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Syllabus

EXAM SYLLABUS

The GATE syllabus covers General Aptitude (GA) and Engineering Mathematics for all branches, along with branch-specific core subjects. GA includes English language, numerical ability, and reasoning questions, while Engineering Mathematics covers linear algebra, calculus, probability, differential equations, and numerical methods. Core subjects vary by branch—for example, CSE includes Data Structures, Algorithms, OS, DBMS; ECE includes Signals & Systems, Analog/Digital Circuits, Communication Systems; ME covers Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, and Heat Transfer; EE includes Electrical Machines, Power Systems, and Control Systems; CE includes Structural Analysis, Geotechnical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering. The syllabus emphasizes conceptual clarity, problem-solving, and application-based questions.

Name of Test	Topic	Topic Example	Weightage
General Aptitude	Verbal Aptitude - Basic English grammar: tenses, articles, adjectives, prepositions, conjunctions, verb-noun agreement, and other parts of speech Basic vocabulary: words, idioms, and phrases in context Reading and comprehension Narrative sequencing	Out of the following four sentences, select the most suitable sentence with respect to grammar and usage. (A) I will not leave the place until the minister does not meet me. (B) I will not leave the place until the minister doesn’t meet me. (C) I will not leave the place until the minister meet me. (D) I will not leave the place until the minister meets me.	10 Q
	Quantitative Aptitude - Data interpretation: data graphs (bar graphs, pie charts, and other graphs representing data), 2- and 3-dimensional plots, maps, and tables Numerical computation and estimation: ratios, percentages, powers, exponents and logarithms, permutations and combinations, and series Mensuration and geometry Elementary statistics and probability	An e-mail password must contain three characters. The password has to contain one numeral from 0 to 9, one upper case and one lower case character from the English Alphabet. How many distinct passwords are possible? (A) 6,760 (B) 13,520 (C) 40,560 (D) 1,05,456
	Analytical Aptitude- Logic: deduction and induction Analogy Numerical relations and reasoning	Some students were not involved in the strike If the above statement is true, which of the following conclusions is/are logically necessary? (i). Some who were involved in the strike were students. (ii).No student was involved in the strike (iii). At least one student was involved in the strike (iv). Some who were not involved in the strike were students.
	Spatial Aptitude - Transformation of shapes: translation, rotation, scaling, mirroring, assembling, and grouping Paper folding, cutting, and patterns in 2 and 3 dimensions	A rectangular sheet of length 6cm and breadth 4cm is coiled to form an open cylinder (say, P) such that the breadth sides meet. The same sheet can also be coiled to form acylinder (say, Q) such that the length sides meet. Which one of the following statements is FALSE?A. Surface area of the open cylinders P and Q are equal.B. Volume of P and Volume of Q are equal.C. Volume of P is greater than that of Q.D. The height of cylinder Q is greater than that of P.

We are providing the syllabus for some subjects along with the topics that have been asked in previous exams. This is only indicative and meant to give a general idea of the topics.

A brief Syllabus for Aerospace Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Aerospace Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Flight Mechanics
	Space Dynamics
	Aerodynamics
	Structures
	Propulsion

A brief Syllabus for Agricultural Engineering is given below

Name of Test

...

EXAM SYLLABUS

Name of Test	Topic	Topic Example	Weightage
General Aptitude	Verbal Aptitude - Basic English grammar: tenses, articles, adjectives, prepositions, conjunctions, verb-noun agreement, and other parts of speech Basic vocabulary: words, idioms, and phrases in context Reading and comprehension Narrative sequencing	Out of the following four sentences, select the most suitable sentence with respect to grammar and usage. (A) I will not leave the place until the minister does not meet me. (B) I will not leave the place until the minister doesn’t meet me. (C) I will not leave the place until the minister meet me. (D) I will not leave the place until the minister meets me.	10 Q
	Quantitative Aptitude - Data interpretation: data graphs (bar graphs, pie charts, and other graphs representing data), 2- and 3-dimensional plots, maps, and tables Numerical computation and estimation: ratios, percentages, powers, exponents and logarithms, permutations and combinations, and series Mensuration and geometry Elementary statistics and probability	An e-mail password must contain three characters. The password has to contain one numeral from 0 to 9, one upper case and one lower case character from the English Alphabet. How many distinct passwords are possible? (A) 6,760 (B) 13,520 (C) 40,560 (D) 1,05,456
	Analytical Aptitude- Logic: deduction and induction Analogy Numerical relations and reasoning	Some students were not involved in the strike If the above statement is true, which of the following conclusions is/are logically necessary? (i). Some who were involved in the strike were students. (ii).No student was involved in the strike (iii). At least one student was involved in the strike (iv). Some who were not involved in the strike were students.
	Spatial Aptitude - Transformation of shapes: translation, rotation, scaling, mirroring, assembling, and grouping Paper folding, cutting, and patterns in 2 and 3 dimensions	A rectangular sheet of length 6cm and breadth 4cm is coiled to form an open cylinder (say, P) such that the breadth sides meet. The same sheet can also be coiled to form acylinder (say, Q) such that the length sides meet. Which one of the following statements is FALSE?A. Surface area of the open cylinders P and Q are equal.B. Volume of P and Volume of Q are equal.C. Volume of P is greater than that of Q.D. The height of cylinder Q is greater than that of P.

We are providing the syllabus for some subjects along with the topics that have been asked in previous exams. This is only indicative and meant to give a general idea of the topics.

A brief Syllabus for Aerospace Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Aerospace Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Flight Mechanics
	Space Dynamics
	Aerodynamics
	Structures
	Propulsion

A brief Syllabus for Agricultural Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Agricultural Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Farm Machinery
	Farm Power
	Soil and Water Conservation Engineering
	Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
	Agricultural Process Engineering
	Dairy and Food Engineering

A brief Syllabus for Architecture and Planning is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Architecture and Planning	General	55 Q
	Architecture
	Planning

A brief Syllabus for Biomedical Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Biomedical Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Electrical Circuits & Signals and Systems
	Analog and Digital Electronics
	Measurements and Control Systems
	Sensors and Bioinstrumentation
	Human Anatomy and Physiology
	Medical Imaging Systems
	Biomechanics & Biomaterials

A brief Syllabus for Biotechnology is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Biotechnology	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	General Biology
	Genetics, Cellular and Molecular Biology
	Fundamentals of Biological Engineering
	Bioprocess Engineering and Process Biotechnology
	Plant, Animal and Microbial Biotechnology
	Recombinant DNA technology and Other Tools in Biotechnology

