The GATE 2026 will be conducted by IIT Guwahati for admission into M. Tech, PhD, and other postgraduate programs, along with the PSU recruitment. The Registration for GATE 2026 with late fees has been extended till 13th October 2025.
The GATE 2026 will be held in CBT Mode on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, in various test cities in India. The GATE Exam will be held in different sessions over a duration of 3 hours.
- As per the latest updates, a new sectional paper of Energy Science under the Engineering sciences (XE) has been introduced, making the total subject count 30.
- In the GATE Syllabus, core UG Subjects will be covered, including Engineering Mathematics and General Aptitude.
- The Main Subject topic will cover 70 to 72% of the exam, whereas the mathematics and aptitude sections will cover 28 to 30% weightage.
The GATE 2026 Admit cards will be released in January 2026, and the GATE Results will be released on March 19, 2026. The GATE Scores will be valid for the next 3 years for admission in IIT/NIT and IIIT.

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Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about GATE 2026 Exam, including the exam dates, registration, eligibility, syllabus, preparation tips & colleges accepting.
- GATE 2026 Exam is expected to be conducted on February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026.
- IIT Guwahati will conduct the GATE 2026 Exam according to the rotational policy followed.
- The GATE Exam will include a total of 30 subjects.
- The GATE will test the candidates for admission in M.Tech/PhD programs and recruitment in PSUs.
- In GATE, 15% weightage will be given to the general aptitude section and 85% to the subject-based section.
- What is GATE 2026?
- GATE 2026 Dates
- GATE Previous Year Registration Statistics
- GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
- GATE Syllabus 2026
- GATE 2026 Important Topics & Subject-Wise Difficulty
- GATE Previous Year Question Paper
- GATE 2025 Shift-wise Question Papers Solution PDF Available
- GATE 2026 Preparation Tips
- GATE 2026 Cut-Off Expected
- GATE 2026 Expected Cutoff for Top PSUs
- GATE 2026 Marks vs Percentile (Expected)
- PSU Recruitment through GATE
- GATE CCMT: List of Participating NITs
- FAQs for GATE 2026
What is GATE 2026?
The GATE 2026 is a national-level exam to be conducted by IIT Guwahati. The GATE will test the candidates' understanding of the UG Level subjects like engineering, science and technology for admission in M.Tech/PhD programs and recruitment in PSUs.
GATE 2026 Overview Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | IIT Guwahati |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Dates | February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026 |
| Registration Deadline (with Late Fee) | October 13, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Third-year & final-year undergraduate students (10+2+3/4 system) |
| Number of Papers | 30 (including new XE-I: Energy Science) |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours |
| Total Marks | 100 marks (GA: 15 marks, Subject: 85 marks) |
| Question Types | MCQ, MSQ, NAT |
| Score Validity | 3 years |
| Uses | Postgraduate admissions (IITs/NITs/IIITs), PSU recruitment |

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Ques. Who will conduct the GATE 2026 Exam?
Ans. According to the rotational policy followed by GATE, the IIT Guwahati will conduct GATE 2026. It has released the official notification and will conduct the exam, prepare the question paper, and conduct the overall process of GOAPS.
| Year | Conducting Institute |
|---|---|
| GATE 2026 | IIT Guwahati (upcoming) |
| GATE 2025 | IISc Bangalore |
| GATE 2024 | IIT Kanpur |
| GATE 2023 | IIT Kanpur |
| GATE 2022 | IIT Kharagpur |
| GATE 2021 | IIT Bombay |
Ques. What's New in GATE 2026?
Ans. The GATE 2026 includes various changes made by IIT Guwahati to increase the participation of candidates and to include more options for subjects.
These changes will make the exam more inclusive and flexible for students from different academic backgrounds.
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| New Subjects Introduced | Two new papers:
|
| Dual Paper Option Continued | 2 papers can be chosen by the candidates from the approved list of combinations. |
| Eligibility Relaxation | 3rd-year UG students (10+2+3 pattern) are now eligible to apply |
| No Major Exam Pattern Change | Objective format continues: MCQ, MSQ, and NAT |
| Conducting Institute | GATE 2026 will be conducted by IIT Guwahati |
GATE 2026 Dates
The GATE Exam will be held on February 7, 8, 14 and 15th, 2026, in multiple exam centres in a CBT Mode. The GATE Exam will be held in 4 different sessions and will last for 3 hours.
GATE 2026 Important Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 13, 2025 | Last Date to Apply (with Late Fee) |
| January 2026 | Admit Card Release |
| February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026 | Exam Dates |
| After exam (tentative) | Answer Key / Response Sheet Release |
| March 19, 2026 | Result Declaration |
| September 5, 2025 | GATE Registration St |
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Ques. What are the benefits of a GATE Exam?
Ans. The GATE is not a normal entrance exam; it will open different academic and career opportunities for engineering students.
