The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national-level examination conducted in India for admission to postgraduate programs in engineering, technology, architecture, science, commerce, and arts. GATE is also used by many Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) for recruitment purposes. IIT Guwahati is organizing GATE 2026.
Key Dates
Aspiring candidates should be aware of the important dates related to GATE 2026:
- Online Registration Begins: August 28, 2025
- Online Registration Closes (Without Late Fee): September 28, 2025
- Online Registration Closes (With Late Fee): October 9, 2025
- Admit Card Available for Download: January 2, 2026
- GATE 2026 Examination Dates: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026
- Announcement of Results: March 19, 2026
The GATE 2026 examination will be held on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, in two sessions each day – 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Application Process
The GATE 2026 application process is entirely online. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Registration: Visit the official GATE 2026 website (http://gate2026.iitg.ac.in">gate2026.iitg.ac.in) and register by providing your name, email ID, and mobile number. This will generate an enrollment ID and password.
- Application Form: Log in using the enrollment ID and password to access the application form. Fill in all the required details, including personal information, academic qualifications, and communication details. You will also need to select the GATE paper(s) you wish to appear for and your preferred exam cities.
- Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, a valid photo ID, and category/disability certificates (if applicable) in the prescribed format and specifications.
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Application Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online using net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI. The application fee varies depending on the candidate's category and the registration period:
- For General Category: INR 2000 (without late fee), INR 2500 (with late fee)
- For SC/ST/PwD/Female Candidates: INR 1000 (without late fee), INR 1500 (with late fee)
- Submission: After completing all the steps, submit the application form. It is advisable to download and print a copy of the filled application form for your records.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for GATE 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Candidates who are currently studying in the 3rd or higher years of any undergraduate degree program, or who have already completed a government-approved degree program in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, Arts, or Humanities are eligible to appear for GATE 2026.
- Candidates with a Bachelor's degree (of at least three years duration) in Engineering/Technology/Architecture/Science/Commerce/Arts/Humanities from countries other than India are also eligible.
- There is no age limit to appear for the GATE exam.
Key Changes for GATE 2026
- New Subject: A new paper on "Energy Science" (XE-I) has been introduced under the Engineering Sciences (XE) group.
- Two-Paper Combination: Students can opt for two different papers from the prescribed set of combinations.
Required Documents
Keep the following documents ready before starting the online application process:
- Candidate's photograph and signature as per the specifications.
- Valid photo ID (original must be presented at the exam center).
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC), if applicable.
- UDID/PwD certificate, if applicable.
- Dyslexic certificate, if applicable.
By keeping track of the dates, understanding the application process, and confirming eligibility, candidates can successfully apply for GATE 2026 and take a step towards their desired career path.
