GATE 2026 ST Exam Timeline
IIT Guwahati has officially scheduled the Statistics (ST) paper for the second Sunday of the examination window. Given the rise of Data Science, this paper is seeing a record number of applicants.
Event
Official Date / Time
Admit Card Release
January 13, 2026
ST Exam Date
February 8, 2026 (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Result Declaration
March 19, 2026
Exam Pattern & Question Types
The ST paper consists of 65 questions for a total of 100 marks. The paper is known for its rigorous mathematical proofs and high-precision numerical problems.
• MCQ (Multiple Choice): Standard questions with 1/3 or 2/3 negative marking.
• MSQ (Multiple Select): One or more correct options. No negative marking. These often test properties of estimators and distribution theory.
• NAT (Numerical Answer): Calculation-based questions. No negative marking. Crucial for Regression and Probability problems.
Major Sectional Weightage
For 2026, the paper is balanced across nine core sections. However, Calculus, Probability, and Inference typically account for over 60% of the total technical marks.
Section
Approx. Marks
Priority Level
General Aptitude
15 Marks
Mandatory
Calculus & Matrix Theory
18-20 Marks
Critical
Probability & Distributions
20-22 Marks
Critical
Statistical Inference
15-18 Marks
High
Regression & Multivariate
12-15 Marks
High
Core Syllabus: The "Big Five" Pillars
To target an AIR under 100, focus on these technical pillars that dominate the 2026 paper:
1. Probability: Random variables, Expectation, Chebyshev’s inequality, Law of Large Numbers (LLN), and Central Limit Theorem (CLT).
2. Standard Distributions: Binomial, Poisson, Normal, Chi-square, t, and F distributions. Properties like memoryless and reproductive properties.
3. Statistical Inference: Estimation (MLE, Method of Moments), Sufficiency, Consistency, and Testing of Hypotheses (Neyman-Pearson Lemma).
4. Regression Analysis: Simple and Multiple Linear Regression, Least Squares estimation, and R-square values.
5. Multivariate Analysis: Wishart distribution, Hotelling’s T-square, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA).
Stochastic Processes & Design of Experiments
These sections are often the "rank-deciders." Proficiency here can push you from qualifying to a top IIT seat.
• Stochastic Processes: Markov Chains, Transition Probability Matrix, and Classification of states.
• Design of Experiments: ANOVA (One-way and Two-way), CRD, RBD, and LSD.
Success Roadmap for ST 2026
1. Prioritize Matrix Theory & Calculus: These are the foundations of Statistics. Nearly 20 marks rely on your ability to solve integrals and matrix eigenvalues.
2. NAT Precision: Statistics is highly numerical. Practice using the virtual calculator for probability density calculations and regression coefficients to avoid decimal point errors.
3. MSQ Strategy: MSQs often test the properties of estimators (UE, BLUE, Consistency). Ensure your counter-examples are ready for theoretical questions.
4. PYQ Drills (2019-2025): Since the ST paper was recently introduced (2019), solve every single previous year paper and look for patterns in IIT Guwahati’s approach to Inference questions.
Official Links & Reference Portals
Stay updated with the Organizing Institute for any syllabus addendums:
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