GATE Exam Centre Change
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering): The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2025 is an essential examination for candidates aspiring to gain admission into M.Tech, M.Sc., and Ph.D. programs at top-tier institutes like IITs, NITs, and IISc. Additionally, the exam plays a crucial role in recruitment for PSUs, research organizations, and various private industries. Given the Mahakumbh event in Prayagraj, authorities have announced exam centre relocations to avoid congestion and logistical challenges. This blog comprehensively covers GATE 2025 exam centre changes, revised centre details, instructions for affected candidates, and essential guidelines to facilitate a hassle-free examination experience.
1. About GATE 2025
The GATE exam is a national-level competitive test designed to assess candidates’ expertise in engineering, technology, and science disciplines. Each year, thousands of aspirants take this exam to secure postgraduate admissions and career advancements in top institutions and organizations.
Key details about GATE 2025:
Conducting Institute: IIT Roorkee is the designated organizer of GATE 2025, overseeing all processes, from registration to results and counseling.
Mode of Exam: The examination will be administered as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) across multiple centers in India and select international locations.
Duration: The exam will last 3 hours (180 minutes), during which candidates must attempt all questions within the given timeframe.
Subjects Offered: GATE 2025 offers 30+ subjects, covering various engineering, technology, and science disciplines.
Purpose: The exam serves multiple purposes, including admissions to postgraduate programs at IITs, NITs, and IISc, as well as PSU recruitments and research fellowships.
2. Latest Updates on Exam Centre Change
In response to candidate concerns regarding accessibility issues due to Mahakumbh-related crowding in Prayagraj, authorities have shifted GATE 2025 exams from Prayagraj to Lucknow for exams scheduled on 1st and 2nd February 2025.
Key Details of Centre Change:
Affected Exam Dates: GATE 2025 exams initially planned for 1st and 2nd February 2025 in Prayagraj will now take place in Lucknow.
Revised Centres: Candidates previously assigned centres in Prayagraj have been reassigned new exam venues in Lucknow. A detailed mapping of the changes is available on the official GATE website.
Updated Admit Cards: Fresh admit cards reflecting the revised exam centre details have been issued. Candidates must download their new admit cards from the GOAPS portal before the exam date.
Document Requirements: Candidates must carry a valid photo ID matching the details provided during registration, along with the updated admit card.
No Changes to Exam Format or Schedule: The syllabus, paper pattern, and timings remain unchanged despite the centre shift.
These adjustments ensure minimal disruption, allowing candidates to focus on their performance without logistical concerns.
3. Paper Pattern
A firm understanding of the GATE 2025 exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The exam consists of 65 questions, with a total of 100 marks.
Key Features of the Exam Pattern:
Total Marks: 100
Total Questions: 65
Duration: 3 hours
Types of Questions:
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): Candidates must choose one correct option; incorrect answers result in negative marking.
Multiple Select Questions (MSQs): More than one correct answer; no negative marking.
Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions: Candidates enter numerical responses using a virtual keyboard; no negative marking.
Marking Scheme:
MCQs: +1 or +2 marks per correct response, with negative marking for incorrect answers.
MSQs: +2 marks per correct response, no negative marking.
NAT: +1 or +2 marks per correct response, no negative marking.
Candidates are advised to practice mock tests and sample papers to develop familiarity with the format and improve accuracy.
4. Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2025
To appear for GATE 2025, candidates must satisfy specific eligibility requirements related to their educational qualifications and nationality.
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree (B.E./B.Tech/B.Sc./B.Arch/BCA/B.Pharm) or a master’s degree (M.Sc./M.A./MCA/M.Tech) in a relevant field.
Final-year students in these programs are also eligible, provided they submit proof of qualification at the time of admission.
There are no minimum percentage or CGPA requirements, although individual institutions may impose their own admission criteria.
There are no minimum percentage or CGPA requirements, although individual institutions may impose their own admission criteria.
Nationality & Age Limit:
Both Indian and foreign nationals are eligible to appear for GATE.
There is no upper age limit, making it accessible for students, working professionals, and researchers alike.
5. Exam Date and Schedule
The GATE 2025 exam will be conducted over multiple sessions, with specific dates and timings assigned to each subject. Candidates are advised to carefully check their exam schedule and session details on their admit card to avoid confusion. Here is the detailed exam schedule:
Saturday, 1st February 2025:
Forenoon Session (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): CS1, AG, MA
Afternoon Session (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm): CS2, NM, MT, TF, IN
Sunday, 2nd February 2025:
Forenoon Session (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): ME, PE, AR
Afternoon Session (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm): EE
Saturday, 15th February 2025:
Forenoon Session (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): CY, AE, DA, ES, PI
Afternoon Session (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm): EC, GE, XH, BM, EY
Sunday, 16th February 2025:
Forenoon Session (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): CE1, GG, CH, PH, BT
Afternoon Session (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm): CE2, ST, XE, XL, MN
Additional Important Dates:
Admit Card Release: 3rd January 2025
Result Declaration: 16th March 2025
Candidates are advised to verify all details on their admit card and ensure they arrive at the exam center well in advance of their scheduled session.
6. Instructions for Candidates
To facilitate a seamless exam experience, candidates must adhere to the following guidelines:
Download and print the updated admit card from the official GOAPS portal.
Double-check your new exam centre details and arrange travel plans accordingly.
Reach the examination centre at least 60 minutes before the scheduled time.
Carry the admit card and an original photo ID for verification.
Electronic gadgets, smartwatches, calculators, and study materials are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
Follow the invigilator’s instructions carefully to prevent any issues.
Strict adherence to these guidelines will help candidates focus on their exam without unnecessary stress.
7. Tips for Candidates
Before the Exam:
Thoroughly revise key formulas and concepts relevant to your chosen GATE paper.
Solve previous years’ papers and mock tests to get a better understanding of the question format.
Ensure all essential documents (admit card, photo ID) are ready well in advance.
During the Exam:
Utilize the virtual calculator available on-screen for calculations.
Prioritize easier questions first to save time for challenging ones.
Be cautious with MCQs to avoid negative marking from incorrect responses.
After the Exam:
Keep a copy of your admit card for future reference.
Regularly check the official website for result announcements and further admission procedures.
Plan ahead for PSU applications and counseling processes based on expected scores.
Conclusion
The GATE 2025 exam centre relocations have been implemented to ensure a smooth examination process for candidates affected by the Mahakumbh event in Prayagraj. If your centre has been changed, ensure you download your revised admit card, verify the updated exam location, and plan accordingly.
For real-time updates and to download your GATE 2025 admit card, visit the official GOAPS portal. Wishing all aspirants the best of luck in their GATE 2025 journey!
GATE FAQS
Upload the side of your ID showing your photo, name, date of birth, and ID number.
No, GATE application fees are non-refundable.
It depends on seat availability in your requested city. There’s no guarantee.
No, your application will be marked defective, and you will be asked to correct it.
Yes, you can add a second paper during the correction window, with an additional fee.
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