A brief Syllabus for Civil Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Civil Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Structural Engineering
	Geotechnical Engineering
	Water Resources Engineering
	Environmental Engineering
	Transportation Engineering
	Geomatics Engineering

A brief Syllabus for Chemical Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Chemical Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Process Calculations and Thermodynamics
	Fluid Mechanics and Mechanical Operations
	Heat Transfer
	Mass Transfer
	Chemical Reaction Engineering
	Instrumentation and Process Control
	Plant Design and Economics
	Chemical Technology

A brief Syllabus for Computer Science and Information Technology is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Computer Science and Information Technology	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Digital Logic
	Computer Organization and Architecture
	Programming and Data Structures
	Algorithms
	Theory of Computation
	Compiler Design
	Operating System
	Databases
	Computer Networks

A brief Syllabus for Chemistry is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Chemistry	Physical Chemistry	55 Q
	Inorganic Chemistry
	Bioinorganic Chemistry
	Organic Chemistry

A brief Syllabus for Electronics and Communications is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Electronics and Communications	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Networks, Signals and Systems
	Electronic Devices
	Analog Circuits
	Digital Circuits
	Control Systems
	Communications
	Electromagnetics

A brief Syllabus for Electrical Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Electrical Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Electric circuits - Network elements
	Electromagnetic Fields
	Signals and Systems
	Electrical Machines
	Power Systems
	Control Systems
	Electrical and Electronic Measurements
	Analog and Digital Electronics
	Power Electronics

A brief Syllabus for Environmental Science and Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Environmental Science and Engineering	Mathematics Foundation	55 Q
	Environmental Chemistry
	Environmental Microbiology
	Water Resources and Environmental Hydraulics
	Water & Wastewater Treatment and Management
	Air and Noise Pollution & Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
	Global and Regional Environmental Issues
	Environmental Management and Sustainable Development

A brief Syllabus for Ecology and Evolution is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Ecology and Evolution	Ecology & Evolution	55 Q
	Mathematics and Quantitative Ecology
	Behavioural Ecology
	Applied Ecology & Evolution

A brief Syllabus for Geology and Geophysics is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Geology and Geophysics	Common Section - Earth and planetary system, Weathering and soil formation, Basic structural geology, Crystallography, Petrology of common igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, Geological time scale, Mineral, coal and petroleum resources of India, Introduction to remote sensing, Engineering properties of rocks and soils, Elements of hydrogeology & Principles and applications of gravity, magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, seismic and radiometric	55 Q
Geology and Geophysics	Geology & Geophysics	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Instrumentation Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Instrumentation Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Electricity and Magnetism
	Electrical Circuits and Machines
	Signals and Systems
	Control Systems
	Analog Electronics & Digital Electronics
	Measurements & Sensors and Industrial Instrumentation
	Communication and Optical Instrumentation

A brief Syllabus for Mathematics is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Mathematics	Calculus, Linear Algebra, Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Ordinary Differential equations, Algebra, Functional Analysis, Numerical Analysis, Partial Differential Equations, Topology & Linear Programming	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Mechanical Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Mechanical Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Applied Mechanics and Design
	Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Sciences
	Materials, Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering

A brief Syllabus for Mining Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Mining Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Mining Geology, Mine Development, and Surveying
	Geomechanics and Ground Control
	Mining Methods and Machinery
	Surface Environment, Mine Ventilation, and Underground Hazards
	Mineral Economics, Mine Planning, Systems Engineering

A brief Syllabus for Metallurgical Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Metallurgical Engineering	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Transport Phenomena and Rate Processes
	Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy
	Physical Metallurgy
	Mechanical Metallurgy & Manufacturing Processes

A brief Syllabus for Petroleum Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Petroleum Engineering	Linear Algebra, Calculus, Differential equations, Complex variables, Probability and Statistics, Numerical Methods, Petroleum Exploration, Oil and Gas Well Drilling Technology, Reservoir Engineering, Petroleum Production Operations, Offshore Drilling and Production Practices, Petroleum Formation Evaluation, Oil and Gas Well Testing, Health Safety and Environment in Petroleum Industry, Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques & Latest trends in Petroleum Engineering	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Physics is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Physics	Mathematical Physics & Classical Mechanics	55 Q
	Electromagnetic Theory & Quantum Mechanics
	Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics & Atomic and Molecular Physics
	Solid State Physics & Electronics
	Nuclear and Particle Physics

A brief Syllabus for Production and Industrial Engineering is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Production and Industrial Engineering	Engineering Mathematics &General Engineering	55 Q
	Manufacturing Processes I & Manufacturing Processes II
	Quality and Reliability & Industrial Engineering
	Operations research and Operations management

A brief Syllabus for Statistics is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Statistics	Calculus, Matrix Theory, Probability, Standard discrete and continuous univariate distributions, Stochastic Processes, Estimation, Testing of Hypotheses, Non-parametric Statistics, Multivariate Analysis & Regression Analysis	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Textile Engineering & Fibre Science is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Textile Engineering & Fibre Science	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q
	Textile Fibres & Textile Testing
	Yarn Manufacturer, Yarn Structure, and Properties
	Fabric Manufacture, Structure, and Properties
	Chemical Processing

A brief Syllabus for Engineering Mathematics (Compulsory for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Engineering Mathematics	Linear Algebra, Calculus, Vector Calculus, Complex variables, Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Probability, and Statistics, Numerical Methods	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Fluid Mechanics (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Fluid Mechanics	Flow and Fluid Properties	55 Q
	Kinematics of Fluid Motion
	Integral Analysis for a Control Volume
	Differential Analysis & Dimensional Analysis
	Internal Flows & Bernoulli’s Equation and its Applications, Potential Flows
	External Flows

A brief Syllabus for Materials Science (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Materials Science	Classification and Structure of Materials	55 Q
	Thermodynamics, Kinetics and Phase Transformations
	Properties and Applications of Materials
	Characterization and Measurements of Properties
	Processing of Materials & Degradation of Materials

A brief Syllabus for Solid Mechanics (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Solid Mechanics	Mechanics of rigid bodies & Mechanics of deformable bodies	55 Q
Solid Mechanics	Vibrations	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Thermodynamics (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Thermodynamics	Basic Concepts	55 Q
	First Law of Thermodynamics & Second Law of Thermodynamics
	Properties of Pure Substances & Thermodynamic Relations
	Thermodynamic Cycles & Ideal Gas Mixtures

