GATE 2026, conducted by IIT Guwahati, is scheduled for February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, with two sessions daily. The online registration starts on August 25, 2025, via the GOAPS portal, and the last date without a late fee is September 25, 2025.
Open to candidates in the 3rd year or higher of UG programs across Engineering, Science, Commerce, Arts, and more, the exam features 30 papers with MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. A new paper, Energy Science (XE-I), has been introduced. Results will be announced on March 19, 2026, and the scorecard remains valid for three years.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | IIT Guwahati |
| Exam Name | Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Dates | February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026 |
| Session Timings | Forenoon: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PMAfternoon: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Online Registration Starts | August 25, 2025 |
| Last Date (Without Late Fee) | September 25, 2025 |
| Extended Deadline (With Fee) | October 6, 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | January 2026 (Tentative) |
| Result Announcement | March 19, 2026 |
| Scorecard Validity | 3 Years from Result Date |
| Eligibility | 3rd year or higher UG in Engineering/Science/Commerce/Arts (No age limit) |
| Application Fee | ₹1,000–₹2,000 (Regular), ₹1,500–₹2,500 (Extended), varies by category |
| New Paper Introduced | XE-I: Energy Science |
| Total Papers | 30 |
| Question Types | MCQ, MSQ, NAT |
| Official Website | gate2026.iitg.ac.in |
GATE 2026: Complete Guide to Exam Dates, Eligibility, Fees, Pattern and Syllabus
Planning to appear for GATE 2026? The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 will be conducted by IIT Guwahati, and it’s your golden opportunity to boost your career in engineering, science, or even management.
With the exam scheduled across four days in February 2026, now is the right time to prepare, register, and stay informed. In this AUBSP exclusive, we cover every crucial detail you need to know – from the schedule and application timeline to exam pattern and syllabus.
Detailed Schedule and Application Timeline for GATE 2026
Understanding the timeline is key to successful application and preparation. GATE 2026 has a clearly structured schedule, with important dates spread from August 2025 through March 2026. Missing a deadline could cost you your attempt, so staying updated is a must.
Let’s break down the timeline and key events so you don’t miss anything important:
- Online Registration Opens: August 25, 2025
- Last Date (Without Late Fee): September 25, 2025
- Extended Deadline (With Late Fee): October 6, 2025
- Admit Card Availability (Tentative): January 2026
- Exam Dates: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026
- Result Declaration: March 19, 2026
- Scorecard Validity: 3 Years from the result date
🕘 Exam Sessions
Each exam day will have two sessions:
- Forenoon Session: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Afternoon Session: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Stay connected with the official GATE 2026 website for branch-wise schedules, updates, and alerts.
💸 GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria and Application Fee
Before applying, make sure you’re eligible! GATE 2026 offers broader eligibility – even Arts and Commerce students can apply now. If you’re in your third year or above of your degree or have already completed it, you’re eligible. The exam is also open to foreign nationals meeting equivalent educational requirements. And here’s the best part: there’s no upper age limit.
📌 Eligibility Snapshot
- Eligible Degrees: Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, Arts, Humanities
- Minimum Education: 3rd year of UG or completed UG
- Age Limit: None
- International Applicants: Eligible (must meet degree equivalency)
💰 Application Fee Structure
Here’s a quick look at the fee breakdown based on category and application window:
| Category | Regular Period (Aug 25–Sep 25) | Extended Period (Sep 26–Oct 6) |
|---|---|---|
| Female, SC, ST, PwD | ₹1,000 per paper | ₹1,500 per paper |
| All Other Candidates | ₹2,000 per paper | ₹2,500 per paper |
🔁 You can apply for up to two papers, but only from approved paper combinations.
✅ Pro Tip from AUBSP: Early registration avoids late fees and gives more time to fix any form errors. Set a reminder for August 25, 2025!
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus Overview
Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or repeating to improve your score, knowing the GATE pattern helps build the right strategy. GATE 2026 consists of 30 test papers and uses a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. The paper is designed to test both your general aptitude and subject-specific knowledge.
📖 Exam Structure
- Total Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Questions: 65
- Total Marks: 100
🔍 Sections in GATE Paper
- General Aptitude (GA):
- Mandatory for all candidates
- Carries 15 marks
- Tests basic language, logical, and analytical skills
- Core Subject Questions:
- Includes Engineering Mathematics (for some branches)
- Carries 85 marks
- Deep dive into technical knowledge
✍️ Question Types
- MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions):
- Single correct answer
- Negative marking for wrong answers
- MSQs (Multiple Select Questions):
- One or more correct answers
- No negative marking
- NATs (Numerical Answer Type):
- Numeric answers entered via virtual keyboard
- No negative marking
🆕 New Paper Alert: Energy Science (XE-I)
This year, GATE 2026 has introduced Energy Science (XE-I) under the Engineering Sciences category. The syllabus is available for download on the official portal.
👉 Want a detailed syllabus PDF? Visit the official site or stay tuned with AUBSP as we break down subject-wise syllabi in upcoming articles.
