The GATE Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Syllabus 2026 is officially prescribed under the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) framework. The DA paper evaluates a candidate’s understanding of mathematical foundations, computational techniques, and intelligent systems required for data-driven problem-solving.
For GATE 2026, the examination is conducted under the supervision of the GATE Committee, jointly administered by IISc Bengaluru and IITs, with IIT Guwahati as the organising institute. The syllabus and exam pattern published in the official GATE information brochure form the only authoritative source for preparation.
Official Details of the GATE DA Paper (2026)
| Parameter | Official Information |
|---|---|
| Paper Name | Data Science and Artificial Intelligence |
| Paper Code | DA |
| Exam Authority | GATE Committee (IISc & IITs) |
| Organising Institute (2026) | IIT Guwahati |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Total Questions | 65 |
The DA paper follows the standard GATE structure, with a mandatory General Aptitude section and a discipline-specific core subject section.
GATE DA Exam Pattern for 2026
GATE DA Exam Pattern 2026 – Section-wise Marks Distribution
| Section | Marks | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| General Aptitude (GA) | 15 | 15% |
| Core Data Science & AI Subjects | 85 | 85% |
| Total | 100 | 100% |
GATE DA Exam Pattern 2026 – Question Types and Marking Scheme
The GATE DA paper includes the following official question formats:
- MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions) – one correct option
- MSQs (Multiple Select Questions) – one or more correct options
- NAT (Numerical Answer Type) – no options, answer to be entered numerically
Negative marking applies only to MCQs:
- 1-mark MCQ → ⅓ mark deduction
- 2-mark MCQ → ⅔ mark deduction
- No negative marking for MSQs and NATs (official GATE rule)
GATE Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Syllabus 2026 – Structure
The syllabus is officially divided into two components:
- General Aptitude (GA) – Common across all GATE papers
- Core Data Science & AI Subjects (DA) – Discipline-specific
The syllabus remains largely stable year-to-year, with only minor refinements, making the official syllabus document the most reliable preparation guide.
GATE DA Syllabus 2026 for General Aptitude (15 Marks)
The General Aptitude (GA) section evaluates fundamental reasoning and communication abilities required for postgraduate engineering and research programs.
GATE DA General Aptitude Syllabus Topics
| Area | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Verbal Aptitude | Grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, sentence completion |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic, ratios, percentages, probability, data interpretation |
| Analytical Aptitude | Logical reasoning, pattern recognition |
| Spatial Aptitude | Visualization, shape manipulation, 2D/3D reasoning |
GATE Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Syllabus 2026 for Core Subjects (85 Marks)
The core syllabus reflects the interdisciplinary nature of data science as defined by the GATE committee.
Probability and Statistics
- Random variables and probability distributions
- Bayes’ theorem
- Estimation and hypothesis testing
- Confidence intervals
Linear Algebra
- Matrices, determinants
- Eigenvalues and eigenvectors
- Vector spaces
- Matrix decomposition
Calculus and Optimization
- Limits and continuity
- Differentiation and integration
- Taylor series
- Optimization techniques
Programming, Data Structures, and Algorithms
- Python programming
- Arrays, stacks, queues, trees
- Sorting and searching algorithms
- Graph algorithms
Database Management Systems and Warehousing
- ER modeling
- SQL and relational algebra
- Normalization
- Indexing and data warehousing
Machine Learning
- Supervised and unsupervised learning
- Regression and classification
- Support Vector Machines
- Neural networks
- Clustering and PCA
Artificial Intelligence
- Intelligent agents
- Search algorithms
- Knowledge representation
- Reasoning under uncertainty
GATE Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Eligibility Criteria
As per GATE norms, candidates who have completed or are in the final year of any of the following degrees are eligible:
- Engineering / Technology
- Science
- Architecture
- Humanities, Commerce, or Arts
There is no age limit and no restriction on the number of attempts for appearing in GATE.
Validity and Use of GATE DA Score
- GATE score validity: 3 years from the date of result declaration
- Accepted for:
- MTech / MS programs at IITs, IISc, NITs, IIITs
- PhD and research fellowships
- PSU recruitment (where DA paper is applicable)
- Sponsored and self-financed postgraduate programs
Why the Official GATE DA Syllabus Is Critical for Preparation
Because Data Science and AI is a newer GATE paper, aspirants cannot rely heavily on long-term past trends. The official syllabus and exam pattern therefore serve as:
- The primary scope-defining document
- The basis for question paper design
- The reference for coaching institutes and universities
Preparation aligned strictly with the official syllabus minimizes risk and maximizes scoring potential.