13 Best Nootropics For Studying & Students In 2024

Updated March 7, 2024 by | Reviewed by William Gallagher, MNeuroSci
(Estimated reading time: 12 minutes)

In this article, I'll take a closer at the 13 best nootropics for studying and students. I'll also cover the potential risks and side effects you may run into as well as the benefits you can expect.

Do you want to be a top student? Do you want to take your studying to the next level?

You’re in luck! I have made a list of the best nootropics for studying that will help you ace your exams.

All of the Nootropics I'll be talking about, are scientifically proven to improve memory, focus, and concentration so you can study harder than ever before.

They’ll give you the edge over other students who aren't using them.

It doesn’t matter if it's an exam or test – these nootropics will make sure you’re at the top of your class.

I'll be talking about some common Nootropics, as well as a few less popular ones that you might not have heard about before.

Whether you need a little boost of energy or just want to stay focused on your work, these nootropics will help keep those neurons firing all day long.

And with better grades come more opportunities – like internships and scholarships that could lead to amazing jobs after college!

So what are we waiting for? Let's get started!

The best nootropics for students and studying according to scientific evidence are:

  1. Vyvamind
  2. Ginkgo Biloba
  3. Sulbutiamine
  4. Pramiracetam
  5. Phenylpiracetam
  6. Noopept
  7. Oxiracetam
  8. Aniracetam
  9. Modafinil
  10. Armodafinil
  11. Caffeine + L-theanine
  12. CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
  13. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

1. Vyvamind

Vyvamind is a powerful, yet safe and effective stimulant that has been proven to help high-performing adults perform at their best.

It's the perfect study aid for students who need extra energy but don’t want the side effects associated with other medications or nootropics.

Vyvamind will give you more focus and concentration along your studying journey without making any mental compromises!

It contains 6 main active ingredients that all have scientific evidence to support their efficacy.

Vyvamind Pros

  • Unparalleled focus and clarity
  • Increased motivation and drive
  • Stress and anxiety support
  • Rapid onset brainpower boost
  • Advanced burnout protection

Vyvamind Cons

  • Users might experience headaches if taken in too high dosages

Vyvamind in Summary

Vyvamind is one of the newest nootropics on the market and it has quickly become a favorite among students and professionals looking for an edge.

It is non-addictive, side effect free, and provides users with increased focus, motivation, and brain power which makes it the perfect nootropic formula for students.

2. Ginkgo Biloba

This is one of the oldest living tree species in existence, which means it's been around for a long time.

The reason why this Nootropic works so well when studying is that it contains high levels of Flavonoids and Terpenoids that are proven to improve memory functions.

It also has antioxidant properties which have been shown to protect brain cells from damage.

The primary advantage of Ginkgo Biloba is that it's a natural remedy, so if you have any allergies or don’t want to put chemicals into your body – this may be the Nootropic for you!

However, there can sometimes be side effects such as headaches, nausea, and digestive problems.

So if you do decide to use it, make sure you're taking the right dose – which is usually 50-240mg of Ginkgo Biloba Extract per day.

Ginkgo Biloba Pros

  • Increases Memory Capacity
  • Improves Concentration Levels
  • Reduces Anxiety and Depression
  • Boosts Brain Functioning

Ginkgo Biloba Cons

  • Headaches
  • Nausea

Ginkgo Biloba in Summary

If you're a student or professional who struggles with focus and concentration, Ginkgo Biloba is definitely worth trying.

It's a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to improve memory and cognitive function – and it can help you too!

Just make sure you start with a low dose to assess your tolerance, as there can be side effects if you take too much.

3. Sulbutiamine

Sulbutiamine is a synthetic derivative of Vitamin B-Thiamin (B1), which, as you know – is one of the B vitamins.

It was created to help treat cases of Thiamine deficiency such as Beriberi and other neurological disorders that affect memory function.

So it stands to reason that taking Sulbutiamine will help with your memory!

It's also a potent cholinergic anxiolytic, which means it also enhances your mood and reduces anxiety!

The best way to take this Nootropic is by starting off slow – at around 200mg per day and up it to 600mg over time.

Some mild side effects like nausea and irritability have been reported, but they usually go away after a few days of use.

