GATE is considered a prestigious All India Examination, which is conducted jointly by the Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) on behalf of the National Coordination Board. It primarily tests the technical knowledge of students in various undergraduate subjects of engineering. All students who are able to qualify for the test are eligible to get admissions in post-graduate programmes in various engineering colleges/universities. But, what about the ones who don't qualify?

If you’re one of those, don’t be disheartened. There are still various options to explore that can constructively shape your career. Given below are some options that you can consider:

1. IITs and NITs

You can still make it through these institutions by doing the following:

• Undertaking an interdisciplinary course after bachelors: Most of the courses are made available to students from any branch of engineering. Some examples include M.Tech in Energy Sciences, Geo-Informatics, Natural Resources and Aerospace Engineering. It makes sense to do interdisciplinary courses as they are highly relevant in today’s day and age, owing to the increasing demand of professionals who can think out of the box. The GATE score required for these courses is generally low, ranging from 400-750.
• Trying for an M.Tech in newer IITs and NITs: According to reports by Ministry of Human Resources and Development, students who take up an M.Tech in these institutions based on the GATE score get a stipend of Rs.12,400 per month. Although the job opportunities are not too many, you can avail a degree from a reputed institute.
• Taking an MS in IITs and NITs: You can go for this three-year research-based programme only if you have a deep interest in the field. As admission takes place twice in a year, the admissions are less competitive, and you are entitled to receive a stipend of Rs.12,400.

2. Do a specialised MBA in built environment from a reputed institution

Owing to the rapid urbanisation and increasing advancements in technology, the potential of the built environment industry is massive. Doing a specialised MBA in fields like Construction Project Management, Quantity Surveying and Real Estate will prove to be vastly beneficial. These programs will build on your technical knowledge and provide you with additional relevant skills that are demanded by the industry, which will prepare you for the future-oriented techno-managerial job role that will fast-track your career. In India, RICS School of Built Environment is the only institution that provides RICS-accredited built environment MBA programmes. Backed by the true professionals of the industry, the institution has strong ties with leading Indian and International firms that result in assured job opportunities.

3. Do a PhD or Research Fellowship

PhD programs are offered by the new IITs and some NITs. They can either be undertaken independently by research scholars or as a part of a dual degree with an M.Tech. This s considered a viable option for many if they did not score an ideal score in GATE, but have the interest to pursue a research career. However, these institutes do not offer any placement guarantees but vastly help in expanding knowledge. Alternatively, you can pursue an integrated PhD in the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). These are considered to be well-structured programs that include a stipend as well.

GATE or no GATE - nothing can stop you from living a productive career if your interests and passions are up to the mark. Think, research, and make a smart choice about the next step!