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: 1 month ago

Categories: GATE 2026, Paper Analysis, Mathematics.

Tags: GATE 2026 MA Analysis, Mathematics Paper Review, GATE MA Expected Cutoff, Real Analysis Weightage

GATE 2026 Mathematics (MA) Detailed Paper Analysis

Exam Date: Feb 7, 2026 | Session: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

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.