GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 and Exam Pattern

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Author at PW

August 20, 2025

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026: The GATE Exam Syllabus for CSE 2026 is an important guide for students who wish to appear in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering. The paper carries a total of 100 marks and includes 65 questions, where 15 marks are from General Aptitude and the rest from core subjects and mathematics. The GATE Computer Science Exam Pattern is completely computer-based, and questions are of both multiple-choice and numerical answer types.

In the GATE Exam 2026, some new changes have been introduced. The total number of subjects has increased to 30 with the addition of Geomatics Engineering (GE) and Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (NM). Students also get the option of choosing two papers from selected combinations, which widens opportunities. The eligibility criteria have been relaxed, so students in the third year of their undergraduate course can now apply. These updates make the exam more flexible and accessible.

The GATE Computer Science Syllabus includes topics such as algorithms, programming, data structures, operating systems, computer networks, databases, digital logic, and theory of computation. Engineering Mathematics and General Aptitude are also part of the paper. Since the GATE subjects for CSE cover both core concepts and applied knowledge, it is very important to prepare each section thoroughly. A clear idea of the GATE CSE Exam Pattern, along with the complete syllabus, will help students plan well and improve their chances of scoring high. Get the full detailed GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 and Exam Pattern below.

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GATE CSE Exam Pattern 2026

The GATE CSE exam pattern 2026 is important for candidates preparing for the exam as it gives a clear idea of the paper structure. The GATE Computer Science exam pattern is designed to test General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, and core Computer Science concepts.

According to the GATE Computer Science paper pattern, the exam will be held online in computer-based mode, carrying a total of 100 marks with 65 questions of different types, including MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. The details are provided below:-

GATE CSE Exam Pattern 2026
Section	Marks Weightage	Number of Questions	Question Types
General Aptitude (GA)	15 Marks	10	MCQ, MSQ, NAT
Engineering Mathematics	13 Marks	Varies	MCQ, MSQ, NAT
Core CSE Subjects	72 Marks	Varies	MCQ, MSQ, NAT
Total	100 Marks	65	MCQ, MSQ, NAT

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026

The GATE CSE syllabus 2026 provides a detailed topics that candidates need to study for the exam. The GATE Computer Science syllabus mainly covers core areas like Algorithms, Data Structures, Theory of Computation, Operating Systems, Databases, and Computer Networks, along with Engineering Mathematics and General Aptitude. Having a clear understanding of the GATE subjects for CSE helps aspirants plan their preparation systematically, ensuring that all important topics are covered before the exam.

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 For General Aptitude

The General Aptitude section in the GATE CSE syllabus 2026 is common for all papers and carries 15% of the total marks. It checks a candidate’s basic skills in English comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and numerical ability. This part of the GATE Computer Science syllabus is highly scoring as it requires consistent practice rather than technical knowledge, making it an important area for boosting overall performance.

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 For General Aptitude
Topics	Sub-topics
Verbal Aptitude	English grammar Vocabularies Reading and comprehension Narrative sequencing
Quantitative Aptitude	Data interpretation 2 & 3-dimensional plots Maps & tables Numerical computation & estimation that includes ratios, percentages, powers, exponents & logarithms Permutations & combinations Mensuration & geometry Elementary statistics & probability
Analytical Aptitude	Logic: Deduction & induction Analogy Numerical relations & reasoning
Spatial Aptitude	Transformation of shapes like translation, mirroring , rotation & scaling Assembling & grouping Paper folding, cutting, and patterns (2 & 3 dimensions)

Check Out: GATE Computer Science & IT and Engineering Mathematics & General Aptitude Combo Set of 2 Books

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 For Engineering Mathematics

The Engineering Mathematics section in the GATE CSE syllabus 2026 forms the foundation of problem-solving and logical reasoning. It includes important topics such as Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability, and Discrete Mathematics. Since this section contributes to around 13% of the paper, a strong command over these GATE subjects for CSE helps candidates tackle both direct questions and those integrated into core computer science problems.

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 For Engineering Mathematics
Topics	Syllabus
Linear Algebra	Matrices Determinants System of linear equations Eigenvalues and eigenvectors, LU decomposition
Calculus	Limits Continuity and differentiability Maxima and minima Mean value theorem. Integration.
Discrete Mathematics	Propositional and first order logic Sets Relations Functions Partial orders and lattices Monoids Groups Graphs: connectivity, matching, coloring Combinatorics: counting, recurrence relations, generating functions
Probability and Statistics	Random variables Uniform Distributions Normal Distributions Exponential Distributions Poisson Distributions Binomial Distributions Mean, median, mode and standard deviation Conditional probability Bayes theorem

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 For Core Subjects

The Core Subjects in the GATE CSE syllabus 2026 form the most important part of the exam. They mainly test a student’s knowledge of computer science concepts and practical skills. Some of the key topics include Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Databases, and Compiler Design. This section carries nearly 72% of the total marks in the paper, making it the most crucial area to focus on. To score well, students need strong concepts, problem-solving ability, and regular practice in these subjects.

