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The IIT Guwahati has officially released the GATE Mathematics Syllabus for 2026. The GATE Mathematics Syllabus encompasses engineering mathematics and General Aptitude, covering both undergraduate and advanced topics.
The GATE Mathematics Exam is a 3-hour CBT, including 65 questions in the form of MCQs, MSQs, and NATs.
- In the GATE Mathematics, around 60-65% of the questions will be directly based on problem-solving, and the others will be based on theoretical and analytical reasoning.
- In the GATE Mathematics syllabus, the mathematics section carries a weightage of 85 marks out of a total of 100 marks in the exam.
- Engineering Mathematics includes linear algebra, calculus, real analysis, complex analysis, differential equations, numerical methods, algebra, functional analysis, and topology.
- The General Aptitude section is the same in all papers and is given a weightage of 15 marks, including verbal ability, quantitative aptitude, analytical reasoning, and spatial aptitude.
For all the latest updates, including the exam pattern and weightage, you should stay updated with the GATE official website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
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Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026, including the PDF, Weightage, and Important Topics.
- The IIT Guwahati has officially released the GATE Mathematics Syllabus PDF 2026.
- The GATE Mathematics Exam is of 100 marks, including 65 questions, and the time duration is 3 hours each.
- The GATE Mathematics Syllabus includes General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics.
- The Core mathematics section carries a weightage of 85 marks, and the general aptitude section carries a weightage of 15 marks.
- What is the GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026?GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026
- GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026: Topic-Wise Weightage
- GATE Mathematics Syllabus: Exam Pattern
- GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026: Important Topics
- GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026 – Important Books
- GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026: Difficulty Level
- GATE Mathematics Previous Year Question Papers
- GATE Mathematics Exam 2026 Preparation Tips
- FAQs
What is the GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026?
The GATE Mathematics Syllabus has been released by IIT Guwahati, including the subjects and topics that should be prepared by the candidates for the exam.
- The GATE Mathematics syllabus covers Engineering Mathematics, Core Mathematics, and General Aptitude, which combines both fundamental and advanced undergraduate topics.
- In the GATE Mathematics syllabus, the mathematics section carries a weightage of 85 marks out of a total of 100 marks in the exam.
- The topics included in Engineering Mathematics are linear algebra, calculus, real analysis, complex analysis, differential equations, numerical methods, algebra, functional analysis, and topology.
GATE Mathematics Syllabus: Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Paper Code | MA (Mathematics) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Total Questions | 65 |
| Sections | 1. General Aptitude (15 marks) 2. Mathematics (85 marks) |
| Question Types |
|
| Marking Scheme |
|
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to High (focus on advanced undergraduate Mathematics) |
| Key Topics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Real & Complex Analysis, Differential Equations, Algebra, Functional Analysis, Numerical Methods, Topology |
| Official Website | GATE 2026 IIT Guwahati |
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Ques. What is the GATE Mathematics (MA) paper?
Ans. The GATE Mathematics (MA) paper is one of the 30+ subject papers conducted under the GATE 2026 exam. It assesses a candidate’s understanding of undergraduate-level mathematical concepts and is mainly for students aspiring for postgraduate studies or PSU recruitment in mathematics-related fields.
Ques. What is the total marks distribution in GATE Mathematics 2026?
Ans. The total marks distribution for GATE Mathematics 2026 is given below:
| Section | Marks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude | 15 | 15% |
| Mathematics (Core + Engineering Mathematics) | 85 | 85% |
| Total | 100 Marks | 100% |
Ques. What are the eligibility criteria for GATE Mathematics 2026?
Ans. The eligibility criteria for the GATE Mathematics 2026 exam are given below in the table:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree (3-year or 4-year) in Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, or related field |
| Year of Qualification | Candidates currently in the final year or completed a degree are eligible |
| Nationality | Indian or Foreign nationals can apply |
GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026
The GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026 covers fundamentals of Engineering Mathematics and advanced core topics.