A brief Syllabus for Polymer Science and Engineering (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Polymer Science and Engineering	Chemistry of high polymers	55 Q
	Polymer Characterization & Synthesis, manufacturing, and properties
	Polymer blends and composites
	Polymer Technology & Polymer rheology
	Polymer processing & Polymer testing
	Polymer Recycling and Waste management

A brief Syllabus for Food Technology (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Food Technology	Food Chemistry and Nutrition	55 Q
	Food Microbiology & Food Products Technology
	Food Engineering

A brief Syllabus for Atmospheric & Ocean Science (for all XE candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Atmospheric & Ocean Science	Atmospheric Science & Ocean Sciences	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Reasoning and Comprehension (Compulsory for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Reasoning and Comprehension	Reading Comprehension, Expression, Analytical reasoning, Logical reasoning	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Economics (for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Economics	Microeconomics & Macroeconomics	55 Q
	Statistics, Econometrics and Mathematical Economics
	International Economics & Public Economics
	Development Economics & Indian Economy

A brief Syllabus for English (for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
English	Multi-genre literatures in English—poetry, the novel and other forms of fiction including the short story, drama	55 Q
	Especially in a comparative context, anglophone and in English translation, literatures from India and, extending to some degree, the larger Indian subcontinent
	Literary criticism and theory; critical and cultural intellectual-traditions and approaches widely referred to and used in the discipline of English
	History of English literature and English literary studies
	Research approaches and methodologies, including interpretive techniques responsive to literary forms, devices, concepts, and genres

A brief Syllabus for Linguistics (for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Linguistics	Language and Linguistics	55 Q
	Levels of Grammar and Grammatical Analysis
	Historical Linguistics & Sociolinguistics
	Areal Typology, Universals, Cross-linguistic Features
	Methods of analysis & Applied Linguistics

A brief Syllabus for Philosophy (for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Philosophy	Classical Indian Philosophy, Contemporary Indian Philosophy, Classical and Modern Western Philosophy & Contemporary Western Philosophy	55 Q

A brief Syllabus for Psychology (for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Psychology	Research Methods and Statistics, Psychometrics: Foundations of Psychological measurement; Basic components, Biological and evolutionary basis of behaviour, Perception, Learning, Memory and Forgetting, Cognition: Thinking, Intelligence and Language, Personality & Motivation, Emotion and Stress and Coping	55 Q
	Social psychology & Development across the life span
	Applications of Psychology

A brief Syllabus for Sociology (for all XH Candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Sociology	Sociological Theory & Research Methodology and Methods	55 Q
	Sociological Concepts & Agrarian Sociology and Rural Transformation
	Family, Marriage and Kinship & Indian Society / Sociology of India
	Social Movements & Sociology of Development

A brief Syllabus for Chemistry (Compulsory for all XL candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Chemistry	Atomic Structure and Periodicity & Structure and Bonding	55 Q
	s, p and d Block Elements
	Chemical Equilibria & Electrochemistry
	Reaction Kinetics & Thermodynamics
	Structure-Reactivity Correlations and Organic Reaction Mechanisms & Chemistry of Biomolecules

A brief Syllabus for Biochemistry (for all XL candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Biochemistry	Organization of life; Importance of water; Structure and function of biomolecules: Amino acids, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins and Nucleic acids; Protein structure, folding / misfolding and function; Myoglobin, Hemoglobin, Lysozyme, Ribonuclease A, Carboxypeptidase and Chymotrypsin	55 Q
	Enzyme kinetics, regulation and inhibition, Vitamins and Coenzymes, Bioenergetics and metabolism, Generation and utilization of ATP; Metabolic pathways and their regulation glycolysis, TCA cycle, pentose phosphate pathway, oxidative phosphorylation, gluconeogenesis, glycogen and fatty acid metabolism, Metabolism of Nitrogen containing compounds, nitrogen fixation, amino acids and nucleotides. Photosynthesis, Calvin cycle
	Biochemical separation techniques
	Cell structure and organelles, Biological membranes, Action potential, Transport across membranes, Membrane assembly and Protein targeting, Signal transduction, Receptor-ligand interaction, Hormones and neurotransmitters
	DNA replication, transcription and translation, DNA damage and repair, Biochemical regulation of gene expression, Recombinant DNA technology and applications, PCR, site directed mutagenesis, DNA-microarray, Next generation sequencing & Gene silencing and editing
	Immune system

A brief Syllabus for Botany (for all XL candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Botany	Plant Systematics & Plant Anatomy	55 Q
	Plant development; cell and tissue morphogenesis
	Plant physiology and biochemistry
	Genetics and genomics
	Plant Breeding, Genetic Modification, Genome Editing
	Economic and applied Botany & Plant Pathology
	Ecology and Environment

A brief Syllabus for Microbiology (for all XL candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Microbiology	Historical Perspective & Methods in Microbiology	55 Q
	Microbial Taxonomy and Diversity
	Prokaryotic Cells & Microbial Growth
	Control of Micro-organisms
	Microbial Metabolism & Microbial Diseases and Host Pathogen Interaction
	Chemotherapy/Antibiotics
	Microbial Genetics

A brief Syllabus for Zoology (for all XL candidates) is given below

Name of Test	Topic	Weightage
Zoology	Animal Diversity & Evolution	55 Q
	Genetics & Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
	Cell Biology & Gene expression in Eukaryotes
	Animal Anatomy and Physiology
	Parasitology and Immunology
	Development Biology, Animal Behaviour & Ecology

Format

EXAM PATTERN

As per GATE Exam Pattern the exam will be conducted online for a duration of 3 hours. GATE Question Paper includes 65 questions mainly divided into the General Aptitude section and Core Discipline. The General Aptitude section in GATE exam carries a weightage of 15 marks while the remaining 85 marks are the Core Discipline and related topics.

Check the key points related to the GATE exam pattern in the table below:

1. Fully Computer Based Test (CBT).

2. Total number of subject papers: 30

3. All Test Papers of GATE examinations will be entirely of objective type. The pattern of questions will include some Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ), while the remaining questions may include Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) and/or Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.

4. A candidate is allowed to appear for ONE or maximum TWO subject papers only. TWO Paper combinations have to be chosen from the given list of combinations of papers. Final allotment of TWO papers will still be subject to availability of infrastructure and dates.

