Careers360 Logo
GATE Exam Pattern for CSE 2025 - Check Marking Scheme, No. of Questions

GATE Exam Pattern for CSE 2025 - Check Marking Scheme, No. of Questions

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Sep 18, 2024 04:54 PM IST | #GATE

GATE exam pattern for CSE 2025: IIT Roorkee released the GATE CSE exam pattern 2025 on the website, gate2025.iitr.ac.in. Candidates can check the GATE exam pattern for CSE to know the marking scheme, mode of exam, duration of test, types of questions, and more. As per the GATE exam pattern, the CSE question paper will comprise 65 questions for 100 marks. Aspirants preparing for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering must follow the GATE exam pattern and syllabus to plan the preparation strategy. IIT Roorkee will conduct the GATE 2025 exam online.
Read More: GATE question paper | GATE mock test

According to the GATE CSE exam pattern 2025, there will be 11 major sections including General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, Digital Logic, Computer Organization, and Architecture, Programming and Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design, Operating System, Databases, and Computer Networks. As per the GATE exam pattern, Computer science and information technology will cover 72 % of the syllabus, whereas Engineering mathematics 13%, and General Aptitude will cover 15% weightage. The GATE CSE question paper pattern 2025 will have three major types of questions including MCQ, MSQ, and NAT. The GATE 2025 exam date has been announced online. Read the article to know more about the GATE exam pattern for CSE, syllabus, and marking scheme.

GATE CSE Exam Pattern 2025 - Highlights

Along with the GATE CSE exam pattern 2025, candidates must know the marking system, mode of exam, and exam patterns. Candidates can check the mentioned GATE CSE 2025 exam pattern:

Particulars

Specifications

GATE CSE Exam Mode

Online CBT (Computer Based Test)

GATE CSE Exam Duration

3 Hours (180 Minutes)

GATE CSE Total No. of Questions

65

GATE CSE No. of Sections

  • General Aptitude

  • Engineering Mathematics

  • Computer science and Information technology

GATE CSE Total marks of Exam

100

GATE CSE Marking Scheme

1 and 2 marks questions

GATE CSE Type of Questions

MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)

MSQ (Multiple Select Questions)

NAT (Numeric Answer Type)

Related links:

Pearson | PTE

Register now for PTE & Unlock 20% OFF : Use promo code: 'CDSPL20'. Limited Period Offer! Trusted by 3,500+ universities globally

GMAT™ Exam

Select test center appointment | Scores valid for 5 Years | Multiple Attempts | Round 1 Applications Closing Soon

GATE CSE Paper Pattern 2025

  • The GATE exam pattern for CSE 2025 will include 3 types of questions MCQ, MSQ, and NAT.

  • For Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) candidates have to select the one correct answer out of four options.

  • For Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) candidates can select more than one correct option out of four options.

  • The numerical Answer Type (NAT) candidate has to enter the correct answer using the virtual numeric keypad on the monitor.

  • There will be negative markings only in MCQ questions. 1/3 mark will be deducted for 1 mark question and for 2 mark question, 2/3 mark will be deducted. There will be no negative markings in MSQ and NAT questions.

  • The GATE exam pattern of CSE is designed to check the recall, comprehension, application, analysis & synthesis abilities of candidates.

  • Candidates have to answer the application & formula-based questions using their recalling ability.

  • There will be diagrams and figures-based questions in the GATE CSE questions papers.

  • There will be some data synthesis and analysis questions. Candidates can solve these questions using analytical and data analysis skills.

GATE 2025 Syllabus
Candidates preparing for GATE 2025 can now access the official syllabus. The detailed syllabus PDF is available for download as PDF here.
Download Now

Also Read: GATE Syllabus for CSE and IT - Check Computer Science and Information Technology Syllabus

GATE CSE Marking Scheme 2025

  • The GATE CSE question paper 2025 will have 65 questions for 100 marks.