- The GATE Mathematics Syllabus will test candidates' ability in problem solving, logical reasoning, and theoretical understanding of UG Level Mathematics.
- The General Aptitude section will also be covered, which will carry 15 marks and will include English, Reasoning, and Quantitative skills.
| Section | Sub-Topics / Key Areas |
|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | MatricesSystems of linear equationsEigenvalues & eigenvectorsDiagonalizationCayley-Hamilton theorem |
| Calculus | Limits & ContinuityDifferentiabilityMean value theoremsTaylor’s theoremMaxima & minimaIntegrationVector calculus (gradient, divergence, curl) |
| Real Analysis | Metric spacesSequences & seriesUniform convergenceWeierstrass approximation theorem |
| Complex Analysis | Analytic functionsCauchy-Riemann equationsCauchy’s theoremTaylor & Laurent seriesResidue theorem |
| Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) | First & second-order ODEsCauchy-Euler equationsSeries solutionsLaplace transforms |
| Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) | Classification of PDEsSeparation of variablesLaplace/heat/wave equations |
| Algebra | GroupsRingsIdealsFields |
| Numerical Methods | Error analysisBisection & Newton-Raphson methodsNumerical integrationSolving equations |
| Functional Analysis | Normed spacesLinear operatorsFunction spaces |
| Topology | Metric spacesCompactnessConnectednessProduct & quotient topologies |
| Probability & Statistics | ProbabilityBayes’ theoremRandom variablesBinomial/Poisson/normal distributionsStatistical measures |
| General Aptitude (GA) | Verbal abilityQuantitative aptitudeAnalytical reasoningSpatial aptitude |
GATE General Aptitude Syllabus for Mathematics
In the GATE Exam, the General Aptitude section is common in all the GATE Exams, along with the main subject section.
- It carries the weightage of 15% including analytical ability, logical reasoning, numerical skills, and English proficiency.
| Section | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Verbal Aptitude | English grammarVocabularySentence completionSynonyms & antonymsParagraph completionWord groups |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Basic arithmeticPercentagesRatios & AveragesProfit & lossTime & workSimple & Compound Interest |
| Analytical Aptitude | Coding-decodingSeries completionPattern recognitionData sufficiency |
| Logical Reasoning | PuzzlesVenn diagramsAnalogiesSeating arrangementsLogical deductions |
| Numerical Reasoning | Data interpretationTablesGraphsChartsBasic statistics |
Check More:
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- GATE Data Science Syllabus
- GATE EE Syllabus
- GATE SCE Sylabus
- GATE BT Syllabus
Ques. How should I balance preparation between Engineering mathematics and core mathematics?
Ans. The exam preparation tips so that you should balance between Engineering mathematics and core mathematics are given below:
| Category | Included Subjects | Suggested Time Allocation | Focus Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, ODEs, PDEs, Numerical Methods | 30–35% | Conceptual clarity & problem-solving practice |
| Core Mathematics | Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Algebra, Functional Analysis, Topology, Probability & Statistics | 65–70% | Theoretical understanding, proofs, and application of theorems |
Ques. What strategy works best for mixed MCQ, MSQ, and NAT questions?
Ans. The strategy works best for mixed MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. Questions are given below:
| Question Type | Strategy |
|---|---|
| MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions) | Eliminate wrong options using logic and properties. |
| MSQs (Multiple Select Questions) | Attempt only when fully confident of all correct options. |
| NATs (Numerical Answer Type) | Practice manual calculations and conceptual clarity. |
Ques. Which topics should be prioritized for high returns?
