The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is a national-level exam conducted by IIT Guwahati for admission to M.Tech, ME, and PhD programs, and PSU recruitment. It covers 30 subjects in a computer-based test format lasting 3 hours, with 15% weight on General Aptitude and 85% on core subjects.
GATE 2026 Exam Dates
GATE 2026 exams occurred on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, with sessions from 9:30 AM–12:30 PM (FN) and 2:30 PM–5:30 PM (AN). Here’s the branch-wise schedule in table form.
| Date | Session (Time IST) | Test Papers |
|---|---|---|
| Sat, Feb 7, 2026 | FN (9:30–12:30 PM) | AG, ES, GG, IN, MA, MN, TF, XE, XL |
| Sat, Feb 7, 2026 | AN (2:30–5:30 PM) | AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH, XH |
| Sun, Feb 8, 2026 | FN (9:30–12:30 PM) | CS-1, ST |
| Sat, Feb 14, 2026 | FN (9:30–12:30 PM) | CE-1, EE, PI |
| Sat, Feb 14, 2026 | AN (2:30–5:30 PM) | BM, CE-2, ME, MT |
| Sun, Feb 15, 2026 | FN (9:30–12:30 PM) | EC |
| Sun, Feb 15, 2026 | AN (2:30–5:30 PM) | AR, DA |
GATE 2026 detailed syllabus for each paper
GATE 2026 syllabi for all 30 papers are officially released by IIT Guwahati and available as downloadable PDFs on gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Each paper includes 15% General Aptitude (verbal aptitude, quantitative aptitude, analytical aptitude, spatial aptitude) and 85% core subject content, with engineering mathematics often integrated. Below are detailed breakdowns for popular papers; refer to the official site for complete PDFs per branch.
Computer Science (CS)
Key sections include Engineering Mathematics (discrete math, linear algebra, calculus, probability), Digital Logic, Computer Organization, Programming & Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design, Operating Systems, Databases, and Computer Networks.
| Topic | Key Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Engineering Mathematics | Propositional logic, graphs, matrices, limits, random variables, Bayes theorem |
| Digital Logic | Boolean algebra, combinational/sequential circuits, number representations |
| Algorithms | Searching/sorting, greedy/dynamic programming, graph traversals, shortest paths |
| Operating Systems | Processes/threads, synchronization, deadlock, memory management, file systems |
| Computer Networks | OSI/TCP-IP, error detection, routing, TCP/UDP, DNS/HTTP |
Covers Engineering Mathematics, Applied Mechanics, Material Strength, Theory of Machines, Vibrations, Design, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Thermodynamics, Engineering Materials, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering.
High-weightage: Thermodynamics (12-14 marks), Manufacturing (14-16 marks), Machine Design (8-10 marks).
Civil Engineering (CE)
Includes Engineering Mathematics, Structural Analysis, Geotechnical, Water Resources, Environmental, Transportation, Surveying, Construction Materials/Geomatics.
Focus areas: Structural Analysis (15 marks), Geotechnical (13 marks), Transportation (10-12 marks).
Electrical Engineering (EE)
Features: Engineering Mathematics, Electric Circuits, Signals/Systems, Control Systems, Power Electronics, Power Systems, Electrical Machines, Measurements.
| Topic | Expected Weightage |
|---|---|
| Power Systems | 12 marks |
| Electrical Machines | 10-12 marks |
| Control Systems | 9 marks |
| Signals & Systems | 8-10 marks |
Engineering Mathematics, Networks, Signals/Systems, Electronic Devices, Analog/Digital Circuits, Control Systems, Communications, Electromagnetics.
For full lists (e.g., AE, BT, CH, IN, etc.), download branch-specific PDFs from the official GATE 2026 site, as they detail exact topics and subtopics without changes from prior years.
GATE 2026 weightage of topics for CSE
GATE 2026 CSE topic weightage follows trends from recent years, with General Aptitude fixed at 15 marks and the rest distributed across core subjects. Data is based on past paper analysis, as the exact 2026 distributions aren’t finalized post-exam.
Subject-Wise Weightage
Expected marks allocation prioritizes Programming & Data Structures, Engineering Mathematics, and Operating Systems.
| Subject | Expected Marks | % Weightage (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude | 15 | 15% |
| Engineering Mathematics | 13-15 | 13-15% |
| Programming & Data Structures | 10-15 | 10-15% |
| Operating Systems | 9-10 | 9-10% |
| Computer Organization & Arch. | 8-9 | 8-9% |
| Algorithms | 7-9 | 7-9% |
| Databases | 7-8 | 7-8% |
| Computer Networks | 7-8 | 7-8% |
| Theory of Computation | 7-9 | 7-9% |
| Digital Logic | 5-6 | 5-6% |
| Compiler Design | 4-6 | 4-6% |
| Discrete Mathematics | 6-13 | 6-13% |
| Others (e.g., Software Engg.) | 1-2 | 1-2% |
Focus on these for maximum scoring: Engineering Math (graphs, probability), Data Structures (trees, graphs), Algorithms (sorting, DP), OS (processes, memory), and Networks (TCP/IP, routing). Revise via previous papers for variance.
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
GATE 2026 follows a uniform 3-hour online format across most papers, with 65 questions totaling 100 marks: 15 marks General Aptitude (GA) and 85 marks core subject (including Engineering Mathematics). Questions include MCQs (4 choices, 1/1.5/2 marks), MSQs (multiple correct, no partial marks), and NATs (numeric entry). Negative marking: 1/3 for 1-mark MCQ, 2/3 for 2-mark MCQ; none for MSQ/NAT.
Standard Single Papers (e.g., CS, ME, CE, EC, EE)
All single-subject papers share this structure.
| Section | Questions | Marks | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude | 10 | 15 | 5×1 mark + 5×2 marks |
| Core Subject | 55 | 85 | ~25×1 mark + ~30×2 marks |
| Total | 65 | 100 |
Certain papers have variable sections; choices are made at application or exam time.
| Paper Code | Structure |
|---|---|
| XE (XE-A compulsory + 2 optional from B-H) | GA (15) + Engg Math (15) + 2×35 = 100 |
| XH (B1 compulsory + 1 optional C1-C6) | GA (15) + B1 Reasoning (25) + 60 = 100 |
| XL (P Chemistry compulsory + 2 optional Q-H) | GA (15) + P (25) + 2×30 = 100 |
| GG | GA (15) + Part A (25) + B1/B2 Geology/Geophysics (60) |
| GE | GA (15) + Part A (55) + B1/B2 Architecture/Planning (30) |
| AR | GA (15) + Part A (60) + B1/B2 (25) |
GATE 2026 preparation strategy based on the pattern
GATE 2026 preparation aligns with its 3-hour CBT pattern (65 questions: 10 GA, 55 technical; MCQ/MSQ/NAT mix; no negative for MSQ/NAT). Strategy emphasizes conceptual depth for NATs (40-50%), timed practice for accuracy (aim 85%+), and GA scoring for easy 15 marks.
Phase 1: Foundation (3-4 Months Pre-Exam)
Build basics per pattern’s 85% technical focus: Cover syllabus topic-wise, prioritizing high-weightage (e.g., 13-15 marks Math/DS for CSE).
Study 6-8 hours/day: 70% theory + numericals (match NAT style).
Create short notes/formula sheets for quick recall.
Daily GA (15-20 mins: verbal/quant basics).
Phase 2: Practice (1-2 Months Pre-Exam)
Simulate pattern with PYQs (15+ years) and topic tests; target 2 mocks/week.
Solve 100+ questions/day: Focus MSQ/NAT (no guessing penalty).
Analyze errors: Mistake notebook for recurring traps.
Time drills: 1-mark in 1 min, 2-mark in 2.5 mins.
Phase 3: Revision & Mocks (Last 45 Days)
Full-length mocks (3/week) in exam slot; revise notes only—no new topics.
Days 45-31: Subject revision + PYQs.
Days 30-16: Mocks + deep analysis (stamina for 3 hours).
Days 15-1: Light mocks, error log, GA polish.
Pattern-Specific Tips
NAT/MSQ Priority: Practice direct computation (no options); aim 90% accuracy.
MCQ Strategy: Skip if >50% unsure; revisit.
GA Hack: Secure 12-15 marks via daily practice (high ROI).
Tools: Official mocks, virtual calculator practice. Track progress; adjust for weak areas.
GATE 2026 Prep Tips
Effective preparation targets the exam’s CBT pattern, emphasizing timed accuracy for NATs/MSQs and GA for quick scores. Focus on consistency, analysis, and stamina-building over rote learning.
Daily Routine
6-8 hours study: 4 hours technical (high-weightage topics), 1 hour GA/Math, 2 hours practice/PYQs, 1 hour revision.
Morning: Fresh concepts/numericals; evening: mocks/tests.
Weekly: 1 full mock + analysis (score >80% target).
Topic Mastery
Prioritize per pattern: Secure GA (15 marks easy), Math (13+ marks), core strengths (e.g., DS/Algorithms for CSE).
Use standard books (e.g., Cormen for Algorithms, Hamacher for COA); solve 50+ questions/topic.
Formula sheets: One-page summaries for NAT recall.
Practice & Analysis
PYQs (20 years): Identify patterns in MSQ/NAT.
Mock tests: 20+ full-length; log errors (e.g., calculation slips).
Virtual calc: Master for speed; no pen/paper allowed.
Health & Exam Day
Sleep 7 hours; weekly off; meditate 10 mins/day to manage stress.
Day before: Light revision, sleep early; carry admit card + ID.
During exam: GA first, then technical; flag/attempt easy first.
GATE 2026 Exam Guidelines
GATE 2026 follows strict CBT protocols to ensure fairness, with rules on documents, conduct, and items. Guidelines are detailed on gate2026.iitg.ac.in; violations lead to disqualification.
What to Carry
Mandatory items only; no bags/electronics inside the hall.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Admit Card | Printed copy (color/mono OK) |
| Photo ID | Original govt ID (Aadhaar/PAN etc.) |
| Passport Photo | One recent matching application |
Zero tolerance for violations.
Electronic gadgets (phone, calculator, smartwatch), stationery, and wallets.
Metallic items (belt, jewelry); transparent pouches only if frisked.
No food/drink; water bottle allowed (transparent, outside if needed).
No communication; assigned seat only.
Dress Code & Reporting
Arrive 90 mins early (gates close 30 mins prior).
Simple clothing: Half-sleeve shirt, slippers/sandals (avoid shoes/scarves).
Ladies: Avoid metallic pins; transparent accessories checked.
Biometrics (photo/iris/fingerprints) at entry.
During Exam
3-hour session; follow screen instructions.
Verify details on screen; use the provided rough sheet/virtual calculator.
No leaving till the end; attempt GA first if the strategy fits.
Submit by clicking the final button; the rough sheet return is mandatory.
GATE 2026 Official Websites Table
Official links for GATE 2026 are hosted by IIT Guwahati; use these for authentic updates, syllabus, and results.
| Purpose | Official Website |
|---|---|
| Main Portal (Info/Syllabus) | gate2026.iitg.ac.in |
| GOAPS (Admit Card/Results) | goaps. itg.ac.in |
| IIT Guwahati GATE Page | iitg.ac.in/gate |
GATE 2026 FAQs
Official GATE 2026 FAQs from IIT Guwahati address common queries on eligibility, application, exam rules, and results, available on gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Below are key Q&As compiled from reliable sources.
Eligibility & Attempts
Q: Is there an age limit for GATE 2026?
A: No age limit applies; candidates in 3rd year undergrad or higher (10+2+3 system) are eligible.
Q: How many times can I attempt GATE?
A: Unlimited attempts allowed.
Q: Can distance learners or postgrads apply?
A: Yes, if AICTE-recognized; PG students or B. Tech graduates qualify.
Application Process
Q: Can I use one email for multiple forms?
A: No, one email per application; changes to email/mobile post-submission not permitted.
Q: How to correct application errors?
A: Use correction window (3rd week Nov 2025); login via GOAPS.
Exam Day & Rules
Q: Can I carry a physical calculator?
A: No, use the provided virtual scientific calculator (practice available online).
Q: What documents are required for exam entry?
A: Printed admit card, original photo ID (Aadhaar/PAN etc.), one passport photo.
Results & Scores
Q: When are results declared?
A: March 19, 2026 (tentative); scorecards from late March via GOAPS.
Q: Validity of GATE score?
A: 3 years for M.Tech admissions; 1 year for PSUs.