  • All the questions will be mandatory to answer.

  • There will be 1 mark and 2 marks for MCQ questions. For each 1 mark incorrect answer; 1/3 mark will be deducted and for each 2 mark incorrect answer 2/3 mark will be deducted.

  • There will be no negative marking in the Numerical Answer Type (NAT) and Multiple Select Questions (MSQ) questions.

OP Jindal Global University Online MBA

Apply for Online MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University

Jain Online Degree Programs

Apply for Online Degree Programs from Jain Online

Check the below table to understand the section-wise distribution of marks for the GATE exam pattern for CSE -

Section

No. of Questions

Marks

Total Marks

General Aptitude

10

(1 x 5 )

(2 x 5)

15

Computer Science and Information Technology

45



(25 x 1)

(30 x 2)

72

Engineering Mathematics

10

13

Total

65


100

Also Read: Gate exam pattern for civil engineering

GATE Syllabus For CSE 2025

GATE 2025 syllabus for CSE pdf will be available online. Knowing the GATE exam syllabus for CSE 2025 will help the candidate to practice the important topics.

Computer Science Engineering SectionsImportant Topics


General Aptitude
  • Verbal Aptitude
  • Quantitative Aptitude
  • Analytical Aptitude
  • Spatial Aptitude



Engineering Mathematics
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Linear Algebra
  • Calculus
  • Probability and Statistics
Digital Logic
  • Boolean algebra
  • Combinational and sequential circuits.
  • Minimization.
  • Number representations and computer arithmetic (fixed and floating point)
Computer Organization and Architecture
  • Machine instructions, and addressing modes.
  • ALU, data path, and control unit.
  • Instruction pipelining, pipeline hazards.
  • Memory hierarchy.
Programming and Data Structures
  • Programming in C.
  • Recursion.
  • Arrays, stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, binary search trees, binary heaps, graphs.
Algorithms
  • Searching, sorting, hashing.
  • Algorithm design techniques: greedy, dynamic programming, and divide‐and‐conquer.
  • Asymptotic worst-case time and space complexity
  • Graph traversals, minimum spanning trees, shortest paths
Theory of Computation
  • Regular expressions and finite automata.
  • Context-free grammars and push-down automata.
  • Regular and context-free languages, pumping lemma.
Compiler Design
  • Lexical analysis, parsing, syntax-directed translation. Runtime environments.
  • Intermediate code generation.
  • Data flow analyses
Operating System

  • System calls, processes, threads, inter‐process communication, concurrency, and synchronization.
  • Memory management and virtual memory.
  • File systems.
Databases ER‐model.
  • Relational model: relational algebra, tuple calculus, SQL
  • Integrity constraints, normal forms.
Computer Network
  • Concept of layering
  • Data link layer
  • Basics of IP support protocols
  • Transport layer

Also Read: Download Free All subjects GATE Previous Year Papers

GATE Books for CSE (Computer Science Engineering)

Book Name

Author

Architecture

Hamacher

Algorithm

Cormen

Operating System

Galvin

TOC - Theory of Computation

Ullman

Related links:

Download GATE 2025 CSE Solved Papers PDF Free

The aspirants looking for GATE CSE solved papers PDF can download free from the Careers360 website. All the previous years' solved questions and answers are available in the form of sample papers. The candidates can download free GATE CSE question papers, mock tests, and practice for GATE Computer Science.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the GATE exam pattern for CSE?

Candidates have to answer the 65 questions in 3 hours. The GATE CSE exam pattern includes three sections namely general aptitude, engineering mathematics, and core subject CSE (Computer science and information technology).  

2. How many papers are there in GATE for CSE?

There will be only one paper in GATE CSE (Computer science and information technology.

3. Is the GATE syllabus for CSE and IT the same?

The GATE 2025 syllabus for Computer Science and Information Technology (CS and IT) comprises questions from aptitude and the subject. The subject is further divided into sections, including Engineering Mathematics, Digital Logic, Computer Organization and Architecture, Programming and Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design, Operating System, Databases, and Computer Networks. Notably, there are a few changes in the GATE 2025 CSE syllabus compared to last year's.

