The GATE Physics Syllabus 2026 has released by IIT Guwahati , which will be a combination of core physics subjects and General Aptitude.

  • Nearly 60–65% of the questions are based on problem-solving, and the remaining ones are based on conceptual understanding.

  • The Physics part is of 85 marks, covering Mathematical Physics, Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetic Theory, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Statistical Physics, Atomic & Molecular Physics, Solid State Physics, Electronics, and Nuclear & Particle Physics.
  • The General Aptitude section is common for all the papers and is of 15 marks. It includes verbal, quantitative, analytical, and spatial aptitude.
Download GATE Physics Syllabus PDF 2026

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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GATE Physics Syllabus 2026

Key Summary

We write about the GATE Physics 2026 syllabus in this article, which also covers the PDF, Weightage, and Important Topics.

  • IIT Guwahati has been very clear and precise in its communication by releasing the GATE Physics Syllabus PDF 2026.
  • The GATE Physics Exam is of 100 marks and 3 hours long. It consists of 65 questions.
  • The GATE Physics Syllabus comprises General Aptitude and Core Physics Subjects.
  • The General Aptitude section carries a weightage of 15 marks, whereas the Physics section has a weightage of 85 marks.

What is the GATE Physics Syllabus 2026?

The GATE Physics Syllabus 2026 has been released by IIT Guwahati, which is the detailed list of chapters from which the candidates have to take the examination.

The syllabus consists of Core Physics Subjects and General Aptitude, which together cover the essential and advanced topics of the undergraduate course to evaluate the candidate's conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.

Feature Details
Paper Code PH (Physics)
Exam Mode Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration 3 Hours
Total Marks 100
Total Questions 65
Sections 1. General Aptitude (15 marks) 2. Physics (85 marks)
Question Types Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) Numerical Answer Type (NAT)
Marking Scheme +1 or +2 for correct answers;Negative marking for MCQs only
Difficulty Level Moderate to High (focus on conceptual and analytical Physics)
Key Topics Mathematical Physics, Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetic Theory, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics, Atomic & Molecular Physics, Solid State Physics, Electronics, Nuclear & Particle Physics
Official Website GATE 2026 IIT Guwahati
GATE Physics Syllabus 2026

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GATE Physics Syllabus 2026

  • The GATE Physics Syllabus 2026 includes both core and advanced topics of Physics.
  • The topics are designed to assess the candidates comprehension, skill in solving the problems, and reasoning ability at the undergraduate level.
  • Besides this, there is a General Aptitude (GA) section of 15 marks, which is aimed at testing English, Reasoning and Quantitative skills.
Section Sub-Topics / Key Areas
Mathematical Physics Vector calculus, Fourier series & transforms, Laplace transforms, matrices, tensors, differential equations
Classical Mechanics Newtonian mechanics, Lagrangian & Hamiltonian formalism, central force motion, rigid body dynamics, oscillations, conservation laws
Electromagnetic Theory Electrostatics, magnetostatics, Maxwell’s equations, electromagnetic waves, boundary conditions, Poynting theorem
Quantum Mechanics Schrödinger equation, particle in a box, harmonic oscillator, angular momentum, perturbation theory, spin, identical particles
Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics Laws of thermodynamics, entropy, kinetic theory of gases, canonical & grand canonical ensembles, partition function
Atomic & Molecular Physics Bohr model, atomic spectra, electronic configuration, molecular rotational & vibrational spectra
Solid State Physics Crystal structure, Bravais lattices, X-ray diffraction, free electron theory, semiconductors, magnetic & dielectric properties
Electronics Semiconductor diodes, BJTs, FETs, OP-AMPs, digital electronics basics
Nuclear & Particle Physics Radioactivity, nuclear models, nuclear reactions, particle physics fundamentals, conservation laws
General Aptitude (GA) Verbal ability, quantitative aptitude, analytical reasoning, spatial aptitude

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Ques. Which topics in the GATE 2026 Physics syllabus carry the highest weightage and are most scoring?

Ans. Certain sections in the GATE Physics syllabus are consistently high-scoring due to their predictable question patterns and conceptual clarity. Prioritizing these can greatly boost your overall marks.

