GATE vs SSC CGL: Which is a Better Option? Explore Eligibility, Career Scope, and Salary
Still unsure about GATE and SSC CGL exam choices? Delve into this comprehensive guide, explaining a detailed comparison of GATE vs SSC CGL in terms of eligibility, salary, & career opportunities.
Riya Sharma13 Nov, 2023
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GATE vs. SSC CGL: A significant increase in the number of applicants appearing for the SSC CGL (which stands for Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level) examination and GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) has been observed in recent years. While both of the examinations invite applicants from engineering or relevant fields, both entrance exams serve different objectives.
Aspiring engineers often find it difficult to decide which entrance exam to focus on. Which of SSC CGL and GATE will best suit their objectives and advance their careers? It is important to fully understand the exams and what they offer in a log run in order to determine the answers to these questions. To learn more about the in-depth analysis of GATE vs. SSC CGL, keep reading.GATE vs. SSC CGL: What is a Better Choice?
The Staff Selection Commission administers the rigorous SSC CGL exam to select suitable applicants for vacant Group "B" and Group "C" positions among the many ministries, departments, and organizations. On the other hand, GATE is an entrance exam that is jointly conducted by the seven IITs and IISc to allow applicants to get admission to highly prestigious institutions such as IITs, NITs, IIITs, etc. for M.Tech, PhD, and other degrees. Various PSUs also recruit through GATE scores. Let’s discuss them one by one in great detail.What is GATE?- An Overview
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, which is the full form of GATE , is a qualifying entrance exam for aspirants who aim to pursue a masters or doctoral degree from the Indian Institutes of Technology and Science in their relevant engineering, humanities, technology, commerce, etc. disciplines. For the upcoming academic year, IISc, Bengaluru, is conducting the GATE 2024 examination. Read: GATE Eligibility Criteria 2024What is SSC CGL? An Overview
The SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level) exam is conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), which aims to recruit applicants for various government organizations, offices, and departments that fall under the jurisdiction of the Government of India. This national exam serves as a gateway to public sector career opportunities because it helps government departments fill different Group B and Group C positions.GATE vs. SSC CGL- What is the Eligibility Criteria?
Applicants studying in their 3rd or final year or those who have an undergraduate degree in engineering, technology, commerce, or the humanities can apply for the GATE examination. On the other hand, the SSC CGL educational eligibility varies as per the different posts. Check out the table below to learn more about the GATE vs. SSC CGL eligibility requirements.| GATE vs SSC CGL Eligibility Criteria | ||
| Eligibility Criteria | GATE | SSC CGL |
| Educational Qualification | B.Tech, B.E., B.Sc., or equivalent degree in relevant subjects 3rd or higher year students can also appear for the GATE exam | A bachelor's degree in any discipline is eligible for SSC CGL. |
| Age Limit | There’s no age restriction for appearing in the GATE exam. | The upper age limit for SSC CGL is 18 years, while the maximum age limit varies depending on the specific post, typically ranging up to 32 years. |
| Nationality | Both Indian and international citizens are eligible. | Only Indian citizens can appear for the SSC CGL exam. |
| Attempts | There’s no attempt limitation on the GATE exam. | The number of attempts depends on the upper age limit. |
| Eligibility for Final Year Students | 3rd or final year students can apply | 3rd or final year students can apply |
| Specialized Eligibility | None; applicants from different technical and non-technical educational backgrounds can apply. | Candidates must meet specific educational requirements based on the post they apply for |
| Reserved Category Relaxations | Applicable in GATE cut off | Age relaxation and reservations for specific categories apply |
GATE vs SSC CGL- Number of Vacancies
One of the vital differences between GATE and SSC CGL is the number of vacancies or seats. In GATE, the number of seats for higher education or PSU jobs is announced independently by the institutions during the counseling process. However, for SSC CGL, the exam-conducting authority announces the total number of vacancies available with the respective organization. Let’s understand this with the data from the existing year for GATE and SSC CGL.| GATE vs SSC CGL Vacancy | |
| Name of Examinations | Number of Vacancies |
| GATE 2023 | Around 1 lakh students qualified for GATE 2023 |
| SSC CGL 2023 | A total of 8840 vacancies are announced via SSC CGL Notification 2023 |
GATE vs SSC CGL- Application Fee
Usually, the GATE application forms are filled out in August and September of every year. On the other hand, the SSC CGL online application forms open in May or June. The application fees for the two entrance tests vary, as highlighted below.| GATE vs SSC CGL - Application Fee | |||
