What is GATE?
So, who is eligible for it?
When is it held? When do I apply?
How is it held?
Where are GATE scores accepted?
Can I apply for a job using my GATE scores?
How do I know how good is my GATE score?
What is its syllabus?
GATE Mathematics
How many streams of engineering does it cover?
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is an annual exam, jointly conducted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). For example, the GATE 2017 (which recently released its scores) was organised by IIT Roorkee, while the 2016 edition was organized by the IISc. For every student looking to do a M.E or M.Tech or PhD, this is the entrance exam.
So, who is eligible for it?
If you're in the last year of, or if you have completed your B.Tech/ B.E/ B.Pharm/ B. Architecture, you're eligible for it. Completed your Diploma/ B.Sc? You're eligible too. Also, your scores will stand for 3 years. Plenty of time to decide.
When is it held? When do I apply?
Usually, held between January-February. By September-October, the official site for GATE applications goes online; you fill up your details, upload your photo and sign on it, and submit. Between December-January, your GATE exam admit cards will be available on the site for download.
How is it held?
Online. Some questions will require you to key in the numerical answers. The others will all be Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). You will also be getting a virtual calculator. A 3 hour long test, it will be.
Where are GATE scores accepted?
Many, many places. Of course, the IISc and the IITs accept these scores, along with the National Institutes of Technology (NITs). But also, private colleges across India will accept your GATE scores. Not only that; even foreign institutes in Singapore and Germany will acknowledge your GATE score. This could, however, vary on an university-by-university basis, as does the importance which they give to the score.
Can I apply for a job using my GATE scores?
Surprisingly, yes. Many Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) recruit applicants on the basis of their GATE scores. These include Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, better known as BSNL, ONGC, Nuclear Power Corporation Of India, the Cabinet Secretariat, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), and many others.
How do I know how good is my GATE score?
Yes, the All India Rank is a very good indicator of where you stand, with the top 500 safely being in contention for the IITs and the NITs. But as seen in many online statements by the students themselves, Personal Interviews can also influence your potential institute, especially in the IITs.
What is its syllabus?
Varies from stream to stream. Aptitude and Mathematics is seen in almost all the GATE exams, though the syllabus of it varies.
GATE Mathematics
How many streams of engineering does it cover?
A total of 23. You can look for your stream, but from Aerospace to Petroleum to Biotechnology to Civil to Mining to Electrical, it should have your branch covered.
