Overview
Understanding GATE
Assessment for postgraduate admissions, scholarships and other opportunities where GATE scores are accepted.
Who Can Apply
Eligibility
Candidates enrolled in or who have completed an eligible undergraduate degree programme can apply subject to the current GATE rules.
There is no general age limit in the current GATE framework.
Candidates can select one or, where permitted, two papers according to the official two-paper combination rules.
What You Study
Subjects
General Aptitude
Prepare the prescribed subject syllabus with concept clarity, application-based practice and examination-oriented questions.
Paper-specific subject
Prepare the prescribed subject syllabus with concept clarity, application-based practice and examination-oriented questions.
Engineering Mathematics where applicable
Prepare the prescribed subject syllabus with concept clarity, application-based practice and examination-oriented questions.
Structure
Exam Pattern
Scoring
Marking Scheme
Question value
1 or 2 marks
MCQ negative marking
-1/3 for a 1-mark MCQ; -2/3 for a 2-mark MCQ
MSQ / NAT
No negative marking for wrong answers
What to Prepare
Important Topics
General Aptitude
- Verbal Ability
- Numerical Ability
- Logical Reasoning
- Data Interpretation
These are preparation categories, not a substitute for the latest official syllabus.
Engineering Mathematics
- Linear Algebra
- Calculus
- Probability & Statistics
- Differential Equations
- Discrete Mathematics as applicable
These are preparation categories, not a substitute for the latest official syllabus.
Paper-specific subject
- Use the official syllabus for the selected GATE paper
These are preparation categories, not a substitute for the latest official syllabus.
Student Guide
How to Prepare
Choose the correct paper
Start with the official syllabus and map it to your qualifying degree and target postgraduate programme.
Build subject depth
GATE rewards understanding and application rather than formula memorisation alone.
Practise all question types
Separate strategies are useful for MCQ, MSQ and NAT questions.
Use full-length mocks
Develop accuracy over the complete three-hour paper and analyse time allocation.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many GATE papers are there?+
GATE 2026 offers 30 test papers.
Can I apply for two papers?+
Yes, one or up to two papers can be selected subject to the permitted two-paper combinations.
Is there negative marking in GATE?+
Negative marking applies to incorrect MCQs; MSQ and NAT questions do not have negative marking for wrong answers.
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