Sulbutiamine Pros

  • Improves Memory and Learning
  • Reduces Anxiety and Stress
  • Boosts Mood and Energy Levels
  • Enhances Brain Function

Sulbutiamine Cons

  • Nausea
  • Irritability

Sulbutiamine in Summary

If you're looking for a Nootropic that will help improve your memory and cognitive function, as well as reduce stress and anxiety – Sulbutiamine is definitely worth trying!

It's a synthetic derivative of Vitamin B1, so it's safe to take and has very few side effects.

4. Pramiracetam

Pramiracetam is a high-affinity choline uptake enhancer and has been found to increase acetylcholine levels.

This means that it can improve memory recall, focus, and attention span and even heighten your sense of smell!

The best way for you to take advantage of the benefits of Pramiracetam is by taking between 300-1200mg per day.

Pramiracetam also has the ability to protect brain function as you age as well as stimulate the formation of new neurons!

Some mild side effects like headaches and nausea may occur, but these usually go away after a few days.

Pramiracetam Pros

  • Improves Memory and Learning
  • Enhances Brain Function
  • Protects Brain Cells From Damage
  • Stimulates The Growth of New Neurons

Pramiracetam Cons

  • Headaches
  • Nausea

Pramiracetam in Summary

If you're looking for a Nootropic that can improve your memory and cognitive function, as well as protect your brain cells from damage – Pramiracetam is definitely worth trying!

It's a potent Nootropic that has very few side effects and can even help to stimulate the growth of new neurons! This makes it the perfect solution for students.

5. Phenylpiracetam

Phenotropil (Phenylpiracetam) is a very potent and highly effective Nootropic that was developed in Russia in 1983.

It has been shown to provide benefits such as increasing physical performance, improving memory function and even protecting brain functions against hypoxia!

Phenylpiracetam is a phenylated analog of the popular smart drug piracetam, which means it is more powerful in its effects!

The best way to take Phenylpiracetam is by starting with 50-100mg per day and increasing the dosage every few days until you find your sweet spot.

Some minor side effects that have been reported are irritability, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia. However these usually

The recommended dose for Phenotropil is between 100-200mg, taken twice a day.

Some mild side effects that may occur are headaches and irritability – but these usually go away after taking it for a few days.

Phenylpiracetam Pros

  • Improves Memory and Learning
  • Increases Physical Performance
  • Protects Brain Function
  • Enhances Brain Function

Phenylpiracetam Cons

  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia

Phenylpiracetam in Summary

If you're looking for a Nootropic that can improve your memory and cognitive function, as well as increase your physical performance – Phenylpiracetam is definitely worth trying!

It's a powerful Nootropic that has very few side effects and can even help to protect your brain function against damage! It is a popular choice among students and athletes alike.

6. Noopept

Noopept is a strong synthetic derivative of the smart drug piracetam and was developed in Russia in 1996.

It has been found to increase overall cognition, including memory and learning ability!

This means that it can help with studying for your exams too!

Noopept has a unique ability to inhibit the breakdown of neurotransmitters that are responsible for memory function as well as improve the blood flow to the brain!

The best way to take advantage of its effects is by taking between 10-30mg per day.

Some mild side effects that have been reported are headaches and nausea – but these usually go away after a few days of use.

Noopept Pros

  • Improves Memory and Learning
  • Enhances Cognitive Function
  • Protects Brain Cells From Damage
  • Stimulates The Growth of New Neurons

Noopept Cons

  • Headaches
  • Nausea

Noopept in Summary

Noopept is a powerful Nootropic that can improve your memory and cognitive function, as well as protect your brain cells from damage!

It's a potent Nootropic that has very few side effects and can even help to stimulate the growth of new neurons! This makes it the perfect solution for students.

7. Oxiracetam

Oxiracetam is a very popular Nootropic that was developed in the 1970s and has been found to help improve memory, focus, and energy levels!

It can also increase your levels of arousal which means you'll be awake for longer periods of time.

The best way to take advantage of the benefits that Oxiracetam has to offer is by taking it between 800-2400mg per day.

Some mild side effects may occur, such as headaches and irritability – but these usually go away after a few days.

Oxiracetam Pros

  • Improves Memory and Learning
  • Increases Focus and Concentration
  • Boosts Energy Levels
  • Protects Brain Cells From Damage
  • Stimulates The Growth of New Neurons

Oxiracetam Cons

  • Headaches
  • Irritability

Oxiracetam in Summary

Oxiracetam is a part of the "racetam" family of Nootropics and is one of the most popular choices for students and working professionals alike!

