How to get into Top IITs with GATE 2025 scorecard: We all know the reputation and prestige the GATE exam holds. Every year, thousands of applicants appear for the exam just with one purpose, and that is either to get into top IITs or NITs or PSU jobs. In this article, we will discuss how you can convert your GATE scores with right strategy to get into top IITs for admission. From GATE marks, to cutoff, to counselling tips, we've got you covered.
How to get into Top IITs with GATE 2025 scorecard: Cracked GATE? Want to convert your GATE scores into your dream IIT seat? Your GATE scorecard is the golden ticket. With the announcement of GATE results and COAP counselling, get complete details on strategically using your GATE scorecard to get into top IITs, such as IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, etc.
Explore colleges based on GATE
Every step matters, from understanding the GATE counselling eligibility criteria to shortlisting IITs and interviews.
Also Read:
Why one should aim for IITs through GATE scores?
Admission to IITs through GATE scores increases your chances to access the following -
- World-class education and research facilities
- High-placement packages and opportunities
- Alumni network
- Strong and collaborative research work
IIT Madras JEE Advanced cutoff 2024 was concluded for different courses such as BTech, Integrated BTech and BS. The cutoff for the General AI category candidates closed at a range of 159 and 10682. During 2023, the cutoff ranks for the same was closed at a range of 148 and 11185. Candidates can check the branch-wise cutoff for both the years in the table below, to get an idea of the change in cutoff:
Those candidates who are aiming for admission to ECE at IIT Ropar cannot avail this course as it was not offered in 2024. However, under the acquired rank of 7000, candidates can opt for Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering Physics, and Chemical Engineering programs. Further, as per the IIT Ropar cutoff 2024 for JEE Advanced, the cutoff rank for aforementioned courses for the General AI category candidates stood at 8836, 10097, and 11365, respectively.
Tips and Hacks to get into Top IITs using your GATE scores
First and foremost, check whether you are eligible for IIT admission or not
To apply for IITs through GATE, candidates must have a bachelor's degree with good academic scores and a valid GATE score of 750+ to get admission to top branches like CS and ECE.
Understand GATE Score vs Rank vs Marks
- The GATE marks is the raw marks evaluated out of 100
- GATE score is normalised out of 1000, which is used for admissions
- GATE rank is the AIR in the respective branch paper.
Also Read:
GATE 2025 Cutoff (Branch-Wise) OUT
| Paper Code | Test Paper | No. Candidates Registered | No. Candidates Appeared | Cut-off (GEN) |
Cut-off (OBC-NCL/EWS) |
Cut-off (SC/ST/PwD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AE | Aerospace Engineering | 7576 | 6009 | 28.9 | 26 | 19.2 |
| AG | Agricultural Engineering | 3095 | 2624 | 25 | 22.5 | 16.6 |
| AR | Architecture and Planning | 10898 | 8501 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| BM | Biomedical Engineering | 2682 | 2165 | 29.2 | 26.2 | 19.4 |
| BT | Biotechnology | 24927 | 20048 | 28 | 25.2 | 18.6 |
| CE | Civil Engineering | 101596 | 79951 | 29.2 | 26.2 | 19.4 |
| CH | Chemical Engineering | 18009 | 14843 | 27.7 | 24.9 | 18.4 |
| CS | Computer Science and Information Technology | 207851 | 170825 | 29.2 | 26.2 | 19.4 |
| CY | Chemistry | 33058 | 25698 | 25 | 22.5 | 16.6 |
| DA | Data Science and Artificial Intelligence | 75854 | 57054 | 29 | 26.1 | 19.3 |
| EC | Electronics and Communication Engineering | 97394 | 81475 | 25 | 22.5 | 16.6 |
| EE | Electrical Engineering | 83355 | 67701 | 25 | 22.5 | 16.6 |
| ES | Environmental Science and Engineering | 9073 | 6631 | 26.1 | 23.4 | 17.4 |
| EY | Ecology and Evolution | 3509 | 2713 | 39.5 | 35.5 | 26.3 |
| GE | Geomatics Engineering | 3616 | 2726 | 25.7 | 23.1 | 17.1 |
| GG1 | Geology and Geophysics (Geology) | 6837 | 5352 | 38.4 | 34.5 | 25.5 |
| GG2 | Geology and Geophysics (Geophysics) | 917 | 684 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| IN | Instrumentation Engineering | 14680 | 11935 | 25.6 | 23 | 17 |
| MA | Mathematics | 16953 | 13171 | 25 | 22.5 | 16.6 |
| ME | Mechanical Engineering | 79830 | 62015 | 35.8 | 32.2 | 23.8 |
| MN | Mining Engineering | 8881 | 7438 | 30.6 | 27.5 | 20.4 |
| MT | Metallurgical Engineering | 4420 | 3571 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| NM | Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering | 538 | 395 | 25.1 | 22.5 | 16.7 |
| PE | Petroleum Engineering | 1731 | 1320 | 31.1 | 27.9 | 20.7 |
| PH | Physics | 24747 | 19225 | 26.8 | 24.1 | 17.8 |
| PI | Production and Industrial Engineering | 4791 | 3547 | 35.6 | 32 | 23.7 |
| ST | Statistics | 3063 | 1967 | 30.2 | 27.1 | 20.1 |
| TF | Textile Engineering and Fibre Science | 2355 | 1889 | 34.7 | 31.2 | 23.1 |
| XE | Engineering Sciences | 14937 | 11156 | 35.4 | 31.8 | 23.5 |
| XH-C1 | Humanities and Social Sciences (Economics) | 4161 | 2973 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| XH-C2 | Humanities and Social Sciences (English) | 5665 | 4132 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| XH-C3 | Humanities and Social Sciences (Linguistics) | 378 | 297 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| XH-C4 | Humanities and Social Sciences (Philosophy) | 702 | 531 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| XH-C5 | Humanities and Social Sciences (Psychology) | 5709 | 4125 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| XH-C6 | Humanities and Social Sciences (Sociology) | 2147 | 1546 | 40 | 36 | 26.6 |
| XL | Life Sciences | 50084 | 41086 | 31.3 | 28.1 | 20.8 |
| TOTAL | 936019 | 747319 |
Go through the last five year's GATE cutoff trends
Go through the last year's cutoff trends (5 years) to see what GATE scores allow branches (based on their category). Candidates can check an approx data of the cutoff scores accepted every year.