- By qualifying for the GATE Exam, candidates can take admission into M.Tech, M.E, PhD and other PG Programs in IITs, NITs and other institutes.
- Different public sector units like IOCL, ONGC, NTPC, and NPCIL will use the GATE Score for the recruitment of candidates.
- The Candidates who have qualified in the GATE Exam will receive financial assistance in M.Tech or research programs.
Ques. How many attempts are in GATE?
Ans. There is no limit on the number of attempts in GATE, which makes it accessible for multiple preparations.
- The Candidates can attempt the GATE Exam any number of times if they meet the required eligibility criteria.
- The Candidates in the third or final year of the UG Program are eligible to appear.
Ques. Is GATE conducted two times a year?
Ans. No, the GATE Exam is conducted only once a year, in February.
- The Exam will be held in multiple sessions for 4-5 days.
- By multiple sessions, candidates will have flexibility across different exams and cities.
Ques. Is GATE valid for 3 years?
Ans. The GATE Scores are valid for admission for a very limited time period, which gives candidates flexibility for higher studies and PSU Applications.
- The GATE Score are valid for admission for 3 years since the result has been declared.
- The Candidates can use their GATE Score to get admission or recruitment in PSUs
GATE Previous Year Registration Statistics
The GATE Exam is an important exam for postgraduate students to get admission into admission in M.Tech/PhD programs and recruitment in PSUs.
By the previous year's registration statistics, candidates can have an analysis of the competition level.
GATE Registration Statistics (2025-2022)
- The Total number of registered candidates has increased from 8,45,432 in 2022 to 9,36,019 in 2025, which has increased the growth by 10%.
- The Attendance Ratio has also increased from 70.7% in 2022 to 79.9% in 2025.
- In 2025, the computer science exam saw the highest number of candidates, with almost 1,70,825 candidates appearing.
| Year | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates | Attendance Ratio (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 936019 | 747319 | 79.90% |
| 2024 | 826239 | 653292 | 79.10% |
| 2023 | 670000 | 517000 | 77.10% |
| 2022 | 845432 | 597030 | 70.70% |

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Ques. How many students apply for GATE every year?
Ans. The GATE is the most competitive exams in India, which attracts lakhs of candidates every year from engineering, science, and technology backgrounds.
| Year | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates | Attendance Ratio (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 845,432 | 597,030 | 70.7% |
| 2023 | 670,000 | 517,000 | 77.1% |
| 2024 | 826,239 | 653,292 | 79.1% |
| 2025 | 936,019 | 747,319 | 79.9% |
Ques. Can I get a job after GATE?
Ans. The GATE Qualifying can increase the career opportunities for candidates in academics and industry.
- Different PSUs like NTPC, ONGC, IOCL, NPCIL & BHEL will recruit candidates on the basis of GATE Scores.
- The Admissions in M.Tech, M.E., Phd can lead to research and teaching careers.
- The candidates can have financial support, which will improve their career prospects.
Ques. Does ISRO recruit through the GATE?
Ans. The ISRO is an Indian Space Research Organisation that often hires engineering candidates.
- Yes, the ISRO will recruit engineering candidates through the GATE for some technical positions.
- The Selection is mainly based on scientist/engineer posts in different fields.
- Candidates should have valid GATE Scores and meet the subject-based criteria.
GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria
By the GATE Eligibility criteria, the exam will be accessible to a larger number of candidates.
The Students who are in their third year or more in the undergraduate programs can also apply. Candidates from various domains such as Engineering, Science, Commerce & Arts can apply for the exam. With no age limit to appear in the exam.

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GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
The GATE Exam will be held in CBT Mode and will be divided into different sections, including general aptitude and subject-based sections.
Every exam will test the candidates' conceptual clarity, problem-solving skills and analytical ability.
- The GATE Exam will be held in CBT Mode for all 30 subjects, with a total of 100 marks.
- The General Aptitude will have a weightage of 15% of the total marks, and each subject will have a weightage of 85%.
- The Questions will be of different types, like MCQs, MSQs, and NATs, testing conceptual understanding and numerical problem-solving.
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Question Type | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude (GA) | 10 | 15 | MCQ / NAT |
|
| Subject-Specific Section | 55 | 85 | MCQ / MSQ / NAT |
|
| Total | 65 | 100 | MCQ / MSQ / NAT | As mentioned above |

Source: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
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Ques. What are the qualifying marks for GATE 2026?
Ans. The GATE Qualifying marks are the cutoff that candidates have to achieve to get admission or recruitment by PSUs.
| Category | Qualifying Marks (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 25–28 marks |
| OBC-NCL | 22–25 marks |
| SC/ST/PwD | 15–20 marks |
Ques. Will GATE 2026 be tough?