4. Which is the highest weightage topic of GATE CSE?

Discrete Maths, Data Structures, Algorithms, and  Engineering Mathematics are considered as highest marks weightage topics in the GATE CSE exam.

5. How section-wise weightage is divided in the GATE exam pattern for CSE 2025?

There shall be a total of 72 % weightage for the core GATE CSE syllabus, 13% will be engineering mathematics and General Aptitude contains 15% weightage.

6. What is GATE 2025 CSE Computer science Syllabus?

There are 11 sections in the GATE syllabus for CSE including General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, Digital Logic, Computer Organization, and Architecture, Programming and Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design, Operating System, Databases, and  Computer Networks.

7. Is there negative marking in GATE 2025 CSE?

For each 1 mark incorrect answer; 1/3 mark will be deducted and for each 2 mark incorrect answer 2/3 mark will be deducted.

8. What is the total time duration for GATE CSE 2025?

The total time duration for GATE CSE 2025 is three hours.

Articles

Certifications By Top Providers

Explore Top Universities Across Globe

Questions related to GATE

Have a question related to GATE ?

Hello student,

BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications) students are not directly eligible for GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering). GATE primarily requires candidates to have at least a 4-year undergraduate degree in Engineering, Technology, or Architecture . However, students with a Master's degree in relevant fields like Computer Applications or Science (MCA or M.Sc.) are eligible.

So, to be eligible for GATE, a BCA student would first need to complete their MCA (Master of Computer Applications) or any other relevant postgraduate degree. After that, they can appear for GATE to pursue opportunities in areas like higher education, jobs in PSUs, or research.

I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello aspirant,

Candidates can gain insight into key topics covered in the GATE 2025 syllabus, exam difficulty, chapter, and topic-wise weighting of past exam questions by completing GATE ME previous year problems. Prior to completing the GATE 2025 Application form, candidates must review the GATE ME textbooks, syllabus, and format.

To get the papers, please visit the following link:

https://engineering.careers360.com/articles/gate-question-papers

Thank you

Hello aspirant,

The deadline for submitting GATE application forms has been extended by IIT Roorkee. Applicants have until October 3, 2024, to submit their application (no late costs). Applicants can register on the GOAPS portal in order to apply for the master's, doctorate, and PSU programs through GATE 2025. Incomplete applications may still be submitted until October 7, 2024, with a late fee. The online application process includes registering, completing the exam and applicant details, uploading supporting documentation, and paying the application price. On November 6, 2024, following the conclusion of the application event, the GATE 2025 exam application form rectification option will be made available by the authorities.

Thank you

Hello There,

The GATE 2025 syllabus for Computer Science and Information Technology (CS) generally covers a wide range of topics. Here’s a breakdown of the core sections:

1.General Aptitude This section is common to all GATE papers and typically has 15% weightage.

  • Verbal Ability: Grammar, sentence completion, verbal analogies, word groups, critical reasoning, etc.
  • Numerical Ability: Basic mathematics, numerical estimation, data interpretation, etc.

2. Engineering Mathematics This section is crucial for computer science aspirants and usually carries 13% weightage. Topics include:

  • Discrete Mathematics: Propositional and first-order logic, set theory, relations, functions, groups, graph theory, combinatorics.
  • Linear Algebra: Matrices, determinants, systems of linear equations, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors.
  • Calculus: Limits, continuity, differentiation, integration, sequences and series, convergence, Fourier series.
  • Probability: Random variables, distributions, mean, variance, conditional probability, Bayes theorem.

3. Computer Science and Information Technology: This section covers the core concepts of Computer Science. The topics include:

Digital Logic

  • Boolean algebra
  • Combinational and sequential circuits
  • Minimization, logic gates, number representations.