IIT Madras BTech cutoff 2025 has been released for Round 1, wherein, B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering is the most competitive specialsiation with a closing rank of 171 for the General AII India category students. The least competitive course is B.Tech. in Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering with a cutoff rank of 6926. So, candidates seeking admission to any of the BTech course must secure a rank upto 171 to be eligible for IIT Madras
IIT Madras admissio to the BTech course is based on JEE Advanced scores, followed by JoSAA counselling process.
Opening and Closing rank depends on the category and quota of candidates. For General category under All India, opening rank was 5214 and closing rank was 5555. Cut offs are different when it comes to other categories or female candidates and even domicile of home state. In All India, opening and closing rank for female candidates was 9985 and 9985. Admission to the BTech in Mathematics and Computing Engineering in IIT Goa - Indian Institute of Technology is based on the scores obtained in the entrance exam JEE. Applicants are advised to confirm what category they are applying for while checking for cut offs.
The opening and closing rank depends on the category and quota of candidates. For general category under All India, opening rank was 13974 and closing rank was 16658. Cut off are differant when it comes to other categories or female candidates and even domicile of home state. Admission to B.Tech. in Civil Engineering in IIT Tirupati is based on the scores obtained in the entrance exam JEE Advanced. Applicants are advised to confirm what category are they applying while checking for cut offs.
| Reputable IITs |
Branch |
GATE score (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| IIT Madras |
ME |
700+ |
| IIT Delhi |
EE |
720+ |
| IIT Kanpur |
EC |
730+ |
| IIT Bombay |
CS |
750+ |
Candidates must note that every IIT has different GATE cutoff criteria and admission selection processes. Also, the GATE cutoff marks vary yearly depending on the exam difficulty, seat availability, and number of applicants who appeared and qualified. Therefore, it is essential to go through the instructions and guidelines carefully.
Also Read:
GATE COAP 2025 Counselling Dates OUT
| Round No | Time window for candidates to view offers and take a decision |
Accept & Freeze | Retain & Wait | Reject & Wait |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | May 17 (10:00 AM) to May 20 (09:00 AM) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Round 2 | May 23 (10:00 AM) to May 26 (09:00 AM) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Round 3 | May 29 (10:00 AM) to June 02 (09:00 AM) | Yes | Yes/No | Yes |
| Round 4 | June 05 (10:00 AM) to June 08 (09:00 AM) | Yes | Yes/No | Yes |
| Round 5 | June 11 (10:00 AM) to June 14 (09:00 AM) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Round 6 | June 17 (10:00 AM) to June 20 (09:00 AM) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Round 7 | June 23 (10:00 AM) to June 26 (09:00 AM) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Round 8 | June 29 (10:00 AM) to July 01 (09:00 AM) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Round 9 | July 04 (10:00 AM) to July 06 (09:00 AM) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Round 10 | July 09 (10:00 AM) to July 10 (06:00 PM) | Yes | No | Yes |
How to get into Top IITs with GATE 2025 scorecard: Register at COAP Portal
COAP portal is used for admissions to IITs through GATE scores. This year, IISc Bangalore conducted the COAP counselling 2025. Registrations began from May 17 onwards. The steps to register can be checked below
- First candidate has to visit the official website and register themselves to generate a COAP ID.
- Enter their GATE and scorecard details and once the counselling process starts, the applicants have to fill out the choices
- Lock within the deadlines.
Note: COAP does not make offers; it is a platform through which you can view and accept offers from participating institutes.
Students can also apply individually
Each IIT open the registration window separately. Candidates have to visit the IIT they want to apply for and register themselves by uploading the GATE scorecard and other documents and details. The results will be updated on the COAP portal.
Prepare for GDs and Personal Interviews
While most IITs offer direct admission based on GATE scores, some IITs may conduct:
- Technical interviews
- Departmental written tests
- SOP (Statement of Purpose) evaluation
Have a Backup Plan with NITs and IIITs
If you did not meet the GATE cutoff for IITs, then have a backup plan. Shortlist colleges (NITs) and IIITs for your desired branch/discipline. For NITs and IIITs, CCMT counselling participation is required. The counselling process will be held in phases and the mode is online.
Also Read:
How to get into Top IITs using GATE 2025 Scores: Tips to Research Smartly
Here are some tips that candidates can follow to secure a seat in their dream college -
- Keep a list of the IITs you want to apply for.
- Check their placement packages and research work areas.
- Go through the cutoff trends (of your desired branch)
To get into top IITs using GATE scores, smart research and hardwork is important. All the best!

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Student Forum
Answered 2 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
Admit Card - 2 Jan '26
No doubt, 2000 rank is a decent rank in JEE Advanced exam. Candidates securing this much of rank will surely get selection at IIT Hyderabad. However, for top courses like CSE and AI, they need to secure lesser than that. As per IIT Hyderabad JEE Advanced cutoff 2024, the required rank stood between 656 and 9551, wherein, the most sought-after course was BTech in CSE. Candidates can check out below the courses available under 2000 rank at IIT Hyderabad for the General AI quota: