Frequently asked questions(FAQ)
What is the GATE exam?
The GATE exam, or Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, is a prestigious and competitive examination conducted at the national level in India. It is used primarily for admission into postgraduate engineering programs (M.Tech, ME, MS, PhD) in top institutes like IITs, NITs, and IISc, and also for recruitment into various Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) such as ONGC, NTPC, IOCL, etc. A valid GATE score is often seen as a symbol of technical excellence.
Who organizes the GATE exam?
GATE is jointly conducted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore and seven Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) located at Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, and Roorkee. The exam is held on a rotational basis each year by one of these institutes.
What is the mode of the GATE exam?
GATE is conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT), which means candidates appear for the exam at a designated test center and answer the questions on a computer. The interface is simple and user-friendly.
What is the structure and duration of the GATE exam?
The GATE exam is of 3 hours duration and consists of 65 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. These questions include a mix of General Aptitude (15 marks), Engineering Mathematics (13 marks for some branches), and Core Subject questions (72 marks).
Who is eligible to appear for the GATE exam?
Any candidate who has completed or is in the final year of their Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Technology, Science, Architecture, Commerce, or Arts is eligible. The eligibility was broadened recently to include humanities students as well.
Is there any age limit to appear for GATE?
No, there is no age limit to take the GATE exam. A candidate can appear at any age, as long as they fulfill the educational qualifications.
Can I appear for multiple papers in GATE?
Yes, GATE now allows candidates to appear in two papers (subjects), provided the combination is allowed by the organizing institute. This opens up more opportunities for interdisciplinary studies or job applications.
What is the validity of the GATE score?
The GATE score remains valid for three years from the date of announcement of the results. This allows candidates to use it for admissions or job applications over multiple years.
Is GATE only for M.Tech admission?
While M.Tech admission is one of the primary reasons for appearing in GATE, the score is also used for PSU recruitment, PhD admissions, research fellowships, and even for admission to foreign universities in countries like Germany and Singapore.
Can students from Arts or Commerce background apply for GATE?
Yes, students from Commerce and Arts streams can now apply for certain subjects like Humanities & Social Sciences (introduced in 2021), Economics, and Psychology.
What types of questions are asked in GATE?
The GATE exam consists of three types of questions:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)
- Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions, where candidates enter numerical values.
Is there any negative marking in GATE?
Yes. MCQs have negative marking:
- For 1-mark MCQs, 1/3 mark is deducted for a wrong answer.
- For 2-mark MCQs, 2/3 mark is deducted.
However, there is no negative marking for NAT or MSQs.
How often is GATE conducted?
GATE is conducted once a year, typically during the first or second weekend of February.
How do I apply for GATE?
Applications for GATE are submitted online through the official GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS). Candidates need to register, fill in personal and academic details, upload documents, and pay the application fee.
What is the application fee for GATE?
The fee varies by category and location. For example:
- General/OBC: ₹1800
- SC/ST/PWD: ₹900
- International Candidates: USD 50–100
Late fees apply if you miss the initial deadline.
Can I change my GATE paper or exam center after submission?
Yes, a correction window is usually provided after form submission. During this period, you can make limited changes, but some may require a fee.
Are calculators allowed in GATE?
Physical calculators are not allowed. Instead, an on-screen virtual scientific calculator is provided during the exam.
Can foreign nationals apply for GATE?
Yes, candidates from countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Ethiopia, UAE, and Singapore can also apply for GATE, provided they meet the academic requirements.
What is the GATE syllabus like?
Each subject has a unique syllabus. The structure includes General Aptitude (common for all), Engineering Mathematics (for most technical papers), and Core Subject questions. The syllabus is officially released every year on the GATE website.
How can I prepare for GATE?
Preparation involves understanding the syllabus, solving previous year papers, taking mock tests, and revising regularly. Many students opt for coaching platforms like Gateflix for structured guidance.
What is Gateflix?
Gateflix is an online self paced learning platform created specifically for GATE aspirants. It offers high-quality lectures, test series, study materials, and mentorship at a very affordable price, making it accessible to students across India.
Who are the faculty members at Gateflix?
Gateflix’s faculty includes experienced educators, GATE toppers, and alumni from premier institutes like IITs and NITs. Their teaching style focuses on conceptual clarity, problem-solving, and exam techniques.
Is Gateflix suitable for beginners in GATE preparation?
Yes, Gateflix is designed for all levels of learners. It starts from basic concepts and builds up to advanced topics with the help of structured modules and doubt-clearing sessions.
Can working professionals use Gateflix?
Absolutely. Since Gateflix provides recorded lectures and flexible schedules, it is very convenient for working professionals or college students with limited time.
What branches does Gateflix support?
Gateflix offers coaching for eight major branches:
- Computer Science (CS)
- Mechanical Engineering (ME)
- Civil Engineering (CE)
- Electrical Engineering (EE)
- Electronics & Communication (EC)
- Instrumentation (IN)
- Chemical Engineering (CH)
- Production & Industrial (PI)
Does Gateflix provide a test series?
Yes. Gateflix offers a comprehensive test series, and full-length mock exams based on the latest GATE pattern and syllabus.
Is Gateflix affordable compared to other coaching platforms?
Yes, one of Gateflix’s core strengths is affordability.
Can I get a free demo before purchasing Gateflix courses?
Yes. Gateflix provides free demo classes so that students can evaluate the teaching quality before subscribing to a full course.