Another year has passed and it is time to gear up for the next GPAT exam of 2026. With the fate of nearly 50,000 students hanging in the balance, this exam is the deciding factor for most pharmacy graduates. Admission to nearly 800 colleges and universities is governed by the GPAT.
Keeping up to date with the timeline of the exam is one of the first steps in preparing for it. This blog will talk about the key timelines of the GPAT 2026 exam, as well as all the important schedule updates.
So strap on and get informed about the GPAT 2026.
What is the GPAT Exam?
The exam is designed to assess the eligibility of candidates for admission to M.Pharm. GPAT is a computer-based exam with multiple-choice questions.
The GPAT score is valid for 3 years. Based on this score, candidates can get admission to various M.Pharm programs across the country.
Candidates who qualify for the exam also get scholarships and other financial assistance. Every GPAT qualifying student is eligible for a 12,400 rupees stipend from the government. This eases the financial burden on the student.
GPAT Exam Format and Syllabus
Before we get into the key dates, here is a short summary of the exam format and syllabus.
| Exam Particulars | Details |
| Duration | 3 Hrs |
| Mode | Computer-based, online exam |
| No. of Questions | 125 MCQs |
| Maximum Marks | 500 |
| Marking Scheme | Correct answer- +4 Incorrect response- -1 No attempt- 0 |
| Pass Marks | Variable |
| Eligibility: | B.Pharm Graduate B.Pharm final year student |
| Syllabus | Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Allied Subjects- 30.5% Pharmaceutics & Allied Subjects- 30.5% Pharmacognosy & Allied Subjects- 8% Pharmacology & Allied Subjects- 22% Miscellaneous- 9% |
GPAT 2026 Exam Dates and Timeline
The actual dates of the GOAT 2026 exam have not yet been disclosed. However, we have the tentative dates here so you can get an idea of the preparation time you have for the test.
| Events | Tentative Dates for GPAT 2026 |
| Release of Notification | 4th week of February 2026 |
| Application form filling starts | 1st week of April 2026 |
| Last date for apply and payment of fee | 3rd week of April 2026 |
| Correction window | 4th week of April 2026 |
| Final edit window | 2nd week of May 2026 |
| Publication of Admit Card | 3rd week of May 2026 |
| GPAT 2026 Exam | 4th week of May 2026 |
| Answer Key releases | 4th week of May 2026 |
| Result declared | 4th week of June 2026 |
Remember to keep a close check on the NBEMS website to get regular updates on the dates.
And we also have the FREE GPAT Rank Predictor Tool for you. So you can be one step ahead of the game, and figure out your rank even before the results are out.
Eligibility Criteria for GPAT 2026
The eligibility criteria for the GPAT 2026 exam is pretty straightforward. Just as a refresher, we have outlined the main ones for you.
- Educational Qualification: A B.Pharm degree
- Final Year Students: They are eligible to apply. They still need to complete their course before starting their M.Pharm program.
- Nationality: Only Indian
- Age Limit: None
Ensure that you’re eligible before applying. Avoid rejection of applications or issues during the counseling process.
Application Process and Fees
The GPAT 2026 application process is entirely online. Below is a detailed step-wise guide:
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official GPAT website and create a new account.
- A unique registration ID will be generated.
Step 2: Fill the Application Form
- Log in using your registration ID and password.
- Fill in personal details and educational qualifications.
- Select your preferred exam city.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Candidates must upload scanned copies of the following documents:
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Signature in black ink on white paper
- Valid ID proof
Make sure the images are clear and legible.
Step 4: Payment of Application Fee
The GPAT 2026 application fee varies according to category:
| Category | Fee (INR) |
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹3,500 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹2,500 |
Payment Methods: Candidates can pay the fee online using:
- Debit/Credit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
Step 5: Review and Submit
- Make sure all details are accurate and match official documents.
- Submit the application form after confirming all information.
Step 6: Correction Window
- Use the application correction window to correct any mistakes.
- Ensure all corrections are submitted before the final date. You will not be able to make any changes after the window closes.
Exam Centers Across India
GPAT 2026 will be conducted in multiple exam centres across India. During the application process, candidates can choose their preferred exam centre. Availability of seats in popular centres can fill fast. Early application submission can help secure a convenient location.
What’s After the Exam?
Your work does not end with the exam. Once you get the result, you can decide the future course of action. A merit list is prepared when the result is announced. Based on this, admission to various colleges takes place. Make sure to keep your result copy and a valid ID during the counselling process.
And if you want to maximize your chance of clearing the GOAT in 2026, then make sure to register with Academically’s GPAT Exam Preparation Course. It is the only place where you will find expert guidance, India’s first AI-backed Mock Exam Series- AcadPrep, and the best support group one can find.
Gear Up for GPAT 2026
Now that you know the tentative timeline for the GPAT 2026, it is time to buckle up and start the preparation. This exam is more than just a qualifying exam. It can very well decide the course of your career.
And if higher studies are not your thing, then you just might want to peek out of the country and look at the variety of options available for pharmacists around the globe. Interested? Connect with us and let the magic unfold.
Till then, all the best for GPAT 2026. Make the future yours.
