GATE Application Date:28 Aug' 24 - 25 Dec' 25
GATE Zoology Syllabus 2026- IIT Guwahati has published the GATE 2026 syllabus for Zoology on the official website gate2026.iitg.ac.in. The detailed GATE 2026 syllabus for zoology can also be found on this page. The Zoology syllabus for the GATE 2026 exam is divided into 11 major sections, namely, Animal Diversity, Evolution, Genetics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, etc. Students who are applying for the GATE exam can download the free syllabus PDF on the official website. The GATE 2026 exam will be conducted on February 7, 8, 14 and 15, 2026.
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The GATE 2026 zoology exam code is XL-T. Candidates attempting the zoology paper must also be aware of the GATE 2026 exam pattern. The GATE Zoology syllabus is designed to assess the comprehensive understanding of students in the field of zoological sciences. Students planning to apply for the GATE 2026 exam can read the complete article carefully to get a vivid idea about the exam pattern, GATE syllabus Zoology pdf download, and more.
| Sections | Study Areas |
|---|---|
Animal Diversity | Distribution, systematics and classification of animals, phylogenetic relationships |
Origin and history of life on earth, theories of evolution, natural selection, adaptation, speciation | |
Basic Principles of inheritance, the molecular basis of heredity, sex determination, and sex-linked characteristics, cytoplasmic inheritance, linkage, recombination, and mapping of genes in eukaryotes, population genetics, genetic disorders, roles of model organisms in understanding genetic principles | |
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Nucleic acids, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates; replication, transcription & translation, Krebs cycle, glycolysis, enzyme catalysis, hormones and their actions, roles of vitamins and minerals |
Cell Biology | Basic principles of cellular microscopy, structure of cell, cytoskeletal organization, cellular organelles and their structure and function, cell cycle, cell division, chromosomes, and chromatin structure |
Gene expression in Eukaryotes | Eukaryotic genome organization and regulation of gene expression, transposable elements |
Animal Anatomy and Physiology | Comparative physiology, the respiratory system, Muscular system, circulatory system, digestive system, the nervous system, the excretory system, the endocrine system, the reproductive system, |
Parasitology and Immunology | Nature of parasite, host-parasite relation, protozoan and helminthic parasites, the immune response, cellular and humoral immune response |
Development Biology | Gametogenesis, Embryonic development, cellular differentiation, organogenesis, metamorphosis, Model organisms used in developmental biology, genetic and molecular basis of development, stem cells |
Ecology | The ecosystem, Animal distribution, ecological niche and its contribution to ecological diversity, the food chain, population dynamics, species diversity, zoogeography, biogeochemical cycles, conservation biology, ecotoxicology |
Animal Behaviour | Type of behaviours, courtship, mating and territoriality, instinct, learning and memory, social behaviour across the animal taxa, communication, pheromones, evolution of behaviour in animals |
The exam pattern for GATE 2026 consists of the total number of questions and marks per question in the exam. It also includes the marks for correct and incorrect responses. The GATE exam will be conducted in 30 major Papers. The overall GATE test duration is 3 hours. GATE is a Computer Test conducted online in two sections: General Aptitude (GA) and Candidate-selected Subject. The total score for the test is 100 marks and all of the questions will be worth 1 or 2 marks.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
Examination Mode | Computer Based Test (Online) |
Duration | 3 Hours |
Type of Questions |
|
Design of Questions | The questions are designed to test the listed abilities
|
Number of Questions | 65 Questions (including 10 questions from General Aptitude) |
Distribution of Questions in Zoology |
|
Total Marks | 100 Marks |
Marking Scheme | All of the questions will be worth 1 or 2 marks |
GATE Negative Marking | Two types of MCQs:
|
Also Read: GATE Question Paper
Here’s a list of some popular preparation books for GATE 2026. Students can easily purchase these materials on online platforms.
Book Name | Publication |
|---|---|
GKP GATE 2025 : Life Science - Zoology - Guide(Includes Solved papers of 2016-2024) | GK Publications |
GATE 2024: Life Science - Zoology - Guide by Dr. Prabhanshu Kumar Er. Preeti Tripathi | GK Publications |
Gate Life Science Zoology [XL-T] Question Answer Book 4000+ MCQ As Per Updated | Diwakar Education Hub |
Gkp Gate 2025: Life Science - Zoology - Guide includes Solved Papers Of 2016-2024 | GK Publications |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, the GATE 2025 syllabus has been released by IIT Roorkee. Students can access the GATE zoology syllabus PDF download on the official website of gate2025.iitr.ac.in.
