The 2026 AE paper followed the standard 65-question format but saw a significant rise in Multiple Select Questions (MSQs) in the Aerodynamics and Propulsion sections, making the paper time-consuming.
MCQs: ~35-38 Questions
NATs: ~20-22 Questions
MSQs: ~7-10 Questions
2. Branch-Wise Subject Analysis
Subject
Weightage
Key Topics Asked
Aerodynamics
16 Marks
Potential Flow, Prandtl Lifting Line Theory, Thin Airfoil Theory.
Propulsion
14 Marks
Axial Compressors, Isentropic Flow through Nozzles, Gas Turbines.
Structures
18 Marks
Thin-walled sections, Shear Center, Vibration (SDF/MDF).
Flight Mechanics
12 Marks
Static Stability, Phugoid Motion, Neutral Point calculations.
Math & Aptitude
28 Marks
Linear Algebra, Calculus, Numerical Methods, Verbal Logic.
3. Expected Qualifying Cutoff (2026 vs 2025 vs 2024)
Due to the "Moderate-Difficult" nature of the 2026 paper, the qualifying marks are expected to be slightly higher than the record-lows of 2025.
Category
2026 (Exp.)
2025 (Actual)
2024 (Actual)
General
33.5 - 35.5
28.9
33.3
OBC / EWS
30.1 - 32.5
26.0
29.9
SC / ST / PwD
22.0 - 23.5
19.2
22.1
4. IIT-Wise Admission Cutoff (Gate Score 2026)
To secure a seat in M.Tech (Aerospace), you generally need to be in the Top 200 Ranks for Tier-1 IITs.
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