GPAT 2026 Guide: Exam Date, NTA/NBEMS Pattern, Syllabus, Cutoff & M.Pharm Scholarship
Preparing for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT 2026)? Get all essential details on computer-based exam pattern, subject-wise weightage, expected category cutoffs, M.Pharm admissions, and AICTE monthly stipend scheme.
What is GPAT 2026?
Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) is a prestigious national-level entrance examination conducted for B.Pharm graduates seeking admission into Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm), Pharm.D (Post Baccalaureate), and Ph.D. programs across top pharmacy institutes, NIPERs, and Central Universities in India.
GPAT 2026 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
Understanding the structure of GPAT is vital for optimizing time management during the 3-hour test:
| Parameter | Official Specification |
|---|---|
| Test Mode | Computer Based Test (CBT) at designated exam centers nationwide. |
| Total Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) single-shift examination. |
| Number of Questions | 125 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). |
| Maximum Score | 500 Marks total. |
| Marking Scheme | +4 Marks for every correct answer; -1 Mark for every wrong answer. |
Subject-Wise Syllabus Distribution
The GPAT syllabus covers 4 primary subject domains compiled from standard 4-year B.Pharm PCI curriculum:
| Subject Domain | No. of Questions | Total Weightage Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceutics | 38 Questions | 152 Marks |
| Pharmaceutical Chemistry | 38 Questions | 152 Marks |
| Pharmacology | 28 Questions | 112 Marks |
| Pharmacognosy | 10 Questions | 40 Marks |
| Other Subjects (Biochem, Biotech, Law) | 11 Questions | 44 Marks |
M.Pharm AICTE Monthly Stipend Scheme
Expected Category-Wise Cutoff Marks 2026
Based on past year trends and candidate volume analysis, here are the estimated qualifying cutoffs out of 500 marks:
- General (UR): 145 – 155 Marks
- EWS: 120 – 130 Marks
- OBC-NCL: 118 – 128 Marks
- SC Category: 90 – 100 Marks
- ST Category: 72 – 82 Marks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the monthly stipend for GPAT qualified students during M.Pharm?
GPAT-qualified candidates admitted to AICTE/PCI-approved M.Pharm programs receive a monthly scholarship/stipend of ₹12,400 per month for a maximum of 24 months.
Q2: What is the negative marking scheme in GPAT 2026?
GPAT 2026 follows a +4/-1 marking scheme. Candidates receive +4 marks for every correct answer and -1 mark is deducted for every incorrect attempt.
Q3: Who is eligible to apply for GPAT 2026?
Candidates holding a Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy (B.Pharm 4-year degree) or those currently appearing in the final year (4th year / 8th semester) of their B.Pharm program are eligible.
Q4: What is the validity period of a GPAT scorecard?
A GPAT scorecard is valid for 3 years from the date of result declaration for seeking admission into M.Pharm or Ph.D. programs.