Ans. The GATE Exam is expected to be challenging because of high competition and conceptual depth.
- The GATE Difficulty level will depend upon the different exams; the technical subjects like CS, EE and ME are expected to be tougher and include conceptual questions.
- The Questions will be a mix of MCQs, MSQs, and NATs, and will test accuracy and problem-solving skills.
GATE Syllabus 2026
The GATE Syllabus will include General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics and subjects based on branches. All of 30 subjects will have a different syllabus as per the required field.

GATE General Aptitude Syllabus ( 10 Questions, 15 Marks)
| Section | Topics Covered | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Ability | Grammar, Vocabulary, Sentence Completion, Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning | 5 | 5 |
| Quantitative Ability | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Interpretation, Numerical Reasoning | 5 | 10 |
| Total | - | 10 | 15 |
GATE Engineering Mathematics Syllabus: 13 Marks (Varies by Paper)
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | Matrices, Systems of Linear Equations, Eigenvalues & Eigenvectors |
| Calculus | Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Partial Derivatives, Maxima/Minima, Integration, Differential Equations, Taylor Series |
| Probability & Statistics | Probability Distributions, Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Hypothesis Testing |
| Numerical Methods | Solution of Linear/Nonlinear Equations, Interpolation, Numerical Integration & Differentiation |
GATE Subject-wise Syllabus PDF
| GATE Test Paper | GATE Syllabus PDF |
|---|---|
| GATE Syllabus for Aerospace Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Agricultural Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Agriculture & Planning | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Biomedical Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Biotechnology | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Civil Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Chemical Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Computer Science & Information Technology | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Chemistry | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Data Science & Artificial Intelligence | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Electronics & Communication Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Electrical Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Environmental Science & Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Ecology & Evolution | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Geomatics Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Geology & Geophysics | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Instrumental Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Mathematics | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Mechanical Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Mining Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Metallurgical Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Petroleum Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Physics | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Production & Industrial Engineering | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Statistics | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Textile Engineering & Fiber Science | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Engineering Sciences | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Humanities & Social Science | Download PDF Here |
| GATE Syllabus for Life Science | Download PDF Here |
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GATE SyllabusQues. Which is the hardest subject in GATE?
Ans. The GATE Difficulty level will depend upon the conceptual depth, numerical intensity, and individual preparation.
| Subject / Paper | Reasons for Difficulty | Tips to Tackle |
|---|---|---|
| CS (Computer Science) | High algorithmic and programming content; tricky Data Structures & Algorithms | Practice previous years’ questions, focus on problem-solving, strengthen coding logic |
| EE (Electrical Engineering) | Numerical-heavy, complex circuit analysis, and control systems | Solve MCQs/NATs from past papers, revise formulas systematically |
| ME (Mechanical Engineering) | Broad syllabus covering Thermodynamics, Mechanics, and Manufacturing | Prioritize high-weightage topics, solve application-based questions |
| CE (Civil Engineering) | Structural, Geotechnical, and Environmental engineering problems | Focus on core concepts, use diagrams and formula sheets |
Ques. Is GATE tougher than JEE?
Ans. The GATE and JEE both are competitive exams, but have different academic levels and objectives.
| Exam | Level | Focus | Difficulty Aspect |
|---|---|---|---|
| JEE (Main / Advanced) | 12th-grade / undergraduate level | Problem-solving, application of physics, chemistry, math | Extensive syllabus, speed-based competitive environment |
| GATE | Undergraduate / PG level | Core engineering concepts, analytical and numerical problem-solving | Conceptual depth, accuracy critical, high weightage for specific subjects |
Ques. Which books are best for GATE preparation?
Ans. Selecting a proper reference books are important for GATE to cover vast syllabus as per the efficiency and efficiently.
| Paper / Subject | Recommended Books | Key Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude | Arihant’s GATE English & Aptitude, R.S. Aggarwal | Verbal Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation |
| Engineering Mathematics | Higher Engineering Mathematics – B.S. Grewal, Advanced Engineering Mathematics – Erwin Kreyszig | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability, Numerical Methods |
| Mechanical Engineering (ME) | R.K. Bansal (Fluid Mechanics), P.K. Nag (Thermodynamics), Beer & Johnston (Strength of Materials) | Core ME subjects, Numerical Problems |
| Computer Science (CS) | Aho, Hopcroft & Ullman (Algorithms), Cormen (Data Structures & Algorithms), Computer Organization – Morris Mano | Algorithms, Programming, Computer Architecture |
| Electrical Engineering (EE) | Lathi (Signals & Systems), P.K. Gupta (Electrical Machines), Sadiku (Electrical Circuits) | Circuit Analysis, Control Systems, Electronics |
| Civil Engineering (CE) | R.K. Bansal (Strength of Materials), Punmia (Soil Mechanics), K.S. Duggal (Structural Analysis) | Core CE subjects, High-weightage chapters |
GATE 2026 Important Topics & Subject-Wise Difficulty
The GATE 2026 Exam will include 30 subjects, having different syllabus and difficulty level.
