GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering)

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GATE 2026 Syllabus

GATE 2026 Syllabus

The GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a prestigious national-level exam recognized for entry into postgraduate engineering, science, and research programs, as well as for PSU recruitment. A clear understanding of the GATE 2026 syllabus is essential for targeted and efficient preparation.

Structure of GATE 2026 Syllabus:

The syllabus is organized around three principal sections, though with slight variation between different papers:

  • General Aptitude (GA): Mandatory for all papers (15 marks).
  • Engineering Mathematics: Required in most engineering papers (13–15 marks). Not present for a few, such as Life Sciences (XL) and Humanities (XH).
  • Subject-Specific Topics: Makes up the bulk of the paper (70–72 marks) and varies according to the chosen discipline.

There are 30 individual papers in GATE 2026, each with its tailored syllabus, including both conventional engineering fields and multidisciplinary streams such as Data Science/AI, Humanities, and more.

General Aptitude (GA) Syllabus (Compulsory for All Papers):

Section

Topics Covered

Verbal Aptitude

Grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, verbal logic, and narrative sequencing.

Quantitative Aptitude

Percentages, exponents, ratios, data interpretation (bar/pie charts), number series, geometry.

Analytical Aptitude

Deductive/inductive reasoning, analogy, logical relations.

Spatial Aptitude

Shape transformation (rotation, mirroring, etc.), paper folding/cutting, dimensional patterns.

Engineering Mathematics (Most Papers Except XL, XH):

Common topics include:

  • Linear Algebra:Matrices, system of linear equations, eigenvalues/eigenvectors.
  • Calculus:Limits, continuity, differentiability, maxima/minima, mean value theorem.
  • Differential Equations:Ordinary and partial types.
  • Probability and Statistics:Distributions (binomial, Poisson, normal), mean, median, mode, standard deviation, Bayes’ theorem.
  • Numerical Methods and Vector Calculus (in select papers).

Subject-Wise Syllabus Highlights:

Below is a concise listing for some popular GATE papers. Each has a detailed syllabus available on the official portal or trusted educational sites.

Computer Science and Information Technology (CS)

  • Engineering Mathematics
  • Digital Logic:Boolean algebra, number systems, combinational/sequential circuits.
  • Programming/Data Structures:Arrays, trees, graphs, recursion.
  • Computer Organization:ALU, memory, pipelining.
  • Algorithms:Sorting, searching, dynamic programming, graph algorithms.
  • Theory of Computation:Finite automata, context-free grammars, Turing machines.
  • Compiler Design, Operating Systems, Databases, Computer Networks.

Electronics and Communication Engineering (EC)

  • Engineering Mathematics
  • Networks, Signals & Systems
  • Electronic Devices:Semiconductors, MOSFET, BJT, photodiodes.
  • Analog Circuits, Digital Circuits
  • Communications:Analog/digital, modulation, wireless, coding.

Civil Engineering (CE)

  • Engineering Mathematics
  • Structural, Geotechnical, Water Resources, Environmental, Transportation, and Geomatics Engineering
  • Each section has multiple detailed subtopics.

Other Disciplines:

GATE offers papers in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Humanities, and more. The syllabus for each is comprehensive and tailored. For detailed, paper-specific syllabi (including for new disciplines like Data Science/AI), candidates should review subject-wise PDFs on the official portal or educational resources.

Full List: GATE 2026 Papers

Code

Subject

AE

Aerospace Engineering

AG

Agricultural Engineering

AR

Architecture & Planning

BT

Biotechnology

CE

Civil Engineering

CH

Chemical Engineering

CS

Computer Science and Information Technology

EC

Electronics and Communication Engineering

EE

Electrical Engineering

...

...and 20+ other specialized fields

Candidates are requested to refer to official sources for the complete and updated list.

Key Points and Preparation Tips:

  • Download the official GATE 2026 syllabus PDF from the organizing institute’s site for authoritative coverage (to be released soon).
  • Use the syllabus to create a checklist; cover each topic methodically.
  • Prioritize General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics along with subject-specific content.
  • Syllabus updates, if any, are announced on the official website.

FAQs:

Q1. How many subjects are included in GATE 2026?

Ans. GATE 2026 offers a total of 30 subjects (papers), covering engineering, technology, science, and interdisciplinary areas.

Q2. Is the General Aptitude part compulsory for all papers?

Ans. Yes, the General Aptitude section is mandatory for every paper and carries a weightage of 15 marks.

Q3. Do all papers include Engineering Mathematics?

Ans. No, while most engineering/technology papers have an Engineering Mathematics section, some streams like Life Sciences (XL) and Humanities & Social Sciences (XH) do not.

Q4. Where can one download the detailed GATE 2026 syllabus?

Ans. The detailed syllabus (in PDF) for each paper will be available on the official GATE website and reputable exam preparation websites.

Q5. Are there significant changes in the GATE 2026 syllabus compared to previous years?

Ans. As per current updates, the core structure is consistent with previous years. Any changes or additions (such as new papers) will be officially announced and updated on the organizing institute’s portal.

 

 

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