Table of Contents
Introduction:
The GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) Entrance Test is a highly sought-after examination in India for aspiring engineers and researchers. Conducted jointly by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and seven Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), GATE serves as a pathway to postgraduate programs, scholarships, and lucrative career opportunities. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key aspects of the GATE Entrance Test, including exam dates, validity, admission processes, exam pattern and syllabus, GATE for PhD, previous year papers, exam fees, success rates, and more.
GATE Exam Full Form:
GATE, the acronym for Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, is an all-India examination conducted jointly by IISc and IITs. This highly competitive exam assesses the comprehensive understanding of undergraduate engineering subjects and is a prominent benchmark for technical competency.
Exam Dates and Validity:
The GATE Entrance Test is conducted once a year, usually in February. The examination spans multiple days and is conducted in online mode. It is crucial to stay updated with the official GATE website for the exact exam dates and notifications. The validity of the GATE scorecard is three years, opening up a wide range of opportunities for candidates seeking admission to master’s and doctoral programs.
GATE 2024 Exam Date
| Activity | Date |
| Online application process opens | August 2023 |
| Closing date of REGULAR online registration/application process | October 2023 |
| Closing date of EXTENDED online registration/application process | October 2023 |
| Modifications in GATE 2024 application | November 2023 |
| Availability of GATE admit cards for download | January 2024 |
| GATE 2024 examinations | 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th February 2024 |
| Candidate’s response available in application portal | February 2024 |
| Answer keys available on application portal | February 2024 |
| Submission of challenges by candidates on answer keys | 22nd to 25th February 2024 |
| Announcement of results for GATE 2024 | 16th March 2024 |
| Availability of score card for download by candidates | 21st March 2024 |
GATE 2024 Registration
GATE 2024 registration is expected to start on 30th August 2023. The regular registration is predicted to be open till 30th September 2023. However, the authorities may extend the regular registration date till 4th October 2023 (without a late fee). The registration payment will be in online mode only. Candidates will be allowed to apply for GATE 2024 registration for an extended period by paying a late fee.
The following steps will walk you through the registration process.
- Go to the official website, then click on GOAPS Portal
- Fill in the candidate’s name (as per valid ID proof)
- Provide a valid email ID
- Provide country of residence
- Enter mobile number
- Enter password
Once your registration is successfully done, you will be provided with an enrolment ID. Note that in order to pay the application fees, candidates need to verify either their mobile number or email ID. The verification is done by sending OTP (One Time Password) to your email ID and mobile number.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus:
GATE 2024 Exam Pattern – Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
| Examination Mode | Computer Based Test (Online) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Number of Papers in GATE 2024 | 29 Papers |
| Section | General Aptitude (GA)Candidate Selected Subject |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions |
| Design of Questions | The questions are designed to test the listed abilities Application Analysis Comprehension Recall Synthesis |
| Number of Questions | 65 Questions (including 10 questions from General Aptitude) |
| Distribution of Questions in all Papers except AR, CY, EY, GG, MA, PH, and XL | Engineering Mathematics – 13 Marks Subject Questions – 72 Marks General Aptitude – 15 Marks |
| Distribution of Questions in AR, CY, EY, GG, MA, PH, XH, and XL | Questions from Subject Concerned – 85 Marks General Aptitude – 15 Marks |
| Total Marks | 100 Marks |
| Marking Scheme | All of the questions will be worth 1 or 2 marks |
| GATE Negative Marking | Two types of MCQs: MCQs – 1 mark for each correct answer; 1/3 mark will be deducted for every wrong answer. MCQs – 2 marks for each correct answer; 2/3 marks will be deducted for every incorrect response. There are no negative marking for Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions NO negative marking for MSQ & NAT. |
GATE 2024 Exam Syllabus
- Aerospace Engineering
- Agricultural Engineering
- Architecture and Planning.
- Biotechnology
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science and Information Technolog
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Chemistry
- Ecology and Evolution
- Mathematics
- Instrumentation Engineering
- Geology and Geophysics
- Geomatics Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Physics
- Engineering Mining Engineering
- Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Statistics.
- Environmental Science and Engineering
- Production and Industrial Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Textile Engineering and Fibre Science.
