Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam Pattern
Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam Pattern
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) Exam Pattern helps candidates understand the structure of the examination, including the number of questions, marking scheme, duration, and types of questions asked in the test.
Candidates searching for the GATE exam pattern usually want details about question format, section-wise distribution, marking scheme, and overall exam structure. This section provides a complete overview of the GATE examination pattern for effective preparation.
Table of Contents
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 100 Marks |
| Total Questions | 65 Questions (Approx.) |
| Sections | General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, Core Subject |
Mode of GATE Examination
GATE is conducted in online computer-based mode across multiple exam centres in India and select international locations. Candidates must answer questions on a computer system at the allotted test centre.
The exam duration is three hours, and candidates must complete all sections within the given time. A virtual calculator is provided on the screen for numerical calculations during the exam.
Types of Questions in GATE
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with four options.
- Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) with one or more correct answers.
- Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions requiring numerical input.
- Questions based on General Aptitude and core subject knowledge.
GATE Marking Scheme
- Total marks for the exam are 100.
- General Aptitude section carries 15 marks.
- Engineering Mathematics carries around 10–15 marks.
- Core subject section carries the remaining marks.
- Negative marking applies for MCQs only.
FAQs on GATE Exam Pattern
Q1: What is the exam pattern of the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering and how is the question paper structured?
GATE exam is conducted in online mode. The paper consists of 65 questions. Total marks are 100. Questions include aptitude and core subjects. Duration of exam is three hours.
Q2: What types of questions are asked in the GATE examination for engineering and science candidates?
GATE includes MCQs, MSQs, and NAT questions. MCQs have four options. MSQs may have multiple correct answers. NAT questions require numerical input. Questions test conceptual understanding.
Q3: Is there negative marking in the GATE exam and how are marks calculated for different question types?
Negative marking applies to MCQs only. No negative marking for NAT and MSQ. Marks vary by question weightage. Correct answers receive full marks. Wrong MCQs deduct marks.
Q4: How much time is given to complete the GATE examination and what is the total mark distribution?
Total exam duration is three hours. The paper carries 100 marks. General aptitude has 15 marks. Core subject has highest weightage. Time must be managed carefully.
Q5: Is the GATE exam conducted online or offline for candidates appearing across different centres?
GATE is conducted in online CBT mode. Candidates take exam on computer. It is held at designated centres. Offline mode is not available. Admit card shows exam centre details.