Computer Organization and Architecture

  • Machine instructions, addressing modes, ALU, data path, control unit
  • Pipelining, memory hierarchy, I/O interfaces
  • Cache, virtual memory, instruction pipelining, parallelism.

Programming and Data Structures

  • C, C++, or any other programming languages
  • Arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs
  • Searching, sorting, and hashing.

Algorithms

  • Algorithm design techniques: Greedy, dynamic programming, divide and conquer.
  • Asymptotic analysis, time and space complexity
  • Graph algorithms, minimum spanning trees, shortest paths, flow networks.

Theory of Computation

  • Regular languages, context-free grammars
  • Finite automata, pushdown automata, Turing machines
  • Undecidability, computational complexity (P, NP, NP-complete).

Compiler Design

  • Lexical analysis, syntax analysis, parsing, syntax-directed translation
  • Runtime environments, intermediate code generation, optimization.

Operating Systems:

  • Process, thread, scheduling, concurrency, deadlock
  • Memory management, file systems, virtual memory
  • Disk scheduling, I/O systems.

Databases

  • ER diagrams, relational model, relational algebra
  • SQL, normalization, database transactions, concurrency control
  • Indexing, B-trees, ACID properties, recovery techniques.

Computer Networks

  • OSI and TCP/IP models, LAN, WAN, MAC protocols
  • Routing algorithms, congestion control, TCP/UDP, IP addressing
  • Network security (cryptography, firewalls).

Software Engineering

  • Software process models, software development life cycle
  • Testing, maintenance, software project management.

Web Technologies

  • HTML, XML, JavaScript, web services.

Cloud Computing and Security (if included)

  • Virtualization, cloud platforms, data storage, encryption.

Make sure to refer to the official GATE 2025 brochure or website for any updated syllabus details.

You can also visit the given link for more information. Good Luck!

https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrO6PpmvPlmz9sNXEpXNyoA;_ylu=Y29sbwNncTEEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1728852326/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2fengineering.careers360.com%2farticles%2fgate-syllabus-for-cse-computer-science-engineering/RK=2/RS=wrBI01MIbKzFHvvnd5mfr1jCkzQ-

Hello,

1. UNDERSTAND THE EXAM PATTER-

  • Total Score: 100 marks
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Sections: General Aptitude (15 marks), Engineering Mathematics (depending on the stream), and Subject-specific topics.
  • Question Types: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.

2. PICK UP YOUR STREAM -

Since you're studying civil engineering, focus on the GATE syllabus for Civil Engineering (CE) or the specific stream that interests you.

3. GO THROUGH THE SYLLABUS-

Download the GATE syllabus for your chosen subject. For civil engineering, here’s a rough outline:

  • General Aptitude: Questions on English, Logical Reasoning, and Analytical Ability.
  • Engineering Mathematics
  • Core Subjects: Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation, Water Resources, etc.

4. DEVELOP A STUDY ROUTINE-

  • Daily Hours: Begin with at least 4-6 hours of study per day, and increase this as the exam date approaches.
  • Topic Segmentation: Prioritize covering core subjects, then shift to engineering mathematics and aptitude sections.
  • Revision & Testing: Reserve weekends for reviewing material and taking practice exams. Leave ample time at the end for comprehensive mock exams.

5. STUDY MATERIAL-

  • Books: Refer to standard textbooks. For civil engineering, consider the following:
    • Structural Engineering: "Design of Steel Structures" by S.K. Duggal
    • Geotechnical Engineering: "Soil Mechanics and Foundations" by B.C. Punmia
    • Environmental Engineering: "Water Supply Engineering" by S.K. Garg
  • Online Resources: You can use online learning platforms like NPTEL, Unacademy, GradeUp, or GATE Academy.

6. SOLVE PYQs-

Practice solving the last 10 years' worth of GATE question papers to familiarize yourself with frequently asked questions, topics, and time management strategies.

