GATE Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) Syllabus 2026
GATE ECE Syllabus 2026: The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026, organized by IIT Guwahati, is a premier examination for electronics and communication engineering graduates aiming for M.Tech/Ph.D. programs at prestigious institutes like IITs, NITs, and IISc, or careers in PSUs and research organizations. The GATE Electronics and Communication Engineering (EC) syllabus is comprehensive, spanning eight sections that test core technical and analytical skills.
GATE ECE Syllabus 2026: Overview
The GATE EC syllabus 2026 is designed for a 100-mark computer-based test (CBT) featuring MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. General Aptitude (15 marks) is mandatory, complementing the technical sections, which collectively cover undergraduate-level concepts critical to electronics and communication engineering.
Why Understand the Syllabus? A thorough understanding of the GATE 2026 EC syllabus enables candidates to prioritize high-weightage topics, optimize their study strategy, and excel in this competitive exam.
GATE EC Syllabus 2026: Weightage Summary
| Subject | Avg Marks |
| Engineering Mathematics | 13 |
| Network Theory | 8 |
| Signals Systems | 8 |
| Control Systems | 8 |
| Digital Circuits | 7 |
| Communication | 12 |
| Analog Electronics | 11 |
| Electronic Devices Circuits | 9 |
| Electromagnetic Theory | 9 |
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Detailed Breakdown of GATE 2026 Electronics and Communication Engineering Syllabus
Below is a section-wise analysis of the GATE 2026 EC syllabus, detailing key topics, their significance, and estimated weightage.
1. Engineering Mathematics (13 marks)
Engineering Mathematics is a foundational section that provides analytical tools essential for solving electronics problems.
Key Topics:
- Linear Algebra: Vector space, basis, linear dependence/independence, matrix algebra, eigenvalues/eigenvectors, rank, solutions of linear equations.
- Calculus: Mean value theorems, integral calculus, definite/improper integrals, partial derivatives, maxima/minima, multiple integrals, line/surface/volume integrals, Taylor series.
- Differential Equations: First-order linear/nonlinear equations, higher-order linear ODEs, Cauchy’s/Euler’s equations, variation of parameters, complementary function, particular integral, PDEs, variable separable method, initial/boundary value problems.
- Vector Analysis: Vector operations, gradient, divergence, curl, Gauss’s, Green’s, Stokes’ theorems.
- Complex Analysis: Analytic functions, Cauchy’s integral theorem/formula, sequences, series, convergence tests, Taylor/Laurent series, residue theorem.
- Probability and Statistics: Mean, median, mode, standard deviation, combinatorial probability, probability distributions (binomial, Poisson, exponential, normal), joint/conditional probability.
Significance: Critical for modeling and solving problems in circuits, signals, and systems.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Calculus | 4–5 | High |
| Linear Algebra | 3–4 | High |
| Differential Equations | 2–3 | Medium |
| Probability & Statistics | 2–3 | Medium |
| Complex Analysis | 1–2 | Low |
| Vector Analysis | 1–2 | Low |
2. Networks, Signals and Systems (15–18 marks)
This section covers circuit analysis and signal processing, which are fundamental to electronics engineering.
Key Topics:
- Circuit Analysis: Node/mesh analysis, superposition, Thevenin’s/Norton’s theorems, reciprocity, phasors, complex power, maximum power transfer, time/frequency domain analysis (RL, RC, RLC circuits), Laplace transform, linear 2-port network parameters, wye-delta transformation.
- Continuous-time Signals: Fourier series, Fourier transform, sampling theorem, applications.
- Discrete-time Signals: DTFT, DFT, z-transform, discrete-time processing of continuous-time signals, LTI systems (causality, stability, impulse response, convolution, poles/zeros, frequency response, group/phase delay).
Significance: Essential for designing circuits and analyzing signal behavior in communication systems.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Circuit Analysis | 5–7 | High |
| Continuous-time Signals | 4–5 | High |
| Discrete-time Signals | 3–4 | Medium |
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3. Electronic Devices (8-10 marks)
Electronic Devices focuses on semiconductor physics and device operation.
Key Topics:
- Energy bands in intrinsic/extrinsic semiconductors, equilibrium carrier concentration, direct/indirect band-gap semiconductors.
- Carrier transport: diffusion/drift current, mobility, resistivity, generation/recombination.
- Devices: P-N junction, Zener diode, BJT, MOS capacitor, MOSFET, LED, photodiode, solar cell.
- Poisson and continuity equations.
Significance: Underpins the functionality of electronic circuits and systems.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Semiconductor Physics | 4–5 | High |
| Devices (P-N, MOSFET, etc.) | 4–5 | High |
| Carrier Transport | 2–3 | Medium |
4. Analog Circuits (10–12 marks)
Analog Circuits covers the design and analysis of analog electronic systems.
Key Topics:
- Diode Circuits: Clipping, clamping, rectifiers.
- BJT and MOSFET Amplifiers: Biasing, AC coupling, small signal analysis, frequency response, current mirrors, differential amplifiers.
- Op-amp Circuits: Amplifiers, summers, differentiators, integrators, active filters, Schmitt triggers, oscillators.
Significance: Key for designing amplifiers and signal processing circuits.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| BJT/MOSFET Amplifiers | 4–5 | High |
| Op-amp Circuits | 4–5 | High |
| Diode Circuits | 2–3 | Medium |
5. Digital Circuits (7-9 marks)
Digital Circuits focuses on logic design and digital systems.
Key Topics:
- Number Representations: Binary, integer, floating-point numbers.
- Combinatorial Circuits: Boolean algebra, function minimization (Boolean identities, Karnaugh map), logic gates, CMOS implementations, arithmetic circuits, code converters, multiplexers, decoders.