Ans. The topics that should be prioritized for high returns are given below:
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Nature |
|---|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | 8–10 | Conceptual + Computational |
| Real & Complex Analysis | 10–12 | Theoretical + Application |
| Calculus | 8–10 | Computation-heavy |
| Algebra | 6–8 | Theoretical |
| Numerical & Differential Equations | 6–8 | Formula-based |
| Topology & Functional Analysis | 5–7 | Abstract concepts |
| Probability & Statistics | 3–5 | Formula + Application |
GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026: Topic-Wise Weightage
The GATE Mathematics Syllabus covers different topics, but the importance of all the topics is not the same.
- As per the previous year's analysis, the highest weightage topics are Linear Algebra, Calculus, Differential Equations, Real & Complex Analysis, and topics like Topology and functional analysis have comparatively fewer questions.
GATE Mathematics Topic-Wise Weightage (Previous Year Analysis)
- Topics like Linear Algebra, calculus, real & complex analysis & differential equations carry 50% weightage in the exam.
- A Few Topics, like Numerical Methods, Probability & Statistics, are asked as NAT Questions in the exam.
- Fixed 15 marks weightage is given to the General Aptitude section, which is easily scored for candidates with regular practice.
| Topic | Average Weightage (Marks) | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | 12–15 marks | Highly important- Mostly asked with direct numerical problems. |
| Calculus | 10–12 marks | High – As a mix of theory and applied problem are asked. |
| Real Analysis | 8–10 marks | High – Includes proof-based and conceptual questions. |
| Complex Analysis | 8–10 marks | High– Integration Questions are mostly asked. |
| ODEs (Differential Equations) | 8–10 marks | Moderate to High- Includes series solutions |
| PDEs (Partial Differential Equations) | 5–7 marks | Moderate – Less but tricky questions. |
| Algebra | 5–6 marks | Moderate – abstract & logical questions. |
| Numerical Methods | 4–6 marks | Moderate – usually NAT-based |
| Functional Analysis | 3–5 marks | Low to Moderate – less direct questions. |
| Topology | 3–5 marks | Low to Moderate – appear rarely but are conceptual |
| Probability & Statistics | 4–6 marks | Moderate – Formula-based questions are asked |
| General Aptitude (GA) | 15 marks | Fixed – common for all GATE papers |
Ques. Which topics in Linear Algebra have the highest weightage?
Ans. The topics with the highest weightage in Linear Algebra of Engineering mathematics of the GATE 2026 exam are given below:
| Key Topics | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Eigenvalues & Eigenvectors | 3–4 marks |
| Matrix Diagonalization | 2–3 marks |
| Cayley–Hamilton Theorem | 1–2 marks |
| Systems of Equations & Vector Spaces | 2–3 marks |
| Total | 8–10 marks |
Ques. What is the approximate distribution between computational and theoretical topics?
Ans. The approximate distribution between computational and theoretical topics are given below in the table:
| Topic Type | Topics Included | Approx. Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Computational | CalculusLinear AlgebraNumerical MethodsODEs/PDEs | 50–55% |
| Theoretical | Real AnalysisComplex AnalysisAlgebraFunctional AnalysisTopology | 45–50% |
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GATE Mathematics Syllabus: Exam Pattern
The GATE Mathematics Exam is a CBT-based exam conducted for 100 marks and to be completed in a duration of 3 hours.
- The GATE Mathematics Exam includes both core subjects and General Aptitude Skills.
- The Questions for GATE Mathematics will be MCQs, MSQs, and NAT-based.
GATE Mathematics (MA) Exam Pattern
The table below outlines the GATE Mathematics (MA) exam pattern for general aptitude and core math subjects with total number of questions and question types:
| Section | Marks Weightage | No. of Questions | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude (GA) | 15 marks | 10 | MCQ, MSQ, NAT |
| Mathematics (Core Subject) | 85 marks | 55 | MCQ, MSQ, NAT |
| Total | 100 marks | 65 | MCQ, MSQ, NAT |
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GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026: Important Topics
As per the previous year's analysis, a few topics in the GATE Mathematics syllabus carry high importance.
- Topics like Linear Algebra, Calculus, Differential Equations, Real & Complex analysis carry higher weightage in the exam.
