
| Result Announcement | March 2026 |
| Counseling/Admission Starts | April-May 2026 |
Note: The exact dates may vary, so always check the official NTA GPAT website for the most current information.
Why Are These Dates Crucial? ⏰
You’re probably wondering why we’re emphasizing these dates so much. Well, the answer is simple. If you don’t mark your calendar with these dates, you might just miss the golden opportunity to register, download your admit card, or even appear for the exam! Time flies when you’re studying for an exam, so make sure you’re always on top of the deadlines.
Registration Process: Get Ready to Apply! 📝
Now that you know the dates, it’s time to understand how to register for GPAT 2026. The registration process for the GPAT is completely online, and here’s what you need to do to get started:
Steps to Register for GPAT 2026
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Visit the Official Website: Head to the official NTA GPAT website. Make sure you’re on the right page, as there are many imposter websites out there. Always trust the official one!
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Create an Account: If you’re a first-timer, you’ll need to create an account. This will include entering basic personal details like your name, date of birth, and email address.
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Fill Out the Application Form: Once your account is set, it’s time to fill out the application form. Don’t rush! Double-check everything, including the spelling of your name and other important details.
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Upload Documents: You’ll need to upload a passport-sized photo and signature. These images should meet the specified requirements in terms of size and format, so read the guidelines carefully.
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Pay the Application Fee: The application fee for GPAT 2026 can be paid online using various methods like credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI. The fee amount may vary based on your category, so make sure you check the official site for updates.
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Submit the Form: After filling everything out, hit the submit button and relax. But not for too long – you’ll receive a confirmation message once your registration is successful.
GPAT Application Fee: 💸
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC | ₹2000 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1000 |
| Female Candidates | ₹1000 |
GPAT 2026 Exam Pattern: What to Expect 🤓
So, what can you expect from the GPAT 2026 exam itself? Let’s break it down! The GPAT exam assesses your knowledge in pharmacy-related subjects, and here’s how it will go:
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceutical Chemistry | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Pharmaceutics | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Pharmacology | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Pharmacognosy | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Other Subjects | 25 | 4 | 100 |
| Total | 125 | – | 500 |
Key Highlights:
- Total Duration: 3 hours
- Total Questions: 125
- Total Marks: 500
- Marking Scheme: +4 for every correct answer and -1 for every wrong answer
Tip: Don’t Let the Negative Marking Scare You! ⚖️
It’s easy to get freaked out by the negative marking, but here’s the thing: don’t guess randomly! If you don’t know the answer, it’s better to leave the question and move on rather than risk losing marks.
GPAT 2026 Admit Card: Get Ready to Roll 🎫
Once you’ve successfully registered, you’ll be eagerly waiting for your admit card. The GPAT 2026 admit card will be released around February 2026 (tentative), and it’s essential to download it. You can’t sit for the exam without it!
Things to Check on Your Admit Card:
- Personal Details: Make sure your name and other details are correct.
- Exam Center: Double-check the exam center location. You don’t want to end up in the wrong place.
- Exam Timing: Don’t be late! Arriving at least 30 minutes before the exam is always a good idea.
- Important Instructions: Read the instructions carefully. These are there to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Results and Counseling Process 🏅
Once the exam is over, you’ll be anxiously waiting for your results. The GPAT 2026 results are expected to be announced in March 2026 (tentative). After the results, successful candidates will be called for counseling and admissions, typically in April-May 2026.
So there you have it! All the key dates, registration details, and exam patterns you need to know to ace the GPAT 2026. Now, go ahead, mark your calendars, set your reminders, and start your preparation with confidence. Just remember, every step counts—so stay focused, study smart, and good luck with your GPAT journey!