It's a potent Nootropic that has very few side effects and can help to stimulate the growth of new neurons!

8. Aniracetam

Aniracetam is a fat-soluble Nootropic that was developed in the 1980s and has been found to be one of the most potent racetams available.

It has been shown to improve memory function as well as reduce anxiety levels, which makes it great for studying!

Aniracetam works by modulating the AMPA and NMDA receptors in the brain, which is why it can increase memory retention!

The best way for you to take advantage of the benefits that Aniracetam has is by taking it in doses between 500-1500mg per day.

Aniracetam Pros

  • Improves Memory and Learning
  • Reduces Anxiety Levels
  • Protects Brain Cells From Damage
  • Stimulates The Growth of New Neurons

Aniracetam Cons

  • Headaches
  • Irritability

Aniracetam in Summary

Aniracetam helps improve your memory, focus, and concentration – making it perfect for students who need an extra edge during exams!

It is also great for reducing anxiety levels and has very few side effects!

9. Modafinil

Modafinil is a popular wakefulness-promoting agent that was first approved by the FDA in 1998 and has been found to promote vigilance and alertness!

It also increases energy levels, motivation as well as reaction time – which means it can help you study for longer periods of time too!

Modafinil became popular after the release of the movie "Limitless" in which the main character becomes super-intelligent after taking a pill called; NZT-48, which allegedly was a smart drug that was inspired by Modafinil.

The recommended dosage of Modafinil is 100-200mg per day.

Modafinil Pros

  • Improves Vigilance and Alertness
  • Increases Energy Levels
  • Boosts Motivation
  • Enhances Reaction Time

Modafinil Cons

  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Modafinil in Summary

Modafinil is a popular Nootropic that can improve your vigilance and alertness, as well as enhance your reaction time!

It's a potent Nootropic that has very few side effects and can help you study for longer periods of time!

10. Armodafinil

Armodafinil is a more potent version of Modafinil and is a wakefulness-promoting agent that was developed in the 1990s.

It has been found to promote wakefulness and alertness, as well as improve memory function!

Armodafinil works by increasing dopamine levels, which can help you study for longer periods of time too!

The best way for you to take advantage of the benefits that Armodafinil has is by taking it in doses between 50-150mg per day.

Armodafinil Pros

  • Improves Vigilance and Alertness
  • Increases Memory Function
  • Boosts Motivation
  • Enhances Reaction Time

Armodafinil Cons

  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Armodafinil in Summary

Armodafinil is a more potent version of Modafinil and is a wakefulness-promoting agent that can help you stay awake and alert for longer periods of time!

It is also great for improving memory function and has very few side effects!

11. Caffeine + L-theanine

When you stack caffeine with L-theanine, you end up creating a cognitive enhancer that has been found to increase cognition and relaxation without causing too many side effects.

L-Theanine is an amino acid that can be found in green tea and works by selectively blocking the binding site of glutamate receptors!

This means it acts as a nootropic agent that can help improve memory and learning ability, as well as reduce stress levels.

Caffeine is a stimulant that works by binding to adenosine receptors in the brain which results in increased concentration and alertness!

The best way for you to take advantage of the benefits that caffeine has when combined with L-theanine is by taking it in doses between 100-200mg of each compound per day.

It's worth noting that L-theanine acts as a buffer and can prevent the jitters and anxiety that are commonly associated with caffeine.

Caffeine + L-theanine Pros

  • Improves Concentration and Alertness
  • Reduces Stress Levels
  • Improves Memory and Learning Ability
  • Does Not Cause Jitters or Anxiety

Caffeine + L-theanine Cons

  • Drowsiness

Caffeine + L-theanine in Summary

When you stack caffeine with L-theanine, you create a cognitive enhancer that can improve concentration and alertness!

It can also help reduce stress levels, improve memory and learning ability, as well as prevent the jitters and anxiety that are associated with caffeine.

12. CDP-Choline (Citicoline)

CDP-Choline is a cognitive enhancer that can be found naturally in the body and has been shown to help improve memory function, as well as reduce stress levels!

It does this by increasing acetylcholine synthesis which means it can increase synaptic plasticity and neural connectivity.

The best way for you to take advantage of the benefits that CDP-Choline has is by taking it in doses between 500-2000mg per day.

