The GATE 2026 exam for February 7 and February 8 is already over. Students waiting for the GATE 2026 February 14 and 15 exams must check how the GATE exam analysis to understand what type of questions they might get. We have prepared an analysis for GATE 2026 February 7 and February 8 shifts.
| Date | Test Papers | GATE Paper Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| GATE 2026 February 8 Shift 2 | CS-2, EY, NM, and PE | Moderate to difficult, with conceptual and calculative-based questions |
| GATE 2026 February 8 Shift 1 | CS-1 and ST | Difficult, with the maximum number of questions asked of the algorithm |
| GATE 2026 February 7 Shift 2 | AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH, XH | GATE 2026 second shift was moderately difficult. |
| GATE 2026 February 7 Shift 1 | AG, ES, GG, IN, MA, MN, TF, XE, XL | GATE 2026 Shift 1 paper was moderate with heavy calculations and concept-based. |
Check: GATE Paper Analysis 2026: Check Difficulty Level, Branch-wise Question Paper Analysis
Source: gate2026.iitg.ac.in/The GA section is common and compulsory for each candidate. The questions in this section carry a total of 15 marks.
- According to the previous year analysis, few topics carry high weightage in different branches, majorly in engineering mathematics, core subjects and general aptitude.
- The GA and Engineering Mathematics hold ~28% of the total marks. Practising that will be beneficial in adding easy marks.
Candidates should focus on revising the repeated concepts and core formulas, practise mathematics for faster calculation and accuracy, avoid untouched topics and take full length mock tests to develop the real exam rhythm.
GATE 2026 Latest Updates:
Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about GATE 2026 Exam, including the exam dates, syllabus, preparation tips and eligibility
- GATE 2026 Exam will be conducted on February 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th, 2026.
- IIT Guwahati will conduct the forenoon session from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and the afternoon session from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
- Any queries regarding the application, examination centre, admit card and results are handled by the respective GATE 2026 Zonal Coordinating Institutes.
- The GATE Exam will include a total of 30 subjects.
- In GATE, 15% weightage will be given to the general aptitude section and 85% to the subject-based section.
- The GATE 2026 scores will remain valid for three years.
GATE 2026 Paper Analysis for Feb 8 (Both Shifts)
GATE 2026 CS Shift 1 Paper Analysis OUT
The first shift (9:30 am to 12:30 pm) was conducted for CS-1 and ST papers. As per the GATE 2026 Feb 8 analysis, students found the GATE 2206 CSE shift 1 paper to be difficult. Engineering mathematics had 4 one-mark questions, with the maximum number of questions asked from the algorithm. General aptitude had 5 one mark question and 5 two-mark questions.
- GATE Database had 3 questions - 1 mark, 2 questions -2 marks
- GATE Computer organisation and architecture had 2 questions - 1 mark, and 3 questions - 2 mark
- GATE Operating System had 2 questions - 1 mark, and 2 questions - 2 mark
- GATE Engineering Mathematics had 4 questions - 1 mark each
According to initial reactions of students, GATE 2026 CS Shift 1 paper was moderately difficult. Some high weightage topics in GATE CSE 2026 Shift 1 were Programming and Data Structure, Computer Organisation and Architecture and Computer Networks.
- Mathematics and Aptitude were moderate
- There were some lengthy questions in CS section.
- Some important topics included in GATE CSE Shift 1 question paper were COA, TOC, DBMS.
Topics Covered in GATE CS Shift 1 Paper
| Topics | 1 Mark Questions | 2 Mark Quesions |
|---|---|---|
| Database | 3 questions | 2 questions |
| Computer organisation and architecture | 2 questions | 3 questions |
| Operating system | 2 questions | 2 questions |
| Engineering mathematics | 4 questions | - |
| Discrete Mathematics | 1 question | 2 questions |
| Programming and Data Stucture | 3 questions | 3 questions |
| Computer Networks | 2 questions | 2 questions |
GATE 2026 Paper Analysis for Feb 7 (Both Shifts)
In the GATE Feb 7 exam, students found XE, XH, and XL paper to be moderate to tough with heavy calculations and concept-based. However, many students found GATE 2026 Shift 1 paper to be moderate.
- The average number of attempts of questions made by students was 50 ot 57.
- As per the students’ initial reaction, the GATE Aptitude and GATE Maths paper was on the easier side.
