GATE Exam Guide 2027
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is conducted by IISc and the IITs on a rotating basis, on behalf of the Ministry of Education. It is used for M.Tech and PhD admission, and recruitment by many public sector companies. This guide covers who can apply, how selection works, what is tested and how to prepare.
- Engineering
- Computer-based
GATE at a glance
- Full name
- Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering
- Conducted by
- IISc and the IITs on a rotating basis, on behalf of the Ministry of Education
- Used for
- M.Tech and PhD admission, and recruitment by many public sector companies
- Mode
- Computer-based
- Who can apply
- Final-year students or graduates in engineering, technology, architecture or relevant science disciplines.
- What is tested
- General aptitude plus the chosen discipline paper
How GATE selection works
- 1Online test in a chosen discipline paper
- 2Score card used for admission or PSU shortlisting
- 3Interview or counselling by the receiving institute or company
How to prepare for GATE
- Pick the paper that matches both your degree and your target, then solve previous years' papers by topic.
- Revise core subjects every week; GATE questions test concepts across the whole degree.
- Before you apply, read the latest official notification. Dates, fees, vacancies and cut-offs change every cycle and are not listed here.
Choosing GATE coaching
Coaching helps most when you need structure, regular tests and a peer group. Ask any centre for the batch size, the full fee including GST, a trial class and last year's results with roll numbers.
More engineering exam guides
Frequently asked questions
What is GATE?+−
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is conducted by IISc and the IITs on a rotating basis, on behalf of the Ministry of Education. It is used for M.Tech and PhD admission, and recruitment by many public sector companies.
Who can apply for GATE?+−
Final-year students or graduates in engineering, technology, architecture or relevant science disciplines.
What are the stages of GATE?+−
GATE runs in 3 stages: 1. Online test in a chosen discipline paper; 2. Score card used for admission or PSU shortlisting; 3. Interview or counselling by the receiving institute or company.
What does GATE test?+−
GATE covers General aptitude plus the chosen discipline paper.
Are the dates and fees for GATE on this page?+−
No. Dates, fees, vacancies and cut-offs change each cycle, so confirm them in the official notification before you apply.