GRADUATE APTITUDE TEST – BIOTECHNOLOGY (GAT-B) 2026
Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India
About the Exam
The Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) 2026 is a national-level entrance examination conducted to assess the eligibility of bona fide Indian nationals for admission into DBT-supported Post Graduate (DBT PG) programs in Biotechnology and allied sciences.
- M.Sc. Biotechnology and allied sciences
- M.Tech. Biotechnology and allied sciences
- M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology
- M.V.Sc. Animal Biotechnology
The examination will be conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of DBT/RCB.
- Exam Date: 17th May 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
- Mode: Computer-Based Test
- Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Medium: English only
The GAT-B 2026 score will be valid for admissions in the academic year 2026–27 only.
Details of participating institutions, eligibility, and seats are available at:
- DBT supported Post Graduate (DBT PG) Programme in Biotechnology
- Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) Official Page
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates meeting the minimum eligibility criteria of participating institutions are eligible to apply.
- Candidates must verify eligibility requirements of individual institutions separately.
- Candidates not meeting eligibility but appearing for the exam will do so at their own risk.
- Admission decisions are governed solely by participating institutions.
- DBT/RCB holds no responsibility for admission, cancellation, or fee-related matters.
Result Awaited Candidates: Candidates appearing in final qualifying exams are eligible under the Result Awaited (RA) category. They must submit a certified Undertaking/Attestation Form from their institution. Failure to do so will result in rejection.
Reservation Policy
Reservation policy of the Government of India will be followed for admissions to DBT-supported PG programmes.
Merit List
An All-India category-wise merit list will be prepared after result declaration. Admissions will be conducted by participating institutions as per their own norms. DBT/RCB will not be responsible for admission-related processes.
Transfer Policy
Transfer of seats will be governed by the rules of participating institutions. DBT/RCB holds no responsibility in this process.
Conversion of Vacant Seats
Conversion of vacant seats will be handled by institutions as per their policies. DBT/RCB is not involved.
Cancellation & Fee Refund Policy
Cancellation and refund policies will be governed by participating institutions. DBT/RCB holds no responsibility.
Studentship Support
Qualified candidates admitted to DBT-supported PG programmes will receive stipends as follows:
- M.Sc. Biotechnology & Allied Sciences: ₹5,000/month
- M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology: ₹7,500/month
- M.Tech. Biotechnology & Allied Sciences / M.V.Sc.: ₹12,000/month
Stipends will be disbursed through institutions after verification. Continuation in the second year depends on satisfactory academic progress.
Syllabus of Examination
The syllabus is available at: CHECK HERE
Pattern of Examination and Marking Scheme
The examination consists of two sections:
Section A
60 compulsory MCQs (10+2 level: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology)
- +1 mark per correct answer
- -0.5 mark per incorrect answer
Section B
100 MCQs (Graduate level: Biotechnology & allied sciences)
- Attempt any 60
- +3 marks per correct answer
- -1 mark per incorrect answer
- Unattempted questions: 0 marks
Exam Structure Table
| Sections | Number of Questions | Number of Questions to be Attempted | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A (Multiple choice questions of the level of 10+2 in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology) | 60 | 60 | 1 × 60 = 60 |
| Section B (Multiple choice questions of Graduate/Bachelor’s level in Basic Biology, Life Sciences, Biotechnology and allied sciences) | 100 | 60 | 3 × 60 = 180 |
| Total | 160 | 120 | 240 |
Registration and Application Process
Candidates must apply through online
Application period: 19th March 2026 to 9th April 2026 (up to 5 PM)
Application Fee:
- ₹1300 (General/OBC-NCL/EWS)
- ₹650 (SC/ST/PwD)
(Non-refundable and non-transferable)
Applicants must read the Information Bulletin carefully and upload the required documents in the prescribed formats.
Important Dates
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| Start Date of submission of online Application | 19th March 2026 |
| Closing Date of submission of online application | 9th April 2026 (up to 5:00 PM) |
| Closing Date for submission of the online application fee | 9th April 2026 (up to 11:50 PM) |
| Correction in Application Form | 11th – 13th April 2026 |
| Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology (GAT-B) 2026 | 17th May 2026 (Sunday) | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon |
Helpdesk for GAT-B 2026
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 011-407590
CLICK HERE FOR OFFICAL NOTIFICATION
