GATE 2026: Check Schedule, Paper Pattern, Syllabus, Preparation tips, Question Papers, and Cutoff

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Sahaj Anand

Content Writer | Journalism Graduate | Updated on - Oct 14, 2025

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.

GATE 2026

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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?

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
GATE Syllabus

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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:
  • Geomatics Engineering (GE)
  • Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (NM)
Total subjects now: 30
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%
GATE Registration Statistics

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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.

GATE Eligibility

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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
  • 1/3 mark for 1-mark MCQ
  • 2/3 mark for 2-mark MCQ;
  • No negative for NAT
Subject-Specific Section 55 85 MCQ / MSQ / NAT
  • 1/3 mark for 1-mark MCQ
  • 2/3 mark for 2-mark MCQ
  • No negative for MSQ & NAT
Total 65 100 MCQ / MSQ / NAT As mentioned above
GATE Syllabus

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 Syllabus

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 Syllabus

Ques. 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)
  • Data Structures
  • Algorithms
  • Theory of Computation
  • DBMS
  • Operating Systems
Moderate to Difficult
Mechanical (ME)
  • Thermodynamics
  • Strength of Materials
  • Heat Transfer
  • Engineering Mechanics
Moderate
Electronics (EC)
  • Networks
  • Analog Circuits
  • EDC
  • Control Systems
  • Signals & Systems
Difficult
Electrical (EE)
  • Power Systems
  • Electrical Machines
  • Control Systems
  • Network Theory
Moderate to Difficult
Civil (CE)
  • RCC
  • SOM
  • Fluid Mechanic
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Geotechnical Engineering
Moderate
Instrumentation (IN)
  • Transducers
  • Signals
  • Control Systems
  • Digital & Analog Electronics
Moderate
Chemical (CH)
  • Process Calculations
  • Thermodynamics
  • Chemical Reaction Engineering
Difficult
General Aptitude (GA)
  • Logical Reasoning
  • English Grammar
  • Numerical Ability
Easy to Moderate
Engineering Mathematics
  • Linear Algebra
  • Calculus
  • Probability
  • Differential Equations
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 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

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GATE Cutoff

GATE 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 Predictor

GATE 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:

GATE COAP: List of Participating IITs

The list below shows some of the participating IITs in GATE COAP:

Also Read

Colleges Accepting GATE Score

FAQs 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.

GATE 2026 : 6 Answered Questions

Ques. What are the cut off marks in gate for iit indore?

IIT Indore GATE Cutoss 2023 has not been released officially IIT Kanpur will release the GATE 2023 cutoff for IIT Indore Students having valid GATE scores from 2023, 2022, or 2021 will be eligible for admission to MTech courses. Considering the IIT Indore GATE cutoff for 2021, The overall cutoff for GATE is 615 - 740 marks. Here is the branch-wise cutoff M.Tech Material Science and Engineering 615 M.Tech Communication and Signal Processing 657 M.Tech VLSI Design and Nanoelectronics 670 M.Tech Production & Industrial Engineering 740 Please note that the above cutoff is only for the general category....Read More
Answer By Jyoti Chopra 17 Jun 23
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Ques. How much GATE Score is needed to get selected in NIT Srinagar for M.Tech in Civil Engineering?

Your necessary GATE score for admission to NIT Srinagar's M.Tech programme in civil engineering is determined by the counselling round and your civil engineering specialisation (structural, geotechnical, water resources, etc.). For  2025 , the  GATE cutoff (Round 1, General category) for key Civil Engineering specializations  at NIT Srinagar is as follows: Specialization Opening Rank Closing Rank (2025, Round 1) Structural Engineering 442 543 Geotechnical Engineering 382 539 Water Resources Engineering 378 520 You need a  GATE CCMT rank within the range of 378–543  (for Round 1, General category) to get selected for M.Tech in Civil Engineering specializations at NIT Srinagar in 2025. ...Read More
Answer By Vinima Bhola 26 Jun 25
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Ques. Is it possible to get into IIT Tirupati just by the GATE qualifying marks?

