At the end of every academic year, during the month of April to May it is quite common to see a large percentage of Undergrad students awaiting the results of various competitive exams that they would have given sometime in the past few months. One such exclusive exam solely designed for Degree holders who aspire to continue in the field of technology and sciences is the Gate examination. This is headed by the famous IIT’s and IISC’s every year and its score is used for admission to M.E or M.Tech courses across various institutions in India. Just like any other competitive examination, this one too has its own effective way of preparation and admission procedures. A detailed insight of this examination is of at most importance as it one of the most competitive exams having an average of 8,18,850 students appearing every year to take it up.

GATE ELIGIBILITY:

First and foremost, it is advisable that only those who have interest towards technology and engineering should take up these exams. Next, some basic criteria should be satisfied by the candidates before applying for GATE. They should have at least completed 4 years after (10+2 years) of schooling or 3 years after (10+) 3 years of Diploma. Those with higher degrees can apply too. This is a course(core) specific exam, so you should choose your branch of interest based on your UG degree. There are a total of 23 branches at present from which you can choose from.

GATEPREPARATION & SYLLABUS:

The first, most vital step is to decide from amongst the 23 different core subjects available. Go through the various syllabus topics listed under your chosen core. Every candidate will have to attempt two types of questions. Total number of questions given will be 65 carrying a total of 100 marks. From this 10 questions will be General Aptitude (language and analytical) type questions. The rest 55 questions will be purely based on your core knowledge. The most effective way to prepare is a regular daily routine of studying. The syllabus for GATE is vast. So, instead of aiming to cover all the topics, try to start with and master those topics in which you have maximal confidence. Then gradually move to the remaining topics. Another important aspect to focus on is the time management. The total duration of this exam is 3 hours for 65 questions. It will contain a mix of MCQ’s and Numerical Answer type questions. From this year onwards scientific calculator is not allowed. Instead, an onscreen calculator is provided for your usage. Some blank sheets for rough work is also provided. It is advisable to take at least three to five full length mock tests prior to the day of the examination.

GATEAPPLICATION PROCESS:

Every year the portal to submit admission forms for taking up GATE opens in the month of September. It is best to finish applying by filling up their online form before October. Prior to starting with your online application you should keep the following four requirements ready. You should have a valid E-mail id, Registered Residential Address and functional mobile number. Also have a colour photograph taken at most one month before the date of application. The photograph should be in JPEG format and of good quality. It should be taken with a light background and at least 50 % of the photo should contain your face. The size should be 3.5 x 4.5 cm and the resolution should be between 240×320 to 480×640 pixels. No coolers or shades are allowed. Next you should have a digitally scanned copy of your signature. Using a black or dark blue ink sign inside a 2×3 cm rectangular box drawn on a A4 sheet of paper. This scanned signature should also be in JPEG format. Finally you should have a proper net banking facility, debit card or e – challan containing the fee amount. For General FC category it is INR 1,400/- per head and for SC/ST it is INR 750/- per head. If you apply after the first deadline you will have to pay an additional INR 1,400/- along with the normal fee. After you have completed filling the entire form check it very thoroughly. Once you press the submit button you cannot change anything. Then download the application form available in the pdf format.

GATEEXAM, EVALUATION & RESULTS:

Candidates should download the Admit card which will be available on logging in with their respective details. A hardcopy of the admit card and a ID proof having their photo should be taken to the centre. Evaluation of the Candidates should give their tests for a maximum of three hours. Then a tentative date will be announced on which the results will be published. If the candidate feels that the scoring for his paper has some discrepancies he can apply he can apply for challenge. The answer key to the papers will be available on one particular day and be open for next week on the official IISC website.

COUNSELLING:

There are two basic scopes after clearing your GATE exams. You can use your GATE score to get admission for Post Graduation to the various IIT’s, IISC’s, NIT’s and other universities in India. Other option is to get recruited for the various job positions in Public Sector Units (PSU). Only IIT’s and IISC’s follow the common CCMT method of selection. Other universities are free to conduct their own counselling process. Even for job recruitment the companies can conduct written tests, GD’s and Personal Interview before selecting the employees.

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