- According to the previous year analysis, few topics carry high weightage in different branches, majorly in engineering mathematics, core subjects and general aptitude.
- By Understanding the topic-wise weightage and difficulty level analysis candidates can give priority to important topics and studdy in an effective manner.
| Paper | High-Weightage Topics | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science (CS) |
| Moderate to Difficult |
| Mechanical (ME) |
| Moderate |
| Electronics (EC) |
| Difficult |
| Electrical (EE) |
| Moderate to Difficult |
| Civil (CE) |
| Moderate |
| Instrumentation (IN) |
| Moderate |
| Chemical (CH) |
| Difficult |
| General Aptitude (GA) |
| Easy to Moderate |
| Engineering Mathematics |
| Moderate |
Ques. Which is the most difficult subject in GATE CSE?
Ans. The GATE CSE will differ according to the subjects, as the subjects requores conceptual understanding along with problem solving skills.
The Data Structures, Algorithms, and Theory of Computation are usually the most challenging as they include logical and time-consuming questions.
| Subject | Reason for Difficulty | Key Topics | Strategy to Prepare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithms | Involves complex logic, optimization problems, and advanced data handling | Sorting, Dynamic Programming, Graph Theory | Practice problem sets daily and focus on time complexity analysis |
| Theory of Computation (TOC) | Abstract concepts and mathematical modeling | DFA, NFA, PDA, Turing Machines | Visualize automata and solve conceptual problems repeatedly |
| Computer Networks | Lengthy and highly numerical | TCP/IP, Routing Algorithms, Congestion Control | Focus on numerical problems and OSI model protocols |
| Operating Systems | Process management and synchronization complexity | Scheduling, Deadlocks, Memory Management | Solve numerical problems from previous GATE papers |
Ques. Which subject is easiest in GATE?
Ans. Some of the GATE Subjects are comparatively easier as the question pattern are same according to the previous year. For many candidates Engineering Mathematics and General aptitude are easier subjects.
| Subject | Reason for Being Easy | Weightage in GATE | Scoring Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude | Logical reasoning and verbal ability; pattern-based questions | 15 marks | Practice daily quizzes and previous year aptitude questions |
| Engineering Mathematics | Formula-based with limited topics | 13–15 marks | Focus on Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Probability with regular revision |
| Digital Logic (CSE) | Formula and concept-based with repetitive question trends | 6–8 marks | Memorize truth tables, simplify circuits, and practice Karnaugh Maps |
| Environmental Engg. (CE) / Production (ME) | Conceptual, low numerical complexity | 5–8 marks | Revise definitions and standard formulas before the exam |
GATE Previous Year Question Paper
GATE 2025 Shift-wise Question Papers Solution PDF Available
| Test Papers | Question Paper Set | Solution PDF |
|---|---|---|
| GATE 2025 CS1 Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 AG Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 MA Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 CS2 Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 NM Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 MT Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 TF Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
| GATE 2025 IN Question Paper | Download Pdf | Download Pdf |
GATE 2026 Preparation Tips
As GATE Exam has large syllabus, candidates should follow a structured way . For proper planning candidates should focus on core subjects, mathematics, general aptitude, revision and mock tests.
Below is a 5 Months preparation plan for candidates to cover the syllabus in a systematic way.
GATE 2026 5-Month Preparation Strategy
- Candidates should focus on the high weightage topics which contributes around 70 to 85% of subject-based marks.
- The General Aptitude and Engineering mathematics require regular practice as they together contribute around 28 to 30% marks.
- Candidates should solve mock tests as they will help candidates with speed, accuracy, and time distribution.
| Month | Focus Area | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | Core Concepts | Cover fundamental concepts of your chosen paper; create short notes; practice basic questions from previous year papers. |
| Month 2 | Engineering Mathematics & General Aptitude | Complete all GA topics; revise Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability & Statistics, Numerical Methods; solve topic-wise exercises. |
| Month 3 | Core Subjects (Advanced) | Focus on high-weightage topics; solve moderate to difficult previous year questions; practice MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. |
| Month 4 | Mock Tests & Topic Revision | Take full-length mock tests; identify weak areas; revise formulas, derivations, and GA shortcuts; simulate exam conditions. |
| Month 5 | Final Revision & Strategy Refinement | Revise high-scoring topics; focus on time management, tricky NATs and MSQs; analyze past year’s questions for pattern recognition. |
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Ques. How many hours should I study for GATE per day?
Ans. The Total hours of study to be done in the GATE Exam depend upon the stage of preparation, consistency and conceptual clarity.