7. ENROLL IN MOCK TESTS-

Join a GATE mock test series to get accustomed to the actual exam environment. Regular testing will improve your speed and precision.

8. FOCUS ON CORE CONCEPT-

Ensure that you understand the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing answers. GATE emphasizes your ability to apply fundamental knowledge.

9. TRACK GATE UPDATES-

Keep yourself updated with notifications regarding exam dates, application processes, and other important details on the official GATE website.

THANK YOU!! ALL THE BEST!!

Flight Attendant
3 Jobs Available
Aerospace Engineer
2 Jobs Available
Flight Engineer

A career in the aviation industry always sounds exciting. But, there is no scope for the slightest error as it may cost the lives of many people. A Flight Engineer role comes with the responsibility of monitoring the aircraft engine and control systems while in flight. Whenever the aircraft is away from the home station, he or she is required to perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections

2 Jobs Available
Aircrew officer

An aircrew officer or airline commanders fly aircraft to provide transportation to passengers or cargo. The aircrew officer operates the engines of aircraft and controls to navigate and fly the airplane. The ability to learn new technologies every time and to stay up-to-date with the changes in the industry is what the aircrew officer should possess. 

This could be possible through membership with professional pilot associations. The aircrew officer is also one of the highest-paid professionals and the job is quite coveted. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about how to become aircrew officer.

You may also read career as Airline Pilot.

2 Jobs Available
Air Hostess
2 Jobs Available
Aeronautical Engineer

An Aeronautical Engineer job comes with the responsibility of designing aircraft and thrust systems. He or she is employed in aviation, defence or civil aviation industries. Aeronautical Engineer is generally engaged in the design of aircraft and propulsion systems as well as the analysis of building materials and aircraft's aerodynamic performance. The role of an Aeronautical Engineer may involve assembling parts of aircraft, testing and maintaining them. 

2 Jobs Available
Safety Manager

A Safety Manager is a professional responsible for employee’s safety at work. He or she plans, implements and oversees the company’s employee safety. A Safety Manager ensures compliance and adherence to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines.

2 Jobs Available
Airline Pilot

Are you searching for an 'airline pilot job description'? An airline pilot or airline commander flies aircraft and helicopters to provide transportation to passengers or cargo. The airline pilot operates the engines of the aircraft and controls them to navigate and fly the airplane. The ability to learn new technologies every time and to stay up-to-date with the changes in the industry is what aviators should possess. The career as airline pilot is also one of the highest-paid professionals and the job is quite coveted.

1 Jobs Available
Welding Engineer

Welding Engineer Job Description: A Welding Engineer work involves managing welding projects and supervising welding teams. He or she is responsible for reviewing welding procedures, processes and documentation. A career as Welding Engineer involves conducting failure analyses and causes on welding issues. 

5 Jobs Available
Transportation Planner

A career as Transportation Planner requires technical application of science and technology in engineering, particularly the concepts, equipment and technologies involved in the production of products and services. In fields like land use, infrastructure review, ecological standards and street design, he or she considers issues of health, environment and performance. A Transportation Planner assigns resources for implementing and designing programmes. He or she is responsible for assessing needs, preparing plans and forecasts and compliance with regulations.

3 Jobs Available
Environmental Engineer

Individuals who opt for a career as an environmental engineer are construction professionals who utilise the skills and knowledge of biology, soil science, chemistry and the concept of engineering to design and develop projects that serve as solutions to various environmental problems. 

2 Jobs Available
Safety Manager

A Safety Manager is a professional responsible for employee’s safety at work. He or she plans, implements and oversees the company’s employee safety. A Safety Manager ensures compliance and adherence to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines.

2 Jobs Available
Conservation Architect

A Conservation Architect is a professional responsible for conserving and restoring buildings or monuments having a historic value. He or she applies techniques to document and stabilise the object’s state without any further damage. A Conservation Architect restores the monuments and heritage buildings to bring them back to their original state.

