GATE 2026 Registration Date, Application Form, Document Required

GATE 2026, organized by IIT Guwahati, is a national-level exam for admission to postgraduate programs and PSU recruitment. Registration begins on August 25, 2025, through the GOAPS portal, with key deadlines extending to October 6, 2025.

Eligible candidates include those in the third year or beyond of undergraduate degrees across Engineering, Science, Commerce, and Humanities. The exam features 30 subjects, including a new Energy Science paper. A valid GATE score unlocks opportunities in top institutes, PSUs, and research roles.

GATE 2026 Registration Guide: Key Dates, Eligibility, Application Process & Fees

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is more than just an entrance exam—it’s a pivotal opportunity for students and professionals seeking to unlock postgraduate studies and lucrative careers in India’s top institutes and PSUs.

Organized this year by IIT Guwahati, GATE 2026 brings with it new updates, a streamlined application process, and a broader eligibility base. In this AUBSP exclusive, we break down everything you need to know about registering for GATE 2026.

Key Dates and Deadlines for GATE 2026

Timely application is essential to avoid penalties and ensure eligibility. The GATE 2026 organizing committee has officially released a detailed timeline, marking every critical milestone—from the start of registration to the announcement of results. Bookmark these dates to stay on track and never miss an update.

📌 Stay updated: Visit gate2026.iitg.ac.in for real-time notifications.

Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2026

Before diving into the registration process, ensure you meet all eligibility norms. GATE 2026 is inclusive and caters to a wide range of academic backgrounds, including Engineering, Science, Commerce, and Humanities. It’s essential to confirm your qualification type and year to avoid disqualification at later stages.

Educational Qualification

You must be in the third year or higher of your undergraduate degree program, or have already completed a degree in:

• Engineering / Technology
• Architecture
• Science
• Commerce / Arts / Humanities

Professional Society Examinations

Candidates with certifications from bodies such as IE, ICE, IETE, AeSI, IIChE, IIM, IIIE must verify that their qualifications are approved by MoE/AICTE/UGC/UPSC as equivalent to standard degrees.

International Candidates

Foreign students in their third year or beyond of equivalent degree programs can also apply.

Age Limit

There is no upper age limit for appearing in GATE 2026.

Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The entire GATE 2026 application is conducted online through the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS). Here’s how to complete the process effortlessly and without errors. Make sure to gather all required documents beforehand and double-check every detail during submission.

1. Registration on GOAPS

• Visit the official site: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
• Click on New User Registration
• Provide your email ID and mobile number
• Generate your Enrollment ID/Registration ID

2. Filling the Application Form

Log in and fill in your:

• Personal details (Name, DOB, Gender)
• Academic qualifications
• Communication address
• Contact info

🔍 Tip: Double-check spellings and numbers, as these will reflect on your GATE admit card and results.

3. Uploading Documents

Scanned documents required:

• Photograph (passport-sized, white background)
• Signature (black ink on white paper)
• Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
• Caste/Category Certificate (if applicable)
• PwD certificate (if applicable)

4. Selecting Exam Papers and Cities

• Choose 1 or 2 papers (check allowed combinations)
• Select 3 exam cities in order of preference

5. Fee Payment

Pay the non-refundable application fee via online modes such as net banking, UPI, or debit/credit cards.

6. Final Submission

• Review every entry carefully
• Submit and download a copy for your records

📝 Pro Tip from AUBSP: Keep multiple digital backups of your form and payment receipt.

Application Fees for GATE 2026

GATE 2026 has a clear and categorized fee structure. The fees depend on your gender, category, and time of registration. Here’s a quick overview:

💡 Note: Fees are per test paper. If opting for two papers, double the respective amount.

Exam Pattern and Subjects in GATE 2026

Understanding the structure of GATE 2026 is crucial for better preparation. This year, 30 subjects are available to choose from, including a new paper under Engineering Sciences—Energy Science (XE-I).

Paper Structure

• Total Marks: 100
  • General Aptitude: 15 marks
  • Subject Paper: 85 marks
• Duration: 3 hours
• Format: MCQs, MSQs, and NATs (Numerical Answer Type)

Two-Paper Combination

Candidates may opt for two papers. However, only specific subject pairings are allowed. The list of permissible combinations is available on the GATE official site.

📚 Resource: Use past GATE papers to familiarize yourself with the pattern and difficulty level.

Post-Exam Opportunities with GATE Score

Your GATE score is valid for three years, and its utility spans far beyond admissions. Whether you aim for higher education or employment in the public sector, a strong GATE score can be your career-launching credential.

Higher Education

Gain admission into:

• IITs, NITs, IISc
• Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs)
• State Universities and private institutes

Financial assistance via MoE scholarships is also available.

PSU Recruitment

Over 30+ Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) such as BHEL, ONGC, IOCL, and NTPC use GATE scores for direct recruitment to Group A level positions.