Feature	Description
GATE Examination Mode	Computer-Based Test (CBT)
GATE Exam Language	English
GATE Duration	3 Hours (180 Minutes)
GATE Sectional Time Limit	None
GATE Total Marks	100
GATE Total Number of questions	65
GATE Type of Questions	Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ); Multiple Select Questions (MSQ); Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions
GATE Number of Sections	General Aptitude (GA) + Candidate's Selected Subject Subject (s)
GATE Section-wise Number of Questions	General Aptitude- 10 questions, Core Discipline- 55 questions
Distribution of Marks# in papers AR, CY, DA, EY, GG, MA, PH, ST, XH and XL	General Aptitude- 15 marks, Core Discipline- 85 marks
Distribution of Marks" in all papers EXCEPT AR, CY, DA, EY, GG, MA, PH, ST, XH AND XL	General Aptitude: 15 marks + Engineering Mathematics: 13 marks + Subject Questions: 72 marks = Total: 100 marks (XE includes an Engineering Mathematics section XE-A of 15 marks)
GATE Marking Scheme	1 or 2 marks for each correct answer
GATE Negative Marking	For 1 mark MCQ, 1/3 mark will be deducted for a wrong answer; For 2-mark MCQ, 2/3 mark will be deducted for a wrong answer; No negative marking for MSQs and NATs

At present, GATE is conducted in the following 30 disciplines. A candidate can select any one of these:-

GATE Paper	Code
Aerospace Engineering	AE
Agricultural Engineering	AG
Architecture and Planning	AR
Bio-medical Engineering	BM
Biotechnology	BT
Civil Engineering	CE
Chemical Engineering	CH
Computer Science and Information Technology	CS
Chemistry

...

EXAM PATTERN

Check the key points related to the GATE exam pattern in the table below:

1. Fully Computer Based Test (CBT).

2. Total number of subject papers: 30

Feature	Description
GATE Examination Mode	Computer-Based Test (CBT)
GATE Exam Language	English
GATE Duration	3 Hours (180 Minutes)
GATE Sectional Time Limit	None
GATE Total Marks	100
GATE Total Number of questions	65
GATE Type of Questions	Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ); Multiple Select Questions (MSQ); Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions
GATE Number of Sections	General Aptitude (GA) + Candidate's Selected Subject Subject (s)
GATE Section-wise Number of Questions	General Aptitude- 10 questions, Core Discipline- 55 questions
Distribution of Marks# in papers AR, CY, DA, EY, GG, MA, PH, ST, XH and XL	General Aptitude- 15 marks, Core Discipline- 85 marks
Distribution of Marks" in all papers EXCEPT AR, CY, DA, EY, GG, MA, PH, ST, XH AND XL	General Aptitude: 15 marks + Engineering Mathematics: 13 marks + Subject Questions: 72 marks = Total: 100 marks (XE includes an Engineering Mathematics section XE-A of 15 marks)
GATE Marking Scheme	1 or 2 marks for each correct answer
GATE Negative Marking	For 1 mark MCQ, 1/3 mark will be deducted for a wrong answer; For 2-mark MCQ, 2/3 mark will be deducted for a wrong answer; No negative marking for MSQs and NATs

At present, GATE is conducted in the following 30 disciplines. A candidate can select any one of these:-

GATE Paper	Code
Aerospace Engineering	AE
Agricultural Engineering	AG
Architecture and Planning	AR
Bio-medical Engineering	BM
Biotechnology	BT
Civil Engineering	CE
Chemical Engineering	CH
Computer Science and Information Technology	CS
Chemistry	CY
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence	DA
Electronics and Communication Engineering	EC
Electrical Engineering	EE
Environmental Science & Engineering	ES
Ecology and Evolution	EY
Geology and Geophysics	GG
Instrumentation Engineering	IN
Mathematics	MA
Mechanical Engineering	ME
Mining Engineering	MN
Metallurgical Engineering	MT
Petroleum Engineering	PE
Physics	PH
Production and Industrial Engineering	PI
Statistics	ST
Textile Engineering and Fibre Science	TF
Engineering Sciences	XE
Humanities & Social Sciences	XH
Life Sciences	XL
Geomatics Engineering	(GE)
Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering	(NM)

Note: Geomatics Engineering (GE) and Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (NM) are two new papers introduced in GATE

The section-wise distribution of Marks in all Papers EXCEPT papers AR, CY, EY, GG, MA, PH, XH and XL is given below :-

Test Mode	Name of Test	No. of Questions	Maximum Marks	Duration
Objective Type Online Computer Based Test	General Aptitude (GA)	10 Q	15 Marks	180 Minutes
	Engineering Mathematics	55 Q	13 Marks
	Subject Questions	55 Q	72 Marks
	Total	65 Q	100 Marks

The section-wise distribution of Marks in papers AR, CY, EY, GG, MA, PH, XH and XL is given below :-

Test Mode	Name of Test	No. of Questions	Maximum Marks	Duration
Objective Type Online Computer Based Test	General Aptitude (GA)	10 Q	15 Marks	180 Minutes
	Subject Questions	55 Q	85 Marks
	Total	65 Q	100 Marks

The section-wise distribution of Marks for GATE Paper Codes XE, XH, and XL Papers is given below:-

XE Paper Sections	Code	XH Paper Sections	Code	XL Paper Sections	Code
Engineering Mathematics (Compulsory) (15 marks)	A	Reasoning and Comprehension (Compulsory) (25 marks)	B1	Chemistry (Compulsory) (25 marks)	P
Any TWO optional Sections (2x35 = 70 marks)		Any ONE optional Section (60 marks)		Any TWO optional Sections (2x30 = 60 marks)
Fluid Mechanics	B	Economics	C1	Biochemistry	Q
Materials Science	C	English	C2	Botany	R
Solid Mechanics	D	Linguistics	C3	Microbiology	S
Thermodynamics	E	Philosophy	C4	Zoology	T
Polymer Science and Engineering	F	Psychology	C5	Food Technology	U
Food Technology	G	Sociology	C6
Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences	H

MODE OF EXAMINATION

GATE Examination will be held as a Computer Based Test (CBT). It will contain Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), Multiple Select Questions (MSQ), and/or Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions. The total duration of Examination is 180 minutes.

MEDIUM OF EXAMINATION

GATE Examination will be held in English Language.

SCHEME HIGHLIGHTS

1. Each subject/paper is of total 100 marks. General Aptitude (GA) section of 15 marks is common for all papers. Hence, the remaining 85 marks are for the respective subject/paper code.

2. The General Aptitude section 5 questions carrying 1-mark each (sub-total 5 marks) and 5 questions carrying 2-marks each (sub-total 10 marks).