CDP-Choline Pros

  • Improves Memory Function
  • Reduces Stress Levels
  • Increases Acetylcholine Synthesis
  • Boosts Cognitive Performance

CDP-Choline Cons

  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness

CDP-Choline in Summary

CDP-Choline is a cognitive enhancer that can help improve memory function and reduce stress levels!

It can also increase acetylcholine synthesis, which can lead to improved cognitive performance.

13. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

ALCAR is the amino acid carnitine that is found in the body and has been shown to help with attention problems!

It works by increasing levels of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine which means it can improve cognition as well as improving mood.

This is done by increasing acetylcholine synthesis.

The best way for you to take advantage of the benefits that ALCAR has is by taking it in doses between 500-3000mg per day.

ALCAR Pros

  • Improves Attention Problems
  • Increases Dopamine, Serotonin and Norepinephrine Levels
  • Improves Mood
  • Enhances Cognitive Function

ALCAR Cons

  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Anxiety

ALCAR in Summary

ALCAR is an amino acid that can be found in the body and has been shown to help with attention problems!

It can also improve cognition, increase levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, as well as enhance cognitive function.

What Are the Best Nootropics for Students & Studying?

The best nootropics for students and studying are:

  • Vyvamind
  • Ginkgo Biloba
  • Sulbutiamine
  • Pramiracetam
  • Phenylpiracetam
  • Noopept
  • Oxiracetam
  • Aniracetam
  • Modafinil
  • Armodafinil
  • Caffeine + L-theanine
  • CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

These nootropics are all backed by science and have been shown to be effective in improving cognitive function, memory, concentration, and focus!

If you're looking for a cognitive enhancer that can help you study more effectively, then these are the best nootropics for students!

How to Choose the Right Nootropic Supplement for Students?

If you're a student who is looking for a nootropic supplement to help you study more effectively, there are a few things you should keep in mind!

The first is to make sure that the supplement you're considering is backed by science.

The best way to do this is to look for clinical studies that have been conducted on the supplement.

The second thing you should keep in mind is to make sure that the supplement you're considering is safe.

The best way to do this is to look for supplements that have been certified by a third party like the FDA or GMP.

The third and final thing you should keep in mind is to make sure that the supplement you're considering is affordable.

Nootropics can range in price, so you'll want to make sure you're getting the best value for your money.

What Are the Benefits of Nootropics for Students & Studying?

When it comes to the benefits of nootropics for students and studying, there are many!

Nootropics can help improve:

  • Cognitive Function
  • Memory
  • Concentration
  • Focus
  • Attention

These are just a few of the benefits that nootropics can offer!

If you're looking for a cognitive enhancer that can help you study more effectively, I highly recommend you check out Vyvamind that I mentioned earlier.

It's a great supplement that's backed by science and has been shown to be effective in improving cognitive function!

What Are the Side Effects of Nootropics for Students & Studying?

It's important to note that nootropics are generally safe and well-tolerated by most people.

However, there are a few potential side effects that you should be aware of.

The most common side effects of nootropics include:

  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Anxiety

These are the most common side effects that have been reported with nootropics.

However, it's worth pointing out that these side effects are typically mild and go away on their own.

If you do experience any of these side effects, I recommend you stop taking the supplement and consult with a doctor.

Do Nootropics Really Work for Students & Studying?

Most Nootropics can be incredibly helpful when it comes to studying.

That's why I recommend that you start using them as soon as possible if you're serious about getting good grades!

There are many different nootropics, but the 13 listed here are some of the most popular for studying!

Some work by inducing wakefulness while others have been shown to reduce anxiety or depression in order to give you a better mood and motivation to learn new material.

The best way to take advantage of the benefits that Nootropics have is by using them in safe doses and by using them on a consistent basis.

When Nootropics are used appropriately, they may not only help you focus, pay attention, recall information accurately and quickly when you're studying, but they may also aid in the long-term health of your brain.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend nootropics for students who are serious about studying and getting good grades?

Absolutely!

Nootropics can be incredibly helpful in improving cognitive function, memory, concentration, and focus!

They work by providing the brain with the nutrients it needs to function at its best!

If you're a student who is looking for an edge, nootropics are a powerful tool that can help you achieve your goals!

If you're looking for a cognitive enhancer that can help you study more effectively, I highly recommend you check out Vyvamind right here: