GATE

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed or be in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Technology, Architecture, or Master’s degree in Science/Mathematics/Statistics/Computer Applications or equivalent.
• Age Limit: There is no age limit to appear for GATE.
• Nationality: Open to Indian nationals and international candidates from countries like Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates.

• Mode of Exam: Computer Based Test (Online)
• Number of Questions: Typically 65 questions
• Marking Scheme: Questions include Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions. Marks per question vary (usually 1 or 2 marks). Negative marking applies for MCQs.
• Subjects Covered: 29 subjects including Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Electronics, Chemical Engineering, and more
• Exam Month: Usually held in February each year
• Notification Release: Official notification is generally released in August preceding the exam year

General Syllabus Overview

The GATE syllabus varies by subject but generally includes core undergraduate topics of the respective engineering or science discipline.

Example Syllabus for Popular Streams:

• Computer Science & IT: Engineering Mathematics, Digital Logic, Computer Organization, Programming & Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Operating Systems, Databases, Computer Networks.
• Electrical Engineering: Engineering Mathematics, Electric Circuits, Signals & Systems, Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Control Systems, Electrical & Electronic Measurements, Analog & Digital Electronics.
• Mechanical Engineering: Engineering Mathematics, Applied Mechanics & Design, Fluid Mechanics & Thermal Sciences, Materials Science, Manufacturing, and Industrial Engineering.
• Civil Engineering: Engineering Mathematics, Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Geomatics.
• Electronics & Communication Engineering: Engineering Mathematics, Networks, Electronic Devices, Analog Circuits, Digital Circuits, Signals & Systems, Control Systems, Communications, Electromagnetics.

For detailed syllabus subject wise, candidates should refer to the official website.

Application Process

1. Visit the official GATE website.
2. Register by creating a new account with personal details.
3. Fill the application form with educational, contact, and qualifying exam details.
4. Upload scanned documents like photograph, signature, and qualifying degree certificate.
5. Pay the application fee online via net banking, credit/debit cards.
6. Submit the application and note down the application number for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Postgraduate programs (M.E., M.Tech, M.Plan, Ph.D.) in various engineering and science disciplines.
• Some Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) use GATE scores for recruitment.

Facts about GATE

• It is one of the most competitive engineering exams in India.
• Scores are valid for 3 years for admissions and PSU recruitments.
• Greatly assists in securing scholarships and financial assistance for postgraduate education.

Admit Card

• Released online on the official website about 2-3 weeks before the exam date.
• Candidates can download it by logging into their GATE account using enrollment ID and password.
• Must check all details carefully and print the admit card on an A4 size paper.
• Carry the admit card along with a valid photo ID proof to the exam center.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are declared approximately one month after the exam on the official website.
• Candidates download scorecards by logging into their accounts.
• Cut-off marks vary by stream and category (General, OBC, SC/ST).
• Qualifying marks are decided by the conducting body based on exam difficulty and number of candidates.

Preparation Tips

• Understand the exam syllabus and pattern thoroughly.
• Focus on core engineering subjects and mathematical concepts.
• Practice previous years’ question papers and take mock tests online.
• Recommended books include "GATE Made Easy" by G.K. Publications, "GATE Guide" by Arihant, and standard textbooks.
• Utilize online platforms like NPTEL for video lectures and online coaching resources.

FAQs

What is the validity period of GATE scores?

GATE scores are valid for 3 years from the date of announcement of results.

Can final year students apply for GATE?

Yes, final year students of eligible degrees can apply.

Is there any age limit for applying?

No, there is no age limit to appear for GATE.

How many times can one appear for GATE?

There is no limit on the number of attempts.

Is GATE score used for jobs?

Yes, many Public Sector Undertakings recruit candidates based on GATE scores.