GATE Architecture and Planning 2026: Syllabus, Part B1/B2 Choice, and Guide

Master the AR Paper: A deep dive into Architecture vs. Planning specializations and 2026 dates.

Updated: 4 months ago

Categories: GATE Exam, Architecture, Urban Planning

Tags: GATE AR 2026, Architecture Syllabus, Urban Planning Exam, IIT Guwahati, Part B1 B2 GATE, AR Exam Pattern

GATE 2026 AR Exam Timeline

For the 2026 cycle, the Architecture and Planning (AR) paper is scheduled for the final day of the examination window. Timely preparation for Part A and your chosen elective (B1 or B2) is essential.

Admit Card Release

January 13, 2026

AR Exam Date

February 15, 2026 (Forenoon)

Result Declaration

March 19, 2026

Understanding the Paper Structure

The GATE AR paper is unique because it allows candidates to specialize during the exam. The paper is divided into three segments:

• Part A (Compulsory): 60 Marks. Covers General Architecture and Planning topics.

• Part B1 (Architecture): 20 Marks. Choice for Architecture students.

• Part B2 (Planning): 20 Marks. Choice for Planning students.

Note: You must choose either B1 or B2 during the exam. Do not attempt both.

Marks Distribution Breakdown

The total 100 marks are distributed to test both general aptitude and specialized technical knowledge.

General Aptitude

15 Marks

15%

Part A (Compulsory)

65 Marks

65%

Part B1 or B2 (Elective)

20 Marks

20%

Part A: Compulsory Syllabus Focus

Since Part A carries the bulk of the marks (65), focusing on these areas is critical for qualifying:

1. Architecture & Design: Visual composition, Anthropometrics, and Climate-responsive design.

2. Building Materials & Construction: Properties of materials, specialized construction techniques, and structural systems.

3. Environmental Planning: Ecology, Sustainable Architecture, and Waste Management.

4. Urban Design & History: Historical timelines of Architecture and Principles of Urban Design.

Choosing Your Elective: B1 or B2?

Part B1 (Architecture): Focuses on Building Services (HVAC, Acoustics, Lighting), Landscape Design, and Project Management (CPM/PERT).

Part B2 (Planning): Focuses on Regional Planning, Housing, Transportation Planning, and Urban Infrastructure (Water/Sewerage systems).

Top Success Strategies

1. Master Structural Calculations: Part A often includes NAT questions on beams, trusses, and shear force which are scoring if your concepts are clear.

2. Focus on Building Codes: NBC (National Building Code) and URDPFI guidelines are frequently tested in both Part A and B2.

3. Visual Memory: Architecture history questions often rely on identifying plans or elevations of famous structures.

Official Links & Downloads

Refer to the Organizing Institute for the most authentic syllabus and mock test links:

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