High-Weight Topics (2026) Expected Marks Why Important
Quantum Mechanics 10–12 Marks Fundamental and conceptual; numerical questions frequently asked
Electromagnetic Theory 9–11 Marks Repeatedly appears with formula-based and vector questions
Mathematical Physics 8–10 Marks Supports multiple sections, improves problem-solving speed
Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics 8–9 Marks Strong theoretical and numerical balance
Solid State Physics 6–8 Marks Application-based; easy to score with practice

Ques. How can understanding the GATE Physics 2026 syllabus structure improve your preparation strategy?

Ans. Knowing the detailed syllabus structure allows aspirants to plan their study hours smartly, manage revision time efficiently, and focus on conceptual integration across sections.

Preparation Phase Core Focus Area Action Plan Expected Outcome
Foundation (Months 1–2) Mathematical & Classical Physics Strengthen basics with derivations and PYQs Builds conceptual base
Concept Building (Months 3–5) Quantum, EM, Thermodynamics Study advanced problem sets; apply formulas regularly Improves numerical accuracy
Applied Learning (Months 6–8) Solid State, Atomic, Electronics Solve previous 10 years’ questions Enhances analytical skills
Final Revision (Last 2 Months) General Aptitude + Weak Areas Take timed mock tests, revise formulas Boosts confidence & speed

GATE Physics Syllabus 2026: Topic-Wise Weightage

The GATE Physics Syllabus is quite comprehensive in terms of the topics covered in Physics. However, not all topics have the same weightage in the exam.

  • In the light of the data from the past years, the topics which carry the most weight are Classical Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, and Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics.
  • The areas of Nuclear & Particle Physics, and Mathematical Methods, to name a few, have been given less consideration.
  • There is a set 15 marks for the General Aptitude (GA) section from where every GATE paper is taken.
Topic Average Weightage (Marks) Importance Level
Classical Mechanics 10–12 marks Highly important – Mostly direct and application-based numerical problems.
Electromagnetic Theory (Electrodynamics) 10–12 marks High – Mix of theoretical derivations and problem-solving.
Quantum Mechanics 8–10 marks High – Both conceptual and problem-based questions.
Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics 8–10 marks High – Includes derivations and applied numerical problems.
Mathematical Methods 5–7 marks Moderate – Mostly used to solve physics problems.
Solid State Physics 4–6 marks Moderate – Conceptual and derivation-based questions.
Classical & Modern Optics 4–6 marks Moderate – Interference, diffraction, polarization topics asked.
Atomic & Molecular Physics 4–6 marks Moderate – Conceptual and some numerical-based questions.
Nuclear & Particle Physics 3–5 marks Low to Moderate – Rare but conceptual questions.
Electronics 3–5 marks Low – Mostly basic circuits and semiconductor questions.
General Aptitude (GA) 15 marks Fixed – common for all GATE papers, easy to score with practice.
GATE Physics Syllabus 2026

Ques. Which topics in the GATE Physics syllabus 2026 offer the highest marks-to-effort ratio for quick scoring?

Ans. High Marks-to-Effort Topics in GATE Physics 2026

  • Classical Mechanics & Electromagnetic Theory (≈10–12 marks each)
  • Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics, Quantum Mechanics (≈8–10 marks each)
  • These topics offer high marks with moderate effort as they feature direct, formula-based, and application-oriented questions.

Ques. How should candidates prioritize GATE Physics topics by weightage for effective preparation?

Ans. Topic-Wise Preparation Priority (by Weightage)

  • Classical Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics (cover 50%+ marks)
  • Mathematical Methods, Solid State Physics, Optics (≈15–20 marks)
  • Nuclear & Particle Physics, Electronics (3–5 marks; good for accuracy boost)

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GATE Physics Syllabus 2026: Important Topics

According to the analysis of the previous years, the topics of the GATE Physics syllabus have different weights.

  • Among the topics, Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetic Theory, Quantum Mechanics, and Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics are those that the examination will focus most.
  • When the candidates are aware of the significant topics, they are able to make the preparation of the examination a priority effectively.
Subject / Area Key Topics Included
Classical Mechanics Newtonian mechanics, Lagrangian & Hamiltonian formulation, Conservation laws, Small oscillations
Electromagnetism Electrostatics, Magnetostatics, Maxwell’s equations, Electromagnetic waves, Boundary conditions
Quantum Mechanics Schrödinger equation, Particle in a box, Harmonic oscillator, Angular momentum, Hydrogen atom
Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics Laws of thermodynamics, Entropy, Free energy, Boltzmann distribution, Partition function
Optics Geometrical optics, Interference, Diffraction, Polarization, Lasers
Electronics Semiconductor devices, Diodes, Transistors, Operational amplifiers, Logic gates
Solid State Physics Crystal structures, X-ray diffraction, Band theory, Semiconductors, Superconductivity
Atomic & Molecular Physics Atomic models, Spectra, Spin-orbit coupling, Molecular vibrations & rotations
Nuclear & Particle Physics Radioactivity, Nuclear models, Decay modes, Particle classification, Fundamental interactions
Mathematical Physics / Methods Vector calculus, Partial differential equations, Linear algebra, Fourier & Laplace transforms, Special functions
Fluid Mechanics & Plasma Physics Fluid dynamics, Bernoulli equation, Plasma oscillations, Debye shielding
General Aptitude English, Reasoning, Basic numerical skills (15 marks)