2 Jobs Available
Structural Engineer

A Structural Engineer designs buildings, bridges, and other related structures. He or she analyzes the structures and makes sure the structures are strong enough to be used by the people. A career as a Structural Engineer requires working in the construction process. It comes under the civil engineering discipline. A Structure Engineer creates structural models with the help of computer-aided design software. 

2 Jobs Available
Highway Engineer

Highway Engineer Job Description: A Highway Engineer is a civil engineer who specialises in planning and building thousands of miles of roads that support connectivity and allow transportation across the country. He or she ensures that traffic management schemes are effectively planned concerning economic sustainability and successful implementation.

2 Jobs Available
Field Surveyor

Are you searching for a Field Surveyor Job Description? A Field Surveyor is a professional responsible for conducting field surveys for various places or geographical conditions. He or she collects the required data and information as per the instructions given by senior officials. 

2 Jobs Available
Geothermal Engineer

Individuals who opt for a career as geothermal engineers are the professionals involved in the processing of geothermal energy. The responsibilities of geothermal engineers may vary depending on the workplace location. Those who work in fields design facilities to process and distribute geothermal energy. They oversee the functioning of machinery used in the field.

3 Jobs Available
Geologist
2 Jobs Available
Energy Performance Engineer

Energy efficiency engineering is a broad field of engineering which deals with energy efficiency, energy services, facility management, plant engineering, and sustainable energy resources. Energy efficiency engineering is one of the most recent engineering disciplines to emerge. The field combines the knowledge and understanding of physics, chemistry, and mathematics, with economic and environmental engineering practices. The main job of individuals who opt for a career as an energy performance engineer is to find the most efficient and sustainable path to operate buildings and manufacturing processes. 

Individuals who opt for a career as energy performance engineers apply their understanding and knowledge to increase efficiency and further develop renewable sources of energy. The energy efficiency engineers also examine the use of energy in those procedures and suggest the ways in which systems can be improved.

2 Jobs Available
Petroleum Engineer

A career as a Petroleum engineer is concerned with activities related to producing petroleum. These products can be in the form of either crude oil or natural gas. Petroleum engineering also requires the exploration and refinement of petroleum resources. Therefore, a career as a petroleum engineer comes up with oil and gas onshore jobs. There are also desk jobs in the petroleum industry. In layman’s terms, a petroleum engineer is a person who finds the best way to drill and extract oil from oil wells. Individuals who opt for a career as petroleum engineer also tries to find new ways to extract oil in an efficient manner.

2 Jobs Available
Transportation Planner

A career as Transportation Planner requires technical application of science and technology in engineering, particularly the concepts, equipment and technologies involved in the production of products and services. In fields like land use, infrastructure review, ecological standards and street design, he or she considers issues of health, environment and performance. A Transportation Planner assigns resources for implementing and designing programmes. He or she is responsible for assessing needs, preparing plans and forecasts and compliance with regulations.

3 Jobs Available
Civil Engineer

A career as a civil engineer is of great importance for the infrastructural growth of the country. It is one of the most popular professions and there is great professional as well as personal growth in this civil engineering career path. There is job satisfaction in this civil engineering career path, but it also comes with a lot of stress, as there are multiple projects that need to be handled and have to be completed on time. Students should pursue physics, chemistry and mathematics in their 10+2 to become civil engineers. 

2 Jobs Available
Transportation Engineer

A career as a Transportation Engineer is someone who takes care of people's safety. He or she is responsible for designing, planning and constructing a safe and secure transportation system. The transportation sector has seen a huge transformation and is growing day by day and improving every day. 

As a Transport Engineer, he or she needs to solve complex problems such as accidents, costs, traffic flow, and statistics. A Transport Engineer also collaborates for projects with some other companies. 

1 Jobs Available
Loco Pilot
2 Jobs Available
Back to top