📈 Why GATE Matters: Career Boosts and Future Opportunities
Scoring well in GATE opens doors beyond M.Tech admissions. You can land PSU jobs, receive fellowships, or even go abroad for MS/Ph.D. with GATE scores accepted by universities like NTU Singapore and RWTH Aachen.
🔑 Key Benefits
- PSU Recruitment: ONGC, NTPC, BHEL, and more use GATE scores
- M.Tech/PhD Admissions: IITs, NITs, IIITs, IISc
- Fellowships & Scholarships: For higher studies and research
- International Recognition: Accepted by some global universities
✅ Final Checklist: What to Do Next?
Here’s your GATE 2026 action plan curated by AUBSP:
- 📅 Mark Your Calendar: Registration starts August 25, 2025
- 📝 Check Eligibility: Match your degree and year
- 💻 Bookmark GOAPS Portal: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
- 📚 Download Syllabus: Focus on both GA and Core subjects
- 📈 Start Preparing Early: Use mock tests and previous year papers
- 📢 Follow AUBSP: For timely updates, strategy tips, and resources
🙌 Stay Ahead with AUBSP
GATE 2026 is more than just a test – it’s a gateway to your future. Whether you’re eyeing an M.Tech seat, PSU job, or international opportunity, AUBSP is here to guide your preparation journey. Bookmark us, subscribe to updates, and let’s crack GATE 2026 – together!
🔔 Follow AUBSP for More:
Stay tuned for preparation guides, syllabus breakdowns, paper-wise strategies, and topper tips — all coming your way, right here at AUBSP.com.
FAQs on GATE 2026 Exams
Who is conducting GATE 2026?
GATE 2026 is being conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati.
What are the exam dates for GATE 2026?
GATE 2026 will be held on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026.
What are the exam timings for GATE 2026?
The exam will be conducted in two sessions each day: Forenoon from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and Afternoon from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
When will GATE 2026 registration begin?
Online registration will start on August 25, 2025.
What is the last date to register for GATE 2026 without a late fee?
The last date for regular registration without a late fee is September 25, 2025.
What is the last date for GATE 2026 registration with a late fee?
The extended registration deadline with a late fee is October 6, 2025.
When will the GATE 2026 admit card be released?
The admit card is expected to be released in January 2026.
When will the GATE 2026 result be announced?
The results will be announced on March 19, 2026.
What is the validity of the GATE 2026 scorecard?
The GATE 2026 scorecard will be valid for three years from the result announcement date.
Who is eligible to appear for GATE 2026?
Candidates in the third year or higher of undergraduate programs or those who have completed a degree in Engineering, Science, Commerce, Arts, Architecture, or Humanities are eligible. There is no upper age limit.
Are international candidates eligible for GATE 2026?
Yes, foreign students with an equivalent third-year or higher qualification are eligible.
How many papers can a candidate apply for in GATE 2026?
Candidates can apply for up to two papers, provided the combination is allowed as per the official list.
What is the application fee for GATE 2026?
For Female/SC/ST/PwD candidates, it is ₹1,000 during the regular period and ₹1,500 during the extended period. For all other candidates, it is ₹2,000 during the regular period and ₹2,500 during the extended period.
How many test papers are available in GATE 2026?
GATE 2026 will have 30 test papers in total.
What is the duration of the GATE 2026 exam?
The duration of the exam is 3 hours.
What is the total number of questions in GATE 2026?
Each paper will consist of 65 questions.
What is the total mark allocation in GATE 2026?
The total marks for each paper are 100.
What is the General Aptitude section in GATE 2026?
The General Aptitude section is mandatory for all papers and carries 15 marks.
What is the core subject section in GATE 2026?
The core subject section carries 85 marks and includes subject-specific questions; for some papers, it includes Engineering Mathematics.
What types of questions are asked in GATE 2026?
GATE 2026 includes Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.
Is there negative marking in GATE 2026?
Negative marking applies to MCQs but not to MSQs or NATs.
Has any new paper been introduced in GATE 2026?
Yes, a new paper titled Energy Science (XE-I) has been introduced under the Engineering Sciences category.
Where can I find the official syllabus for GATE 2026?
The syllabus for all papers is available on the official GATE 2026 website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
Can Commerce or Arts students apply for GATE 2026?
Yes, students from Commerce, Arts, and Humanities are eligible if they meet the minimum academic criteria.
Can I use the GATE score for PSU recruitment?
Yes, many Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) accept GATE scores for recruitment.
Can I use my GATE 2026 score for admission to foreign universities?
Yes, several international universities, such as NUS and NTU Singapore, accept GATE scores for postgraduate admissions.
Is there any age limit for GATE 2026?
No, there is no upper age limit to appear for GATE 2026.
What is GOAPS in the context of GATE 2026?
GOAPS stands for GATE Online Application Processing System, the portal used for application, admit card, and result management.
Can I change my exam center or paper after submitting the GATE form?
Yes, a correction window is usually provided, but changes may require an additional fee.
Is GATE 2026 conducted online or offline?
GATE 2026 will be conducted entirely online as a Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Where can I get updates about GATE 2026?
Regular updates are available on the official website and through trusted sources like AUBSP.com.