Research Opportunities

Leverage your GATE score for:

• Junior Research Fellowships
• Roles in CSIR/DRDO/ISRO labs
• Private sector R&D roles

🧭 Explore your future: GATE opens doors not just to classrooms but to cutting-edge labs and national missions.

AUBSP Final Thoughts

GATE 2026 is not just a test—it’s a defining milestone in your academic and professional journey. With IIT Guwahati as the organizing body, expect a smooth, tech-driven registration and examination process. Begin your preparations early, gather your documents, and mark those important dates.

📌 Official Portal: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
🧾 Bookmark & Share: Found this guide helpful? Share it with your peers and help them prepare too!

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FAQs on GATE 2026 Registration

What is GATE 2026 and who is organizing it?
GATE 2026 is the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, a national-level exam for postgraduate admissions and PSU recruitment, organized by IIT Guwahati.

When will GATE 2026 registration begin?
The GATE 2026 registration will begin on August 25, 2025, through the GOAPS portal at gate2026.iitg.ac.in.

What is the last date to apply for GATE 2026 without a late fee?
The last date for regular registration without a late fee is September 25, 2025.

What is the deadline for GATE 2026 registration with a late fee?
The extended registration deadline with a late fee is October 6, 2025.

Is there an age limit for appearing in GATE 2026?
No, there is no age limit for candidates appearing in GATE 2026.

Who is eligible to apply for GATE 2026?
Candidates who are in the third year or higher of an undergraduate degree or have completed a degree in Engineering, Science, Commerce, Arts, or Humanities are eligible.

Can international candidates apply for GATE 2026?
Yes, international candidates in their third year or higher of an equivalent degree program are eligible to apply.

Can I apply for two GATE papers?
Yes, you can apply for two papers if the combination is allowed by the organizing body. The list of permitted combinations is available on the official website.

How many subjects are available in GATE 2026?
GATE 2026 will be conducted in 30 subjects, including a new subject under Engineering Sciences called Energy Science (XE-I).

What is the exam pattern for GATE 2026?
Each GATE paper is for 100 marks, comprising 15 marks for General Aptitude and 85 marks for subject-specific questions, with a total duration of 3 hours.

What documents are required for GATE 2026 registration?
You need to upload a passport-size photograph, scanned signature, valid photo ID, caste/category certificate (if applicable), and PwD certificate (if applicable).

How much is the application fee for GATE 2026?
For female, SC, ST, and PwD candidates, the fee is ₹1,000 (regular) and ₹1,500 (late). For all other candidates, it is ₹2,000 (regular) and ₹2,500 (late).

What is the official website for GATE 2026?
The official website for GATE 2026 is https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in.

When will the GATE 2026 admit card be released?
The GATE 2026 admit card will be released in the first week of January 2026.

When will the GATE 2026 exam be conducted?
The GATE 2026 exam will be held on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026.

When will the GATE 2026 results be announced?
The GATE 2026 results will be announced on March 19, 2026.

How long is the GATE score valid?
A GATE score is valid for three years from the date of result announcement.

What are the career opportunities after qualifying GATE?
Qualifying GATE opens doors for M.Tech/M.E./Ph.D. admissions, PSU recruitment, and research opportunities in top government and private institutions.

Can diploma holders apply for GATE 2026?
No, diploma holders are not eligible unless they are in or have completed a government-approved undergraduate program equivalent to B.E./B.Tech./B.Arch.

What types of questions are asked in GATE 2026?
The exam consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions.

What is GOAPS?
GOAPS stands for GATE Online Application Processing System, the official portal used for registration, application submission, and communication throughout the GATE process.

Can I edit my GATE 2026 application form after submission?
Yes, there will be a correction window in October or November 2025 where specific details can be edited by paying a correction fee.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for GATE registration?
No, Aadhaar is not mandatory, but a valid photo ID such as PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License is required.

What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
You can still apply during the extended period by paying an additional late fee.

Can GATE be attempted more than once?
Yes, there is no restriction on the number of attempts for GATE.

Are coaching classes necessary to crack GATE?
While not mandatory, coaching classes can be helpful for structured preparation. However, many students successfully crack GATE through self-study using quality resources.

What is the mode of GATE 2026 exam?
GATE 2026 will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) only.

Will there be negative marking in GATE 2026?
Yes, negative marking is applicable for MCQs only. There is no negative marking for MSQs and NATs.

Can I change my exam center after submitting the form?
Changes to exam centers may be allowed during the correction window, subject to availability and approval.

Is financial support available after qualifying GATE?
Yes, candidates admitted to M.E./M.Tech./Ph.D. programs through GATE are eligible for financial assistance from the Ministry of Education or respective institutions.

Can I apply if I have a backlog?
Yes, candidates with backlogs can apply provided they meet the eligibility criteria by the time of admission.