On average, around 6–8 hours of a focused study plan per day for 5–6 months is enough to cover the syllabus thoroughly and attempt quality mock tests.
| Preparation Stage | Recommended Study Hours/Day | Focus Area | Key Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Phase (Months 1–2) | 4–5 hours | Concept Building & Understanding Basics | Read standard books, make notes, and revise weekly |
| Mid Phase (Months 3–4) | 6–7 hours | Practice & Problem Solving | Solve previous year papers and strengthen weak subjects |
| Final Phase (Last 2 Months) | 8–10 hours | Mock Tests & Revision | Attempt full-length mocks and analyze performance regularly |
Ques. How to get 1st rank in GATE?
Ans. For securing 1st rank in GATE, Candidates should follow a combination of conceptual clarity along with practice and time management.
The Top ranker candidates generally follows a proper study plan, take help of reference books and consistent mock tests.
| Key Factor | Description | Data-Based Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Strong Fundamentals | Build concepts from standard books (e.g., Cormen, Galvin, NPTEL lectures) | 70% of toppers spend first 2 months purely on conceptual clarity |
| Regular Practice | Solve PYQs, topic tests, and numerical problems | 90% of top 100 rankers solve at least 10+ years of PYQs |
| Mock Test Analysis | Attempt 25–30 full-length mocks with review | Average score improvement of 20–25 marks after test analysis |
| Revision Strategy | Maintain concise formula sheets and notes | 1-hour daily revision boosts memory retention before exam |
| Time & Stress Management | Focus on accuracy over attempts during exam | High scorers attempt 85–90% questions with ~80% accuracy |
GATE 2026 Cut-Off Expected
The OBC-NCL/EWS candidates have a clear advantage of around 5-8% lower qualifying marks compared to General candidates. Make use of this to focus on securing PSU calls or M.Tech seats. The SC/ST/PwD candidates have a vastly lower threshold, and hence, it is more important to focus on clearing key topics confidently.
- Highest Cut-Off: Biotechnology (BT) stands at 35-37 owing to very good performances by prepared candidates.
- Lowest Cut-Off: Chemistry (CY) at 25-27 because it has fewer numbers of students and moderate difficulty.
- Core Branches of CE, ME, EE, EC, CS show a 28-35 cut-off. This indicates that it is very competitive.
GATE 2026 Cut-Off (Discipline-Wise)
| Paper Code | Discipline | General | OBC-NCL/EWS | SC/ST/PwD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CE | Civil Engineering | 29-31 | 26-28 | 19-21 |
| ME | Mechanical Engineering | 28-30 | 25-27 | 18-20 |
| CS | Computer Science | 33-35 | 30-32 | 22-24 |
| EE | Electrical Engineering | 30-32 | 27-29 | 20-22 |
| EC | Electronics & Comm. | 28-30 | 25-27 | 18-20 |
| IN | Instrumentation Engg. | 34-36 | 31-33 | 23-25 |
| CH | Chemical Engineering | 31-33 | 28-30 | 21-23 |
| BT | Biotechnology | 35-37 | 31-33 | 23-25 |
| CY | Chemistry | 25-27 | 22-24 | 16-18 |
| PH | Physics | 26-28 | 23-25 | 17-19 |
| MA | Mathematics | 26-28 | 23-25 | 17-19 |
| XL | Life Sciences | 35-37 | 31-33 | 23-25 |
Also Read
GATE CutoffGATE 2026 Expected Cutoff for Top PSUs
The cutoff marks for recruitment to these prestigious organisations vary based on factors such as the number of vacancies, the difficulty level of the GATE exam, and the discipline of engineering.
Expected GATE 2026 PSU Cutoff
- Higher Cutoffs for Core PSUs: NTPC, ONGC, and IOCL maintain high cutoffs for top branches like ME and EE.
- Competitive Advantage in Niche Branches: Disciplines like Chemical Engineering (CH) and Instrumentation (IN) often require fewer marks due to fewer candidates.
- Impact of Difficulty Level: A tough GATE paper can lower PSU cutoffs by 5-7 marks, as seen in GATE 2023.
| PSU Name | Branch | Expected GATE 2025 Cutoff (General) | Past Year Insights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Oil (IOCL) | ME, EE, EC, CE, CH | 65-75 marks | Cutoffs for ME (2024): 67-72. |
| Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) | ME, CH | 68-74 marks | Higher for core branches. |
| Oil and Natural Gas (ONGC) | ME, EE, EC, GG | 68-78 marks | GG cutoffs often exceed 72. |
| Power Grid (PGCIL) | EE, EC, IN | 72-80 marks | EE cutoffs among the highest (76+). |
| Steel Authority (SAIL) | ME, MT, EE | 60-70 marks | Cutoffs vary widely by vacancies. |
| GAIL | ME, EE, IN, CH | 65-75 marks | CH consistently higher. |
| Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) | ME, EE, EC, CE | 70-80 marks | GATE often serves as a qualifier for interviews. |
| Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) | AE, ME, EE | 60-70 marks | Lower cutoffs compared to IOCL and ONGC. |
| National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) | ME, EE, IN | 70-80 marks | ME remains high at ~78. |
Check:
Ques. What is the GATE cutoff for IIT?
