GATE Pattern

NAT questions in the GATE exam are the Numerical Answer Type questions, where the candidate has to enter a numerical value for the question using virtual keypad. The NAT question has no negative marking and no multiple options. To answer the GATE NAT questions, candidates must know how to efficienty answer using the virtual keyboard. 

The GATE 2026 exam pattern for CS, EC, EE, and ME can be checked below. The general aptitude section (GA) carries 15 marks, while the subject-based questions carries 85 marks, out of which engineering mathematics section consists of 13 marks. The GATE question paper will be in English language and the time duration is three hours. 

The time duration of the GATE exam 2026 is three hours. This year, IIT Guwahati is conducting the exam. Candidates appearing for the exam must download their admit card from the website. The details regarding the GATE question paper time limit is available in the information brochure. 

The GATE 2026 exam pattern of Life Sciences (XL) is as follows -

• General aptitude  - 15 marks
• B1 section (reasoning and comprehension) carries 16 questions of 25 marks
• Optional section from C1 to C6 carries 39 questions of 60 marks. 

Candidates must go through the GATE pattern and marking scheme before attempting the questions. 

The GATE paper code of Engineering Sciences is XE. This year, IIT Guwahati has introduced a new sectional paper under XE, naming Energy Science (XE-I). The optional section (where the applicant has to choose any two) carries 70 marks. The GATE optional sections are as follows -

• Fluid Mechanics
• Materials Science
• Solid Mechanics
• Thermodynamics
• Polymer Science and Engineering
• Food Technology
• Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences
• Energy Science

Yes, GATE has negative marking for MCQs only. There is no negative marking for MSQs and NATs. For 1 mark question, 1/3rd marks is deducted for incorrect response and for 2 marks, 2/3rd mark is deducted for incorrect response. Candidates who are appearing for the exam this year, must be aware of the exam pattern and marking scheme. 

The GATE paper code is an abbreviation used to define a specific engineering branch. It plays an important role for candidates while filling out the GATE application form. With the help of the paper code, candidates can choose their desired branch and secondary paper and prepare for the exam. 

The GATE paper code for metallurgical engineering is MT. The eligible two-paper combination for metallurgical engineering is Engineering Sciences (XE). Candidates who want to opt for the MT paper must check the paper code carefully before applying. To apply for secondary paper, candidate must select from the drop-down menu available in the application form. 

Yes, candidates can change their GATE paper code after submitting their application form. However, this facility will be available at time of form correction window, where the candidate has to pay a certain amount of fee to change their GATE paper code/subject. 

The GATE paper code of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is DA. Here are the eligible paper combinations for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence -

• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (CS)
• Electronics and Communication Engineering (EC)
• Electrical Engineering (EE)
• Mathematics (MA)
• Mechanical Engineering (ME)
• Physics (PH)
• Statistics (ST)
• Engineering Sciences (XE)