Graduate Aptitude Test Biotechnology Syllabus 2026
Graduate Aptitude Test Biotechnology Syllabus
GAT B Syllabus 2026: Section-wise Syllabus and Weightage
The GAT B syllabus is divided into 2 parts: Part A and Part B. Each part has a separate syllabus.
Part A is based on the NCERT Class 12 syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics. Part B is based on the graduation syllabus for biotechnology.
GAT B Syllabus: Key Points
- Part A has a total weightage of 60 questions, and all questions are compulsory.
- Part B has a total weightage of 100 questions, but only 60 questions are compulsory.
- In Section A, 1 mark is awarded for each correct answer and 0.5 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
- In Section B, 3 marks are awarded for each correct answer and 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer from the overall score.
The official website should be referred to for the latest updates on the syllabus, exam structure and exam schedule.
GAT B Syllabus PDF
The GAT-B Syllabus PDF can be downloaded from the official source.
GAT B Syllabus: Part A (10+2 Level)
Part A covers subjects at the 10+2 level. The subjects included are Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology.
GAT B Syllabus: Part B (Graduate Level)
Part B covers graduate-level subjects in Life Sciences and Biotechnology. The subjects include Biochemistry, Genetics, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Bioprocessing and Bioinformatics.
GAT B Topic-wise Weightage
GAT B Syllabus Part A: Topic-wise Weightage (60 Marks)
Part A has a maximum of 60 marks. Each correct answer carries 1 mark and each incorrect answer carries a negative mark of 0.5.
GAT B Syllabus Part B: Topic-wise Weightage (180 Marks)
Part B has a maximum of 180 marks. Each correct answer carries 3 marks and each incorrect answer carries a negative mark of 1.
GAT B 2026 Exam Pattern
The GAT B question paper has two sections. Section A and Section B follow different marking schemes.
| Section | Total Questions | Compulsory Questions | Marks per Correct Answer | Negative Marking | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | 60 | All 60 | 1 | 0.5 | 60 |
| Section B | 100 | 60 | 3 | 1 | 180 |
GAT B Preparation Strategy
Preparation should be based on the syllabus split between Part A and Part B. Part A requires Class 12 level preparation, while Part B requires graduation-level preparation.
GAT B Syllabus FAQs
The GAT B syllabus is divided into 2 parts. Part A is based on Class 12 subjects, and Part B is based on graduate-level biotechnology subjects.
GAT-B Exam Overview
The Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) is a national-level entrance exam for postgraduate programs. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts it on behalf of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB).
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Questions | 160 (Part A: 60 + Part B: 100) |
| Total Marks | 240 (Part A: 60 + Part B: 180) |
| Marking Scheme | Part A: +1 / -0.25 Part B: +3 / -1 |
| Medium of Exam | English |
| Purpose | Admission to DBT-supported PG programs in Biotechnology and allied areas |
What is the GAT-B Exam For?
The GAT-B exam is conducted for admission to M.Sc and M.Tech programs in biotechnology and related fields. It provides a common selection platform for all biotechnology candidates.
- It is accepted by more than 34 universities and institutes.
Who Can Apply for GAT-B?
Eligibility for GAT-B is based on a bachelor's degree in biotechnology or related fields. Final-year candidates can also apply.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | B.Sc/B.Tech in Biotechnology/Life Sciences/Microbiology/Biochemistry/Agriculture, etc. |
| Minimum Marks | Usually 55% (50% for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD) |
| Final-Year Students | Eligible to apply |
GAT-B Syllabus
The GAT-B syllabus has two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers 10+2 level physics, chemistry, mathematics and biology, while Part B covers postgraduate biotechnology topics.
GAT-B Part A Syllabus (10+2 Level)
Part A covers basic science subjects at the school level. It focuses on conceptual clarity and fundamentals. The questions are direct, but speed and accuracy are required.