- By knowing the important candidates, candidates can prioritize for the exam in an effective way.
The table below shows the important topics for GATE Mathematics (MA) Syllabus for 2026 for your references:
| Subject / Area | Key Topics Included |
|---|---|
| Linear Algebra |
|
| Calculus |
|
| Real Analysis |
|
| Complex Analysis |
|
| ODEs (Differential Equations) |
|
| PDEs (Partial Differential Equations) |
|
| Numerical Methods |
|
| Probability & Statistics |
|
| Functional Analysis |
|
| Topology |
|
GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026 – Important Books
To prepare for GATE Mathematics, just the syllabus coverage is not enough; the right and important books are also required.
- As the exam includes both applied and pure mathematics, conceptual clarity, solved examples, and practice exercises are required.
Topic-wise Important Books for GATE Mathematics 2026
The topic-wise important books for GATE Mathematics 2026 are given below for your reference:
| Subject / Topic | Recommended Books | Author / Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | Linear Algebra | Hoffman & Kunze |
| Calculus | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus | Shanti Narayan |
| Real Analysis | Principles of Mathematical Analysis | Walter Rudin |
| Complex Analysis | Complex Variables and Applications | Churchill & Brown |
| ODEs (Ordinary Differential Equations) | Differential Equations | Shepley L. Ross |
| PDEs (Partial Differential Equations) | Partial Differential Equations | T. Amarnath |
| Numerical Methods | Numerical Methods | S.S. Sastry |
| Probability & Statistics | Probability & Statistics | S.C. Gupta & V.K. Kapoor |
| Functional Analysis | Introductory Functional Analysis with Applications | Erwin Kreyszig |
| Topology | Topology | James R. Munkres |
| General Reference | Higher Engineering Mathematics | B.S. Grewal |
Also Read
GATE Mathematics Syllabus 2026: Difficulty Level
The GATE Mathematics Exam is considered the most concept-based exam among all the subjects in GATE. Based on analysis of past 5–6 years papers, here’s a difficulty-level distribution of the syllabus:
Topic-Wise Difficulty Level in GATE Mathematics
- Topics like Linear Algebra, Calculus, and Numerical methods are among the most scoring topics.
- Topics like Complex Analysis, ODEs, Probability, and statistics require a balance of concept and application-based questions.
- Around 60% of the weightage is from the moderately difficult topics, which makes them important for scoring.
| Subject / Area | Difficulty Level | Nature of Questions | Observed Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | Easy–Moderate | Mostly direct, numerical, matrix-based | Consistently 12–15% weightage |
| Calculus | Moderate | Concept + application-based | Regular in both 1-mark & 2-mark questions |
| Real Analysis | Moderate–Hard | Proof-oriented, conceptual | Concept-based and carries 10% weightage |
| Complex Analysis | Moderate | Residue theorem, Cauchy problems | Often, 8–10% of paper |
| Differential Equations | Moderate | Standard solving, Laplace transform | Carry 7–9% weightage |
| Partial Differential Equations | Hard | Abstract + application mix | Limited questions, but tricky |
| Numerical Methods | Easy | Straightforward, formula-based | Scoring section |
| Probability & Statistics | Moderate–Hard | Distribution + estimation problems | Application-based, around 6–8% weightage |
| Functional Analysis | Hard | Theoretical, abstract | Advanced and 5% weightage |
| Topology | Hard | Compactness, Connectedness | Few questions, high conceptual demand |
GATE Mathematics Previous Year Question Papers
The GATE Mathematics previous years’ question papers for your reference are given below:
| Session | Question Paper PDF |
|---|---|
| GATE Question Paper 2025 | Check Here |
| GATE Question Paper 2024 | Check Here |
| GATE Question Paper 2023 | Check Here |
| GATE Question Paper 2022 | Check Here |
| GATE Question Paper 2021 | Check Here |
Check:
GATE Mathematics Exam 2026 Preparation Tips
Some of the effective exam preparation tips for those who are preparing for GATE Mathematics exam 2026 are given below:
| Area | Topics to Focus | Duration / Daily Time | Practice Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundational Topics |
| 3–4 hrs/day (part-time) or,6–8 hrs/day (full-time) |
|
| Advanced Topics |
| 4–5 hrs/day |
|
| Revision & Consolidation |
| 3–4 hrs/day |
|
| Daily Practice |
| 1–2 hrs/day |
|
| Previous Years’ Papers |
| 2–3 hrs/session, 2–3 times/week |
|
FAQs
Ques. Is Maths easy in GATE?
