Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering
EE - General: 28-32, OBC: 25-28, SC/ST: 20-23
ME - General: 27-30, OBC: 24-27, SC/ST: 20-22
CE - General: 26-29, OBC: 23-26, SC/ST: 19-21
- Visit Official GATE Website.
- Register with personal details.
- Fill form & select paper(s).
- Upload Photo, Signature, Degree, Category certificate.
- Pay application fee online.
- Submit & save a copy.
Gate Exam, eligibility, syllabus, date, exam, documents,2026, complete guideline.
Before visiting the GATE exam center, make sure to carry your printed admit card and the same photo ID used during registration. Locate your center in advance and plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early. Dress comfortably and avoid any prohibited items like calculators or electronic devices. Revise key formulas and concepts, solve a few previous-year questions, and have a light, healthy meal. Stay calm, follow all instructions, and be prepared for security checks at the entrance.
Eligibility
| Qualification / Degree | Description / Eligible Courses | Year of Study Allowed | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.E. / B.Tech. / B.Pharm. | Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, or Pharmacy (4 yrs after 10+2 or 3 yrs after Diploma) | 3rd / 4th year / Completed | Eligible |
| B.Arch. | Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (5-year program) | 3rd year or higher / Completed | Eligible |
| B.Sc. (Research) / B.S. | 4-year Bachelor’s degree in Science (Post 10+2) | 3rd year or higher / Completed | Eligible |
| M.Sc. / M.A. / MCA | Master’s in Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Applications, or equivalent | Final year / Completed | Eligible |
| Int. M.E. / M.Tech. (Post-B.Sc.) | Integrated Master’s / Dual Degree in Engg./Tech. (5-year) | 2nd–4th year / Completed | Eligible |
| Int. M.E. / M.Tech. (Post-10+2) | 5-year Integrated or Dual Degree in Engg./Tech. | 4th year or higher / Completed | Eligible |
| Int. M.Sc. / Int. B.S.–M.S. | Integrated Master’s or Dual Degree in Science/Technology | 3rd year or higher / Completed | Eligible |
| Professional Society Exams (AMIE, AMICE) | Recognized by MoE / AICTE / UGC / UPSC as equivalent to B.E./B.Tech. | Completed Section A or equivalent | Eligible |
Documents
| Document | Who Needs It | Format / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Recent Photograph | All candidates | Color photo, plain background, front-facing, JPG/JPEG format (240×320 px approx). |
| Signature | All candidates | Signed in black/blue ink on white paper, scanned clearly, JPG/JPEG format. |
| Valid Photo ID | All candidates | Aadhaar, Passport, PAN, Voter ID or Driving License (same ID must be carried to exam). |
| Degree / Provisional Certificate | Graduates or completed candidates | PDF format; must show degree name and issuing institution clearly. |
| Certificate from Head of Institute | 3rd-year or final-year students | Official format from GATE site, signed and sealed; upload as PDF. |
| Caste / Category Certificate | SC/ST candidates | Valid government-issued certificate, PDF format. |
| PwD Certificate | PwD candidates | Issued by authorized medical board, showing ≥ 40 % disability; PDF format. |
| Dyslexia Certificate | Candidates requesting scribe support | Certificate from government-recognized medical authority. |
| Nationality Proof | Foreign nationals | Passport or official national ID, PDF format. |
| Admit Card | All candidates (exam day) | Printed from official GATE website; soft copy not accepted. |
| Same Photo ID (original) | All candidates (exam day) | Must match ID used during registration; unexpired original required. |
| GATE Scorecard | For admission / PSU use | Downloaded PDF of scorecard for verification and applications. |
| Stage | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Admit Card & Exam Day |
• GATE Admit Card (printed from official website) • Same Photo ID used in application (original) No other documents are required at the exam centre. |
| Admission / Counselling (IITs, NITs, etc.) |
• GATE Scorecard (downloaded from portal) • Admit Card • Photo ID • Degree Certificates / Mark Sheets (all semesters) • Category / PwD Certificate (if applicable) • Provisional Admission Letter (if offered) • Passport-size Photos |
Syllabus
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| GA | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning |
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability & Statistics, Discrete Mathematics |
| Core Topics | Digital Logic, Computer Organization, Programming & Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Databases, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Software Engineering, Compiler Design, AI |
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| GA | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning |
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Complex Analysis, Probability & Statistics |
| Core Topics | Electric Circuits, Signals & Systems, Control Systems, Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Power Electronics, Measurements & Instrumentation |
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| GA | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning |
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Differential Equations, Probability & Statistics |
| Core Topics | Engineering Mechanics, Strength of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Manufacturing, Machine Design, Theory of Machines, Industrial Engineering |
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| GA | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning |
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability & Statistics, Numerical Methods |
| Core Topics | Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydraulics & Fluid Mechanics, Environmental Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Surveying |
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| GA | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning |
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability & Statistics, Transform Theory |
| Core Topics | Networks, Analog & Digital Electronics, Signals & Systems, Communications, Control Systems, VLSI, Electromagnetics |
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| GA | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning |
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability & Statistics, Differential Equations |
| Core Topics | Measurements, Sensors, Signal Processing, Control Systems, Instrumentation Circuits |
Patterns
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Total Questions | 65 questions (approx.) |
| Sections |
|
| Question Types |
|
| Marking Scheme |
|
| Language | English only |
GATE Two-Paper Combinations
| Primary Paper | Allowed Secondary Papers |
|---|---|
| AE – Aerospace Engineering | ME, CE |
| AG – Agricultural Engineering | CE, ME |
| CE – Civil Engineering | AG, ME, EC |
| CS – Computer Science & IT | EC, EE, IN |
| EC – Electronics & Communication | CS, EE, IN |
| EE – Electrical Engineering | EC, IN, CS |
| ME – Mechanical Engineering | AE, CE, PH |
| IN – Instrumentation Engineering | EC, EE, CS |
| PH – Physics | EE, ME, CE |
How It Works
Primary Paper: This is usually chosen based on your undergraduate degree.
