GATE Life Sciences (XL): syllabus, exam pattern & eligibility
M.Tech/PhD (life-science programmes) + JRF/PhD routes; already on site
- Category
- Science & Research
- Conducted by
- IISc / IITs on rotation (GATE 2026: IIT Guwahati)
- Level
- PG entrance
- Frequency
- Once a year
- Mode
- CBT
- Languages
- English
Eligibility
- Education: Bachelor's/Master's in relevant science (per GATE brochure)
- Age: No limit
- Attempts: Unlimited
Exam pattern
XL
180 min · 65 questions · 100 marks
- General Aptitude: 10 questions, 15 marks
- XL-P Chemistry (compulsory): 15 questions, 25 marks
- Optional section 1 (one of XL-Q..U): 20 questions, 30 marks
- Optional section 2 (one of XL-Q..U): 20 questions, 30 marks
Syllabus
XL-P Chemistry
Atomic structure & bonding, Thermodynamics, equilibria, kinetics, Organic reaction mechanisms & stereochemistry, Coordination & inorganic basics
XL-Q Biochemistry
Organisation of life, Biomolecules, Enzymes, Metabolism, Molecular biology, Cell biology, Immunology, Techniques
XL-R Botany
Plant systematics, Anatomy & morphology, Plant physiology & biochemistry, Genetics, cell & molecular biology, Ecology, Plant tissue culture, Plant pathology, Evolution
XL-S Microbiology
Microbial methods & taxonomy, Prokaryotic/eukaryotic cells, Growth & control, Metabolism, Microbial genetics, Microbial diseases & chemotherapy, Ecology, Immunology
XL-T Zoology
Animal diversity, Evolution, Genetics, Biochemistry & molecular biology, Cell biology, Physiology & anatomy, Development, Parasitology & immunology, Ecology & behaviour
XL-U Food Technology
Food chemistry & nutrition, Food microbiology, Food products technology, Food engineering
Important dates (GATE 2026 (Feb 2026); GATE 2027 Feb 6-21, 2027)
- GATE 2026 exam: 2026-02 (weekends)
- GATE 2027 exam days: 2027-02-06, 07, 13, 14, 20, 21
Selection process
GATE score
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Pricing
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Frequently asked questions
What is GATE Life Sciences (XL)?
M.Tech/PhD (life-science programmes) + JRF/PhD routes; already on site. It is conducted by IISc / IITs on rotation (GATE 2026: IIT Guwahati). Level: PG entrance.
Who is eligible for GATE Life Sciences (XL)?
Education: Bachelor's/Master's in relevant science (per GATE brochure). Age limit: No limit. Attempts: Unlimited.
What is the exam pattern of GATE Life Sciences (XL)?
XL: 180 minutes, 65 questions, 100 marks. Mode: CBT.
How often is GATE Life Sciences (XL) held?
Once a year.
When is GATE Life Sciences (XL) held?
GATE 2026 (Feb 2026); GATE 2027 Feb 6-21, 2027 cycle: GATE 2026 exam 2026-02 (weekends); GATE 2027 exam days 2027-02-06, 07, 13, 14, 20, 21.
How are candidates selected through GATE Life Sciences (XL)?
GATE score.
Compiled from public sources, last checked 2026-09-25. Dates, fees and rules change, so confirm with the official website before you apply.