Yes, it may be possible. Here are the reasons why- IIT Tirupati is a very new IIT, established in 2015. It is not well known currently, especially in North India.  It releases its applications quite early. Its MS and Phd. batches started only a few years ago, so those with better scores will prefer NITs over IIT Tirupati. The cutoff for MS is also low in IIT Madras because very few students are interested in pursuing the course. Ultimately, the number of applicants and the interview round will decide your fate. ...Read More
Answer By Divya Saraf 11 Jan 24
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Ques. Can Longterm students apply gitam gate exam?

Verify your eligibility for your desired course on the GITAM website or get in touch with the admissions office directly if you are a "longterm student"—that is, if you finished your qualifying exam several years ago. Unless otherwise noted, most programmes do not specifically exclude long-term students. Student Type Eligible for GITAM GAT? Notes/Clarification Appearing in the current year Yes For example, 12th in 2025 or graduation in 2025 Passed in the previous year Usually Yes No explicit gap year limit for most courses Long-term gap (many years) Check course-wise criteria No strict age/gap limit, but confirm for each program Yes, long-term students can generally apply for the GITAM GAT (GITAM Admission Test) exam, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for the specific course they are interested in....Read More
Answer By Vinima Bhola 23 Jun 25
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Ques. My son has scored 42.33 marks in GATE (CSE). Could you please suggest which IITs, NITs, or IIITs he might be eligible for an M.Tech in Computer Science?

With a GATE 2025 score of 42.33 marks in Computer Science, your son has comfortably crossed the General category qualifying cut-off mark of 29.2 marks and can be eligible for admission into a number of top institutes in India. Here is a quick analysis of where he stands and the options that actually confront him: Admission Possibilities Institute Type Chance for Admission in CSE Top IITs (Bombay, Delhi, Kanpur, etc.) Unlikely, as cutoffs are usually 55–65+ marks Newer IITs (Jodhpur, Patna, Dhanbad, etc.) Possible in later rounds or for allied CSE branches Top NITs (Trichy, Warangal, Surathkal) Competitive, but admission more likely in later rounds or for specializations like information security and data science. Mid/Lower NITs Good chance for direct admission in CSE Top IIITs (Allahabad, Gwalior, Jabalpur) Competitive; possible depending on the round and specialization Other IIITs Good chances for CSE or related programs Recommendations: Apply through COAP (for IITs) and CCMT (for NITs/IIITs). Keep looking for related fields like Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Information Technology, which may have slightly lower cutoffs. And take all rounds of counseling, including spot rounds, as cutoff trends fluctuate every year. Also visit state universities and centrally funded colleges that accept GATE scores. Your son is rightly positioned for M.Tech admissions in all NITs, IIITs, and new IITs. CSE and this score will not make the top 5 IITs feasible, but there are plenty of good colleges where he can build a strong academic and professional life. Wishing your son best of luck for future admissions....Read More
Answer By Muskan Agrahari 24 Jun 25
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Sample/Mock Papers

Latest GATE News

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Fees Structure

Structure based on different categories

CategoriesState
General1800
Women900
sc900
pwd900

Note: GATE 2024 Application Fee needs to be paid online through net banking or debit card or credit card facilities. Additional charges will be applicable as per the rule of the bank from where the money is being transferred. This charge will be specified on the payment portal.

In case of any inaccuracy, Notify Us! 

Comments


Found 157 Comments

M
mahidhar
Oct 31, 2025 20:08
Formal full gn it fi hu ch ng to do
S
spandana pendri
Oct 9, 2025 20:29
no questions i need the previous papers
S
sweta kumari
Oct 18, 2025 21:57

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

J
jasmin
Sep 22, 2025 14:37
i need help and need query about the phd process
N
nisarga s b
Nov 20, 2024 09:02

Syllabus regarding GATE examination

S
swathi rajeev
Nov 24, 2024 22:03

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.

R
radha waghamre
Nov 14, 2024 23:27

Which are the top colleges for pursuing MTech without GATE?

S
swathi rajeev
Nov 24, 2024 22:11

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.

