Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 21: CFAL is pleased to announce that two of its II PU students have successfully qualified for the Indian National Astronomy Olympiad (INAO) 2026, after clearing the National Standard Examination in Astronomy (NSEA) 2026.
The students and their scores are as follows:
• Mrinal D Bhat – NSEA Score: 147
• Akshith Ram K – NSEA Score: 137
Qualification for INAO places students among a select group of top-performing young scholars at the national level. The NSEA is a concept-intensive examination that tests deep understanding of physics, mathematics and astronomical reasoning, rather than rote learning or speed-based problem solving.
The Indian National Astronomy Olympiad is part of India’s official science Olympiad framework conducted under the aegis of Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE–TIFR). Students qualifying for INAO gain exposure to advanced problem-solving methodologies, scientific reasoning and research-oriented thinking, forming a strong foundation for higher stages of the Olympiad pathway.
Such achievements significantly strengthen a student’s academic profile and are highly valued by premier institutions such as IITs, IISc, IISERs and international universities, particularly for programs focused on science, engineering and research. Beyond competitive examinations, the Olympiad experience cultivates independent thinking, analytical depth and academic maturity that benefit students over the long term.
This achievement reflects sustained academic discipline, conceptual clarity and consistent preparation. CFAL’s structured system emphasizing diagnostics, continuous assessment and depth of understanding have enabled students to build the competencies required for Olympiad-level performance.
The CFAL has congratulated Mrinal D Bhat and Akshith Ram K on reaching this important national milestone and wished them continued clarity and confidence as they progress to the next stage of the Astronomy Olympiad programme.
About CFAL
Centre for Advance Learning (CFAL) is an academically rigorous institution focused on building strong conceptual foundations in science and mathematics. The centre follows a structured, system-driven approach that emphasises diagnostics, continuous assessment and disciplined preparation. CFAL supports students through long-term academic mentoring, with a focus on clarity of thought, measured progress and readiness for national-level examinations and research-oriented learning.
For further information:
CFAL – Centre for Advanced Learning
99005 20233
www.cfalindia.com