- Students who took ES (Environmental Science) also reported that the paper went well. Questions were easy in nature.
- Candidates who took Instrumentation Engineering also reported that the paper was easy. There were 10 NAT questions, 4 MSQ and 43 MCQs in the GATE 2026 IN paper.
GATE 2026 Feb 7 second shift was conducted for AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH and XH. You can check the detailed analysis of how the Shift 2 papers went below. Based on students' reactions, the GATE 2026 second shift was moderate.
- The GATE CH exam question paper was easy to moderate.
- Few students found CH paper to be lengthy.
- Maths and aptitude were easy to moderate with not-so-heavy calculations.
- GA section was very easy with direct formula based questions.
GATE 2026 Feb 7 Shift 1 Overall Paper Analysis
Candidates can check brief overview of GATE 2026 Feb 7 papers and GA difficulty level below -
| Subjects | Overall Difficulty | General Aptitude Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| AG | Moderate | Easy to Moderate |
| ES | Moderate | Moderate |
| GG | Easy to Moderate | Easy to Moderate |
| IN | Easy to moderate | Moderate |
| MA | Moderate to dificult | Moderate |
| XE | Moderate | Moderate to slightly difficult |
| XL | Moderate | Moderate |
| TF | Moderate | Easy to moderate |
| MN | Easy to Moderate | Moderate |
GATE 2026 Feb 7 Shift 2 Overall Paper Analysis
| GATE subject | Difficulty Level | GATE Cut Off |
| GATE 2026 BT | Moderate | 30-35 |
| GATE 2026 AE | Moderate | 32-36 |
| GATE 2026 CH | Moderate to Difficult | 24.4-26.5 |
| GATE 2026 CY | Moderate to Difficult | 29-34 |
| GATE 2026 GE | Moderate | 32-35 |
| GATE 2026 PH | Moderate | 29-32 |
| GATE 2026 XH | Moderate | 28-32 |
What is GATE 2026?
Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national examination conducted jointly by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and all 23 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
- IIT Guwahati is the organizing institute for GATE 2026.
- The GATE 2026 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.
- With questions in the form of MCQ (with negative marking of 1/3rd for 1 mark questions and 2/3rd for 2 mark questions), MSQ and NAT (without negative marking).
- GATE 2026 will be conducted for 30 test papers as Computer Based Test (CBT) (including the new sectional Paper on Energy Science in Engineering Sciences).
The number of applicants in GATE 2026 are expected to be record breaking 10 Lakhs plus. Although these numbers are not official and is projected based on past trends. As per the GATE 2026 exam scheduled released, expect higher number of applicants in CS and CE paper as only these two papers are scheduled in two shifts.
What’s New?
- GATE Facial recognition has been introduced for IIT Madras zone.
- A new sectional test paper on Energy Science (XE-I) in Engineering Sciences (XE) paper.
- PSU: Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) will be using GATE 2026 results of CE, CH, EC, EE, IN and ME test papers for recruitment.
- Mock Test Links are now live on the official portal of GATE 2026. To take the GATE 2026 Mock Tests, click https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in/mock-test-links.html
Ques. Is GATE 2026 the only exam to seek admission to Master’s programs in IISc, IITs, NITs?
Ans. Candidates with B.Sc./B.A./B.Com. degrees desirous of seeking admission to Master’s programs in IISc, IITs, NITs, and other CFTIs, may refer to JAM 2026 organized by Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
GATE 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Admit Card | January 2nd, 2026 (Postponed) |
| Exam Date | February 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th, 2026 |
| Result Date | March 19th, 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Marks | 100 Marks (65 questions) |
| Question Types | MCQs, MSQs and NATs |
| Score Validity | 3 years |
Ques. Problem regarding admit card? What to do?
Ans. According to the official notification, any queries regarding the examination centre, admit card and results are handled by the respective GATE 2026 Zonal Coordinating Institute.
Ques. What to carry at the examination centre?
Ans. Along with the copy of the admit card downloaded from the official website, You need to bring original photo identity document, specified during the filling of application form. Note that the photo and signature should be clear on the admit card.