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Laws of Motion, Thermodynamics, Oscillations & Waves, Gravitation, Electrostatics, Optics, Modern Physics |
| Chemistry | Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Redox Reactions, Hydrocarbons, Coordination Compounds, Biomolecules |
| Mathematics | Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Probability, Statistics, Vectors |
| Biology | Diversity in Living World, Cell Structure & Function, Human & Plant Physiology, Genetics & Evolution, Biotechnology, Ecology |
GAT-B Part B Syllabus (Graduate Level)
Part B tests candidates on undergraduate biotechnology topics. It carries higher weightage than Part A, with 180 marks out of 240. It requires in-depth understanding and application-based learning.
| Subject Area | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Biochemistry & Metabolism | Biomolecules, Enzymes, Metabolic Pathways, Bioenergetics |
| Cell Biology | Prokaryotic & Eukaryotic Cells, Organelles, Cell Cycle, Signaling |
| Genetics & Molecular Biology | Mendelian Inheritance, Gene Structure, Replication, Transcription, Translation, DNA Repair |
| Microbiology | Microbial Classification, Viruses, Growth & Nutrition, Microbial Diseases |
| Immunology | Innate & Adaptive Immunity, Antigen-Antibody Interactions, Immunological Techniques |
| Recombinant DNA Technology | Cloning Vectors, Gene Expression, Transgenic Organisms |
| Bioprocess Engineering | Fermentation Technology, Bioreactor Design, Downstream Processing |
| Bioinformatics | Databases, Sequence Alignment, Structural Bioinformatics |
Subjects in GAT-B
The subjects in GAT-B are divided between Part A and Part B. Part A includes Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology. Part B includes Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Recombinant DNA Technology, Bioprocess Engineering and Bioinformatics.
GAT-B Exam Structure
The GAT-B Exam is divided into 2 parts, which test both 10+2 basics along with UG Level specialisation.
| Part | Subjects Covered | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Part A | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology | 10+2 Level |
| Part B | Biochemistry, Genetics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, rDNA Tech, Bioprocess, Bioinformatics | UG Level |
How to Prepare for the GAT-B Exam
The GAT-B Preparation requires a balanced approach, which focuses on NCERT for Part A and advanced topics for Part B.
| Part | Strategy | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Part A | Revise NCERT + Solve MCQs | Strengthen basics |
| Part B | Practice PYQs + Revise core subjects | Genetics, rDNA, Molecular Biology |
| General | Mock tests & Notes | Speed + Accuracy |
GAT-B Topic-Wise Weightage
The GAT-B Exam includes Part A of 60 marks and Part B of 180 marks, which makes a total of 240 marks. Part A carries a weightage of 25% and Part B includes a major weightage of 75%.
GAT-B Syllabus Part A: Topic-Wise Weightage (60 Marks)
- Biology carries the highest weightage in the GAT-B Part A syllabus.
- Physics and Chemistry carry equal weightage, whereas the weightage of mathematics is comparatively lower.
| Subject | Approx. Weightage | Marks Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 20–25% | 12–15 marks |
| Chemistry | 20–25% | 12–15 marks |
| Mathematics | 15–20% | 9–12 marks |
| Biology | 35–40% | 21–24 marks |
GAT-B Syllabus Part B: Topic-Wise Weightage (180 Marks)
- The Genetics & molecular biology, along with rDNA Technology, together carry the highest weightage of 30 to 35%.
- The Biochemistry, cell biology and microbiology have moderate weight.
| Subject Area | Approx. Weightage | Marks Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Biochemistry & Metabolism | 10–12% | 18–22 marks |
| Cell Biology | 10–12% | 18–22 marks |
| Genetics & Molecular Biology | 15–18% | 27–32 marks |
| Microbiology | 10–12% | 18–22 marks |
| Immunology | 8–10% | 14–18 marks |
| Recombinant DNA Technology | 12–15% | 22–27 marks |
| Bioprocess Engineering | 10–12% | 18–22 marks |
| Bioinformatics | 8–10% | 14–18 marks |
Number of Seats in GAT-B
GAT-B will provide admission in 1,127 DBT Seats across India.
- 34 universities will participate
- Seats vary program-wise (M.Sc./M.Tech)
Does GAT-B Have Maths?
Yes, 10+2 Level of mathematics is included in GAT-B Part A along with physics, chemistry and biology.
