On June 23, 2026, when the results of the General University Entrance Examination (CUET-UG) were announced, among thousands of students who refreshed their screens and anxiously waited for the results, a name appeared at the top of the list of outstanding candidates nationwide. Devina Gahlot, the younger daughter of BJP leader and former Delhi minister Kailash Gahlot, secured the all-India ranking, setting a record for the highest overall score by the National Test Agency (NTA).When the results came out, her first reaction was disbelief. Speaking to ANI after the results were announced, Devina said: “The exam went well but I never thought I would get AIR 1… God is very merciful.”In an interaction with ANI, she mentioned that studying for long periods of time does not in itself guarantee success and stressed on maintaining balance while preparing.“Also, taking breaks is necessary,” she points out, adding that consistency and proper study are more important than just studying for long periods of time.
different types of preparation
Devina says CUET preparation requires a different approach to preparation than most other exams. Instead of memorizing anything, she understood the concept very well and applied it to different situations.“I don’t remember it,” she said, discussing her preparation method.According to her, students who study hard for the Grade 12 exam have laid a solid foundation for CUET.“If you have prepared for the boards, then preparing for CUET is no different,” she said, trying to reassure aspirants who often view the entrance exam as a completely separate challenge.Her remarks reflected the changing nature of competitive examinations, which increasingly focus on conceptual clarity over memorization.
Core of NCERT
Devina also highlighted the central role played by NCERT textbooks in her preparation. She noted that the questions were largely based on NCERT content but required students to think beyond direct recall of the textbook.“These questions are NCERT-based. There are more application-based questions,” she said. This observation may resonate with future aspirants, many of whom spend a lot of time looking for additional study material. For Devina, a deep mastery of core concepts seems to be more valuable than accumulating a wide range of resources.
Proud moments for your family
Her family, along with her father Kailash Gahlot, celebrated the result and shared the news on X. “It is with great pride and gratitude that we inform you that our youngest daughter Devina Gahlot has secured the all-India rank in CUET (UG)-2026 and achieved the highest overall NTA score in India,” he wrote.In his speech, Garrott attributed the achievement to his daughter’s hard work, discipline and perseverance. He also thanked her teachers, mentors and the community of Vasant Kunj, Delhi Public School, for their support and guidance throughout her academic career.
beyond level
For thousands of students, ranking at the top often seems to be the result of an extraordinary routine or rigorous study plan. Devina’s story offers a different perspective.Her advice is simple: Understand the concepts, trust your preparation for the board exams, avoid cramming and allow room for breaks.As students across the country begin preparing for the next CUET, the country’s top scorers deliver a message that may be as valuable as the rankings themselves: Success does not always mean studying the longest, but rather studying in the smartest way.
