The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially opened registrations for the Graduate Aptitude Test-Biotechnology (GAT-B) and the Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) for 2026. If you're looking to pursue postgraduate programs in Biotechnology or allied fields, this is your crucial first step.
Applications are being accepted through the official portal, exams.nta.nic.in/gat-bet. Remember, you only need to submit one application, whether you're applying for GAT-B, BET, or both, though the application fee will vary.
Key Dates for GAT-B & BET 2026
Mark your calendars for these important deadlines. Missing them means missing your chance.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Deadline | April 9, 2026 (up to 05:00 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | April 9, 2026 (up to 11:50 PM) |
| Correction Window | April 11 – April 13, 2026 |
| GAT-B/ BET 2026 Exam Date | May 17, 2026 (Sunday) |
Programs and Eligibility for GAT-B 2026
GAT-B is your national-level gateway to several DBT-supported postgraduate programs. These include M.Sc. Biotechnology, M.Tech. Biotechnology, M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology, and M.V.Sc. Animal Biotechnology, along with their allied areas.
While GAT-B is the entrance test, you must also check the specific eligibility criteria of your desired universities. Each institution might have its own requirements for minimum marks or specific subject backgrounds.
Understanding the GAT-B & BET 2026 Exam Pattern
Both GAT-B and BET are computer-based tests conducted entirely in English. They are designed to assess your aptitude and subject knowledge.
For GAT-B 2026 , the exam has 160 questions, but you only need to attempt 120. This totals 240 marks .
| Section | Questions | To be Attempted | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A (General Aptitude, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) | 60 | 60 | 60 |
| Section B (Graduate-level Biology & Biotechnology) | 100 | 60 | 180 |
BET 2026 consists of 200 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), from which you answer 100. This exam carries a total of 300 marks .
| Section | Questions | To be Attempted | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A (General Science, Math, Chemistry, Aptitude, General Biotechnology) | 50 | 50 | 150 |
| Section B (Specific areas of Biotechnology) | 150 | 50 | 150 |
DBT-JRF Fellowship through BET 2026
Qualifying for BET 2026 also opens doors to the prestigious DBT-Junior Research Fellowships (DBT-JRF). This fellowship offers financial support, helping you pursue advanced research.
If you qualify, you could receive a monthly stipend. For M.Sc. Biotechnology & Allied Areas, it’s ₹5,000. For M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology, it's ₹7,500, and for M.Tech./M.V.Sc. programmes, it's ₹12,000 per month.
How to Apply for GAT-B & BET 2026
The application process is straightforward. First, register on the official NTA GAT-B website using a valid email and mobile number. Then, fill out the application form with your personal and academic details.
Next, upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and any required category certificates. Finally, pay the application fee online and download your confirmation page for future reference.
For any questions, you can contact NTA directly at 011-40759000 , 01169227700 , or email dbt@nta.ac.in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date to apply for GAT-B and BET 2026?
The online registration deadline for both GAT-B and BET 2026 is April 9, 2026 , up to 05:00 PM. Make sure to complete your fee payment by April 9, 2026 , up to 11:50 PM.
Q2: Can I apply for both GAT-B and BET 2026 with a single application?
Yes, you only need to submit one application form, even if you are applying for GAT-B, BET, or both. However, the application fee will be different depending on your selection.
Q3: What programs can I get admission into through GAT-B 2026?
GAT-B 2026 is for admission to DBT-supported postgraduate programs such as M.Sc. Biotechnology, M.Tech. Biotechnology, M.Sc. Agricultural Biotechnology, and M.V.Sc. Animal Biotechnology, including their allied areas.
Q4: Is there a correction window for the GAT-B/BET 2026 application?
Yes, a correction window will be available from April 11 to April 13, 2026 . This period allows you to make any necessary corrections to your submitted application.
Q5: What is the exam date for GAT-B and BET 2026?
The GAT-B/BET 2026 examination is scheduled for May 17, 2026 (Sunday).
Q6: What is the total marks for the GAT-B 2026 exam?
The GAT-B 2026 exam is for a total of 240 marks . You will attempt 120 questions out of 160 provided.
Q7: How many questions do I need to answer in BET 2026?
In BET 2026, you need to answer 100 MCQs out of 200 provided. The total marks for BET 2026 are 300.
Q8: What kind of fellowship is available for BET 2026 qualified candidates?
BET 2026 qualified candidates are eligible for the DBT-Junior Research Fellowships (DBT-JRF), which provide a monthly stipend during their studies in DBT-supported programs.