IIT Madras to Conduct GATE 2027 with New Robotics & Automation Paper and Revised Syllabus

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will conduct the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2027, introducing a new paper in Robotics and Automation and a revised syllabus to reflect the evolving needs of academia and industry.

Jointly conducted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the IITs on behalf of the National Coordination Board-GATE under the Ministry of Education, GATE 2027 marks the 45th edition of the national-level examination since its inception in 1983.

The online application process is expected to begin in mid-August 2026, while the examination will be held on February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21, 2027, in computer-based mode. The test will be conducted in both forenoon and afternoon sessions on each of the six examination days.

Officials said that GATE 2027 will feature 30 papers. A new paper in Robotics and Automation (RA) has been introduced, while the existing Textile Engineering and Fibre Science (TF) paper has been restructured as a sectional component under Engineering Sciences (XE).

The GATE syllabus has also been revised for the first time in five years to keep pace with the latest advancements in engineering, science, and technology.

Candidates will be allowed to appear for one or two papers, subject to the approved paper combinations. The examination will be conducted only in English, and GATE 2027 scores will remain valid for three years from the date of the declaration of results.

To strengthen the security and integrity of the examination, the registration process will be integrated with DigiLocker and facial authentication. Candidates are advised to complete the verification process in advance to ensure a smooth registration experience and seamless entry into examination centres.

A valid GATE score enables candidates to seek admission, with possible financial assistance, to Master`s, Direct Doctoral, and Ph.D. programmes offered by institutions supported by the Ministry of Education and other government agencies. GATE scores are also accepted by several higher educational institutions for postgraduate admissions and are widely used by Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and other organisations as part of their recruitment process.