GPAT Preparation Strategy 2025: A Step-by-Step Practical Guide for Pharmacy Students

✅ Want to crack GPAT but feel confused about where to start? Here's a realistic  plan that works – even if you're starting late!

GPAT Preparation

📘 What is GPAT & Why Should You Care?

GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NTA) for admission into M.Pharm programs and to get fellowships from AICTE.

Scoring well in GPAT opens doors to:

• Prestigious institutes like NIPER, BITS Pilani, JSS, Manipal.

• Government fellowships (~₹12,400/month).

• A strong foundation for R&D, teaching, or higher education abroad.

🎯 Step-by-Step GPAT Preparation Strategy

✅ Step 1: Understand the Exam Pattern & Syllabus (Day 1-2)

Component	Details
Total Questions	125
Total Marks	500
Time	3 Hours
Marking Scheme	+4 for correct, -1 for wrong

📝 Major Subjects:

• Pharmaceutics

• Pharmacology

• Pharmaceutical Chemistry

• Pharmacognosy

• Pharmaceutical Analysis

• Microbiology, Biochemistry

• General Aptitude + Calculations

✅ Step 2: Make a Realistic 5-Month Plan

🔹 Month 1: Basics & Syllabus Mapping

• Study 2 subjects in-depth (start with Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology).

• Create a subject-wise checklist.

• Use standard books + coaching notes/PDFs.

🔹 Month 2-3: Core Strengthening

• Target 2 more subjects per month (e.g., Pharma Chem & Pharmacognosy).

• Practice MCQs after each topic.

• Start using GPAT prep books (e.g., Pearson, GPAT Cracker, NODIA).

🔹 Month 4: Fast Revision + Test Series

• Start mock tests every weekend.

• Revise important formulas, structures, and classification tables.

• Focus on high-weightage topics.

🔹 Month 5: Final Touch + Mock Drill

• Give 1 full-length test every 2-3 days.

• Analyze mistakes after every test.

• Revise sticky topics & short notes.

• Improve speed and accuracy.

✔️ Do’s and Don’ts for GPAT Preparation

✅ Do’s

• Follow a fixed timetable (minimum 3–4 hrs/day).

• Practice 100 MCQs daily once you’re past basics.

• Make short notes & flashcards.

• Solve previous year papers (last 10 years).

• Take part in GPAT WhatsApp or Telegram groups for doubt clearing.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t blindly follow every YouTube video — stick to reliable sources.

• Don’t start mock tests too late.

• Don’t ignore small subjects like Biochemistry or Microbiology.

• Don’t study new topics in the last 10 days — Revise only!

💡 Pro Tips From a Career Coach

• Smart Work > Hard Work: Focus on quality study, not just hours.

• Be consistent – even 2 productive hours daily is better than 8 hours once a week.

• Treat GPAT like your passport to premium opportunities in pharma.