GATE CSE Syllabus 2026 For Core Subjects
Subject	Syllabus
Digital Logic	Boolean algebra Combinational and sequential circuits Minimization Number representations and computer arithmetic (fixed and floating-point)
Computer Organization and Architecture	Machine instructions and addressing modes ALU, data‐path and control unit Instruction pipelining, pipeline hazards Memory hierarchy: cache, main memory and secondary storage I/O interface (interrupt and DMA mode)
Programming and Data Structures	Programming in C Recursion Arrays Stacks Queues Linked lists Trees Binary search trees Binary heaps Graphs
Algorithms	Searching Sorting Hashing Asymptotic worst-case time and space complexity Algorithm design techniques: greedy, dynamic programming and divide‐and‐conquer Graph traversals Minimum spanning trees Shortest paths
Theory of Computation	Regular expressions and finite automata Context-free grammars and push-down automata Regular and context-free languages Pumping lemma Turing machines and undecidability.
Compiler Design	Lexical analysis Parsing Syntax-directed translation Runtime environments Intermediate code generation Local optimizatio Data flow analyses: constant propagation, liveness analysis, common subexpression elimination
Operating System	System calls, processes, threads Inter‐process communication Concurrency and synchronization Deadlock CPU and I/O scheduling Memory management and virtual memory File systems
Databases	ER‐model Relational model: relational algebra, tuple calculus, SQL. Integrity constraints, normal forms. File organization, indexing (e.g., B and B+ trees). Transactions and concurrency control
Computer Networks	Concept of layering: OSI and TCP/IP Protocol Stacks Basics of packet, circuit and virtual circuit-switching Data link layer: framing, error detection, Medium Access Control, Ethernet bridging Routing protocols: shortest path, flooding, distance vector and link-state routing Fragmentation and IP addressing IPv4, CIDR notation, Basics of IP support protocols (ARP, DHCP, ICMP), Network Address Translation (NAT) Transport layer: flow control and congestion control, UDP, TCP, sockets Application layer protocols: DNS, SMTP, HTTP, FTP, Email

GATE CSE Study Materials

Preparing for GATE CSE 2026 becomes easier when you have the right GATE study materials in hand. The resources are designed to give you complete exam support with features like 18 years of topic-wise questions (2008–2025) for focused practice, QR codes for expert video solutions to simplify tough concepts, and detailed step-by-step explanations for better clarity. Along with this, a chapter-wise PYQ analysis highlights the most important topics, helping you plan your preparation smartly and effectively.

Preparation Tips for GATE CSE 2026

Preparing for GATE CSE 2026 needs a clear plan and regular study. The GATE CSE syllabus is wide, so you should learn step by step, revise often, and practice questions regularly. Below are some easy and useful tips to follow.

1. Make Notes While Studying

Notes help you remember what you study. The GATE exam syllabus for CSE has many subjects, so small notes save time during revision. Keep your notes clear and short so you can read them anytime.

Write key points from every topic in your own words.
Use flowcharts and tables for subjects like operating systems and databases.
Keep separate notebooks for core GATE subjects for CSE to stay organised.

2. Follow the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

The GATE Computer Science syllabus is detailed, and knowing the GATE CSE exam pattern will guide your preparation. Once you understand what is asked in the exam, you can plan your study time better.

Check the GATE computer science exam pattern to see how many marks are given to each section.
Focus more on the important subjects like algorithms, theory of computation, and computer networks.
Make a list of all topics in the GATE computer science paper pattern and track what you complete.

3. Start With Core Subjects

The major part of the GATE CSE syllabus comes from core subjects. These are the basics of computer science and cover about 70% of the paper. You should give extra time to these subjects.

Begin with data structures, algorithms, and operating systems.
Clear your basics before solving hard questions.
Revise these subjects again and again as they carry maximum weightage.

4. Solve Previous Year Questions

Previous year questions (PYQs) are an effective way to understand the exam level. Solving them tells you the type of questions that come again and again. It also makes you confident for the final exam.

Start with PYQs of the last 10 years from every subject.
After solving, check the solutions carefully and note your mistakes.
Try solving questions in a timed manner to match the real exam.

5. Revise Regularly

Revision is the key to keeping concepts fresh in your mind. Without revision, you may forget what you studied earlier. A simple plan of regular revision will make your preparation strong.

Revise notes of every subject once a week.
Use short revision sheets before starting new topics.
Give at least one hour daily only for revision in the last two months.

6. Practice Mock Tests

Mock tests are very important for checking your speed and accuracy. They also prepare you for the exam day pressure. Mock tests give you a clear idea of your strong and weak areas.

Attempt at least one mock test every week in the beginning.
Analyse your performance and improve weak topics.
Increase the number of tests as the exam comes closer.

GATE CSE Syllabus FAQs

1. What is the exam pattern for GATE CSE 2026?

The GATE CSE paper has 65 questions in total. It includes both MCQs and numerical answer-type questions. The paper is of 100 marks, and the time given is 3 hours.

2. How many subjects are there in the GATE Computer Science syllabus?

The GATE CSE syllabus includes subjects like Data Structures, Algorithms, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Databases, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design, Programming, and Software Engineering.

3. What is the weightage of core subjects in the GATE CSE exam?

Core subjects carry about 72 percent of the total marks in the exam. The remaining marks come from General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics.

4. Is General Aptitude important for the GATE CSE exam?

Yes, General Aptitude is important because it covers 15 marks of the paper. It is usually easy to score in this section if practised well.

5. How should I start my preparation for GATE CSE 2026?

You should first go through the GATE CSE syllabus and exam pattern. Then, make a simple timetable and start with basic subjects before moving to advanced ones.

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