Which IIT sets the toughest GATE Question Paper: Paper Analysis and Preparation Tips

Which IIT sets the toughest GATE question paper: GATE is termed as one of the prestigious national-level entrance examinations that offers admission to postgraduate and research programmes. Qualified candidates are admitted to top institutions, such as IITs, NITs, IISc, IIITs, and GFTIs to pursue higher education. Keeping that aside, many GATE aspirants have this one doubt, before hitting the mock test is that - Which IIT sets the toughest GATE paper? Let’s break down in the article below. 

Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati is conducting the GATE 2026 exam. Registrations are over, correction facility will begin soon at gate2026.iitg.ac.in, and exam dates are out. The GATE 2026 examination will take place on February 7, 8, 14, and 15 in two shifts. Registered candidates must be thinking - “Which IIT sets the toughest GATE paper?”

NOTE: Every year, GATE is conducted by different IITs and IISc on a rotational basis. Each of them has their academic standards and prepares GATE papers accordingly.

So, based on past GATE paper trends, cutoff analysis, GATE paper analysis, and students’ reactions on various platforms and communities, here’s a short analysis on which IIT sets the most difficult GATE paper?

Also read: GATE correction window 2026: expected dates, what to edit, instructions, and fees

Which IIT sets the toughest GATE Question Paper?

The answer to this question is null, as each IITs have its academic standards and format for setting GATE question paper. The GATE exam is known for maintaining a consistent difficulty level for the past 10 to 15 years. This is to maintain uniformity, ensuring fairness among candidates. 

But in the student communities and forums, the response is not the same. Here are some popular aspirants responses regarding the GATE paper difficulty level across communities and groups. 

“IISc Bangalore is known for setting the most difficult GATE papers.” The questions are created as per the research level. 

Many students have also mentioned that IIT Bombay makes the most difficult GATE question paper. As per GATE 2021 paper analysis, the difficulty level was moderate to tough. These IITs strictly concentrate on basics and put out the most tricky and time-consuming questions. 

Key Takeaway - Instead of worrying about which IIT sets the toughest GATE paper, one must focus on their preparation and revision, cause that’s what matters the most now. 

GATE Preparation 2026 Tips

Here are some preparation and revision tips that most GATE toppers rely on -

• Go through the syllabus and pattern carefully. Download your relevant branch syllabus PDF and check them carefully and tally with the pattern, as GATE has different paper pattern for different subjects
• Now, separate the topics as per your difficulty level and create a  study plan as per your convenience.
• Start with hot GATE topics that hold maximum weightage. 
• Make short notes and go through text books for concept building.
• After completing each topic, pick a subject-based mock test paper and start solving them. Use a timer to check your accuracy. 
• Solve old question papers to understand the difficulty level of the questions. 
• Focus more on solving concept-based questions. 
• Keep one to two months at least for revision, where you can go back-and-forth with the topics and question solving. 
• Get into study forums and communities to discuss on topics that you find tough
• Follow good online resources and GATE study materials to stay ahead with the concepts
• Lastly, stay calm and build a healthy routine during GATE preparation

Will GATE 2026 be Tougher than last year?

As per the GATE experts and past year’s paper analysis trends, it is expected that the GATE 2026 might fall under moderate to tough level. Expectations in competition level are also expected, as number of test-takers might increase this year. GATE 2026 questions will be more concept-driven, analytical, and consistent. 

Here’s what GATE Aspirants can do -

• Focus more on core concepts
• Attempt mock tests and previous year’s question papers regularly
• Maintain a handbook to tick down your mistakes and weak areas