| Exams | Unreserved/ OBC | Female | SC, ST, Pwd |
| GATE | INR 1,800 | 900 | 900 |
| SSC CGL | INR 100 | Nil | Nil |
GATE vs SSC CGL Syllabus
The GATE syllabus is a comprehensive guide for a total of 30 subjects focusing on engineering, technology, economics, and the humanities, among other relevant disciplines. The subject wise list of the GATE syllabus PDF is provided below for applicants who are interested in exploring their preferred engineering discipline. On the other hand, SSC CGL primarily focuses on subjects related to general knowledge, reasoning, mathematics, and English language skills, tailored to assess applicants' aptitude for government job roles. Check out the overview of the SSC CGL syllabus in the table below.| GATE SSC CGL Syllabus | |
| For Tier 1 | Tier 2 |
General Intelligence and Reasoning:
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Mathematical Abilities:
|
General Awareness:
|
|
GATE vs SSC CGL Exam Pattern
Applicants can now readily understand how the two examination syllabuses differ from one another. While the GATE syllabus is centered on the engineering disciplines aspirants study during their undergrad coursework, the SSC CGL is not just limited to course subjects. Therefore, while making the GATE vs. SSC CGL choice, considering the syllabus is important.| GATE vs SSC CGL- Exam Pattern | ||
| Name of Examination | GATE | SSC CGL |
| Conducting Body | Jointly by seven IITs and IISc on a rotational basis | Staff Selection Commission |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Number of Papers | 30 Subjects | Tier 1 and Tier 2 |
| Types of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Marks | 100 Marks | Tier 1: 200 Tier 2: 400 |
| Time Duration | 3 hours (180 Minutes) | Tier 1: 1 hour Tier 2: Paper-I: 2 hours 30 minutes Paper: 2 hours Paper: 2 hours |
| Marking Scheme | 1 or 2 marks questions | 1 marks and descriptive questions |
| Negative Marking | Yes, for MCQs only. Deduction of 1/3 marks for 1 mark questions 2/3 marks for 2 marks questions | Yes, 0.50 marks deduction of 1 mark questions |
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GATE vs SSC CGL Salary
The salary structure and job prospects in GATE and SSC CGL differ significantly, according to the specific characteristics of these examinations and the positions they offer. Let us now compare the salary structure of GATE and SSC CGL:| GATE vs SSC CGL- Salary | |
| Examination Name | Salary Range |
| GATE | Varies for PSU jobs and higher studies |
| SSC CGL | INR 47,000 - INR 81,000 per month (Approximately) |
GATE vs SSC CGL Job Profile
GATE and SSC CGL job choices present an array of choices, each tailored to different career goals. Here, we offer a detailed comparison of the job profiles available in both GATE and SSC CGL programs:| GATE vs SSC CGL Job Profile | ||
| Exam Name | Job Profiles | |
| GATE |
|
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| SSC CGL |
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GATE vs SSC CGL- Benefits of Clearing Exams
Clearing GATE and SSC CGL examinations opens up a multitude of advantages. Let's discuss the GATE vs. SSC CGL advantages one by one.Benefits of Clearing GATE
- The opportunity to pursue advanced studies (M.Tech. or Ph.D.) for research and academic careers in esteemed institutions
- Entry into Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) for engaging and challenging technical positions
- Exploring interdisciplinary research and a wide range of career possibilities in various industries.
Benefits of Clearing SSC CGL
A job in the government sector offers a high level of job security, making it an appealing option for those looking for long-term careers.- Government jobs provide a full package of benefits, including retirement benefits, health care, and paid time off.
- Employees in the government sector have opportunities for advancement and professional development.
- Government employees often find significant job satisfaction as a result of their roles and the significant impact they can have on their local communities.
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Also, check |
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| GATE vs CAT | GATE vs NET |
| GATE vs SSC CGL | GATE vs SSC JE |
| M.Tech vs MBA | GATE vs ESE |
GATE vs SSC CGL FAQs
Is SSC CGL easier to crack than GATE?
The toughness of any competitive exam depends on the applicant's preparedness. However, as the GATE exam covers more technical subjects than the SSC CGL, it can be tough to crack.
Which is better: GATE or SSC CGL after graduation?
Both have their own benefits; however, if you wish to pursue higher education courses or aspire to work at PSUs, GATE is the right choice. For government job aspirants, SSC CGL would be the right fit.
Is it challenging to qualify SSC CGL for engineering graduates?
Given that the SSC CGL syllabus is generic and vast and not just limited to specific subjects, it can be challenging for engineering graduates. However, with the right preparation and guidance, it can be achieved.
क्या SSC CGL पास करना GATE से आसान है?
किसी भी प्रतियोगी परीक्षा की कठिनाई आवेदक की तैयारी पर निर्भर करती है। हालाँकि, चूंकि GATE परीक्षा में SSC CGL की तुलना में अधिक तकनीकी विषय शामिल होते हैं, इसलिए इसे पास करना कठिन हो सकता है।
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