Ques. Which topics in the GATE Physics syllabus 2026 offer the best marks-to-effort ratio for quick scoring?

Ans. Based on previous year trends, Classical Mechanics and Electromagnetic Theory provide the highest marks-to-effort ratio, contributing around 10–12 marks each.

  • These topics often feature direct and application-based numerical questions, making them ideal for students aiming to improve their scores efficiently.
  • Similarly, Quantum Mechanics and Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics are also high-yield areas worth prioritizing during preparation.

Ques. How can knowing the key topics of GATE Physics help in efficient exam preparation?

Ans. The key topics of GATE Physics help in efficient exam preparation are :

  • Awareness of the important topics-such as Quantum Mechanics, Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetic Theory, and Thermodynamics-allows candidates to set clear priorities and allocate study time effectively.
  • Focusing on these sections ensures that aspirants cover the most scoring areas first, boosting confidence and improving overall exam performance.

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GATE Physics Syllabus: Paper Pattern

The GATE Physics Exam is a CBT-based exam conducted for 100 marks with a duration of 3 hours. The exam tests candidates on core Physics topics along with General Aptitude skills.

The questions will be of MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions), MSQ (Multiple Select Questions), and NAT (Numerical Answer Type).

Section Marks Weightage No. of Questions Question Types
General Aptitude (GA) 15 marks 10 MCQ, MSQ, NAT
Physics (Core Subject) 85 marks 55 MCQ, MSQ, NAT
Total 100 marks 65 MCQ, MSQ, NAT
GATE Physics Syllabus 2026

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GATE Physics Syllabus 2026: Difficulty Level

GATE Physics Exam is one of the conceptually difficult tests that demand a candidate to have not only strong fundamentals but also good problem-solving capabilities.

After the review of the last 5-6 years of question papers, the following has been the distribution of the syllabus in terms of difficulty levels:

Topic-Wise Difficulty Level in GATE Physics

  • Topics such as Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Quantum Mechanics are the ones that can score you the most with a combination of direct and application-based questions.
  • Topics such as Statistical Physics, Solid State Physics, and Electronics are ones that need a student's concepts to be clear and also some calculations.
  • About 60% of the paper consists of topics of moderate difficulty from which most of the marks are drawn.
Subject / Area Difficulty Level Nature of Questions Observed Trend
Classical Mechanics Moderate Direct problems + conceptual derivations Consistently 12–15% weightage
Electromagnetism Moderate–Hard Conceptual + numerical Appears in both 1-mark & 2-mark questions
Quantum Mechanics Moderate–Hard Conceptual + problem solving Regularly 10–12% of the paper
Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics Moderate Conceptual + formula-based Often 8–10% of paper
Optics Easy–Moderate Direct numerical + conceptual Scoring section
Electronics Moderate Circuit analysis, device characteristics Around 6–8% weightage
Solid State Physics Hard Theory + derivation Limited questions, conceptual
Atomic & Molecular Physics Moderate Spectra + calculations Appears 5–7% of the paper
Nuclear & Particle Physics Hard Conceptual + classification Few questions, tricky
Mathematical Methods / Physics Mathematics Moderate PDEs, vector calculus, transforms Important for solving physics problems
Fluid Mechanics & Plasma Physics Moderate–Hard Application + derivation Appears occasionally, conceptually challenging

Ques. Which topics in the GATE Physics syllabus are conceptually toughest yet high-scoring?

Ans. According to the last 5–6 years of analysis, Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Solid State Physics are considered conceptually tough yet high-reward sections.

  • These topics often combine derivations, numerical applications, and conceptual depth, contributing significantly (10–15%) to the overall marks.
  • Candidates who master these can outperform others, as the questions test deep understanding rather than rote memorization.