GATE Exam Schedule 2026
The GATE exam schedule has been released on the official website. You can check the dates below:
| Day & Date | Time & Session (IST) | Test Papers |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, February 07, 2026 | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (Forenoon – FN) | AG, ES, GG, IN, MA, MN, TF, XE, XL |
| Saturday, February 07, 2026 | 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm (Afternoon – AN) | AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH, XH |
| Sunday, February 08, 2026 | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (Forenoon – FN) | CS-1, ST |
| Sunday, February 08, 2026 | 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm (Afternoon – AN) | CS-2, EY, NM, PE |
| Saturday, February 14, 2026 | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (Forenoon – FN) | CE-1, EE, PI |
| Saturday, February 14, 2026 | 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm (Afternoon – AN) | BM, CE-2, ME, MT |
| Sunday, February 15, 2026 | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (Forenoon – FN) | EC |
| Sunday, February 15, 2026 | 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm (Afternoon – AN) | AR, DA |
Source: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
What to do in the Last Month?
As the New Year is approaching so is the GATE Exam 2026. With the release of the admit card on January 2nd, countdown will begin for the exam.
- Focus on targeting the scoring General Aptitude section
- Practice Engineering Mathematics
- Focus on PYQs
- Give full length mock tests and analyze your mistakes and work on it.
- Revise core formulas and repeated concepts
- Do not take up untouched big subjects
Together this will help in securing 20-25 easy marks by clearing the concept, strengthening pattern recognition, faster and accurate calculations, real time exam rhythm and exam temperament.
Also Read:
- Previous Year Question Papers
- GATE 2026 Preparation Strategy Civil
- GATE 2026 Preparation Strategy CSE
GATE 2026 Important Topics and Difficulty Level:
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 study in an effective manner.
| SECTION | WEIGHTAGE |
|---|---|
| General Aptitude (GA) | 15% |
| Engineering Mathematics | ~13% |
| Subject-Specific Topics | ~72% |
| Special/ Interdisciplinary Papers | Varies (as per the official GATE brochure) |
Refer to the link for subject wise trending topics and strategy for EE, ECE and IN
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.
The GA section is common and compulsory for each candidate. The questions in this section carry a total of 15 marks. The GA section includes 5 questions carrying 1 mark each and 5 questions carrying 2 marks each, making a total of 10 questions. Remaining 55 questions are subject specific carrying a total of 85 marks.
Ques. Is there Negative marking in GATE 2026?
Ans. For the MCQ type questions there will be a negative marking of 1/3 for every wrong answer. There will be no negative marking for MSQ and NAT type question.
Mock Test Links are now live on the official portal (gate2026.iitg.ac.in).
Source: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
Ques. What type of questions are asked in GATE Examination?
Ans. The questions in a test paper are designed to assess the following abilities
Recall: These questions are based on facts, principles, formulae or laws of the discipline.
Comprehension: These questions test the candidate’s understanding of the basic concepts and require the candidate to draw simple conclusions from fundamental ideas.
Application: These questions test the candidate’s applicability of knowledge either through computation or by logical reasoning.
Analysis and Synthesis: In these questions, the candidate is presented with data, diagrams, images, etc. that require analysis before answering a question. A Synthesis question might require the candidate to compare two or more pieces of information.
The questions may be a mix of a single standalone statement/phrase/data based questions, combination of options, or match the given items type
For complete exam pattern analysis, refer
GATE 2026 Syllabus
GATE General Aptitude Syllabus (10 questions, 15 marks)
Source: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
GATE Engineering Mathematics Syllabus: 13 Marks (Varies by Paper)
- Calculus
- Linear Algebra
- Real Analysis
- Complex Analysis
- Ordinary Differential Equations
- Algebra
- Functional Analysis
- Numerical Analysis
- Partial Differential Equations
- Topology
- Linear Programming
Check Subject-Specific detailed syllabus at the official portal: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
Subject Combination for GATE 2026
GATE 2026 will be conducted for 30 test papers (subjects). A candidate is allowed to appear in ONE or TWO test papers.
List of combination of two test papers allowed:
Source: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
GATE 2026 Expected Cut-off
The cutoff marks will increase or decrease based on the number of seats, difficulty level of the paper and number of candidates applying.
You can check GATE 2025 and 2024 cutoff on the official website of GATE with the following links respectively
(https://gate2025.iitr.ac.in/doc/download/GATE2025StatisticalAndPerformanceReportWebVersion.pdf)
The number of applicants in GATE 2026 are expected to be record breaking 10 Lakhs plus. With this rise in number of applications it will probably raise the cutoff marks a few numbers.