P
payal borakar
Oct 5, 2024 22:56

Please suggest me preferred books to prepare for GATE XL

H
harshitha m r
Sep 26, 2024 22:45

I made a mistake while entering the date of birth in the GATE 2025 application form. How to correct it?

S
swathi rajeev
Oct 1, 2024 07:53

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.

Z
zubin daniel saripalli
Sep 20, 2024 21:04

Which are the best colleges for M.Tech Aerospace Engineering in India? Mention the top 30 colleges.

S
swathi rajeev
Sep 30, 2024 22:48

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.

T
tanushree swain
Sep 19, 2024 11:33

Let me know if there is any institution where I can apply for a PhD in Psychology.

S
swathi rajeev
Oct 1, 2024 07:50

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.

U
user alpha
Sep 4, 2024 13:29

I want to clear GATE exam.

S
swathi rajeev
Oct 1, 2024 07:48

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.

S
satyam purwar
Apr 15, 2024 16:48

What are the important topics to focus on for GATE?How can I enhance my preparation of GATE?

R
raju
Apr 16, 2024 10:56

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.

B
bhaskar nandi
Apr 15, 2024 16:33

What are the career opportunities after qualifying GATE?

R
raju
Apr 16, 2024 10:56

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.

I
ishika ray
Apr 15, 2024 16:31

What is the exam pattern for GATE and what is the duration of GATE paper?

R
raju
Apr 16, 2024 10:55

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.

A
ahana mukherjee
Apr 15, 2024 16:28

What is GATE and what are the eligibility criteria for appearing in GATE?

R
raju
Apr 16, 2024 10:55

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.

M
mohd afzal ansari
Apr 3, 2024 23:20
If I get admission in gbpuat phd program then how I get gate fellowship
R
ruchi ranjan
Apr 7, 2024 21:26

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:

  • If you have qualified in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), you may be eligible for a GATE fellowship.
  • GATE fellowships are typically provided to M.Tech. students for a duration of 24 months.
  • The exact amount and terms of the fellowship may vary, but it is a valuable financial support during your studies.

University Merit Scholarship:

  • GBPUAT offers various scholarships to meritorious students.
  • For Ph.D. students, the university awards 2 fellowships of INR 6,000/- per month based on merit in a major discipline.
  • These fellowships are granted for a period of 36 months.

Application Process:

  • Once you secure admission to the Ph.D. program, inquire with the university’s administration or the relevant department about the application process for fellowships.
  • They will guide you on the necessary steps to apply for and receive the GATE fellowship or other financial assistance.
H
hemraj patel
Apr 1, 2024 17:23
Which IIT can I get for MTECH with Instrumentation gate score 405 in 2024
R
rency daniel
Apr 5, 2024 10:41

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.

S
sai kumar thonta
Mar 29, 2024 22:55
Where can i get seat through 420.gate score
R
rency daniel
Apr 5, 2024 10:43

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.

D
devi
Mar 28, 2024 21:11
My daughter gate qualified in pwd quota. She wants to do phd in life science from bits pilani hyderabad and her score 243 rank 12047. Is there any chance of her getting in? Please tell me about handicapped quota. Tq for advanced
R
rency daniel
Apr 5, 2024 10:54

The candidate must fulfill the eligibility criteria to apply for PhD in BITS Pilani

  1. 60% or 6.0 CGPA or above in MBA or two year Management Program, Or.
  2. Candidates having M. Phil. (Social and Behavioral Sciences) Or M.E./M. Tech. in Industrial Engineering, Or M.Com./M.A. (Psychology)/MSc. (Economics)/M.A. (Economics)/MCA/MSc. (I.T.)/MSc.
  3. Any Higher Degree of 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.

K
kanneti nandini
Mar 24, 2024 21:36
When the gate exam was there in 2024?
R
rency daniel
Apr 5, 2024 10:56

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2024 got over on February 3, 4, 10, and 11, 2024

V
vivek mittal
Mar 24, 2024 21:22
GUIDE ME REGARDING VLSI M.TECH PROGRAMME
R
rency daniel
Apr 5, 2024 11:03

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.