‘My strategy was built on three pillars: conceptual mastery, disciplined revision, and practice’

Nikhil, a final-year B.Pharm student at Apeejay Stya University, secured an impressive All India Rank of 813 in the GPAT 2026 examination. Passionate about pharmaceutical research and nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, he credits his achievement to disciplined preparation, conceptual clarity, and consistent revision. With aspirations to pursue higher studies and eventually serve as a Drug Inspector, Nikhil represents dedication, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to public healthcare and pharmaceutical innovation. Read edited excerpts:

What were your preparation strategies? Which books or study materials did you refer to for preparation? How did Apeejay help you in this prep?

My strategy was built on three pillars: conceptual mastery, disciplined revision, and strategic practice. I always advise focusing on building concepts before any rote learning, it makes even the toughest subjects much easier to handle. I relied mostly on institute modules, which provided more than enough depth and content to cover the syllabus. Apeejay was instrumental here, the faculty’s mentorship and the emphasis on independent research meant I was constantly applying theory in the lab. That hands-on approach really made those complex topics stick for the long term.

How important is an effective study plan to crack the GPAT exam?

Having a solid study plan is honestly a must. Since the syllabus is so huge, you need a roadmap to make sure the most important subjects get enough attention. At the end of the day, we all have the same 24 hours, so you have to plan every day carefully. My goal was to manage my time so I could cover everything and go over the whole syllabus at least 3 to 4 times. Without being that organized, it is just too easy to get buried under four years’ worth of information.

Is it important to solve mock test papers and why?

Mock tests are a total reality check. You can know the theory, but you have to be able to perform under that 180-minute pressure. Without them, you’ll never realise how questions can be framed. I’ve seen tricky questions pulled from even the smallest lines of a textbook. Mocks helped me get used to the recent pattern changes and taught me how to handle the risk of negative marking. I also believe solving previous year papers (PYQs) is just as important. Analyzing my performance after each test showed me exactly where my gaps were, helping me refine my speed and strategy before the actual exam day.

What is your next plan and where do you see yourself in another five years?

My immediate goal is to secure a spot in a top-tier M.Pharm program at an institution like Panjab University, DIPSAR or Jamia Hamdard through my GPAT Rank. I am also currently gearing up for the NIPER exam to expand my options further. Looking five years ahead, I envision myself serving in a position of significant responsibility, specifically aiming to qualify as a Drug Inspector. I want to be at the forefront of ensuring drug safety and quality compliance, using my technical background to uphold the highest standards in the pharmaceutical sector and contribute to the safety of public health on a national level.