Quick Overview: The GATE 2026 Information Brochure has been officially published by IIT Guwahati. It includes complete details about exam pattern, eligibility, syllabus, important dates, and application process.
Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national-level exam for admission to postgraduate programs (M.Tech/M.E/PhD) and for recruitment in top PSUs.
Highlights:
30 papers, including new Energy Science (XE-I) section.
One correct option, negative marking: –1/3 for 1-mark, –2/3 for 2-mark
MSQ
One or more correct options, no negative marking
NAT
Numerical answers typed via virtual keypad, no negative marking
Total Questions
65 questions, 100 marks
Calculator
On-screen virtual calculator only
Exam Mode
CBT (Computer Based Test), English only
Papers Per Candidate
Max 2 papers allowed
List of GATE 2026 Papers
Code
Paper Name
AE
Aerospace Engineering
AG
Agricultural Engineering
AR
Architecture and Planning
BM
Biomedical Engineering
BT
Biotechnology
CE
Civil Engineering
CH
Chemical Engineering
CS
Computer Science & IT
CY
Chemistry
DA
Data Science & AI
EC
Electronics & Communication Engineering
EE
Electrical Engineering
ES
Environmental Science & Engineering
EY
Ecology & Evolution
GE
Geomatics Engineering
GG
Geology & Geophysics
IN
Instrumentation Engineering
MA
Mathematics
ME
Mechanical Engineering
MN
Mining Engineering
MT
Metallurgical Engineering
NM
Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering
PE
Petroleum Engineering
PH
Physics
PI
Production & Industrial Engineering
ST
Statistics
TF
Textile Engineering & Fibre Science
XE
Engineering Sciences (includes XE-I Energy Science)
XH
Humanities & Social Sciences
XL
Life Sciences
Eligibility Criteria – GATE 2026
• Candidates in 3rd year or higher of undergraduate programs (Engineering/Technology/Architecture/Science/Commerce/Arts/Humanities) are eligible. • Graduates from any recognized university can apply. • No age restriction for applicants. • Foreign candidates with equivalent qualifications can apply.
Marking Scheme
Question Type
Marks
Negative Marking
MCQ (1 mark)
1
–1/3
MCQ (2 marks)
2
–2/3
MSQ
1 or 2
No negative marking
NAT
1 or 2
No negative marking
Preparation Tips
• Download the official syllabus PDF and prepare topic-wise. • Focus on General Aptitude as it carries 15 marks. • Solve mock tests frequently to boost your speed, accuracy, and confidence for the CBT exam. • Revise formulas and practice numerical problems daily. • Stay updated with official notifications on https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
What is the GATE 2026 Information Brochure? It’s the official document by IIT Guwahati detailing eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, important dates, and guidelines for GATE 2026.
When will GATE 2026 be held? The examination is scheduled for February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, and will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
What is the last date to apply for GATE 2026? Candidates can apply without a late fee until September 25, 2025, and with a late fee up to October 6, 2025.
Can I appear in two GATE papers? Yes, candidates can select up to two papers as per the combination list.
What’s new in GATE 2026? A new Energy Science (XE-I) paper has been introduced under Engineering Sciences (XE).
Is there any age limit for GATE 2026? There is no age restriction for candidates appearing in GATE 2026.
How long is the GATE 2026 score valid? The score will remain valid for three years from the result declaration.
What is the exam mode of GATE 2026? The exam is a Computer Based Test (CBT) and The exam will be conducted entirely in English.
Can international students apply for GATE 2026? Yes, foreign nationals with equivalent qualifications can appear for GATE.
What is the GATE 2026 application fee? For Female/SC/ST/PwD candidates: ₹900; For all others: ₹1800 (Regular).
Is there negative marking in GATE 2026? Yes, only for MCQs. No negative marking for MSQ or NAT.
How many questions are in GATE 2026? There will be 65 questions for 100 marks.
What is the General Aptitude weightage in GATE 2026? General Aptitude carries 15% weightage in every paper.
Can diploma holders apply for GATE 2026? No, only candidates with a recognized undergraduate degree or in their 3rd year or higher can apply.
Where can I download the GATE 2026 syllabus? You can download the subject-wise syllabus PDFs from the official website https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the official GATE 2026 Information Brochure by IIT Guwahati. For the latest information, always visit the official website.
