How to Prepare for GATE 2026 in 6 months- With GATE 2026 all set for next year, aspirants are now preparing for the exam. The GATE 2026 syllabus PDF can be accessed on the official website of GATE for better knowledge of the exam demand. Likewise there will be other relevant information available as well such as the exam date and eligibility criteria. Once you have familiarized yourself with the syllabus, you can begin your preparation by using recommended books and study materials. Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a highly competitive exam that provides access to various postgraduate courses and opportunities in the fields of engineering and science.
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The GATE examination is taken by nearly 10 lakh candidates each year, with the goal of securing admission to PG engineering courses or PSU recruitment through GATE . The exam is highly competitive, as the number of applicants far exceeds the available seats for higher education and PSU recruitment through GATE. GATE assesses the comprehensive and analytical understanding of undergraduate engineering and science subjects. To qualify for the GATE exam, students must have a conceptual understanding and in-depth knowledge of the basic principles from each subject and topic. Additionally, dedication and determination are essential to succeed in the exam. Students are advised to use the best books for GATE preparation to maximize their chances of success. The GATE exam is conducted for a total of 30 subjects, and each subject has a different minimum qualifying mark. Students who pass the exam can use their score for three years from the date of the GATE result announcement.
Also read:
| GATE exam pattern for physics | GATE Biotechnology Engineering Exam Pattern |
| GATE exam pattern for ECE | GATE exam pattern for chemistry |
| GATE Mathematics Exam Pattern | GATE Aerospace Engineering Exam Pattern |
Particulars | Details |
Negative Marking Scheme | Two types of MCQs:
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Conducting Institute | IISc Bangalore |
Mode of application | Online |
Eligibility | Graduate in engineering/post graduate in science |
Mode of exam | Online |
Duration of exam | 3 hours |
Total number of questions | 65 |
Type of questions | MCQs,MSQ & NAT |
Below students are provided with some tips and suggestions based on tips and suggestions as recommended by previous year toppers, coaching institutes and various subject experts for how to prepare for GATE 2026 in 6 months.
It is advised that students refer to the previous year question papers to understand the exam's difficulty level, pattern, and topics' weightage. Students should refer to question papers from the last 10 years to strategize their GATE preparation plan in 6 months.
It is essential for students to have a clear understanding of the GATE syllabus and exam pattern. The official syllabus of GATE is released by the organising institute. The syllabus comprises subjects and topics taught at the graduate level programs in engineering. Students must identify the important topics, allocate more time to topics that are challenging, and focus on topics that are covered in their undergraduate syllabus.
Students must also be aware of the GATE exam pattern. The exam paper will consist of 65 MCQ questions for a duration of 3 hours. GATE exam is conducted for total marks 100 Marks. GATE negative marking is deducted for MCQs .
To achieve the best results in GATE, it is important for students to select best study material for GATE preparation. The best books for GATE preparation in 6 months should have easy-to-understand language, lots of examples to clarify topics, and cover the complete syllabus. Additionally, students can utilise online e-books as a source of information since they have limited time available for preparation.
Regularity in studies with complete dedication and determination is essential to crack the exam. Students should make a timetable, allocate proper time to every topic covered in the exam, learn basic concepts of every topic, solve more numerical questions, and avoid rote learning. Students should also make separate short notes for important topics and formulas to study and revise whenever they get time.
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Revising topics is crucial because if students do not revise what they have studied, they may not be able to recall them at the time of the test. It is recommended that students revise every day before going to bed and first thing in the morning before beginning to study a new topic. Solving mock tests regularly is also important to have an understanding of their preparation level.
Check :- GATE Mock Test
Motivation is crucial to keep going on a journey. Students must stay motivated, keep preparing for the exam, and not give up. Watching interviews of previous year GATE toppers, motivational videos, and interviews on previous year GATE toppers who have done great in life can help students stay motivated.
To prepare for GATE 2026 in 6 months:
Yes, GATE 2026 will likely have multiple sessions (morning and afternoon) on each exam day.
