Cracking the GATE exam is a challenging task, but with the right approach, dedication, and smart strategies, achieving a high score is well within your reach. Many aspirants wonder how to score 65+ marks in GATE exam, especially when competing with thousands of candidates across the country. This blog provides a comprehensive guide with proven tips and an effective study plan that will help you maximize your score and achieve success in the GATE exam.
Whether you’re a first-time GATE aspirant or someone aiming to improve your previous score, this detailed guide will give you the tools and insights needed to secure 65+ marks in the GATE exam.
Table of Contents
Why Scoring 65+ Marks in GATE Exam is Important
Before diving into the study plan and tips, it’s essential to understand the significance of scoring 65+ marks in the GATE exam:
- Admission to Top Institutes: A score of 65+ can secure admission to prestigious institutes like IITs, IISc, and NITs for M.Tech, MS, or Ph.D. programs.
- PSU Recruitment: Many Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) such as IOCL, NTPC, BHEL, and ONGC shortlist candidates based on GATE scores. A high score increases your chances of landing a lucrative job.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Qualifying GATE with a high score makes you eligible for scholarships and stipends during post-graduate studies.
- Career Opportunities Abroad: Some international universities consider GATE scores for admissions to advanced degree programs.
With the stakes so high, let’s look at how you can achieve this score with the right preparation.
Understanding the GATE Exam Pattern
Before you begin your preparation, it’s crucial to understand the GATE exam pattern thoroughly. This will help you plan your study schedule effectively and allocate time according to the weightage of each section.
- Total Marks: 100
- Total Questions: 65
- Duration: 3 hours
- Question Types: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.
Also Read: Ultimate Guide to GATE Discrete Mathematics Syllabus: Key Topics & Preparation Tips
Sections in the GATE Exam:
- General Aptitude (GA): 15 marks
- Engineering Mathematics: 13 marks
- Core Subject-Specific Questions: 72 marks
Understanding the structure helps you focus on high-weightage areas and allocate your study time wisely.
Proven Tips on How to Score 65+ Marks in GATE Exam
1. Start Early and Create a Study Plan
One of the most effective ways to achieve a high score is to start your preparation early. Creating a detailed study plan ensures that you cover the entire syllabus without last-minute stress.
Tip:
- Divide the syllabus into manageable sections.
- Allocate specific timeframes for each subject.
- Include regular revision and mock test sessions.
A well-structured plan keeps your preparation on track and helps avoid unnecessary stress.
Also Read: 10 Must-Know Details About GATE Course for CSE Students: Your Ultimate Guide
2. Understand the GATE Syllabus Inside Out
A common mistake many candidates make is not fully understanding the GATE syllabus. Knowing what to study—and more importantly, what not to study—can save a lot of time and effort.
Tip:
- Download the official GATE syllabus for your branch.
- Identify the high-weightage topics and prioritize them in your study plan.
- Don’t skip subjects like General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics, which together account for 28% of the total marks.
3. Focus on Conceptual Clarity
The GATE exam is not just about rote learning; it tests your conceptual understanding. Questions often require applying fundamental concepts to solve complex problems.
Tip:
- Use standard textbooks to build a strong foundation in core subjects.
- Avoid cramming; instead, aim to understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind each concept.
- Practice numerical problems regularly to apply theoretical knowledge.
4. Practice Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests
Practicing previous year question papers is one of the most important strategies to score high in the GATE exam. It helps you get familiar with the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level.
Tip:
- Solve at least the last 10 years of GATE question papers.
- Take full-length mock tests under exam-like conditions.
- Analyze your performance after each test to identify weak areas.
Also Read: 10 Essential Compiler Design GATE Questions You Need to Master in 2025
5. Master Time Management
Time management is crucial in the GATE exam, where you have 3 hours to solve 65 questions. Balancing speed and accuracy is key to scoring 65+ marks.
Tip:
- During mock tests, practice allocating time based on the question’s difficulty.
- Attempt General Aptitude and Mathematics first, as they are usually easier and help build momentum.
- Avoid spending too much time on a single question. If you’re stuck, move on and revisit it later.
6. Revise Regularly
Revision is the key to retaining what you’ve studied. Without regular revision, it’s easy to forget important concepts, especially in a vast syllabus like GATE.
Tip:
- Allocate specific days in your study plan for revision.
- Use short notes or flashcards for quick reviews.
- Revise formulas, theorems, and key concepts regularly to keep them fresh in your memory.
7. Strengthen Your General Aptitude and Mathematics
Many students focus solely on core subjects and neglect General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics. However, these sections are scoring and can significantly boost your overall marks.
Tip:
- Dedicate at least 1-2 hours weekly to practicing aptitude and math problems.
- Focus on topics like logical reasoning, data interpretation, and probability.
- Use online platforms and books specifically designed for GATE aptitude preparation.
8. Analyze and Improve After Every Test
Taking mock tests isn’t enough; analyzing them is where real learning happens. Understanding why you made mistakes helps you avoid them in the actual exam.
Tip:
- After each mock test, review every question, especially the ones you got wrong.
- Identify patterns in your mistakes—is it a lack of conceptual understanding, careless errors, or time management issues?
- Keep a mistake journal and revisit it regularly to track your improvement.
Effective Study Plan to Score 65+ Marks in GATE Exam
Here’s a month-by-month study plan to help you achieve 65+ marks in the GATE exam:
Phase 1: Building Foundations (March – June)
- Understand the syllabus and exam pattern.
- Focus on core subjects and strengthen basic concepts.
- Begin with subjects you find most challenging.
Phase 2: Strengthening Concepts (July – September)
- Move to advanced topics and apply concepts to problem-solving.
- Start solving previous year question papers.
- Take weekly mock tests and analyze performance.
Phase 3: Intensive Practice & Revision (October – December)
- Increase the frequency of mock tests to 2-3 per week.
- Focus on General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics.
- Begin revisions and create short notes for quick reviews.
Phase 4: Final Preparation (January – Exam Day)
- Take full-length mock tests under real exam conditions.
- Focus on weak areas identified during practice.
- Avoid starting new topics; focus on revision and mock test analysis.
FAQs
Is it possible to score 65+ marks in the GATE exam in 6 months?
Yes! With dedicated effort, a well-structured study plan, and consistent practice of mock tests and previous year papers, scoring 65+ marks in 6 months is achievable.
Which subjects should I prioritize to score high in the GATE exam?
Focus on high-weightage subjects in your core field, along with General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics, which together account for 28 marks.
How many hours should I study daily to score 65+ marks in GATE?
Aim for 4-6 hours of focused study daily, increasing to 8 hours closer to the exam. Consistency is more important than the number of hours.
Are mock tests essential for scoring 65+ marks in the GATE exam?
Absolutely! Mock tests help you improve time management, accuracy, and exam temperament. Analyze your performance after every test to improve steadily.
How important is revision in GATE preparation?
Revision is crucial for retaining concepts and formulas. Allocate time for weekly and monthly revisions to reinforce what you’ve learned.
Final Thoughts on How to Score 65+ Marks in GATE Exam
Scoring 65+ marks in the GATE exam may seem challenging, but with the right strategies, consistent practice, and a focused study plan, you can achieve this goal. Remember, success in GATE is not just about hard work—it’s about smart preparation, strategic time management, and regular self-assessment.
Stay motivated, follow the tips shared in this guide, and trust in your preparation. With dedication and persistence, you’ll be well on your way to securing a top score in the GATE exam.