Ans. The GATE IIT Cutoffs are the minimum scores or ranks which are required for admission to M.Tech.
| IIT | Branch | Expected Cutoff (GEN) | Previous Year Cutoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| IIT Bombay | CSE | 750–800 | 778 |
| IIT Delhi | EE | 700–750 | 720 |
| IIT Madras | ME | 680–720 | 700 |
| IIT Kharagpur | CE | 600–650 | 620 |
| IIT Roorkee | ECE | 650–700 | 672 |
Ques. Is 350 a good GATE score?
Ans. The GATE Score above 350 is considered as average score, which ensures that candidates will be qualified, but not in top IITs.
| GATE Score | Category | Admission Possibilities |
|---|---|---|
| 350–400 | General | NITs (lower branches), state universities |
| 350–500 | OBC/SC/ST | Decent chance in mid-tier NITs |
| >600 | General | IITs and PSU shortlisting possibilities |
GATE 2026 Marks vs Percentile (Expected)
The understanding of marks, ranks, and percentiles is important for those who want to get admission in postgraduate courses or in PSUs.
GATE 2026 Scoring
- Marks: The actual score obtained by a candidate out of 100 in the examination.
- Rank: The relative position of the candidate with others based on the marks obtained.
- Score: Normalized score out of 1000, adjusted for session difficulty differences.
- Percentile: This is the percentage of candidates who scored below a given candidate.
Expected Marks vs. Percentile for GATE 2026:
While exact figures can vary annually based on factors like exam difficulty and candidate performance, historical data provides a general framework.
The marks required to achieve a particular percentile can differ across disciplines due to varying competition levels and exam difficulties. For example:
- Computer Science (CS): In GATE 2024, candidates scoring above 68 marks secured ranks within the top 250-300.
- Civil Engineering (CE): In GATE 2023, marks above 90 corresponded to ranks between 1 and 10, while scores between 85-90 placed candidates in ranks 10-50.
| Marks Range (out of 100) | Expected Percentile Range |
|---|---|
| 90 - 100 | 99.9 - 100 |
| 80 - 89 | 99.5 - 99.9 |
| 70 - 79 | 99 - 99.5 |
| 60 - 69 | 95 - 99 |
| 50 - 59 | 90 - 95 |
| 40 - 49 | 80 - 90 |
| 30 - 39 | 70 - 80 |
| 20 - 29 | 60 - 70 |
| 10 - 19 | 40 - 60 |
| 0 - 9 | Below 40 |
Ques. What is the rank for 40 marks in GATE?
Ans. With a score of 40 marks, the qualifying cutoff is slightly above than moderate rank, depending upon the exam difficulty and normalization score.
| Paper (Stream) | Approx. Marks | Expected Rank Range |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 40 | 8,000 – 10,000 |
| ECE | 40 | 6,000 – 8,000 |
| ME | 40 | 7,000 – 9,000 |
| EE | 40 | 5,000 – 7,000 |
| CE | 40 | 4,000 – 6,000 |
Ques. What is a good rank in GATE 2026?
Ans. Good rank in GATE will depend upon the institue candidates are targeting or PSUs, majorly rank within top 500 are considered as excellent rank.
| Category | Good Rank Range | Admission Possibility |
|---|---|---|
| Top IITs (CSE/ME/EE) | 1 – 500 | IIT Bombay, Delhi, Madras |
| Mid-tier IITs / NITs | 500 – 2000 | IIT Dhanbad, NIT Trichy, NIT Warangal |
| PSU Shortlisting | 1 – 300 | IOCL, NTPC, ONGC, BHEL |
PSU Recruitment through GATE
Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) are the companies that are owned by the union government of India or one of the state governments or both. These companies recruit candidates every year based on GATE scores.
- Shortlisted candidates with a valid score are called for selection rounds like Personal Interview (PI)/ Group Discussion (GD).
- Over 50+ PSUs accept GATE qualified engineers for executive positions.