Ans. The GATE Mathematics difficulty depends upon the preparation level of the candidate. The Questions can be both concept-based and require deep understanding, along with rote learning.
- The GATE Mathematics is of a Moderate to difficult level as compared to other engineering papers.
- The GATE Mathematics requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ques. What are the total marks for GATE Math?
Ans. The GATE Mathematics Exam carries a weightage of 100 marks.
| Section | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|
| Mathematics Core Subjects | 85 Marks |
| General Aptitude (GA) | 15 Marks |
| Total | 100 Marks |
Ques. What is the weightage of Maths in GATE?
Ans. In the GATE Mathematics Exam, the core mathematics carries the highest weightage.
- Mathematics: 85% (85 Marks)
- General Aptitude: 15% (15 Marks)
| Section | Weightage (%) | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 85% | 85 |
| General Aptitude | 15% | 15 |
| Total | 100% | 100 |
Ques. Will I be provided with any white paper for rough work and calculations during the examination?
Ans. Yes, candidates will be provided with virtual sheets or scribble pads at the exam centre for doing rough work.
- These are collected back after the exam.
- You cannot carry your own sheets.
- An online calculator is provided for calculations.
Ques. Can I use a physical calculator during the examination?
Ans. No, the use of physical calculators is not allowed in the GATE Examination.
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Virtual Scientific Calculator (on screen) | Physical Calculator |
| Scribble pad for rough work | Mobile Phones, Smart Watches |
Ques. What are the benefits of the GATE Math exam?
Ans. There are different advantages to appearing in the GATE Mathematics Exam.
- Admission to M.Sc., M.Tech., and PhD programs in IITs, IISc, NITs, and IIITs.
- Eligibility for PSU recruitments (though limited for MA).
- Enhances career prospects in teaching, research, and higher studies abroad.
- Stipend/assistantship opportunities through MHRD scholarships.
Ques. How many maths questions are in GATE?
Ans. The GATE Mathematics paper consists of 55 Mathematics questions.
| Section | No. of Questions |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 55 |
| General Aptitude | 10 |
| Total | 65 |
Ques. What is the difference between GATE Maths and JEE Maths?
Ans. Both GATE Maths and JEE Maths have different scopes and difficulty levels.
| Aspect | GATE Mathematics | JEE Mathematics |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Postgraduate (UG level + advanced topics) | Undergraduate (Class 11 & 12) |
| Focus | Conceptual, Theoretical (Linear Algebra, Real Analysis, PDEs) | Problem-Solving & Application-based |
| Question Type | MCQs, MSQs, NAT (Concept-Based) | MCQs, Integer-type (Application-based) |
| Difficulty | Higher (research-oriented) | Moderate to High (engineering entrance) |
Ques. What are the main subjects covered in the GATE Mathematics syllabus?
Ans. The GATE Mathematics syllabus is divided into Engineering Mathematics and Core Mathematics.
| Section | Major Topics |
|---|---|
| Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra, Calculus, Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Differential Equations, Numerical Methods |
| Core Mathematics | Algebra, Functional Analysis, Topology, Linear Algebra, Differential Geometry, Probability & Statistics, and others |
| General Aptitude | Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation |
*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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