GATE 2026 NM Exam Timeline
IIT Guwahati has scheduled the Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (NM) paper for the first Saturday of the window. Early focus on core hydrostatics is vital.
Event
Official Date / Time
Admit Card Release
January 13, 2026
NM Exam Date
February 7, 2026 (2:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
Result Declaration
March 19, 2026
Exam Pattern & Question Types
The NM paper consists of 65 questions totaling 100 marks. The paper tests your ability to solve complex fluid-structure interaction problems and marine machinery calculations.
• MCQ (Multiple Choice): 1 or 2 marks with 1/3 or 2/3 negative marking.
• MSQ (Multiple Select): One or more options can be correct. No negative marking. Ideal for testing Ship Stability rules.
• NAT (Numerical Answer): Precise calculation required. No negative marking. Dominates the Hydrostatics and Propulsion sections.
Major Marks Distribution
For 2026, the core NM syllabus is divided into several technical pillars. Hydrostatics and Ship Resistance typically carry the highest weightage.
Section
Approx. Marks
Priority Level
General Aptitude
15 Marks
Mandatory
Engineering Mathematics
13 Marks
High
Ship Hydrostatics & Stability
14-16 Marks
Critical
Ship Resistance & Propulsion
12-14 Marks
Critical
Marine Machinery & Systems
10-12 Marks
High
Core Syllabus: High Yield Focus Areas
To target an AIR under 100, focus on these technical pillars:
1. Ship Hydrostatics & Stability: Archimedes principle, Metacentric height (GM), Simpson’s rules for area/volume, and Damage stability.
2. Ship Resistance & Propulsion: Froude’s Law of comparison, Viscous and Wave-making resistance, and Propeller geometry/efficiency.
3. Ship Structures: Hull girder strength, Shear force and Bending moment in ships, and Plate buckling.
4. Marine Engineering: Diesel engines, Steam turbines, Auxiliary systems (pumps, steering gear), and Marine electricity.
Mathematics: The Rank Decider
In addition to the 13 marks of Engineering Mathematics, NM students must be proficient in Numerical Integration (Simpson's Rules) and Fluid Mechanics concepts.
• Linear Algebra: Matrices and Eigenvalues for structural vibration analysis.
• Calculus: Multiple integrals for buoyancy calculations.
• Probability & Statistics: Significant wave height and spectral analysis.
Success Roadmap for 2026
1. Master the 28 Foundation Marks: Aptitude (15) and Math (13) are consistent. Securing 25+ here is essential for top M.Tech seats.
2. Numerical Speed in Stability: Hydrostatics questions are NAT-heavy. Practice Simpson’s rule calculations with the virtual calculator daily.
3. Conceptual Clarity in Propulsion: MSQs often test propeller coefficients and cavitation. Ensure you understand the dimensionless parameters (Advance coefficient J, Thrust coefficient KT).
4. PYQ Drills (2022-2025): Since NM is a relatively new paper, solve all available previous years and relevant questions from ME/CE (Fluid Mechanics).
Official Links & Reference Portals
Stay updated with official notifications and mock test links:
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- 16 algebra formulas with solved PYQs
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