- These Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna PSU include IOCL, DRDO, NTPC, BPCL, BARC, BHEL, GAIL, BEL, BSNL, etc.
| Name of PSUs | Sector | Status | Salary Structure | Salary CTC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGCIL | Power | Navratna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 20,00,000 /- |
| NTPC | Power | Maharatna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 18,00,000 /- |
| ONGC | Petroleum & Natural Gas | Maharatna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 16,50,000 /- |
| IOCL | Maharatna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 16,00,000 /- | |
| GAIL | Navratna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 16,00,000 /- | |
| BPCL | Navratna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 16,00,000 /- | |
| HPCL | Navratna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 16,00,000 /- | |
| OIL | Navratna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 15,00,000 /- | |
| BHEL | Defense | Navratna | INR 60,000 – 1,80,000 /- | INR 13,00,000 /- |
| SAIL | Steel & Iron | Maharatna | INR 20,600 - 46500 /- | INR 10,00,000 /- |
Also Read
GATE PSU PredictorGATE CCMT: List of Participating NITs
More than 57 NITs participate in CCMT Counselling. The Number of participating institutes can increase or decrease for each round in CCMT Counselling which will depend upon the total number of seats available.
Top Participating Colleges in CCMT are:
| NIT Jalandhar | NIT Tiruchirappalli |
|---|---|
| MNIT Allahabad | NIT Warangal |
| NIT Calicut | IIIT Tiruchirappalli |
| NIT Delhi | IIIT Allahabad |
| NIT Durgapur | NIT Karnataka |
| NIT Kurukshetra | NIT Rourkela |
| NIT Silchar | NIT Jaipur |
GATE COAP: List of Participating IITs
The list below shows some of the participating IITs in GATE COAP:
| IISc Bangalore | IIT Jodhpur |
|---|---|
| IIT Bhubaneswar | IIT Kanpur |
| IIT BHU | IIT Kharagpur |
| IIT Bombay | IIT Madras |
| IIT Delhi | IIT Mandi |
| IIT Guwahati | IIT Patna |
| IIT Hyderabad | IIT Roorkee |
Also Read
Colleges Accepting GATE ScoreFAQs for GATE 2026
Ques. Who will conduct the 2026 GATE?
Ans. The GATE 2026 will be conducted by IIT Guwahati, according to the rotational policy of GATE among all the IISCs and the top 7 IITs.
Lastly, IIT Guwahati conducted the GATE Exam in 2018.
Ques. Is the GATE 2026 tough?
Ans. The GATE 2026 Exam is expected to be of moderate difficulty level, according to GATE 2025:
- The CSE and ECE exams are expected to be of a moderate difficulty level due to a high level of NAT Questions.
- The Civil and Mechanical engineering exams will be conceptual but comparatively easier.
- The General Aptitude exam is expected to be easy to moderate.
Ques. What is the syllabus of GATE BT 2026? (Biotechnology)
Ans. The Biotechnology Syllabus of GATE 2026 is expected to be similar to GATE 2025; the main sections and topics covered are:
| Section | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Probability, Differential Equations, Calculus |
| General Biotechnology | Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology |
| Process Biotechnology | Bioprocess Engineering, Fermentation, Downstream Processing |
| Plant/Animal Systems | Plant and Animal Cell Culture, Genetic Engineering, Tissue Engineering |
| General Aptitude | Common to all papers (15 marks) |
Ques. How to prepare for GATE 2026?
Ans. To score well in GATE 2026, candidates should prepare effectively. The preparation strategy can include the following steps:
- Candidates should start in early August to September 2025, beginning with engineering mathematics and core subjects.
- Use the previous year’s question papers to analyse trends and repeat important concepts.
- Focus on high-weightage topics to score 70–80 marks or more.
- Start taking full-length mock tests by November to improve accuracy and time management.
- Use important books that cover all topics, including PYQs and mock tests.
Ques. Is the GATE score valid for 3 years?
Ans. Yes, the GATE score of a candidate is valid for at least 3 years from the date of result announcement.
So, candidates can use their GATE score for admission into top IITs, PSUs, and other participating universities for 3 years after result declaration.
Ques. What is the rank for 70 marks in GATE?
Ans. By scoring 70 marks, candidates will get placed in the top 100 to 300 ranks depending upon the difficulty level of the exam.
| Paper | Marks | Expected Rank Range |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | 70 | 80 – 150 |
| EE | 70 | 100 – 200 |
| ME | 70 | 150 – 250 |
| CE | 70 | 200 – 300 |
| ECE | 70 | 100 – 180 |
Ques. What is the GATE Exam Date?
Ans. The GATE 2026 Exam dates are officially announced by IIT Guwahati for all exams.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Exam Dates (GATE 2026) | February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | January 2026 |
| Result Declaration | March 19, 2026 |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.


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To download GATE previous year question papers, visit the official GATE organizing institute website: gate.iitb.ac.in or gate.iitm.ac.in, depending on the year. Navigate to the “Previous Year Question Papers” section. Select the desired year and paper/subject. Click the download link to save the PDF to your device. These papers are useful for practice, understanding exam patterns, and preparing for upcoming GATE exams. You can also check here for the GATE Question Paper: Check GATE Previous Year Question Paper with Solution PDF
Syllabus regarding GATE examination
The GATE syllabus includes mainly three sections: Engineering Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Core Subject. The syllabus of the core engineering subject chosen by the candidates will differ for each test paper. You can download the GATE syllabus for the relevant test papers from the official website under the GATE 2025 Test Papers and Syllabus tab on the home page.