3. For a wrong answer chosen in a MCQ, there will be negative marking. For 1-mark MCQ, 1/3 mark will be deducted for a wrong answer. Likewise, for 2-mark MCQ, 2/3 mark will be deducted for a wrong answer.

4. The Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) will carry 1 or 2 marks each in all the papers and sections.

5. There is no negative marking for a wrong answer in MSQ questions. However, there is no partial credit for choosing partially correct combinations of choices or any single wrong choice.

6. The Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions will carry 1 or 2 marks each in most of the papers and sections.

7. There is no negative marking for a wrong answer in NAT questions. Also, there is no partial credit in NAT questions.

NORMALIZATION OF SCORE

After the evaluation of the answers, the actual (raw) marks obtained by a candidate will be considered for computing the GATE Score. For multi-session papers (subjects), raw marks obtained by the candidates in different sessions will be converted to Normalized marks for that particular subject. Thus, raw marks (for single session papers) or normalized marks (for multi-session papers) will be used for computing the GATE Score, based on the qualifying marks.

In GATE examination, some papers may be conducted in multi-sessions. Hence, for these papers, a suitable normalization is applied to take into account any variation in the difficulty levels of the question papers across different sessions.
The committee arrived at the following formula for calculating the normalized marks for the multi-session papers.

The normalised marks of the $bold italic j to the power of bold t bold h end exponent$ candidates in the $bold italic i to the power of bold t bold h end exponent$ session, denoted by $bold M with bold hat on top subscript bold i bold j end subscript$ , are computed as

$bold M with bold hat on top subscript bold i bold j end subscript bold space bold equals fraction numerator bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t superscript bold space bold g end superscript bold space bold minus bold space bold M subscript bold q superscript bold g over denominator bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t bold i end subscript bold space bold minus bold space bold M subscript bold i bold q end subscript end fraction bold space bold left parenthesis bold italic M subscript bold i bold j end subscript bold space bold minus bold space bold italic M subscript bold i bold q end subscript bold right parenthesis bold space bold plus bold space bold italic M subscript bold q superscript bold g$

Where,

$bold italic M subscript bold i bold j end subscript$ is the actual marks obtained of the $bold italic j to the power of bold t bold h end exponent$ candidate in the $bold italic i to the power of bold t bold h end exponent$ session;

$bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t bold space end subscript superscript bold g bold space$ is the average marks of the 0.1% of the candidates considering all sessions;

$bold italic M subscript bold q superscript bold g$ is the sum of mean and standard deviation marks of the candidates in the paper considering all sessions;

$bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t bold i end subscript$ is the average marks of the top 0.1% of the candidates in the $bold italic i to the power of bold t bold h end exponent$ session; and

$bold italic M subscript bold i bold q end subscript$ is the sum of the mean marks and standard deviation marks of the $bold italic i to the power of bold t bold h end exponent$ session.

CALCULATION OF GATE SCORE FOR ALL PAPERS

For all papers for which there is only one session, actual marks obtained by the candidates will be used for calculating the GATE Score. For papers in multi-session, normalized marks will be calculated corresponding to the raw marks obtained by a candidate and the GATE Score will be calculated based on the normalized marks.

The GATE score will be computed using the formula given below :-

GATE Score = $bold italic S subscript bold q bold space bold plus bold space stretchy left parenthesis S subscript t space minus space S subscript q stretchy right parenthesis fraction numerator bold M bold space bold minus bold space bold M subscript bold q over denominator bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t bold space bold minus bold space bold M subscript bold q end fraction$

Where,

$bold italic M$ is the marks obtained by the candidates (actual marks for single session papers and normalised marks for multi-session papers);

$bold italic M subscript bold q$ is the qualifying marks for the General Category candidates in the paper;

$bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t bold space$ is the mean of marks of top 0.1% or top 10 (whichever is larger) of the candidates who appeared in the paper (in case of multi-session papers including all sessions);

$bold italic S subscript bold q$ = 350 is the score assigned to $bold italic M subscript bold q$ ; and

$bold italic S subscript bold t$ = 900 is the score assigned to $bold M with bold bar on top subscript bold t$ .

Eligibility

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates willing to apply for the GATE Examination are required to fulfill certain conditions to be eligible for it. The candidate who does not satisfy the Eligibility criteria like Age, Minimum educational qualification, the etc candidature shall be rejected by the authorities. The criteria for eligibility for GATE are decided by the conduction body itself. The candidate’s eligibility for the GATE Examination is based on the fulfillment of the following conditions:-

1. Nationality

2. GATE: Age Limit & Relaxations

3. GATE: Educational Qualifications

4. GATE: Number of Attempts

Nationality

1. Candidates with Indian Nationality are eligible for GATE Examination.

2. Candidates from other than India are also eligible.

Age Limit

There is no minimum or maximum age limit prescribed to appear for the examination by the authorities.

Educational Qualification

A candidate who is currently studying in the 3^rd or higher years of any undergraduate degree program OR has already completed any government-approved degree program in Engineering / Technology / Architecture / Science / Commerce / Arts is eligible for appearing in the GATE exam.

Eligibility Criteria Based on Qualifying Degree

Degree/Program	Qualifying Degree Examination	Description of Eligible Candidates
B.E. / B.Tech. / B.Pharm	Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Technology (4 years after 10+2 or 3 years after B.Sc. / Diploma in Engineering / Technology)	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher grade or already completed
B. Arch.	Bachelor’s degree of Architecture (5- year course) / Naval Architecture (4- year course) / Planning (4- year course)	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher grade or already completed
B.Sc. (Research) / B.S	Bachelor’s degree in Science (Post-Diploma/4 years after 10+2)	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher grade or already completed
Pharm. D. (after 10+2	6 years degree program, consisting of internship or residency training, during third year onwards	Currently, in the 3rd/4th/5th/6th year or already completed
M.B.B.S. / B.D.S / B.V.Sc.	Degree holders of M.B.B.S. / B.D.S / B.V.Sc and those who are in the 5 th/6th/7th semester or higher semester of such program.	5th, 6th, 7th, or higher semester or already completed
M. Sc. / M.A. / MCA or equivalent	Master’s degree in any branch of Arts/Science/Mathematics/Statistics/ Computer Applications or equivalent	Currently, in the first year or higher or already Completed
Int. M.E./ M.Tech. (Post-B.Sc.)	Post-B.Sc Integrated Master’s degree programs in Engineering/ Technology (4-year program)	Currently, in the 1st / 2nd/3rd/4th year or already completed
Int. M.E./ M.Tech. or Dual Degree (after Diploma or 10+2)	Integrated Master’s degree program or Dual Degree program in Engineering/Technology (5-year program)	Currently, in the 3rd /4th/5th year or already completed
B.Sc. / B.A. / B.Com.	Bachelor degree in any branch of Science / Arts / Commerce (3 years program)	Currently, in the 3rd year or already completed
Int. M.Sc. / Int. B.S. / M.S.	Integrated M.Sc. or 5-year integrated B.S.-M.S. program	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher or already completed
Professional Society Examinations (equivalent to B.E. / B.Tech. / B.Arch.)	B.E./ B.Tech./ B.Arch. equivalent examinations of Professional Societies, recognized by MoE/ UPSC/ AICTE (e.g. AMIE by Institution of Engineers, India, AMICE by the Institute of Civil Engineers-India and so on)	Completed Section A or equivalent of such professional courses
B.Sc. (Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry <

...

