The GATE 2026 Data Analytics (DA) exam is scheduled for 15 February 2026 in the afternoon session from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Students attempting the exam can access memory-based question papers with solutions compiled by coaching institutes immediately after the session ends. These resources will help candidates estimate their scores prior to the release of the official answer key.
GATE 2026 DA Paper Analysis
The paper analysis for GATE 2026 DA will provide insights into the overall difficulty level, question distribution, and major topics covered. Expert evaluations, along with student feedback, will assist aspirants in understanding the nature of the exam and preparing for score estimation and result anticipation.
Calculating Scores Using Memory-Based Questions
Candidates can use the memory-based question paper to calculate tentative marks before official results. The marking scheme is as follows:
- 1-mark MCQs: +1 for correct, -0.5 for incorrect
- 2-mark MCQs: +2 for correct, -2/3 for incorrect
- MSQs and NAT questions: No negative marking
Using this method, candidates can approximate scores and predict their qualifying chances.
GATE 2026 Official Question Paper and Answer Key
The official GATE 2026 DA question paper and answer key will be available in the last week of February 2026 on the GOAPS portal. Candidates can download it by:
- Visiting the official GATE website at gate2026.iitg.ac.in
- Logging into the applicant portal with enrollment ID and password
- Accessing the official master question paper and provisional/final answer keys
Expected GATE 2026 DA Cutoff
Experts anticipate a slight increase in the qualifying cutoff for GATE DA 2026. The expected range is as follows: