GATE Physics Previous Year Question Papers
Free PDF Download — 2018 to 2026

GATE Physics Previous Year Question Papers — Complete Guide

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) Physics paper code PH is conducted once a year, typically in February, by IISc Bangalore and the IITs on a rotating basis. GATE Physics score is used for admission to MTech and PhD programmes at IITs, NITs, and central universities, and for recruitment in PSUs such as BARC, DRDO, ISRO, and ECIL. It is also accepted by several research institutes for integrated PhD programmes.

GATE Physics has 65 questions for 100 marks in 3 hours. It includes General Aptitude (15 marks) and Physics Core (85 marks). Question types include MCQs (with negative marking), MSQs (no negative marking), and NAT — Numerical Answer Type questions (no negative marking). GATE Physics scores are valid for 3 years.

GATE Physics vs CSIR NET — Key Differences

• Syllabus overlap: ~85% overlap. Strong CSIR NET preparation covers virtually the entire GATE Physics syllabus.
• Difficulty: GATE Physics is generally considered easier than CSIR NET Part C, but harder than CSIR NET Part B.
• Electronics: GATE Physics has a dedicated Electronics section (10 marks) which CSIR NET also tests but with slightly lower emphasis.
• General Aptitude: GATE has a mandatory 15-mark GA section; CSIR NET has Part A which is different in style.
• Score validity: GATE score is valid for 3 years; CSIR NET JRF fellowship must be activated within 2 years.

Who Should Attempt GATE Physics?

• BSc Physics graduates seeking admission to MTech or integrated PhD programmes at IITs, NITs, and IISc.
• MSc Physics students seeking PhD admission at national institutes including IITs, TIFR (via GATE), and IISERs.
• Students targeting PSU jobs in BARC (Scientific Officer), DRDO, ISRO, and ECIL where GATE score is the eligibility criterion.
• CSIR NET aspirants who want a parallel qualification and a 3-year valid score for job applications.

About Pravegaa Education

Pravegaa Education is a physics-only coaching institute at 28B/7, Jia Sarai, Near IIT Delhi, New Delhi founded by Atul Gaurav (JNU alumnus) and Dr. Alok Shukla (IIT Delhi alumnus). With 8,000+ selections and AIR 1 results, Pravegaa’s CSIR NET courses comprehensively cover the GATE Physics syllabus. Book a free demo class or call 8920759559.