Name: Ruhan Gudeli | Institution: National University of Singapore (NUS) | Course: Mathematics and Common Computer Science Programme | Location: Singapore
Key Highlights
- Perfect IBDP score: Scored a perfect 45/45 in the 2026 IBDP, placing him among the top 0.5% of candidates worldwide.
- Young researcher: Authored two review papers on nanomedicine and targeted drug delivery for cancer treatment.
- Student leader: Served as Head Boy and organised his school’s first pan-India Model United Nations conference.
- Future plans: Studying Mathematics and the Common Computer Science Programme at NUS, with aspirations for research, entrepreneurship, and higher studies abroad.
When exceptional talent meets rigorous academics, the result can be remarkable. Ruhan Gudeli is a shining example.
By earning a perfect score of 45/45 in the 2026 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), one of the world’s most rigorous pre-university qualifications, Ruhan joined the approximately 0.5 percent of IB candidates worldwide who achieve this feat.
“Scoring full marks in every component was the culmination of two years of consistent effort and discipline,” Ruhan tells The Global Indian.
His achievement paved the way for admission to the National University of Singapore (NUS), ranked eighth globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
A perfect academic milestone
“Achieving a perfect score in the IBDP is the most significant milestone in my academic journey,” says Ruhan, who is pursuing the Mathematics and Common Computer Science Programme, a flexible undergraduate programme that allows students to tailor their studies based on their interests and career aspirations.
The IBDP comprises six subjects, each graded out of seven, along with the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge, which together contribute three additional points.
Choosing NUS over global offers
After completing Class 10 at Indus International School, Hyderabad, Ruhan had detailed discussions with his parents about his future career.
“We felt that pursuing a technical degree would provide a stronger long-term foundation than a general business degree, whether I chose to work in industry or start my own venture in the future,” says the teenager.
Since mathematics had always been his favourite subject, he chose to pursue it because of its versatility, opening doors to fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, engineering, finance, and data science.
Alongside NUS, he also applied to leading universities abroad.
“Ultimately, I chose NUS because of its outstanding global reputation and its unique balance between academic rigour, research, and practical learning.”
Why Singapore was the right fit
Singapore’s education system also appealed to him because it felt familiar in its discipline while encouraging greater independence and innovation.
“It provides the ideal foundation for both higher studies and a career in technology or research.”
What excites him most is being part of such a diverse student community. NUS attracts students from across Asia and beyond, creating a truly international learning environment.
“I look forward to furthering my interests in mathematics, research, and innovation on a global stage,” says Ruhan, whose academic year recently commenced.
Balancing academics with a demanding schedule of leadership responsibilities and extracurricular activities was his biggest challenge during school.
“Maintaining consistently high grades was always my top priority. Managing these responsibilities required careful planning, discipline, and the ability to stay focused over a long period. There were times when the workload felt overwhelming, but having a clear goal kept me motivated.”
Research beyond the classroom
Beyond his outstanding IBDP performance, Ruhan has also authored two scientific review papers in the field of nanomedicine.
His first paper explores how polymeric nanoparticles can improve the precision and effectiveness of chemotherapy by enabling targeted drug delivery while reducing side effects.
“My second paper reviews emerging nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and their potential to enhance cancer treatment through more efficient and personalised therapies.”
A family that encouraged global ambitions
Studying abroad had always been part of the conversation for Ruhan and his family.
“Having studied in the IB curriculum since Class 6 through the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), followed by the IB Diploma Programme, I had grown accustomed to an international style of education.”
Because of that, pursuing his undergraduate studies overseas felt like a natural next step rather than a sudden decision.
“My parents were encouraging throughout the process and supported me in choosing the university and course that best aligned with my interests and long-term goals.”
Growing up in Hyderabad
Born in Hyderabad, Ruhan’s father works in the stock market, while his mother previously worked in banking and is now a homemaker. He studied at Birla Open Minds until Class 6 before joining Indus International School, Hyderabad, where he completed both the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP).
Ruhan was felicitated at the Indus International School, Hyderabad for scoring a perfect 45/45 in the 2026 IBDP
“I have always been academically inclined, and I have maintained consistently strong academic performance throughout my school life.”
Leading from the front
During his time at Indus International School, Ruhan served as Head Boy, leading a range of academic, service, and student-led initiatives.
He also organised his school’s first pan-India Model United Nations conference, bringing together students from across the country for a national platform in diplomacy and debate.
“Organising the conference remains one of my proudest achievements. It was a large-scale initiative that required months of planning, coordination, and teamwork.”
Balancing leadership with academics
These experiences strengthened his leadership, communication, and organisational skills, complementing his academic journey and preparing him for university and beyond.
“Managing these responsibilities required careful planning, discipline, and the ability to stay focused over a long period. There were times when the workload felt overwhelming, but having a clear goal kept me motivated.”
Goals of life
Ruhan’s immediate goal is to complete his undergraduate degree at the National University of Singapore and build a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science.
“After that, I hope to pursue a master’s degree, most likely in the UK or the US, to further specialise in my field.”
In the long term, he hopes to gain a few years of professional experience, either abroad or in India, before eventually returning to India to build his own business.
“I hope to apply the knowledge and global perspective I gain through my education and work experience to create something meaningful here.”
Life beyond academics
Much of Ruhan’s free time revolves around three passions—polo, fitness, and aquascaping.
“Polo has been a major part of my life since Class 9. As a team sport, it has taught me discipline, teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience,” says Ruhan, whose proudest sporting achievement was finishing runner-up at the World Arena Polo Championship.
From polo to aquascaping
He also enjoys aquascaping, the art of designing and maintaining natural underwater landscapes inside aquariums using aquatic plants, rocks, and driftwood.
“For the past four years, I have independently maintained a 650-litre planted aquarium at home. It combines creativity with scientific understanding, and I find it both challenging and deeply rewarding.”
He also goes to the gym around five times a week, which helps him stay healthy and manage stress.
