GATE 2026 Preparation: 80% of aspirants choose self-study over coaching, reveals Shiksha Poll
Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering 2025 ( GATE )
Admit Card - 2 Jan '26
GATE 2026 Preparation: If you are appearing for GATE this year and thinking about how other are preparing? Want to have an idea about their revision and preparation strategy, then you've come at right place. Recently, Shiksha, conducted a poll asking about how aspirants GATE 2026 preparation is going. Read below to know more
IIT Guwahati has officially started GATE 2026 admissions and regsitrations are over. The GATE exam dates are scheduled for February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. As students are preparing for GATE exam, around 80% of students have chosen self-according to a recent poll by Shiksha. Scroll down below to know more.
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GATE 2026 Preparation Poll Results at a Glance
These figures highlight GATE aspirants mindset and their zeal to achieve AIR rank in GATE. Let's get into it -
Why GATE Aspirants are choosing self-study?
According to the GATE Shiksha poll- around 80% of candidates have chosen self-study. Now, that's a huge pool of candidates and can be because of the following reasons -
- Availability of online GATE resources and study materials for free. In addition, GATE authorities provide official question papers for students to practice.
- With self-study, students can prepare as per their convenience and revise anytime they want.
- Now let's talk about money, coaching for GATE can be expensive and not all can afford it. Therefore, self-study can reduce that burden and allow students to prepare and understand concepts on their own.
- Another major aspect is that, many communities and forums on the Internet allow students to clear their doubts and help each other out.
3% Rely on Coaching: What does these numbers say?
The GATE marks is the actual marks obtained by the candidate. It is calculated out of 100. On the other hand, the GATE scores is calculated out of 1000 using a formula of GATE normalisation process. The GATE result will be released on March 19.
Though it's a small number, yet some students choose coaching due to its structured preparation module, mock tests, mentorship, etc. Opting for coaching can be really helpful for those who want discipline in their preparation.
4% Prefer a Mix of Both - Coaching and Self-Study
This pool of students want best of both worlds. With coaching and guidance for tough subjects and blending with GATE 2026 self-study, revision, and mock test attempts.
12% Are Yet to Start
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If you fall under this group, then no need to worry. There's still time to build a smart strategy. Let's have a look at it -
- First go through GATE 2026 syllabus and exam pattern
- Focus on concepts and high-weigtage topics
- Attempt mock tests and solve GATE old question papers daily
Self-Study Tips from GATE Toppers
Recommended by GATE toppers, here's a smart self-study tips for GATE preparation 2026 -
- Go through the standard books, text books, lecture notes, and refer to one or two reference books for practice.
- Practice GATE previous years question paper as many times as possible.
- Attempt mock tests regularly to build concepts and accuracy.
- Make short notes of formula, terms and concepts. The GATE revision notes are gold during the revision period.
- Stay consistent with your routine.
📚GATE 2026 Preparation: 90-Days Crash Plan
| Timeline | GATE 2026 Preparation Strategies |
|---|---|
| Month 1 (November to December) | Start with 2 chapters per week with notes and video tutorials. Solve previous years question papers after covering each topic. Take chapter-wise mock test to stay acquainted with pattern. |
| Month 2 (January) | Take 2 to 3 full-length mock tests per week and continue revising formulas and concepts |
| Final month (February) | Revise daily, avoid starting any new topic, and maintain a healthy routine |
Also read:
- GATE CS preparation tips: Why topics like DSA and CN are hot topics in students' communities
- GATE's most underrated branches that can lead to exciting and high-paying careers: IITs, cutoff, and more
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 3 weeks ago
The GATE exam is conducted once a year. The entrance test takes place on multiple dates and shifts for 30 test papers. For 2026, IIT Guwahati is conducting the exam on February 7, 8, 14, and 15.
S
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Yes, IIT Guwahati has extended the GATE 2026 registration date with late fees. The new GATE 2026 registration date is October 13.
S
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
If you notice an error or discrepancy after submitting your GATE form, don't panic. Once the application correction window opens, log in via GOAPS using your credentials and make the corrections. Details like category, gender, exam city, paper choice, date of birth, etc., can often be edited — usual
D
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 2 months ago
The GATE cutoff changes every year depending on seat intake, number of applicants appeared in exam, toughness of question paper, and previous cutoff trends. Candidates who meet cutoff score can participate for counselling.
I
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Based on the previous year's trends, the GATE 2026 expected cutoff for computer Science and engineering can be checked below-
- For General category it might go around 30 to 31.0
However, the GATE cutoff varies every year, depending on the difficulty level, number of applicants appearing for the exam,
U
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
No, a duplicate GATE 2026 admit card will not be provided at the test center. Candidates must carry their own admit card along with the mentioned documents and items to the GATE exam center. IIT Guwahati will release the GATE admit card on January 2.
P
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates will get only one scribble pad at a time. They must write their name and registration number before using it. If the rough sheet gets filled, then they can ask for another one scribble pad after returning the previous one to the invigilator. After the exam concludes, candidates must retur
B
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, candidates will get a scribble pad in the GATE exam 2026 to do the rough work. Candidates have to write their name and registration number on the scribble pad before using it. However, the rough sheet must be returned after the completion of the exam.
S
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
The barcode present in the GATE admit card 2026 carries the candidate's information. It is required for a faster verification process and fraud prevention. So, make sure it does not get tampered. Carry multiple copies in case your GATE 2026 hall ticket is torn or tampered.
T
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates who are appearing for the GATE exam must carry a valid ID proof along with a passport-size photograph, transperant water bottle, and pen (blue or black) along with GATE 2026 hall ticket. We advise to carry atleast two to three copies of admit card to the centre.
A
Contributor-Level 7
This year, IIT Guwahati is conducting the GATE 2026 exam. IIT Guwahati conducted the GATE exam in 2018. Based on the GATE 2018 and past year paper format, the GATE 2026 is expected to be moderately difficult. The question paper is expected to have higher weightage on concept-based questions, blending numerical and practical analysis. Candidates are advised to practice the previous year's question paper as many times as possible to understand the difficulty level of the question paper.