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GATE 2026 Chemistry Syllabus

Ritik Kumar Ritik Kumar · October 4, 2025
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Introduction

Chemistry is a pivotal paper for many GATE aspirants, especially those from multidisciplinary backgrounds. The GATE 2026 Chemistry syllabus spans physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry along with engineering chemistry topics. This blog comprehensively breaks down the syllabus sections, informs about the exam pattern, and suggests strategic preparation tips to help achieve a competitive score.

Exam Pattern at a Glance

The GATE Chemistry paper is a 3-hour computer-based test with 100 marks and 65 questions:

  • General Aptitude (15 Marks): 10 questions assessing verbal and numerical skills
  • Engineering Mathematics (13 Marks): 9 questions assessing mathematical aptitude
  • Chemistry Core (72 Marks): ~46 questions covering various branches of chemistry

Download the official GATE Chemistry 2026 syllabus PDF here: https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in/doc/GATE2026_Syllabus/CY_2026_Syllabus.pdf

Section1: General Aptitude (15 Marks)

  • English grammar and vocabulary
  • Reading comprehension
  • Basic data interpretation and arithmetic

Section2: Engineering Mathematics (13 Marks)

  • Linear Algebra: matrices, determinants, eigenvalues
  • Calculus: differentiation, integration, Fourier series
  • Differential Equations: ordinary and partial
  • Probability and Statistics: distributions, correlation
  • Numerical methods: interpolation, numerical integration

Section3: Chemistry Core (72 Marks)

Physical Chemistry

  • Thermodynamics: laws, Gibbs function, chemical potential
  • Chemical kinetics: rate laws, reaction mechanisms
  • Quantum chemistry: Schrödinger equation, orbitals
  • Electrochemistry: cell potential, Nernst equation
  • Surface chemistry, catalysis, phase equilibria

Inorganic Chemistry

  • Chemical bonding: VSEPR, molecular orbital
  • Coordination chemistry: Werner’s theory, crystal field theory
  • Solid state chemistry: crystal systems, defects
  • Main group and transition metal chemistry
  • Bioinorganic chemistry basics

Organic Chemistry

  • Reaction mechanisms: electrophilic, nucleophilic, radical
  • Stereochemistry: chiral centers, optical activity
  • Functional group chemistry: alcohols, amines, carbonyls
  • Organic synthesis pathways
  • Spectroscopy: NMR, IR, UV-Vis principles

Engineering Chemistry

  • Water chemistry: hardness, treatment methods
  • Fuels and combustion
  • Corrosion and prevention
  • Polymers and materials chemistry
  • Analytical techniques used in industries

Topic-Wise Weightage Distribution

Section Weightage (%) Approx. Questions
General Aptitude 15 10
Engineering Mathematics 13 9
Physical Chemistry 25–28 14–16
Inorganic Chemistry 22–25 12–14
Organic Chemistry 20–23 11–13
Engineering Chemistry 8–10 5–7

Preparation Strategy

  • Begin by consolidating your conceptual base in all chemistry branches.
  • Focus on Physical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry as they carry higher weightage, but don’t neglect Organic Chemistry fundamentals.
  • Practice problems on chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and reaction mechanisms regularly.
  • Build proficiency in Engineering Chemistry topics as they are practical and scoring.
  • Use previous year question papers and take mock tests to identify weak areas.
  • Maintain an error log and revise challenging topics often.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where can I download the official GATE 2026 Chemistry syllabus?
 A1: Download the official PDF here: https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in/doc/GATE2026_Syllabus/CY_2026_Syllabus.pdf

Q2: Which chemistry sections carry the most marks?
 A2: Physical Chemistry (25–28%), Inorganic Chemistry (22–25%), and Organic Chemistry (20–23%) contribute the bulk of questions.

Q3: How many questions are included in Engineering Chemistry?
 A3: Typically 5–7 questions (8–10 marks) cover Engineering Chemistry topics.

Q4: Are negative markings applicable?
 A4: Yes, 1/3 mark deduction for incorrect 1-mark MCQs, 2/3 for 2-mark MCQs. No negative marking for MSQ or NAT questions.

Q5: How many mock tests are recommended?
 A5: Aim for 15–20 full-length mock tests along with topic-wise practice to track progress effectively.

Conclusion

A systematic study plan focusing on detailed understanding of each chemistry branch, reinforced by consistent practice and mock tests, will ensure success in GATE 2026 Chemistry. Download the official syllabus PDF today and start preparing with a focused strategy!

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