- Engineering Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- life science syllabus
- mechanical syllabus
Colleges in India that accept the GATE Entrance Test
- Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): These prestigious institutions offer various postgraduate programs, including M.Tech, MS, and Ph.D. programs, and consider GATE scores for admissions.
- National Institutes of Technology (NITs): NITs are renowned engineering institutes that accept GATE scores for admissions into their M.Tech programs.
- Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs): These institutes offer integrated Ph.D. programs and consider GATE scores for admissions in relevant disciplines.
- Indian Statistical Institutes (ISIs): ISIs accept GATE scores for admissions to their M.Tech programs in areas like Computer Science, Quality, Reliability, and Operations Research.
- Central Universities: Many central universities across India, such as Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and University of Hyderabad, accept GATE scores for admissions to their postgraduate programs.
- State Government Colleges: Various state government engineering colleges in different states of India consider GATE scores for admissions into their M.Tech and other postgraduate programs.
- Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs): Some PSUs, such as Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), and National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), recruit candidates based on their GATE scores.
GATE Exam for PhD:
Apart from serving as a gateway to master’s programs, GATE scores are also widely accepted for admission into doctoral (PhD) programs in prestigious institutions. Many universities and research organizations in India consider GATE scores as a primary criterion for PhD admissions. Aspiring researchers can leverage their GATE scores to secure admission into renowned institutes and pursue advanced studies in their chosen field.
Previous Year Papers and Exam Fees:
To excel in the GATE Entrance Test, practicing previous year question papers is immensely beneficial. Solving these papers provides insight into the exam pattern, helps identify important topics, and aids in time management. You can find previous year papers on the official GATE website or various online platforms dedicated to GATE preparation. Additionally, it is essential to keep track of the exam fees and payment deadlines mentioned on the official website to complete the registration process smoothly.
Success Rate in GATE Entrance Test:
The GATE Entrance Test witnesses fierce competition, with lakhs of aspirants vying for limited seats in prestigious institutions. The success rate in GATE varies across disciplines, with some branches having higher competition than others. It is crucial to approach the exam with meticulous planning, dedicated preparation, and a strong foundation in core subjects to increase your chances of success.
The following is a table which has the number of students appearing for GATE exam yearly, the number of registering students and number of qualifying students.
| Year | Total number of registered candidates | Candidates appeared for the examination | Total number of qualified candidates |
| 2022 | 8,45,432 | 5,97,030 | 1,12,678 |
| 2021 | 8,82,684 | 7,11,542 | 1,26,813 |
| 2020 | 8,58,000 | 6,85,000 | 1,28,780 |
| 2019 | 9,27,616 | 7,79,632 | – |
| 2018 | 9,34,461 | 7,81,864 | 1,32,245 |
| 2017 | 9,22,167 | 7,87,148 | 1,29,149 |
Conclusion:
The GATE Entrance Test holds immense significance for engineering graduates and researchers in India. It serves as a stepping stone to higher education, research opportunities, and rewarding career prospects. By thoroughly understanding the exam pattern, staying updated with exam dates, and preparing diligently, you can unlock the doors to academic excellence and professional growth.
✨ FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) ✨
1. Can I apply for GATE if I am in the final year of my undergraduate degree?
Absolutely! Final year students are eligible to apply for the GATE Entrance Test. However, they must provide proof of their qualification during the admission process.
2. Are there any age restrictions to appear for the GATE Exam?
No, there are no age restrictions for the GATE Exam. As long as you meet the educational qualifications, you can apply regardless of your age.
3. Can I appear for the GATE Exam in a different discipline than my undergraduate degree?
Yes, you can. GATE allows candidates to choose any discipline as per their interest and eligibility. It provides a great opportunity to explore different fields of study.
4. How can I access previous year GATE question papers for practice?
You can find previous year GATE question papers on the official GATE website or various online platforms dedicated to GATE preparation. These papers are valuable resources for enhancing your exam preparation.
5. Is the GATE scorecard accepted by international universities?
Some international universities recognize the GATE scorecard for admission to their postgraduate programs. However, it is advisable to check the specific requirements and criteria of the universities you are interested in. Remember, the GATE Entrance Test is not just an exam but a gateway to a world of opportunities. Prepare diligently, stay motivated, and unlock your potential to excel in this prestigious examination. All the best!