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

1. Nationality

2. GATE: Age Limit & Relaxations

3. GATE: Educational Qualifications

4. GATE: Number of Attempts

Nationality

1. Candidates with Indian Nationality are eligible for GATE Examination.

2. Candidates from other than India are also eligible.

Age Limit

There is no minimum or maximum age limit prescribed to appear for the examination by the authorities.

Educational Qualification

Eligibility Criteria Based on Qualifying Degree

Degree/Program	Qualifying Degree Examination	Description of Eligible Candidates
B.E. / B.Tech. / B.Pharm	Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Technology (4 years after 10+2 or 3 years after B.Sc. / Diploma in Engineering / Technology)	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher grade or already completed
B. Arch.	Bachelor’s degree of Architecture (5- year course) / Naval Architecture (4- year course) / Planning (4- year course)	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher grade or already completed
B.Sc. (Research) / B.S	Bachelor’s degree in Science (Post-Diploma/4 years after 10+2)	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher grade or already completed
Pharm. D. (after 10+2	6 years degree program, consisting of internship or residency training, during third year onwards	Currently, in the 3rd/4th/5th/6th year or already completed
M.B.B.S. / B.D.S / B.V.Sc.	Degree holders of M.B.B.S. / B.D.S / B.V.Sc and those who are in the 5 th/6th/7th semester or higher semester of such program.	5th, 6th, 7th, or higher semester or already completed
M. Sc. / M.A. / MCA or equivalent	Master’s degree in any branch of Arts/Science/Mathematics/Statistics/ Computer Applications or equivalent	Currently, in the first year or higher or already Completed
Int. M.E./ M.Tech. (Post-B.Sc.)	Post-B.Sc Integrated Master’s degree programs in Engineering/ Technology (4-year program)	Currently, in the 1st / 2nd/3rd/4th year or already completed
Int. M.E./ M.Tech. or Dual Degree (after Diploma or 10+2)	Integrated Master’s degree program or Dual Degree program in Engineering/Technology (5-year program)	Currently, in the 3rd /4th/5th year or already completed
B.Sc. / B.A. / B.Com.	Bachelor degree in any branch of Science / Arts / Commerce (3 years program)	Currently, in the 3rd year or already completed
Int. M.Sc. / Int. B.S. / M.S.	Integrated M.Sc. or 5-year integrated B.S.-M.S. program	Currently, in the 3rd year or higher or already completed
Professional Society Examinations (equivalent to B.E. / B.Tech. / B.Arch.)	B.E./ B.Tech./ B.Arch. equivalent examinations of Professional Societies, recognized by MoE/ UPSC/ AICTE (e.g. AMIE by Institution of Engineers, India, AMICE by the Institute of Civil Engineers-India and so on)	Completed Section A or equivalent of such professional courses
B.Sc. (Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry	4-Year Program	Currently in the 3rd/4th year or already completed

Eligibility Criteria for International Students

1. Candidates who have obtained/are pursuing their qualifying degree from countries other than India:

2. Must be currently in the 3rd or higher years or completed their Bachelor’s degree (duration: at least 3 years) in Engineering / Technology / Science / Arts / Commerce.

Number of Attempts

Students can appear as many GATE Papers as they want if they are eligible. There is no restriction on the number of attempts by the candidate.

Schedule

IMPORTANT DATES

The GATE 2026 exam schedule is expected to follow the usual timeline. The registration process is likely to start in September 2025, with the last date for application submission in October 2025. Correction window for application details is expected in November 2025. The admit card will be released in January 2026, and the exam is scheduled for February 2026 across multiple shifts. Answer keys are usually released in March 2026, followed by results declaration in March–April 2026. Students should also note that scorecards can be downloaded soon after results, and admissions or PSU shortlists will follow based on branch and category cutoffs.

GATE TEST PAPERS	EXAM DATE
AG, ES, GG, IN, MA, MN, TF, XE, XL	February 7
AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH, XH	February 7
CS-1 and ST	February 8
CS-2, EY, NM, PE	February 8
CE-1, EE, PI	February 14
BM, CE-2, ME, MT	February 14
EC	February 15
AR, DA	February 15

Events	Dates
Application Form	September, 2025
Application Form Last Date	October, 2025
Application Form Last Date (with late fee)	October, 2025
Last date for change of Category, Paper and Examination City, adding a new test paper, and change of personal details (additional fee applicable per change)	October, 2025
GATE Exam Date	February 7, 8, 14 & 15, 2026
GATE Result	March, 2026
Score Cards available for free download	March, 2026

Analysis

EXAM ANALYSIS

Based on the analysis of GATE papers from 2020 to 2025, the upcoming GATE 2026 exam is expected to follow similar trends. The paper will continue to test concept clarity and application skills rather than rote memorization. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions will form the main question types, with an increasing focus on NAT and MSQs. Engineering Mathematics and General Aptitude sections are likely to maintain consistent weightage, while core engineering subjects will see questions that are more application-oriented and concept-based. Time management, accuracy, and strategic question selection will be crucial, and recurring high-weightage topics should be prioritized for preparation.

