GAT -B

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Biotechnology (GAT-B) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB). The exam is designed to assess the eligibility of Indian nationals for admission to Department of Biotechnology (DBT)-supported postgraduate programs in Biotechnology and related disciplines across various universities and institutions in India. It evaluates candidates’ knowledge in core areas such as molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and allied fields. The GAT-B exam plays a key role in selecting candidates for DBT-funded programs, providing opportunities for advanced studies and research in biotechnology.

Key Details of GAT-B 2025 Exam:

• Exam Conducted By: National Testing Agency (NTA)
• Administering Institutes: DBT-supported Post-Graduate (DBT-PG) programs
• Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Medium of Examination: English
• Number of Tests Per Year: Once a year
• Time Duration: 3 hours
• Total Number of Questions: 160
• Questions to Attempt: 120
• Maximum Marks: 240

Exam Pattern:

1. Section A:
   • Number of Questions: 60 (Compulsory)
   • Marks per Question: 1 mark
   • Negative Marking: 0.5 mark deducted for each incorrect answer in this section.
2. Section B:
   • Number of Questions: 60 out of 100
   • Marks per Question: 3 marks
   • Negative Marking: 1 mark deducted for each incorrect answer in this section.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Educational Qualification:
  • Candidates must have completed a B.Sc. or equivalent degree in relevant disciplines such as Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Microbiology, Biochemistry, etc.
  • For General, EWS, and OBC candidates, a minimum of 55% marks is required.
  • For SC, ST, and PH candidates, a minimum of 50% marks is required.

Age Limit:

• There is no age limit to appear for the exam.

Fellowship/Assistantship:

• M.Sc. Biotechnology & Allied Areas: ₹5000 per month
• M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology: ₹7500 per month
• M.Tech/M.V.Sc. programs: ₹12000 per month

Syllabus Overview:

The GAT-B syllabus typically includes the following core topics:

1. Molecular Biology: DNA/RNA structure, replication, transcription, translation, gene expression, molecular techniques.
2. Genetics: Mendelian genetics, gene mapping, genetic engineering, biotechnology, and applications.
3. Biochemistry: Enzyme kinetics, metabolism, biochemical pathways, biomolecules.
4. Microbiology: Microbial diversity, genetics, pathogens, immunology, and microbial technologies.
5. Bioinformatics: Data analysis, sequence alignment, bioinformatics tools, databases.
6. Biotechnology: Recombinant DNA technology, industrial and environmental biotechnology, plant and animal biotechnology.

Important Dates

• Application Form Availability: Typically in Feb-March
• Last Date to Apply: Usually March.
• Admit Card Release: 1-2 weeks before the exam.
• Exam Date: Usually held in late April (dates may vary).
• Result Declaration: Typically in May/June