The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, popularly known as GATE, is a national-level examination that tests the aptitude of students in various undergraduate engineering and science subjects. The examination is primarily taken by students aspiring to pursue higher education or seek employment opportunities in engineering or science. The GATE score is used by several prestigious institutions for admission into their postgraduate programs or as a screening criterion for job placements.

The competition for GATE is intense, and scoring a high percentile is crucial for students to secure admission to their preferred institutes or employment opportunities. However, not all students can achieve high percentiles for various reasons such as lack of preparation, exam stress, or difficulty understanding complex topics. But that doesn't mean that students with low GATE percentiles do not have any options. 

Scoring a low GATE percentile does not mean that students do not have any options. Students can consider several options, such as pursuing higher studies in lesser-known institutes, private institutes, or abroad universities, pursuing certification courses or research opportunities, preparing for GATE again, or considering alternative job opportunities. Students should analyze their strengths and weaknesses and select the option that best fits their interests and requirements. Additionally, students should focus on improving their skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen career path.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best options available for students with low GATE percentiles.

Best Options with low GATE percentiles

Higher Studies in Lesser-Known Institutes

Students who score low GATE percentiles can still pursue higher studies in lesser-known institutes that accept GATE scores. Such institutes may not be as prestigious as the IITs or NITs, but they can still offer quality education and job opportunities. Additionally, lesser-known institutes may have lower cut-off scores, making it easier for students to secure admission. Students can research such institutes and select the one that best fits their interests and requirements.

Higher Studies in Private Institutes

Private institutes offer several postgraduate programs that accept GATE scores. These institutes offer quality education and are known for their state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities. While the fees for private institutes are higher than government institutes, they offer more flexibility in terms of course curriculum, class timings, and student-teacher ratio. Private institutes also have industry collaborations and tie-ups that provide students with job opportunities after completing their courses.

Higher Studies in Abroad Universities

Students who score low GATE percentiles can consider pursuing higher studies in universities abroad. Several universities abroad accept GATE scores for admission to their postgraduate programs. Studying abroad offers several advantages, including exposure to new cultures, access to better resources, and a chance to network with students and professionals from different parts of the world. However, studying abroad can be expensive, and students need to plan their finances accordingly.

Distance Learning Mode

Students who score low GATE percentiles can consider pursuing higher studies in distance learning mode. Several universities and institutes offer postgraduate programs in distance learning mode, which allows students to study at their own pace and convenience. Distance learning programs are ideal for students who are working or cannot attend regular classes. Additionally, distance learning programs are affordable and offer flexibility in terms of completion time.

Certification Courses

Students who score low GATE percentiles can consider pursuing certification courses in their area of interest. Several institutes offer certification courses that provide students with hands-on training in specific skills and technologies. Certification courses are affordable and can be completed in a shorter duration compared to postgraduate programs. Additionally, certification courses offer industry-recognized credentials that can help students secure job opportunities.

Research Opportunities

Students who score low GATE percentiles can consider pursuing research opportunities in their area of interest. Research opportunities are available in several government and private institutes that offer fellowships to students. Research opportunities provide students with exposure to cutting-edge research and technologies and help them develop research skills that are highly valued in the industry. Additionally, research opportunities can help students secure admission to prestigious postgraduate programs in the future.

Prepare for GATE Again

Students who score low GATE percentiles can consider preparing for GATE again. GATE is conducted every year, and students can attempt the exam again after preparing well. Preparing for GATE again gives students another chance to score a better percentile and secure admission to their preferred institutes or job opportunities. Students can analyze their performance in the previous attempt and work on their weaknesses to improve their scores. Additionally, students can enroll in coaching classes or take online courses to better prepare for the exam.

Consider Alternative Job Opportunities

Students who score low GATE percentiles can consider alternative job opportunities in their area of interest. Several companies offer job opportunities to students based on their skill set and knowledge, rather than their GATE scores. Students can research companies that offer such job opportunities and apply accordingly. Additionally, students can consider starting their own business or freelancing in their area of interest.

Factors to be Consider

When students have a low GATE percentile, they may feel disheartened about their academic and career prospects. However, there are still several options available to them. Before choosing any of these options, it's crucial to evaluate various factors to make an informed decision.

Self-evaluation

• Assessing interests and strengths: Students with low GATE percentile should evaluate their interests and strengths to determine the career path that aligns with their skills and abilities. They can take a career assessment test or seek guidance from a career counselor.
• Identifying career goals: Once they identify their strengths and interests, they should set clear career goals. Knowing their end goal will help them choose the right academic path or alternative career path.
• Evaluating personal circumstances: Students must consider their personal circumstances, such as family commitments, financial constraints, or location, before making a decision. These factors may impact their ability to pursue certain academic or career paths.

Market trends and demand

• Overview of job market trends: Students must stay informed about job market trends to identify emerging industries or fields that have a high demand for skilled professionals. They can conduct research on job boards or consult with industry experts to understand the current job market.
• Understanding industry demand: It's important to identify industries that have a high demand for professionals with specific skills or qualifications. Students should research industries that align with their strengths and interests to determine if they are a good fit.
• Future job prospects: Students must consider the future job prospects of the industry or field they plan to enter. They should evaluate industry growth, advancements in technology, and the potential for job creation in the future.

Financial Considerations

• Cost of pursuing higher education: Pursuing higher education can be expensive. Students should consider the cost of tuition, books, accommodation, and other expenses before making a decision. They can research different academic options and compare their costs to determine which one is the most feasible.
• Funding options and scholarships: Students can explore different funding options to support their academic goals. They can apply for scholarships, grants, and student loans. Researching various funding options can help them identify opportunities to reduce their financial burden.
• Expected returns on investment: Students must evaluate the expected returns on their investment before making a decision. They should assess the potential income they can earn after completing their education or training and compare it to the costs they will incur.