GAT-B vs CUET PG: Which Exam is Best for Biotechnology?

What is GAT-B?

The Graduate Aptitude Test-Biotechnology (GAT-B) is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB). It determines the eligibility of Indian nationals for admission to Department of Biotechnology (DBT) supported postgraduate programmes in Biotechnology and allied disciplines at participating universities and institutions in India.

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• GAT B 2025 Application Out, Check dates

Who is the Conducting Body of GAT-B?

The GAT-B exam is conducted once every year by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), under DBT.

What is the GAT-B Syllabus?

The GAT-B exam is a computer-based test (CBT) with questions in English only. The GAT B exam lasts for 3 hours and includes multiple-choice questions. The GAT B syllabus includes topics like Biomolecules, Viruses, Cells, Genes/Chromosomes, Microscopes, Immunology, Bioinformatics, and Enzymes/Proteins. The question paper is divided into two sections:

1. Section A: Contains 60 compulsory questions of 1 mark each, covering Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology at the 10+2 level. A wrong answer results in a deduction of 0.5 marks.

2. Section B: Contains 100 questions, out of which candidates must attempt any 60. Each question carries 3 marks, and a wrong answer leads to a deduction of 1 mark. This section covers Basic Biology, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, and allied sciences.

Who is Eligible for GAT-B?

To be eligible for the GAT B exam, candidates must have a Bachelor's degree with relevant subjects from a recognised university. For general, EWS, and OBC categories, 55% marks are required, while for SC, ST, and PH categories, 50% marks are required. There is no age limit for the GAT B exam.

Link: GAT B Exam 2025: All you need to know

What is CUET PG for Biotechnology?

The Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate programmes (CUET PG) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It grants admission to various postgraduate programmes, including biotechnology, offered by central and other participating universities across India.

Link: Learn more about CUET PG exam in details

Who is the Conducting Body of CUET PG?

The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the CUET PG exam once every year.

What is CUET PG Syllabus?

There is no Biotechnology paper for the CUET PG exam. However, students can choose a Life Science paper (SCQP17). The Life Sciences syllabus consists of the following topics:

1. Techniques

2. Chromatin Structure and Function

3. Biochemistry

4. Biotechnology

5. Microbiology

6. Molecular Genetics

7. Plant Sciences

8. Animal Sciences

Link: Check CUET PG 2025 syllabus in detail

Who is Eligible for CUET PG?

• Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or Biological Sciences.

• Some universities require a minimum of 50% to 60% marks in the qualifying degree.

• There could be specific eligibility criteria for some universities participating. For this purpose, candidates need to check with their desired university's specific requirements.

Link: Check CUET PG eligibility criteria 2025 in details

GAT-B Vs CUET PG: Which one to Choose?

• Why choose GAT-B?

It depends entirely on the career goals, which one you want. Suppose you want to get admitted to DBT-supported institutes with a focus on research in biotechnology as well as industry-oriented programmes. These institutes will offer scholarships and provide better research opportunities too. Go with GAT-B.

• Why choose CUET PG?

If you are looking to enter the core of life sciences and biotechnology in central and state universities. More options are available under one umbrella of CUET PG across various universities.

Note: If you are interested in government-funded research programmes, GAT-B is a better choice. However, if you want to study in a broader variety of universities, CUET PG is a better option.