GATE Geology & Geophysics 2026: Syllabus, Part B Choice, and PSU Guide
Master the GG Paper: In-depth analysis of Common Part A and specialized Part B sections.
Updated : 1 week ago
Categories: GATE Exam, Earth Sciences, PSU Recruitment
View Complete ArticleGATE 2026 GG Exam Timeline
IIT Guwahati has officially scheduled the Geology and Geophysics (GG) paper for the very first morning of the 2026 examination window.
Event
Official Date / Time
Admit Card Release
January 13, 2026
GG Exam Date
February 7, 2026 (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Result Declaration
March 19, 2026
Understanding the GG Paper Structure
The GATE GG paper is divided into a common section and a specialized elective section. Candidates must choose their specialization during the application process.
• Part A (Compulsory): 25 Marks. Common to both Geology and Geophysics candidates.
• Part B (Elective): 60 Marks. Candidates attempt either Section 1 (Geology) OR Section 2 (Geophysics).
• General Aptitude (Compulsory): 15 Marks.
Major Marks Distribution
The 100 marks are structured to test broad Earth Science knowledge through Part A and specialized technical depth through Part B.
Section
Total Marks
Weightage %
General Aptitude
15 Marks
15%
Part A (Common)
25 Marks
25%
Part B (Geology or Geophysics)
60 Marks
60%
Part A: The Foundation of Earth Sciences
Part A is the "qualifying" core for both streams. Focus on these multidisciplinary topics:
1. Earth and Planetary System: Origin of Earth, internal structure, and plate tectonics.
2. Weathering and Erosion: Landforms produced by rivers, wind, and glaciers.
3. Basic Structural Geology: Concepts of stress/strain, faults, and folds.
4. Elements of Crystallography: Symmetry elements and crystal systems.
Part B: Geology vs. Geophysics Core
Section 1 (Geology): Focuses heavily on Mineralogy, Igneous/Metamorphic Petrology, Sedimentology, and Paleontology.
Section 2 (Geophysics): Focuses on Seismology (P/S waves), Geodesy, Gravity and Magnetic fields of Earth, and Electrical/Electromagnetic prospecting.
Success Roadmap for GG 2026
1. Prioritize Part A: Since it's only 25 marks but covers a wide range, ensure you master the "basic" concepts of both Geology and Geophysics.
2. PSU Target: For ONGC/OIL recruitment, a score of 75+ is generally required. Accuracy in MSQs is the key to reaching this threshold.
3. Numerical Practice: Geophysics candidates must practice NAT questions on gravity anomalies and seismic travel time. Geology candidates should focus on unit cell and dip/strike calculations.
4. Virtual Calculator: Master the official tool for complex logarithmic and trigonometric Earth Science calculations.
Official Links & Reference Portals
Refer to the Organizing Institute for authentic syllabus and mock test links:
