The GATE CSE rank is calculated based on the following criteria:

1. Raw Marks Calculation:
- The first step in calculating the GATE CSE rank is to determine the raw marks obtained by the candidate in the exam.
- GATE CSE exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and numerical answer type (NAT) questions.
- For MCQs, each correct answer carries one or two marks, while for NAT questions, there are no negative marks.
- The raw marks are calculated by awarding marks for correct answers and deducting marks for incorrect answers (negative marking).

2. Normalization:
- Since GATE exams are conducted in multiple sessions and the difficulty level of the question papers may vary, normalization is done to ensure fairness.
- The normalization process takes into account the distribution of marks and the difficulty level of the exam.
- It adjusts the raw marks obtained by the candidates based on the average performance of all the candidates in their respective sessions.

3. Calculation of GATE Score:
- The GATE score is calculated using the formula:
GATE Score = (Marks Obtained / Maximum Marks) * 100
- The maximum marks vary for each GATE paper and are mentioned in the official GATE brochure.

4. Calculation of GATE CSE Rank:
- The GATE CSE rank is determined based on the GATE score obtained by the candidates.
- The rank is calculated by taking into consideration the performance of all the candidates who appeared for the GATE CSE exam.
- The rank is assigned based on the GATE score, with higher scores receiving better ranks.

5. Tie-Breaking:
- In case of a tie in the GATE score, the following tie-breaking criteria are used:
a) Candidates with a higher GATE score in the General Aptitude (GA) section are given a higher rank.
b) If the tie still persists, candidates with a higher raw marks in CSE-specific questions are given a higher rank.
c) If the tie still persists, the older candidate (based on the date of birth) is given a higher rank.

Important Note:
- The GATE CSE rank is used for admission to various postgraduate programs in Computer Science Engineering and for recruitment in public sector companies.