Yes, six months are enough to crack the GATE exam for CSE students. Candidates with adequate knowledge of all disciplines included in GATE, can easily crack the exam in 6 months. They need to understand the GATE syllabus for CSE first.
There is no age limit for appearing in the GATE 2026 exam. Candidates from any age group can apply as long as they meet the other eligibility criteria.
Counselling Date:15 July,2025 - 27 July,2025
Others:11 August,2025 - 11 August,2025
GATE Textile Fiber (TF) focuses on subjects like textile technology, fiber science, yarn & fabric manufacturing, and finishing. The exam includes 65 questions—10 from General Aptitude and 55 from core TF subjects.
Total marks are 100, and the duration is 3 hours. It opens opportunities in PSUs, research, and M.Tech/M.E. admissions in textile-related fields.
Preparing from NITRA books, IIT Delhi lecture notes, and past papers is highly recommended.
Hi ,
It’s great that you're exploring interdisciplinary options like Environmental Engineering at IIT Delhi. The eligibility for MTech programs at IITs usually depends on the specific department requirements. Since your background is in Computer Science and you're planning to apply with a GATE score in Environmental Science and Engineering , it's important to note that IIT Delhi’s Civil Engineering department generally prefers students with core branches such as Civil, Chemical, Environmental, or Biotechnology.Some interdisciplinary and research-oriented programs may consider applicants from varied backgrounds if the student shows strong foundational understanding and interest in environmental applications. However, just qualifying the GATE-ES paper doesn’t automatically guarantee eligibility the department’s brochure or admission portal will clarify this.
You should carefully check the admission brochure and contact the department directly for confirmation if needed. Also, keep checking on the shortlisting criteria they usually publish it each year for transparency.
All the best!
Yes, you can take admission in M.Tech Computer Science in IITs or NITs through GATE, even if you have completed your B.Tech in Information Technology and Mathematical Innovation from Cluster Innovation Centre, University of Delhi but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Eligibility depends on GATE paper: You need to appear for the GATE Computer Science paper. If your degree has sufficient CS or IT subjects, you’re eligible for this paper.
Each IIT or NIT has its own criteria: While most IITs or NITs accept related branches like IT, some specific institutes might have particular course requirements. So, check the official brochure of each institute.
Admission is based on GATE score and category: A high GATE score improves your chances, especially for top IITs. You’ll also need to apply through COAP for IITs and CCMT for NITs.
So yes, you're eligible, but always cross-check eligibility criteria of the specific institute during admission time
If you're from Bangladesh and currently studying B.Tech in CSE in India, you can appear for the GATE exam in India itself. You don’t need to go back to Bangladesh to write the exam.
Since you're already studying at an Indian institute, you are considered a foreign national studying in India, and you’re allowed to write GATE just like Indian students. You can apply online, choose your exam center in India, and write it here.
Just make sure to have the required documents ready like your valid ID proof, passport or student visa (if asked), and eligibility proof like your college ID or certificate, Everything else in the GATE process remains the same.
Hello Aspirant,
With a GATE 2025 score of 352 and OBC rank 21421 in CSE it can be probable for M.Tech in CSE or AI at JNTUA (Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur). In the initial rounds it can be challenging as the cutoffs for CSE/AI are usually high, core branches tend to have low cutoffs relative to all other branches and will only get higher in general rounds. If your only applying for CSE and AI only, you might have a foot in the door with later rounds or spot admissions to fill vacancies from those rejected in the initial rounds or those that declined the offer, if they have not confirmed their seats. Again, keep an eye on either CCMT or on at the university level counselling, soon enough it will be quite an academic year!
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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.
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A Loco Pilot operates trains, ensuring safe and timely transport of passengers or goods. Starting as an Assistant Loco Pilot, one can progress to senior roles with experience. The job demands technical knowledge, focus, and adherence to safety protocols. It involves coordination with train staff and may require working long hours under pressure.
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