GATE syllabus 2026 is very important before starting the revision of the GATE exam 2026. Covering the syllabus thoroughly not only helps in mastering core concepts but also enables candidates to focus on high-weightage chapters and frequently asked topics.
The GATE exam is a very good option to get into top institutions, government jobs, and advanced career opportunities in engineering and technology. A clear understanding of the GATE syllabus 2026 is very important before starting the revision of the GATE exam 2026.
Covering the syllabus thoroughly not only helps in mastering core concepts but also enables candidates to focus on high-weightage chapters and frequently asked topics. In this article, we will cover the GATE 2026 syllabus, subject-wise topics, important chapters, and chapter-wise weightage.
GATE Syllabus 2026: Subject-wise Breakdown
The GATE 2026 syllabus consists of three main sections:
- General Aptitude (GA) – 15% weightage
- Engineering Mathematics – 10–15% weightage (for most papers)
- Core Subject Paper – 70–75% weightage
General Aptitude (GA):
GA is one of the easiest papers that is common to all the GATE papers. It checks your language skills, logical reasoning, and basic mathematics.
- Verbal Ability: Grammar, sentence completion, word groups, synonyms/antonyms, comprehension.
- Numerical Ability: Arithmetic, percentages, probability, ratios, statistics, algebra, and data interpretation.
Engineering Mathematics:
This part is introduced in the GATE syllabus to check your Mathematical knowledge. The Engineering Mathematics section applies to the streams like Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Science.
These include topics like:
- Linear Algebra (matrices, determinants, eigenvalues/eigenvectors)
- Calculus (limits, continuity, differentiation, integration)
- Differential Equations (first-order, higher-order, linear differential equations)
- Probability and Statistics
- Complex Variables
- Numerical Methods
Core Subject Papers:
This section varies depending on the candidate’s chosen stream. A few examples are:
|
Branch |
Major Topics in Syllabus |
|
Digital Logic, Data Structures and Algorithms, Computer Organization, Operating Systems, DBMS (Databases), Computer Networks, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design |
|
|
Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Engineering Mechanics, Strength of Materials, Theory of Machines, Machine Design, Manufacturing and Production |
|
|
Circuit Theory, Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Control Systems, Power Electronics, Analog and Digital Electronics, Signals and Systems |
|
|
Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Hydrology, and Irrigation |
|
|
Networks, Electronic Devices, Communication Systems, Control Systems, Digital and Analog Circuits, Signals and Systems |
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GATE Syllabus 2026 PDF
The authorities have released the GATE Syllabus 2026 on the official website. You can check and download the subject-wise GATE syllabus from the below given table.
|
GATE Test Paper |
Code |
GATE Test Paper |
Code |
|
AE |
GG |
||
|
AG |
IN |
||
|
AR |
MA |
||
|
BM |
ME |
||
|
BT |
MN |
||
|
CE |
MT |
||
|
CH |
NM |
||
|
CS |
PE |
||
|
CY |
PH |
||
|
DA |
PI |
||
|
EC |
ST |
||
|
EE |
TF |
||
|
ES |
XE |
||
|
EY |
XH |
||
|
GE |
XL |
Most Important Topics in GATE 2026 Syllabus
The GATE 2026 syllabus is very vast and needs a proper strategy to prepare for it. Not all topics carry equal weight. Some of the important topics carry higher weightage than others. According to the previous year's trends, 50–60% of the exam is from these important, high-weightage topics. By practicing and preparing these, you can secure a good score even if the rest of the syllabus is not covered properly. The stream-wise table of important GATE 2026 topics is as follows:
|
Stream |
Important Topics |
|
Computer Science (CSE) |
Data Structures & Algorithms, Computer Networks, DBMS, Operating Systems, Compiler Design, Programming Concepts |
|
Mechanical Engineering (ME) |
Thermodynamics, Theory of Machines, Strength of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, Production Engineering |
|
Electrical Engineering (EE) |
Power Systems, Electrical Machines, Circuit Theory, Control Systems, Power Electronics |
|
Electronics & Communication (ECE) |
Communication Systems, Digital Circuits, Signals and Systems, Electronic Devices, Control Systems |
|
Civil Engineering (CE) |
Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Analysis, Transportation Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Fluid Mechanics |
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What is the Chapter-Wise Weightage for GATE 2026?
According to the GATE 2026 syllabus, knowing the chapter-wise weightage is important for a smart preparation strategy. It will help you to focus on high-weightage topics. Though weightage may vary slightly every year, the past year's trends depict:
|
Stream / Section |
Subject |
Approx. Weightage (%) |
|
General (All Papers) |
General Aptitude |
15 |
|
Engineering Mathematics |
10–15 |
|
|
Core Subject |
70–75 |
|
|
Computer Science (CSE) |
Programming & Data Structures |
12–14 |
|
Algorithms |
8–10 |
|
|
DBMS |
8–10 |
|
|
Computer Networks |
8–10 |
|
|
Operating Systems |
7–8 |
|
|
Compiler Design |
6 |
|
|
Theory of Computation |
6–8 |
|
|
Engineering Mathematics |
12–15 |
|
|
Mechanical Engineering (ME) |
Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer |
12–14 |
|
Strength of Materials |
10 |
|
|
Theory of Machines |
8–10 |
|
|
Fluid Mechanics |
8–10 |
|
|
Production & Industrial |
12–14 |
|
|
Engineering Mathematics |
10–12 |
|
|
Electrical Engineering (EE) |
Power Systems |
10–12 |
|
Electrical Machines |
10–12 |
|
|
Circuit Theory |
8–10 |
|
|
Control Systems |
8–10 |
|
|
Power Electronics |
8–10 |
|
|
Engineering Mathematics |
12–14 |
How to Start Preparing for GATE 2026?
The GATE 2026 syllabus is very vast, but you need to strategize and plan your preparation. Preparation should ideally start at least 8–10 months before the exam. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Download the official syllabus, rule out the core topics, and common topics.
- Step 2: Create a Realistic Study Plan: Dedicate 3–4 hours daily, divide the syllabus into monthly targets, and dedicate the last 2-3 months for revision.
- Step 3: Build Strong Conceptual Clarity: Use standard textbooks for concept clearing, and take help from B.Tech notes.
- Step 4: Practice Regularly: Solve numerical questions daily, attempt previous year question papers.
- Step 5: Mock Tests and Analysis: Take sectional and full-length mock tests regularly, and identify mistakes.
- Step 6: Revise Effectively: Prepare short notes and formula sheets, and revise important concepts multiple times.
- Step 7: Maintain Consistency: Balance core subjects with aptitude and maths, and avoid skipping the topics completely.
The GATE syllabus 2026 is comprehensive, covering General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, and core subject papers. While the GATE 2026 syllabus is very lengthy, you can still ace your preparation game by understanding a subject-wise breakdown, prioritizing important topics, focusing on high-weightage chapters, and following a disciplined study plan. Once the GATE 2026 exam is cleared with good marks, it will open the gates for many good opportunities. So, strategize your plan effectively.
-
GATE 2026 syllabus has 3 key sections. -
General Aptitude (GA) accounts for 15% weightage. -
Core Subject Papers carry 70–75% weightage. -
Start GATE prep 8–10 months before the exam.