Secondary Paper: You can select another related paper as a second option.
Why Take Two Papers?
Better chances for admission: Scoring well in either paper can improve your opportunities for admission.
More career options: Performing in two papers can open doors to a wider range of jobs and programs.
Note on Combinations:
The allowed two-paper combinations may change each year. The official list is published closer to the start of the application period.
How to Check the Allowed Combinations
Visit the Official GATE Website: The GATE organizing institute (for example, IIT Roorkee for GATE 2025) will post the complete, updated list of allowed combinations on their official site.
GATE Exam FAQs
- Q: What is GATE? / GATE exam kya hota hai?
A: GATE is a national-level computer-based exam for engineering, technology, and science graduates for higher studies and PSU jobs. Q: Who conducts GATE?
A: It is conducted jointly by IISc and the seven IITs on behalf of the Ministry of Education, India.Q: How many attempts are allowed?
A: There is no limit on attempts as long as the eligibility criteria are met.Q: What is the eligibility for GATE? / Who can give the GATE exam?
A: Candidates in the final year or graduates of B.E., B.Tech., B.Arch., or equivalent degrees can apply.Q: How many papers can I appear in?
A: If the combination is allowed, you may appear in one or two papers.Q: What is the exam mode and duration?
A: GATE is a computer-based test that is 3 hours long.Q: What are the total marks and number of questions?
A: The exam is for 100 marks and typically has 65 questions.Q: What are the question types?
A: MCQs, MSQs (multiple select), and NATs (numerical answer type).Q: Is there negative marking?
A: Yes, for MCQs only; NATs have no negative marking.Q: How long is the GATE score valid?
A: GATE score is valid for 3 years from the result declaration date.Q: What does the GATE score mean?
A: It reflects your performance relative to other candidates on a 0–1000 scale.Q: What are two-paper combinations?
A: Official combinations allowing candidates to appear in two papers within specified pairs.Q: Can I change my paper after submission?
A: No, paper selection must be done at the time of application.Q: What items are forbidden in the exam hall?
A: Mobile phones, physical calculators, books, and loose sheets are not allowed.Q: Which photo ID should I carry on exam day?
A: Carry the same valid Photo ID used during application and the printed admit card.Q: When are results announced?
A: Results are declared a few weeks after the exam; check the official website for exact dates.Q: What is a good score in GATE?
A: Depends on branch, category, and target institute; aim above the cut-off marks.Q: Is there an age limit for GATE?
A: No, there is no upper age limit.Q: Is GATE valid for jobs in PSUs? / What is the GATE exam used for?
A: Yes, many PSUs use GATE scores for recruitment and scholarships.Q: When should I start preparing for GATE? / How to prepare for the GATE exam?
A: Start at least 1 year before; focus on core subjects, previous-year papers, and mock tests.Q: GATE exam is for which course?
A: Mainly for M.Tech, M.E., Ph.D., and other postgraduate courses in engineering, technology, and science fields.Q: Is the GATE exam tough?
A: Difficulty varies, but with proper preparation, it is manageable.Q: What is the use of the GATE exam?
A: For higher education admissions, PSU recruitment, and scholarships.Q: GATE exam is for what purpose?
A: To assess your technical knowledge for postgraduate studies and career opportunities.
GATE 2026 is a national-level exam for engineering and technology graduates. It helps in postgraduate admissions and PSU recruitment. Candidates must check important dates, eligibility, and complete the application process on time. The exam pattern includes MCQs, numerical questions, and may allow two-paper combinations. A valid GATE score helps in higher education and career opportunities.
Key Points:
Check eligibility before applying.
Note all important dates.
Understand the exam pattern and syllabus.
Prepare using previous papers and mock tests.
Use your score for M.Tech, Ph.D., or PSU jobs.