Which are the top colleges for pursuing MTech without GATE?
There are more than 200 colleges available to pursue MTech without a valid GATE score. Some of the top colleges offering MTech programs without GATE are Banaras Hindu University, Aligarh Muslim University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi Technological University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, BITS Pilani, TIET Patiala, Amity University, VIT Vellore, and Pondicherry University.
Please suggest me preferred books to prepare for GATE XL
I made a mistake while entering the date of birth in the GATE 2025 application form. How to correct it?
The GATE 2025 application correction window will open after the registration is closed. You can correct the date of birth in the application form with additional payment once the correction window is opened. Check out the GATE 2025 official website regularly for further updates on the correction window.
Which are the best colleges for M.Tech Aerospace Engineering in India? Mention the top 30 colleges.
Some of the top colleges offering MTech in Aerospace Engineering in India are IIT Madras, IISC Bangalore, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Bombay, Chandigarh University, Amity University, NIMS University, and SASTRA University. To get admission for MTech in Aerospace Engineering in India, candidates must have a valid GATE score or must meet the eligibility requirements set by the respective institute/ University.
Let me know if there is any institution where I can apply for a PhD in Psychology.
IIT Kanpur offers a PhD in Psychology and considers the valid score of GATE or qualifying JRF/ NET as an admission criteria. Candidates must have a master's degree in the relevant field to apply for this programme. Some of the other top institutes offering PhD in Psychology are IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, Banaras Hindu University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Christ University, and Amity University. To apply to these institutes/ universities, the candidates must meet their eligibility requirements and qualify for the relevant admission tests.
I want to clear GATE exam.
You can clear the GATE exam with dedication and effective preparation strategy. Plan your study and utilise the recommended books and materials to complete the syllabus. Practise previous years' question papers and mock tests daily to understand the question pattern. Revision plays an important role in your success. Revise all the learned topics on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. To keep yourself mentally and physically healthy, do daily exercise and meditation.
What are the important topics to focus on for GATE?How can I enhance my preparation of GATE?
Important topics to focus on for GATE include engineering mathematics, general aptitude, and core technical subjects. You can also refer to standard textbooks, online resources, and mock tests to enhance your preparation for the exam.
What are the career opportunities after qualifying GATE?
Qualifying GATE opens up various career opportunities for students. Students can pursue higher studies such as M.Tech, MS, and PhD in reputed institutions in India and abroad. They can also apply for various job opportunities in government and private organizations.
What is the exam pattern for GATE and what is the duration of GATE paper?
The exam pattern for GATE consists of multiple-choice questions, numerical answer-type questions, and comprehension-based questions. The exam is conducted in online mode and the duration of the exam is three hours.
What is GATE and what are the eligibility criteria for appearing in GATE?
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is an entrance exam conducted for students who wish to pursue postgraduate programs in engineering and technology. The eligibility criteria for appearing in GATE is a bachelor's degree in engineering, technology, or science.
If you secure admission in the Ph.D. program at Govind Ballabh Pant University (GBPUAT), you may be eligible for financial assistance or fellowships. Here are some relevant details:
GATE Fellowship:
University Merit Scholarship:
Application Process:
NIT Jamshedpur, NIT Jalandhar, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Madras, NIT Calicut, NIT Agartala, IIT Dhanbad, and IIT Mandi are the universities that would accept GATE scores for 400 marks in 2024.
NIT Jalandhar, MNIT Manipur, NIT Agartala, NIT Calicut, NIT Durgapur, MNIIT Jaipur, NIT Jamshedpur, and MANIT Bhopal are a few of the universities that accept GATE 400–500 results.
The candidate must fulfill the eligibility criteria to apply for PhD in BITS Pilani
Those who have been shortlisted will take an admissions exam, which could consist of an interview or written test. The campus where the candidate was shortlisted will host the exam. The list of chosen applicants will be made public by the admissions office.
PWD individuals may apply to Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani to pursue a PhD if they fulfill the above eligibility criteria. For the PWD category, the application cost is INR 1250.
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2024 got over on February 3, 4, 10, and 11, 2024
The MTech programme in VLSI (Very-Large-Scale Integration) is a postgraduate course of study in computer and electronics engineering. The course covers simulation, verification methods, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools in the design and development of integrated circuits and systems.
Numerous companies hire students for executive roles, including project managers, software engineers, and design engineers.
IIT Madras, Indian Institute of Science, IIT Delhi, Hyderabad, Kharagpur, VIT Vellore, and SRM University are among the top universities that offer this education. To apply for this course, students must meet the eligibility requirements and pass the GATE exam with the necessary score as set by the institute.