GATE 2026 Mathematics (MA) Paper Analysis: Difficulty, Weightage & Cutoffs
In-depth Review of Feb 7 MA Paper, Topic-wise Marks Distribution, and Expected IIT Admission Cutoffs.
Updated: just now
Categories: GATE 2026, Paper Analysis, Mathematics.
GATE 2026 Mathematics (MA) Detailed Paper Analysis
Overall Difficulty & Student Reaction
The GATE 2026 MA paper was Moderate to Difficult. Many candidates reported that the NAT (Numerical Answer Type) questions were particularly time-consuming, while MSQs (Multiple Select Questions) in Algebra required deep conceptual elimination strategies. Real Analysis remained conceptual but fair.
Good Attempts: 38-42 Qs
Difficulty: Moderate-Tough
Subject-Wise Marks Weightage
| Subject Domain | Approx. Weightage | Critical Topics (2026 Trends) |
|---|---|---|
| Linear Algebra | 12-15% | Eigenvalues, Vector Spaces, Linear Transformations. |
| Real Analysis | 10-12% | Sequences, Series, Metric Spaces, Riemann Integration. |
| Complex Analysis | 8-10% | Cauchy’s Residue Theorem, Analytic Functions. |
| Algebra (Group/Rings) | 8-10% | Normal Subgroups, Field Extensions, Ring Theory. |
| ODE & PDE | 12-15% | Fourier Series, Laplace Transforms, Initial Value Problems. |
| General Aptitude | 15% | Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Verbal Ability. |
Expected Qualifying Cutoff 2026
The expected qualifying marks for 2026 are slightly higher than 2025 due to a more competitive pool, though the paper difficulty was similar.
| Category | 2026 (Expected) | 2025 (Actual) | 2024 (Actual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 26.0 - 27.5 | 25.0 | 25.0 |
| OBC-NCL / EWS | 23.4 - 24.8 | 22.5 | 22.5 |
| SC / ST / PwD | 17.3 - 18.5 | 16.6 | 16.6 |
IIT & PSU Admission Targets
IISc / Top IITs (Ph.D.)
Marks: 65+ | Rank: Under 100
Top NITs (M.Sc.)
Marks: 45+ | Score: 600+
PSU Opportunities
Marks: 75+ | Rank: Under 50
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