- Sequential Circuits: Latches, flip-flops, counters, shift-registers, finite state machines, propagation/setup/hold time, critical path delay.
- Data Converters: Sample-and-hold circuits, ADCs, DACs.
- Semiconductor Memories: ROM, SRAM, DRAM.
- Computer Organization: Machine instructions, addressing modes, ALU, data-path, control unit, instruction pipelining.
Significance: Crucial for designing digital systems and microprocessors.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Combinatorial Circuits | 4–5 | High |
| Sequential Circuits | 3–4 | High |
| Data Converters/Memories | 2–3 | Medium |
| Computer Organization | 1–2 | Low |
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6. Control Systems (8–10 marks)
Control Systems addresses the analysis and design of feedback systems.
Key Topics:
- Basic components, feedback principle, transfer function, block diagram, signal flow graph.
- Transient/steady-state analysis of LTI systems, frequency response.
- Stability criteria: Routh-Hurwitz, Nyquist, Bode, root-locus plots.
- Compensation: lag, lead, lag-lead.
- State variable model, solution of state equations for LTI systems.
Significance: Vital for automation and stability in electronic systems.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Stability Analysis | 3–4 | High |
| Transfer Function/Analysis | 3–4 | High |
| State Variable Model | 1–2 | Low |
7. Communications (10–12 marks)
Communications covers analog and digital communication systems.
Key Topics:
- Random Processes: Autocorrelation, power spectral density, white noise, filtering through LTI systems.
- Analog Communications: Amplitude modulation/demodulation, angle modulation/demodulation, AM/FM spectra, superheterodyne receivers.
- Information Theory: Entropy, mutual information, channel capacity theorem.
- Digital Communications: PCM, DPCM, digital modulation (ASK, PSK, FSK, QAM), bandwidth, inter-symbol interference, MAP/ML detection, matched filter, SNR, BER, error correction, Hamming codes, CRC.
Significance: Core to designing reliable communication systems.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Digital Communications | 4–5 | High |
| Analog Communications | 3–4 | High |
| Random Processes | 2–3 | Medium |
| Information Theory | 1–2 | Low |
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8. Electromagnetics (8–10 marks)
Electromagnetics focuses on electromagnetic theory and applications.
Key Topics:
- Maxwell’s Equations: Differential/integral forms, boundary conditions, wave equation, Poynting vector.
- Plane Waves: Reflection/refraction, polarization, phase/group velocity, propagation in media, skin depth.
- Transmission Lines: Equations, characteristic impedance, impedance matching/transformation, S-parameters, Smith chart.
- Waveguides (rectangular, circular), optical fiber light propagation, dipole/monopole antennas, linear antenna arrays.
Significance: Essential for RF, microwave, and antenna design.
Weightage Table
| Topic | Approx. Marks | Priority |
| Plane Waves | 3–4 | High |
| Transmission Lines | 3–4 | High |
| Maxwell’s Equations | 1–2 | Medium |
| Waveguides/Antennas | 1–2 | Low |
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Why the GATE ECE Syllabus 2026 Matters?
The GATE 2026 EC syllabus is designed to evaluate proficiency in electronics and communication engineering, covering mathematics, circuits, devices, and communication systems. High-weightage sections like Engineering Mathematics and Networks, Signals and Systems (12–15 marks each) are critical due to their foundational role across topics. Electronic Devices, Analog Circuits, Digital Circuits, and Communications (10–12 marks each) form the core of the discipline, while Control Systems and Electromagnetics (8–10 marks each) add specialized depth.
The syllabus aligns with industry and academic demands, preparing qualifiers for roles in semiconductor design, telecommunications, and embedded systems. Topics like digital modulation, Maxwell’s equations, and control system stability are directly applicable to real-world challenges in 5G, IoT, and RF engineering.
Two-Paper Combinations for GATE 2026
Candidates can opt for a second paper alongside EC from the following allowed combinations:
| Primary Paper (Code) | Allowed Secondary Paper (Code) |
| Electronics & Communication (EC) | CS, DA, EE, IN, PH |
Note: Combinations are subject to change; verify on iitg.ac.in when registration opens (expected August 2025). An additional fee applies for the second paper.
Accessing the GATE 2026 EC Syllabus
The official GATE 2026 EC syllabus will be available on iitg.ac.in in August 2025. Candidates should download the PDF and compare it with the 2025 syllabus to anticipate minor updates, such as advancements in digital communications or semiconductor technologies. The syllabus is expected to remain largely consistent, ensuring continuity in preparation.
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GATE ECE Syllabus 2026: FAQs
- What is the weightage of Engineering Mathematics in GATE 2026 EC?
Approximately 13 marks, making it a high-scoring section. - Which sections are critical for GATE 2026 EC?
Engineering Mathematics, Networks/Signals, Electronic Devices, Analog/Digital Circuits, and Communications, each contributing 10–15 marks. - Where can I find the GATE 2026 EC syllabus?
Download it from iitg.ac.in once released (expected August 2025).
GATE ECE Syllabus 2026: Conclusion
The GATE Electronics and Communication Engineering syllabus 2026 is a comprehensive framework covering Engineering Mathematics, Networks, Signals and Systems, Electronic Devices, Analog Circuits, Digital Circuits, Control Systems, Communications, and Electromagnetics, alongside General Aptitude. With high-weightage sections like Mathematics and Networks/Signals, candidates must focus on core topics to maximize scores. Understanding the GATE 2026 EC syllabus is essential for targeted preparation, unlocking opportunities for M.Tech/Ph.D. programs or careers in electronics and communication engineering at IITs, NITs, or leading organizations like ISRO and BEL.
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