Interview: Meet Kailash, Who Topped GATE 2025 While Working Full-Time

GATE 2025 Results: Kailash Goyal, who topped GATE 2025 while working full-time, shares his preparation strategy, the challenges he faced, and valuable tips for aspirants.

The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee declared the GATE 2025 results on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. GATE is a national-level examination for admission to postgraduate engineering courses and recruitment in Indian PSUs. Passing the GATE exam is a dream for most engineering students, and getting an All India Rank (AIR) 1 is a remarkable achievement.

This year, Kailash Goyal has become the GATE 2025 Instrumentation Engineering topper with AIR 1 and an AIR 2 in Electrical Engineering. In an interview with News18.com, he tells us his strategy for preparation, the obstacles he overcame, and tips for future aspirants who wish to top one of India's most challenging competitive exams.

Q: Congratulations on your AIR 1 in Instrumentation Engineering! What was your reaction when you first saw your result?

A: Oh thank you so much! The minute I looked at my result and realized that I had achieved AIR 1 in Instrumentation Engineering, I was stunned. For 10-15 seconds, I sat still, allowing the moment to be absorbed. It was really a dreamlike feeling. Then, I thought I would look at my result for Electrical Engineering as well, and to my shock, I had achieved AIR 2 there too! The feeling was euphoric, and all around me people were shouting and congratulating me.

Q: What was your strategy of preparation, and how did you optimize your time?

A: My strategy of preparation was focused on a single goal—getting a top rank in GATE. To balance work and study, I opted to join as a subject expert at PW which complemented my preparation. My job was to immerse myself in GATE subjects, which further strengthened my grip on them. Responding to student questions also helped a lot in knowing and improving upon my weak areas. This regular subject exposure and problem-solving technique were the decisive factors for me.

Q: Did you strictly adhere to some books or web sources that benefited you in scoring high?

A: After finishing my B.Tech, I took admission in a classroom course for systematic learning. I also worked on a large number of question papers of previous years (PYQs) and test series. Whenever I was confused regarding a subject, I consulted more than one source, such as standard books and online lectures. Taking advice from experienced mentors also assisted me in clarifying my concepts.

Q: What were the most significant challenges that you encountered during your preparation, and how did you overcome them?

A: Having passed out from a private college, I had initial poor conceptual understanding, which filled me with so many doubts at the initial stage of my preparation. The other big challenge that I faced was self-doubt. I had been taking GATE but could not make a good rank. It frustrated me to realize where I was making mistakes. But I persisted, worked upon my weaknesses, and perfected my strategy with each attempt.

Q: Revisions and time management are difficulties most aspirants face. What advice would you like to provide to them?

A: Here are some major revision techniques that were helpful for me:

Make revisions of your class notes directly after the class.

Practice PYQs and class problems related to the matter covered in the class.

When you finish studying a subject, prepare short notes to revise easily.

Avoid distractions and remain self-disciplined while learning every day.

For the past 2-3 months, try taking as many mock tests as possible.

Rather than going through the whole syllabus again and again, concentrate on problem-solving and weak areas.

Q: What was the contribution of mock tests and last year's papers in your preparation?

A: Mock tests were essential in targeting weak spots and enhancing time management. In GATE, precision and speed take center stage, and constant practice through mock tests helped me accelerate both. PYQs play a vital role too, as they provide insights into the questions that have appeared in previous tests. Many of the same principles are asked repetitively. I would earnestly suggest covering at least 10-15 years of PYQs to prepare thoroughly.

Q: What are your higher study plans—whether to pursue higher studies, research, or PSU job?

A: I do not think about higher studies, research, or a PSU job now. Instead, I am planning for state government jobs in my hometown and district. Alternatively, I might continue working in the educational sector, mentoring future GATE aspirants.