Source:
As per the GATE 2026 exam scheduled released, expect higher number of applicants in CS and CE paper as only these two papers are scheduled in two shifts.
Also Check:
- GATE Score 500 means how many marks
- GATE Score 700 means how many marks
- GATE Score 400 means how many marks
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 |
Ques. Will you get a job after qualifying GATE 2026?
Ans. 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.
- Direct recruitment to Group-A level posts in the central government such as Senior Field Officer (Tele), Senior Research Officer (Crypto) and Senior Research Officer (S&T) in Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India, is now being conducted based on GATE score.
- Some other organizations may also utilize GATE 2026 score in their recruitment process.
List of Participating IITs
The list below shows some of the participating IITs in GATE COAP:
List of Participating NITs
GATE Previous Year Registration Statistics
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% |
Ques. How many candidates have applied for GATE 2026?
Ans. The number of applicants in GATE 2026 are expected to be record breaking 10 Lakhs plus. Although these numbers are not official and is projected based on past trends.
FAQs
Ques. When will the GATE 2026 admit card be released?
Ans. The admit card of GATE 2026 is scheduled to be released on Jan 2nd, 2026 on the official portal (gate2026.iitg.ac.in). (Postponed, new date yet to be announced)
Ques. How to do in the last month of preparation of GATE 2026?
Ans. The last month strategy should focus on maximum revision of core concepts, practicing for speed building, building exam temperament and PYQs.
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. When will be the GATE 2026 exams conducted?
Ans. The GATE 2026 Exam dates are officially announced by IIT Guwahati for all exams.
The exams will be conducted in two shifts each day on February 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th 2026
Ques. Will I be provided with any white paper for rough work and calculations during the examination?
Ans. Only one scribble pad at any point of time will be provided to the candidate that can be used to do the rough work. To obtain a second scribble pad, the candidate MUST return the first scribble pad. The candidates have to return any scribble pad in their possession at the end of the examination. The virtual scientific calculator will be available on the computer screen.
Ques. If a paper is being held in more than one session, can I appear in any of the sessions of that particular paper?
Ans. NO. Each candidate will be assigned to ONLY ONE of the multiple sessions of a particular paper. The assigned session will be mentioned in the admit card.
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Comments
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You can check here for the GATE Question Paper 2025 (Available): Check GATE Previous Year Question Paper with Solution PDF
Yes, a B.Voc in Mechatronics graduate can apply for M.Tech programs, provided they meet the eligibility criteria of the institute. Most M.Tech admissions through GATE require a B.E./B.Tech or equivalent in relevant engineering disciplines. Some universities may also accept B.Voc if it Is recognized as equivalent to a B.Tech in Mechatronics or allied streams.
You can check here for the GATE Question Paper 2025 (Available): Check GATE Previous Year Question Paper with Solution PDF
You can download a free official mock test for GATE, including the Agricultural Engineering (Paper code “AG”) stream, from the official portal of IIT Roorkee (for GATE 2025). The official 2026 GATE website by the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati provides “Mock Test Links” and sample papers. The National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) portal lists mock test series developed for GATE.
For GATE Preparation 2026, the candidates should follow a strategic & effective way of preparation. They should create a monthly study plan, practice the previous year's question paper, mock test and analyze subject-wise weightage. You can check here for the GATE Preparation 2026: Time Table, 6 months Study Tips, Free Resources, Books, and Previous Year Question Papers
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
The Ph.D. admission process based on GATE involves applying to recognized universities or institutes that accept GATE scores for research programs. Candidates must meet eligibility criteria, submit research proposals, and appear for interviews or departmental tests. GATE scores often provide eligibility or financial assistance, accelerating selection into engineering or science Ph.D. programs.
You can check here for the GATE Question Paper(Available): Check GATE Previous Year Question Paper with Solution PDF
Yes, some online courses allow admission based on GATE scores, in M.Tech or related postgraduate programs. Universities like NPTEL, IGNOU, and certain private institutions offer online or distance learning M.Tech programs. A GATE qualification helps in eligibility and scholarships, though practical or lab components may require occasional campus visits.
You can check here for the GATE Question Paper for MN (Available): Download Previous Year Papers with Solution PDF
GATE 2027 (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is expected to be held in February 2027, with the official exam schedule and admit cards announced around January 2027. IIT Madras will likely conduct the exam as per the rotating pattern of organizing institutes.
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.