You can start your GATE 2025 preparation immediately to get a good GATE score. However, students are recommended to dedicate at least 500 hours to practice, revision, and test series to increase their expected scores.
The syllabus of GATE Life Sciences comprises various topics such as XL - U Food Technology, XL - P Chemistry, XL - Q Biochemistry, XL - R Botany, XL - S Microbiology, and XL - T Zoology.
Yes, a zoology student can do a GATE exam. However, the candidate must complete their 3rd year of a Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or a related field to fulfill the academic requirement of the test.
On Question asked by student community
Hello aspirant,
The deadline for submitting GATE application forms has been extended by IIT Roorkee. Applicants have until October 3, 2024, to submit their application (no late costs). Applicants can register on the GOAPS portal in order to apply for the master's, doctorate, and PSU programs through GATE 2025. Incomplete applications may still be submitted until October 7, 2024, with a late fee. The online application process includes registering, completing the exam and applicant details, uploading supporting documentation, and paying the application price. On November 6, 2024, following the conclusion of the application event, the GATE 2025 exam application form rectification option will be made available by the authorities.
Thank you
Hello There,
The GATE 2025 syllabus for Computer Science and Information Technology (CS) generally covers a wide range of topics. Here’s a breakdown of the core sections:
1.General Aptitude This section is common to all GATE papers and typically has 15% weightage.
2. Engineering Mathematics This section is crucial for computer science aspirants and usually carries 13% weightage. Topics include:
3. Computer Science and Information Technology: This section covers the core concepts of Computer Science. The topics include:
Digital Logic
Computer Organization and Architecture
Programming and Data Structures
Algorithms
Theory of Computation
Compiler Design
Operating Systems:
Databases
Computer Networks
Software Engineering
Web Technologies
Cloud Computing and Security (if included)
Make sure to refer to the official GATE 2025 brochure or website for any updated syllabus details.
You can also visit the given link for more information. Good Luck!
Hello,
1. UNDERSTAND THE EXAM PATTER-
2. PICK UP YOUR STREAM -
Since you're studying civil engineering, focus on the GATE syllabus for Civil Engineering (CE) or the specific stream that interests you.
3. GO THROUGH THE SYLLABUS-
Download the GATE syllabus for your chosen subject. For civil engineering, here’s a rough outline:
4. DEVELOP A STUDY ROUTINE-
5. STUDY MATERIAL-
6. SOLVE PYQs-
Practice solving the last 10 years' worth of GATE question papers to familiarize yourself with frequently asked questions, topics, and time management strategies.
7. ENROLL IN MOCK TESTS-
Join a GATE mock test series to get accustomed to the actual exam environment. Regular testing will improve your speed and precision.
8. FOCUS ON CORE CONCEPT-
Ensure that you understand the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing answers. GATE emphasizes your ability to apply fundamental knowledge.
9. TRACK GATE UPDATES-
Keep yourself updated with notifications regarding exam dates, application processes, and other important details on the official GATE website.
THANK YOU!! ALL THE BEST!!
If the payment for GATE 2025 shows as unsuccessful but the money has been debited from your account, follow these steps:
1. Check Transaction Status: Verify with your bank or payment provider if the transaction was processed or if there is any pending status.
2. Contact GATE Helpdesk: Reach out to the GATE helpdesk or the designated contact for GATE 2025. Provide them with your transaction details (date, amount, transaction ID) and explain the situation.
3. Gather Documentation: Keep any relevant documentation, such as bank statements or screenshots showing the payment attempt, as you may need to provide evidence.
4. Wait for Confirmation: Sometimes, it may take a few days for the payment status to update. However, if there is no resolution after a reasonable time, persist with your inquiries.
5. Follow Up with Bank: If GATE is unable to resolve the issue, contact your bank to initiate a dispute for the debited amount.
Taking prompt action will help ensure your issue is addressed quickly.
Hello Sridivya,
For the
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering)
application, the guidelines usually specify that the photograph should have a
white or light-colored background
. If you have already applied with a blue background photo, it could potentially be an issue, as it does not meet the official criteria.
What You Can Do:
Correction Window
: GATE typically opens a
correction window
after the application submission period. You can use this window to upload a new photo that adheres to the guidelines. Keep an eye on the GATE portal for when the correction window opens.
Impact of Incorrect Photo
: If the photograph is not as per the required specifications, it might cause delays or issues during the admit card issuance. It's advisable to upload a correct photo when the correction opportunity arises.
Contact GATE Authorities : If you're unsure, you can also contact the GATE helpdesk to confirm whether a blue background will cause an issue.
In short, if a correction window opens, you should upload a new photo with the correct background to avoid any complications.
I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.
Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.
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