- Candidates should practice Maths effectively, as skipping it can reduce your Part A Score.
- It helps with the bioprocess and bioinformatic questions.
GAT-B Syllabus: Important Topics
The GAT-B Syllabus is vast, in which all the topics are essential, whereas certain topics carry high weightage in the exam. Candidates should give priority to these topics to increase their scores.
| Section | Key Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Part A (10+2 Level) |
|
GAT-B 2026 Exam Pattern
The GAT-B exam has a total of 160 questions. Section A has 60 questions, and Section B has 100 questions.
- All questions in Section A are compulsory.
- Only 60 questions are compulsory in Section B.
- Section A carries a maximum of 60 marks.
- Section B carries a maximum of 180 marks.
| GAT-B Section | Number of Questions | Questions to be Attempted | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | 60 | 60 | 60 |
| Section B | 100 | 60 | 180 |
GAT-B Part B Syllabus Topics
The Part B syllabus covers core biotechnology subjects. The main topics are listed below.
- Biochemistry & Metabolism: Enzymes, Carbohydrate & Protein Metabolism
- Cell Biology: Organelles, Cell Cycle, Signalling
- Genetics & Molecular Biology: Mendelian Inheritance, DNA Replication, Transcription, Translation
- Microbiology: Microbial Classification, Growth & Nutrition, Viruses
- Immunology: Antigen-Antibody Interactions, Immune System Components
- Recombinant DNA Technology: Cloning Vectors, Genetic Engineering, Transgenics
- Bioprocess Engineering: Fermentation, Bioreactor Design, Downstream Processing
- Bioinformatics: Databases, Sequence Alignment, Computational Tools
GAT-B Good Score and Qualifying Marks
A GAT-B score of 150 out of 240 is considered good for admission to top universities. The safe score varies by category.
| Category | Safe Score |
|---|---|
| General | 150+ |
| OBC | 135+ |
| SC/ST | 120+ |
The GAT-B cutoff changes every year. The approximate qualifying marks are 120-130 for the general category and lower for reserved categories.
| Category | Qualifying Marks (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General | 120–130 |
| OBC | 110–120 |
| SC/ST | 90–110 |
GAT-B Important Books
Candidates should use books recommended by mentors or previous year toppers for preparation. The books for both syllabus parts are listed below.
Important Books for GAT-B Syllabus Part A
| Book Name | Author/Publisher |
|---|---|
| Concepts of Physics | H. C. Verma |
| Physical Chemistry | O. P. Tandon |
| Mathematics | R. D. Sharma |
| Biology Vol 1 and Vol 2 | Trueman |
| Physics Textbook | NCERT |
| Chemistry Textbook | NCERT |
| Mathematics Textbook | NCERT |
| Biology Textbook | NCERT |
Important Books for GAT-B Syllabus Part B
| Book Name | Author/Publisher |
|---|---|
| Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry | David L. Nelson and Michael M. Cox |
| Molecular Biology of the Cell | Bruce Alberts |
| Kuby Immunology | Jenni Punt, Sharon Stranford, Patricia Jones, & Judith A. Owen |
| Molecular Biology of the Gene | James D. Watson |
| Biotechnology | U. Satyanarayana |
| Life Sciences: Fundamentals and Practice | Pathfinder Academy |
| Practice book of Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) | Himanshu Publications |
Number of Candidates Appearing for GAT-B
Around 12,000 to 15,000 candidates appear for the GAT-B exam every year. This figure is based on the last three years of data.
GAT-B Exam Marks and Pattern
The GAT-B exam has a total of 240 marks. The paper is divided into two parts with different question counts and marking schemes.
| Part | Questions | Marks | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | 60 Qs | 60 | -0.25 |
| Part B | 100 Qs (60 to attempt) | 180 | -1 |
GAT-B Total Questions
As per the GAT B exam pattern released by NTA, there will be a total of 160 questions. The paper is divided into two sections, Section A and Section B.
- Section A will have 60 questions.
- Section B will have 100 questions, out of which students must solve 60.
