The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2025 is one of the most competitive exams for aspirants looking to pursue postgraduate education or secure opportunities in public sector undertakings (PSUs). If you are planning to appear for GATE 2025, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria before applying. Here’s a comprehensive guide
1. Nationality
- Candidates from India and foreign countries (including Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and UAE) are eligible to apply.
2. Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have completed or be in their final year of Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, Science, Architecture, or Humanities.
- The degrees must be from recognized institutions approved by the government.
- The following degrees are accepted:
- B.E./B.Tech./B.Pharm. (4 years after 10+2 or 3 years after Diploma)
- B.Sc. (Research)/B.S. (4 years after 10+2)
- M.Sc./M.A./MCA or equivalent (Postgraduate degrees in relevant fields)
- Integrated M.E./M.Tech. (Post-B.Sc.) (4 years program)
- Integrated M.E./M.Tech. or Dual Degree (after 10+2) (5 years program)
- Integrated M.Sc./Integrated B.S.-M.S. (5 years program)
- Professional Society Examinations (recognized by MoE/AICTE/UGC/UPSC as equivalent to B.E./B.Tech.)
3. Year of Qualification Completion
- Candidates who have already completed the qualifying degree can apply.
- Final-year students in 2025 or later are eligible.
- There is no age limit for GATE.
4. Number of Attempts
- There is no restriction on the number of attempts.
- Candidates can appear in one or two papers in a single attempt.
5. GATE 2025 Paper Combination
- Candidates can apply for one or two papers from the allowed combinations.
- The list of available paper combinations will be provided in the official notification.
6. GATE 2025 for International Candidates
- Candidates from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, UAE can apply.
- They must have completed or be in the final year of their qualifying degree in Engineering, Technology, Science, or relevant disciplines.
7. Documents Required for Eligibility
- Final year students: A certificate from the Head of Department/Institute confirming ongoing studies.
- Graduates: Degree certificate or provisional certificate.
- International students: Valid passport or identity proof.
8. Important Points to Remember
- Candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
- The eligibility criteria remain similar across different institutions, but specific requirements for admissions in IITs, NITs, and PSUs may vary.
- Ensure the accuracy of documents, as incorrect information can lead to application rejection.
9. All Important dates – Feb Exam:
| Day, Date | Time (IST) | Test Papers |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 1st February 2025 | 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (Forenoon Session – FN) | CS1, AG, MA |
| 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (Afternoon Session – AN) | CS2, NM, MT, TF, IN | |
| Sunday, 2nd February 2025 | 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (Forenoon Session – FN) | ME, PE, AR |
| 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (Afternoon Session – AN) | EE | |
| Saturday, 15th February 2025 | 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (Forenoon Session – FN) | CY, AE, DA, ES, PI |
| 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (Afternoon Session – AN) | EC, GE, XH, BM, EY | |
| Sunday, 16th February 2025 | 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (Forenoon Session – FN) | CE1, GG, CH, PH, BT |
| 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (Afternoon Session – AN) | CE2, ST, XE, XL, MN | |
| Results available |
19 Mar 2025
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10. GATE 2026 Dates:
| Activation of GATE 2026 Online Application Processing System (GOAPS): | August 2025 (Tentative) |
| Last Date to Register for GATE 2026 (Without Late Fee): | October 2025 (Tentative) |
| Last Date to Register for GATE 2026 (With Late Fee): | October 2025 (Tentative) |
| GATE 2026 Application Modification Timeline: | November 2025 (Tentative) |
| GATE 2026 Admit Card Release Date: | January 2026 (Tentative) |
| GATE 2026 Exam Date: | February 2026 (Tentative) |
| Availability of GATE 2026 Response Sheet: | February 2026 (Tentative) |
| GATE 2026 Answer Key Release Date: | February 2026 (Tentative) |
| GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge Window: | February 2026 (Tentative) |
| GATE 2026 Result Announcement: | March 2026 (Tentative) |
Conclusion
Understanding the GATE 2025 eligibility criteria is the first step toward a successful application. Make sure you fulfill the required academic qualifications and prepare accordingly. With no limit on attempts, aspirants can plan their strategy wisely and aim for a high score to open multiple career opportunities in higher education and the public sector.
For the latest updates, always refer to the official GATE website before applying!