Ques. How does topic difficulty affect marks distribution in GATE Physics 2026?

Ans. Around 60% of the GATE Physics paper is of moderate difficulty, mainly from areas like Classical Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Electronics.

  • These topics feature a mix of direct and formula-based questions, offering the best balance between concept clarity and scoring potential.
  • Meanwhile, tougher sections like Nuclear Physics and Solid State Physics test analytical thinking and should be revised strategically near the final phase of preparation.

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GATE Physics Syllabus 2026 – Important Books

GATE Physics 2026 can not only be prepared by just going through the syllabus. You have to pick out the right books in order to greatly improve your conceptual understanding and problem-solving ability.

Since the exam requires theory as well as numerical application, candidates must emphasize the clarity of concepts, learning of derivations, and solving of exercises given in standard reference books.

GATE Physics Syllabus 2026
Subject / Topic Recommended Books Author / Publisher
Mathematical Physics Mathematical Methods for Physicists Arfken & Weber
Classical Mechanics Classical Mechanics Herbert Goldstein
Electromagnetic Theory Introduction to Electrodynamics David J. Griffiths
Quantum Mechanics Quantum Mechanics: Concepts and Applications Nouredine Zettili
Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics Thermal Physics Charles Kittel
Atomic & Molecular Physics Introduction to Atomic Spectra H.E. White
Solid State Physics Solid State Physics Ashcroft & Mermin
Electronics Principles of Electronics V.K. Mehta & Rohit Mehta
Nuclear & Particle Physics Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics M. Das & V.S. Rangathan
General Reference Concepts of Physics (Vol I & II) H.C. Verma

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GATE Previous Years Physics Question Papers

Check the below-mentioned previous years’ GATE Physics question papers for preparation:

Year GATE Previous Years Question Papers GATE Physics Answer Key
2023 Check Here Check Here
2022 Check Here Check Here
2021 Check Here Check Here
2020 Check Here Check Here

FAQS

Ques. Who will take the GATE in 2026?

Ans. The GATE 2026 exam will be conducted by one of the IITs on behalf of IISc Bangalore and the National Coordination Board (NCB).

Conducted jointly by IITs & IISc
Managed under Ministry of Education, Government of India
Held once a year (February)
Accepted by IITs, NITs, IIITs, and PSUs

Ques. Which IIT is making the 2026 GATE paper?

Ans. The organizing IIT for GATE changes annually in rotation.

  • GATE 2026 is expected to be organized by IIT Kanpur (tentative)
  • Previous years: IIT Roorkee (2025), IIT Kharagpur (2022), IIT Bombay (2021)
  • The official confirmation will be available on the GATE 2026 website

Ques. Is GATE score valid for 3 years?

Ans. Yes, GATE scores remain valid for 3 years from the result date.

  • Applicable for M.Tech / PhD admissions
  • Accepted by PSUs within 3 years
  • You can use the same score for multiple applications

Ques. Is GATE tougher than JEE?

Ans. GATE and JEE differ in depth and level of understanding required.

Exam Level Focus Area Difficulty
JEE (Mains/Advanced) UG (12th to 1st year) Breadth across Physics, Chem, Math Concept-based, fast-paced
GATE Graduate level In-depth technical understanding Conceptually deeper & analytical

Ques. Which is the hardest subject in GATE?

Ans. Difficulty varies per branch, but some subjects are generally more challenging.

Stream Hardest Subject (Common Opinion) Why Difficult
Mechanical Thermodynamics / Fluid Mechanics Concept-heavy, lengthy numericals
Electrical Power Systems / Machines Complex problem-solving
Civil Structural Analysis Formula-intensive
CS Algorithms & Theory of Computation Logic-intensive, tricky MCQs

Ques. Is GATE tougher than IAS?

Ans. Both exams are challenging in different ways.

Exam Nature Focus Area Difficulty Type
GATE Technical Engineering & Aptitude Conceptual & numerical
IAS (UPSC) General GS, Current Affairs, Optional Broad, memory & analysis-based

Ques. Which is the easiest subject in GATE?

Ans. The easiest subjects are those with predictable patterns and high scoring potential.

  • General Aptitude – 15 marks; simple English & reasoning
  • Engineering Mathematics – high scoring with formula-based questions
  • Industrial Engineering (ME) – logical and less time-consuming

Digital Logic (CS) – straightforward if basics are clear