GAT-B Section A Syllabus
GAT B Section A syllabus is based on the Class 12 syllabus for Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. The topics are taken from Class 12 NCERT books for each subject.
GAT-B Exam Difficulty
GAT B is considered easier or moderate compared to other entrance exams like IIT JAM. The questions test both theoretical knowledge and the practical, applied aspects of biotechnology.
With thorough preparation, understanding core concepts, practising mock tests, and managing time well, the exam becomes more manageable.
GAT-B Preparation Strategy
Students can follow the steps below to prepare for the GAT B 2026 examination.
- Check and analyse the GAT B syllabus 2026.
- Understand the GAT B exam pattern and type of questions.
- Collect GAT B study material relevant to the syllabus.
- Prepare a study plan and follow it regularly.
- Solve previous years' papers and sample questions.
- Appear for GAT B mock tests to improve time management and accuracy.
Section-wise Preparation Tips
| Section | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|
| Part A (10+2 Level) | Revise NCERT basics, practice MCQs, focus on Biology & Chemistry, solve previous year questions |
| Part B (Graduate Level) | Focus on high-weightage topics (Genetics, Molecular Biology, rDNA), revise diagrams, solve past papers, practice MCQs regularly |
| General Tips | Allocate 25–30% time for Part A, 70–75% for Part B, take mock tests, improve speed & accuracy, maintain short notes for last-minute revision |
How to Start Preparing for GAT-B
Students must create a study plan to start their preparation for GAT B. Begin by reviewing the syllabus and identifying the topics that need focus.
Then create a schedule for covering all topics in the syllabus. Allocate enough time for each topic and include time for practice and revision.
Colleges Accepting GAT-B Score
The GAT-B score is accepted by over 34 universities and institutes for DBT Funded PG Programmes. Some of the top colleges accepting GAT-B are listed below.
- JNU, Delhi
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- Tezpur University
- Pondicherry University
GAT-B Seats
In GAT-B, there are 1,127 DBT Funded seats in total across all universities.
GAT-B Candidate Statistics
The number of registered and appeared candidates for GAT-B has varied over the last three years. The attendance rate has remained close to 85%.
| Year | Registered Candidates | Appeared Candidates | Attendance rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 10,417 candidates | 8,891 candidates | About an 85.4% attendance rate |
| 2024 | 11,709 candidates | 9,957 candidates | Attendance around 85.0% |
| 2023 | 10,493 candidates | 9,116 candidates | Attendance around 86.9% |
GAT-B Exam Overview
The Graduate Aptitude Test Biotechnology (GAT-B) is an entrance exam. It is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
The GAT-B score is accepted by over 34 universities and institutes for DBT Funded PG Programmes.
Colleges Accepting GAT-B Score
Around 34+ universities accept the GAT-B Score. The seats will vary according to each program.
Top colleges accepting GAT-B include:
- JNU, Delhi
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- Tezpur University
- Pondicherry University
Number of Seats
In GAT-B, there are 1,127 DBT Funded seats in total universities.
Exam Pattern
As per the GAT-B exam pattern released by NTA, there will be a total of 160 questions. The GAT-B paper will be divided into two sections, including Section A and Section B.
| Section | Total Questions | Questions to Solve |
|---|---|---|
| Section A | 60 | 60 |
| Section B | 100 | 60 |
| Total | 160 | - |
Section A Syllabus
GAT-B Section A syllabus is based on the syllabus for Class 12th Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. The GAT-B syllabus includes topics from Class 12th NCERT books for each subject.
Exam Difficulty
GAT-B exam is considered to be easier or moderate than other entrance exams like IIT JAM. The questions are designed to test not just theoretical knowledge, but also the practical and applied aspects of biotechnology.
With thorough preparation, understanding the core concepts, practising mock tests, and managing time efficiently, the exam becomes more manageable.
Preparation Tips
Students must create a study plan to start their preparation for GAT-B. To create a study plan, start by reviewing the syllabus and identifying the topics that need focus.
Then, create a schedule for covering all of the topics in the syllabus. Be sure to allocate enough time for each topic and to include time for practice and revision.