CUET Topper Devina Gahlot Credits Discipline and Consistency for Success

NEW DELHI, June 24: Achieving the top position in one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations came as a surprise even to CUET-UG topper Devina Gahlot, who says she had to repeatedly verify her details after seeing the result.

The student from DPS Vasant Kunj secured the highest rank in the country in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG), the results of which were declared by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Tuesday.

Recalling the moment she checked her score, Devina said she found it difficult to believe that she had emerged as the national topper.

“I checked my application details multiple times because I was unsure if what I was seeing was real. I knew I had performed well, but securing the top rank across the country was beyond my expectations,” she said.

Sharing the approach that helped her excel in the examination, Devina emphasized that success does not necessarily come from studying for extremely long hours. Instead, she credited regularity, effective planning and continuous revision for her achievement.

According to her, maintaining a balanced routine across all subjects proved far more beneficial than concentrating on a single area at a time.

“I ensured that every subject received attention each day. Consistent revision and solving previous years’ papers played a major role in strengthening my preparation,” she said.

Despite her eventual success, Devina admitted that the period immediately following her Class 12 board examinations was filled with uncertainty. Adjusting to the requirements of a national-level entrance test was initially overwhelming, she said.

“There were moments when I did not know where to begin or what resources to use. The pressure associated with an examination that could shape future academic opportunities was challenging,” she recalled.

However, support from her family helped her remain focused and motivated throughout the preparation phase.

Devina credited her parents and teachers for creating an encouraging environment and allowing her the freedom to prepare without unnecessary expectations.

She said that the confidence shown by her family helped her overcome self-doubt and remain committed to her goals.

Looking ahead, the young achiever hopes to pursue English Honours, a field she says aligns closely with her interests in literature, reading and writing.

She also expressed interest in exploring journalism as a potential career path in the future, although she said no final decision has been made yet.

“My interest has always been in reading, literature and creative expression. English Honours is something I would like to pursue, and journalism is another area that appeals to me,” she said.

Asked whether she might eventually enter public life, Devina said she remains open to the possibility.

Having grown up watching her father, BJP leader Kailash Gahlot, serve as an MLA and minister, she said she has witnessed how public service can positively impact people’s lives.

“I have seen firsthand how many individuals can be helped through public service. That has naturally created some interest, but it is too early to say what direction my career will ultimately take,” she said.

Her father expressed pride in her accomplishment and praised her dedication throughout the preparation process.

Kailash Gahlot said the family had always trusted her ability and avoided placing academic pressure on her.

“We are extremely happy with her achievement. She worked hard and remained focused. Her mother, teachers and school provided tremendous support throughout her journey,” he said.

He added that whenever he asked about her studies, Devina would confidently assure him that everything was under control.

The former minister also acknowledged the contribution of DPS Vasant Kunj and its faculty members in guiding students through competitive examinations.

The CUET-UG examination serves as a key gateway for admissions to undergraduate programmes in central and several other universities across the country.

According to data released by the NTA, 22 candidates secured 100 percentile scores in three subjects, while 180 candidates achieved 100 percentile in two subjects. Devina’s performance, however, placed her at the top of the national rankings, making her one of the standout performers of this year’s examination cycle.

Her achievement has drawn attention not only for the score itself but also for the study philosophy she advocates—one centered on consistency, discipline and smart preparation rather than marathon study sessions.

For thousands of students preparing for future entrance examinations, Devina’s journey serves as a reminder that steady effort, effective revision and confidence in one’s abilities can often prove more valuable than simply spending long hours with books.