GATE 2026 EXAM ANALYSIS BASED ON PREVIOUS YEAR PAPERS (2020–2025)

Introduction to GATE Exam Analysis

Purpose of analyzing previous year papers for GATE 2026
How previous years’ trends help in predicting the upcoming exam
Importance of understanding paper difficulty, topic weightage, and question types

Scope of Analysis

Years considered: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
Branches covered: CSE, ECE, EE, ME, CE, and other engineering disciplines
Sections considered: General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, Core Subjects
Focus on high-weightage topics, recurring patterns, and difficulty trends

Overall Difficulty Level Trends

Year-wise comparison of difficulty from 2020 to 2025
Shift in difficulty: moderate to tough questions in most branches
Trends in easy, average, and high-difficulty questions
Impact of difficulty on expected cutoff trends for GATE 2026

Question Type Analysis

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) trend across years
1-mark vs 2-mark MCQs distribution
Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) introduction and increasing weightage
Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions trend and complexity
Emergence of higher-order thinking and integrative questions

General Aptitude (GA) Section Analysis

Weightage: 15 marks in all branches
Distribution between English language and numerical reasoning
Trends in RC passages, vocabulary, and grammar questions
Trends in quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning questions
Tips from past papers for scoring full marks in GA

Engineering Mathematics Section Analysis

Weightage trends across branches
Focus on fundamental concepts rather than formula memorization
Integration of mathematics with core engineering subjects
Frequent topics: Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability, Differential Equations
Numerical Answer Type questions in Math requiring calculation accuracy

Branch-Wise Core Subject Analysis

CSE (Computer Science & Engineering)

High-frequency topics: Data Structures, Algorithms, Operating Systems, DBMS
Recurring topics: Computer Networks, Digital Logic, Compiler Design
Trend of concept-based and application-oriented questions
NAT question increase over the last 3 years

ECE (Electronics & Communication Engineering)

High-weightage topics: Analog Circuits, Digital Electronics, Signals & Systems
Rising importance of Communication Systems questions
Integration of Mathematics with Signals & Systems questions
Shift from memory-based to concept-testing questions

EE (Electrical Engineering)

High-frequency topics: Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Control Systems
Trend of complex calculations in NAT questions
MSQs increasingly used in Control Systems and Power Electronics

ME (Mechanical Engineering)

High-weightage topics: Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer
Questions increasingly application-based
Increase in multi-step calculation questions

CE (Civil Engineering)

High-frequency topics: Structural Analysis, Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Engg
Moderate difficulty trend in most sections
Emphasis on problem-solving skills over rote learning

Topic Recurrence and Weightage Analysis

Topics repeated across multiple years (2020–2025)
Identification of high-probability topics for GATE 2026
Topics showing increasing weightage and trends
Topics with decreasing importance over the years

Conceptual vs Numerical Question Trends

Rising importance of conceptual understanding over formula memorization
Application-based questions for testing real understanding
Decrease in direct, formula-based or theoretical questions

Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) Trend Analysis

Introduction from 2021 onwards in most branches
Higher risk due to partial negative marking if not attempted correctly
Require complete concept clarity
Trend of including real-life application questions in MSQs

Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions Analysis

Increasing trend in recent papers
Require precise calculations with no options to guess
Often time-consuming and multi-step
Important topics from Mathematics and core subjects frequently appear

Use of Graphs, Diagrams, and Data Interpretation

Growth of visual-based questions over the last 5 years
Questions require interpretation, calculation, and application of theory
Subjects using diagrams: EE, ME, CE, ECE

Interlinking of Multiple Topics

Questions connecting two or more subjects or topics
Rising trend of multi-concept questions
Example: Signals + Control, Thermodynamics + Fluid Mechanics

Time Management Insights

Average time spent per question in past papers
Importance of selective question solving
Focusing on easier questions first
Managing difficult NAT and MSQs within exam duration

Negative Marking Trends

MCQ negative marking impact and strategy
Careful approach for 1-mark vs 2-mark questions
Avoiding guessing in MSQs and high-risk questions

High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Question Analysis

Increasing trend of questions requiring analytical and problem-solving skills
Examples: Real-world problem integration, cross-topic application

Key Learnings from Previous Papers for GATE 2026

Concept clarity is crucial for scoring high
Balanced preparation of GA, Math, and core subjects
Importance of previous year questions and mock test practice
Strategy: Solve easy questions first, manage time for NAT and MSQs

Expected Trends for GATE 2026 Paper

Continued emphasis on conceptual understanding and application
Balanced weightage: GA, Engineering Mathematics, Core subjects
Higher proportion of NAT and MSQs
Time management remains critical
Focus on recurring high-weightage topics for maximum scoring

CUTOFFS

Last Official Cutoffs – GATE 2025 (Qualifying Marks)

For GATE 2025, the qualifying marks released (based on official data and expected figures) for some major branches were approximately as follows:

Computer Science & IT (CS) – ~29.2 for General, ~26.2 for OBC, ~19.4 for SC/ST/PwD

Civil Engineering (CE) – ~29.2 for General, ~26.2 for OBC, ~19.4 for SC/ST/PwD

Mechanical Engineering (ME) – ~28–29 (General)

Electrical Engineering (EE

...

EXAM ANALYSIS

GATE 2026 EXAM ANALYSIS BASED ON PREVIOUS YEAR PAPERS (2020–2025)

Introduction to GATE Exam Analysis

Scope of Analysis

Overall Difficulty Level Trends

Question Type Analysis

General Aptitude (GA) Section Analysis

Engineering Mathematics Section Analysis

Branch-Wise Core Subject Analysis

CSE (Computer Science & Engineering)

ECE (Electronics & Communication Engineering)

EE (Electrical Engineering)

High-frequency topics: Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Control Systems
Trend of complex calculations in NAT questions
MSQs increasingly used in Control Systems and Power Electronics

ME (Mechanical Engineering)

High-weightage topics: Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer
Questions increasingly application-based
Increase in multi-step calculation questions

CE (Civil Engineering)

High-frequency topics: Structural Analysis, Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Engg
Moderate difficulty trend in most sections
Emphasis on problem-solving skills over rote learning

Topic Recurrence and Weightage Analysis

Conceptual vs Numerical Question Trends

Rising importance of conceptual understanding over formula memorization
Application-based questions for testing real understanding
Decrease in direct, formula-based or theoretical questions

Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) Trend Analysis

Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions Analysis

Increasing trend in recent papers
Require precise calculations with no options to guess
Often time-consuming and multi-step
Important topics from Mathematics and core subjects frequently appear

Use of Graphs, Diagrams, and Data Interpretation

Growth of visual-based questions over the last 5 years
Questions require interpretation, calculation, and application of theory
Subjects using diagrams: EE, ME, CE, ECE

Interlinking of Multiple Topics

Questions connecting two or more subjects or topics
Rising trend of multi-concept questions
Example: Signals + Control, Thermodynamics + Fluid Mechanics

Time Management Insights

Average time spent per question in past papers
Importance of selective question solving
Focusing on easier questions first
Managing difficult NAT and MSQs within exam duration

Negative Marking Trends

MCQ negative marking impact and strategy
Careful approach for 1-mark vs 2-mark questions
Avoiding guessing in MSQs and high-risk questions

High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Question Analysis

Increasing trend of questions requiring analytical and problem-solving skills
Examples: Real-world problem integration, cross-topic application

Key Learnings from Previous Papers for GATE 2026

Expected Trends for GATE 2026 Paper

CUTOFFS

Last Official Cutoffs – GATE 2025 (Qualifying Marks)

For GATE 2025, the qualifying marks released (based on official data and expected figures) for some major branches were approximately as follows:

Computer Science & IT (CS) – ~29.2 for General, ~26.2 for OBC, ~19.4 for SC/ST/PwD

Civil Engineering (CE) – ~29.2 for General, ~26.2 for OBC, ~19.4 for SC/ST/PwD

Mechanical Engineering (ME) – ~28–29 (General)

Electrical Engineering (EE) – ~26–28 (General)

Electronics & Comm. (EC) – ~27–30 (General)

These cutoffs are the minimum qualifying marks — the score needed to qualify the GATE exam, not the admission or PSU selection score.

Expected Cutoffs for GATE 2026 (Qualifying Marks)

Based on previous year trends and difficulty levels, the expected qualifying marks for GATE 2026 are likely to be in similar ranges, with possible slight variation:

General Category (Expected) – ~25–26 overall baseline qualifying score

Civil Engineering (CE) – ~28–32 for General

Computer Science & IT (CS) – ~27–29 for General

Mechanical (ME) – Likely similar around ~34–36 (General)

Electrical (EE) – ~25–27 (General)

Electronics & Communication (EC) – ~28–30 (General)

These expected figures are estimates based on previous years’ cutoff patterns and expected difficulty for 2026.

General Trend Notes on Cutoffs

Qualifying cutoff marks are generally stable year to year unless the paper difficulty changes significantly.

Cutoff marks tend to be slightly higher when the paper is easier, and slightly lower when the paper is tougher.

The qualifying cutoffs only determine eligibility for admissions/PSU shortlists; actual admission or PSU cutoffs are usually much higher based on competition, seats, and branch popularity.

Key Takeaways

If you score above 30+ marks for major branches like CS or CE, you will likely qualify comfortably for GATE (General category) based on trend data.

For admissions or PSU recruitments, the expected effective cutoff marks are often much higher than the qualifying marks depending on institute and program.

Study Tips

STUDY TIPS

Understand the GATE Exam Pattern and Syllabus Clearly
Before starting preparation, students should carefully understand the exam pattern, marking scheme, and complete syllabus. This helps avoid wasting time on irrelevant topics.

Start with Basics and Build Strong Concepts
GATE mainly tests concept clarity. Students should first focus on understanding basic concepts instead of memorizing formulas.

Focus on High-Weightage Topics First
Some topics are asked every year. Identifying and prioritizing such topics helps in scoring better in less time.

Use Standard Books and Limited Resources
Using too many books creates confusion. Choose 1–2 standard books per subject and follow them consistently.

Practice Previous Year Question Papers Regularly
Solving previous year questions helps students understand the exam trend, difficulty level, and important topics.

Make Short Notes for Revision
Prepare short notes for formulas, concepts, and common mistakes. These notes are very useful during final revision.

Take Mock Tests Seriously
Mock tests help students improve speed, accuracy, and time management. Always analyze mistakes after each test.

Revise Regularly and Stay Consistent
Revision is as important as studying new topics. Daily consistency matters more than long study hours.

STUDY PLANS

1 MONTH STUDY PLAN FOR GATE (FINAL PHASE PREPARATION)

This plan is meant for students who have already studied most of the syllabus once and are now close to the exam.

Focus on Important and High-Scoring Topics
In the last one month, students should not try to study everything again. Only those topics should be revised which are frequently asked and comparatively easy to score.

Revision of Previously Studied Subjects
Each subject should be revised at least once. Use short notes, formulas, and solved examples instead of reading books again.

Previous Year Question Practice
Solve previous year questions daily. This helps in understanding the exact exam pattern and improves confidence.

Regular Mock Tests
Attempt a full-length mock test every three to four days. This will help in improving speed, time management, and exam temperament.

Mock Test Analysis
After every mock test, analyze mistakes carefully. Identify whether the mistake happened due to lack of concept, calculation error, or time pressure.

Daily Formula and Concept Revision
Spend some time daily revising formulas and key concepts. This helps in quick recall during the exam.

Avoid New Topics
Do not start completely new topics in the last month as it may create confusion and stress.

3 MONTH STUDY PLAN FOR GATE (SYLLABUS + PRACTICE PHASE)

This plan is suitable for students who have basic knowledge but need structured preparation.

Planned Syllabus Completion
Divide the remaining syllabus into weekly targets. Complete one or two subjects every month depending on difficulty.

Strong Focus on Concept Clarity
Instead of memorizing, understand why and how things work. GATE questions mostly test conceptual understanding.

Daily Practice of Questions
After studying a topic, practice related questions on the same day. This helps in better understanding and retention.

Previous Year Questions Subject-Wise
Solve previous year questions after completing each subject. This helps in knowing which areas are more important.

Weekly Revision
At the end of every week, revise whatever has been studied during the week to avoid forgetting.

Mock Tests at Regular Intervals
Start taking mock tests once every ten to fifteen days. Slowly increase frequency as preparation improves.

Performance Improvement
Based on mock test results, identify weak subjects and give extra time to improve them.

6 MONTH STUDY PLAN FOR GATE (FOUNDATION + FULL PREPARATION)

This plan is ideal for beginners or students starting preparation early.

Complete Syllabus from Basics
Start from basic concepts and gradually move to advanced topics. Do not rush syllabus completion.

Daily Study Routine
Study daily with fixed time slots. Consistency is more important than studying for long hours occasionally.

Balanced Subject Coverage
Give proper time to all subjects. Do not ignore any subject completely, as even small weightage topics matter.

Regular Practice Along with Study
After learning each topic, solve practice questions and previous year questions side by side.

Monthly Revision Strategy
At the end of every month, revise all subjects studied during that month to strengthen memory.

Gradual Introduction of Mock Tests
After completing a good portion of the syllabus, start mock tests to understand exam pressure.

Final Phase Revision and Testing
Keep the last one to two months mainly for revision, mock tests, and performance improvement.