GATE Exam 2026: Dates, Registration Process, and Preparation Strategy Revealed

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati will organize the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026, continuing its role as the gateway to postgraduate engineering programs and PSU recruitment. While the official notification is anticipated in July-August 2025, historical patterns indicate the exam will likely occur in early February 2026. Registration through the GOAPS portal is expected to open in August 2025, closing by September 2025, with application corrections available afterward. Admit cards will become downloadable in January 2026, containing crucial details like exam venue and timing.

GATE 2026 Exam Structure and Key Details

The computer-based GATE 2026 will feature 65 questions totaling 100 marks, assessing candidates through Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) problems. IIT Guwahati’s administration follows a rotational model among IITs, ensuring standardized testing protocols nationwide.

Candidates must prioritize understanding the exam pattern early. Previous years’ question papers are invaluable resources, revealing recurring themes in subjects like Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Digital Logic. Experts consistently emphasize:

• Conceptual Clarity: Focus on foundational principles over rote memorization.
• Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
• Time Management: Allocate minutes per question based on difficulty and scoring weightage.
• Subject Prioritization: Dedicate extra time to high-weightage topics within your chosen paper.

Step-by-Step GATE 2026 Registration Guide

Prospective candidates must complete online registration via the GOAPS portal:

1. Visit the official GATE website and click “Apply Online.”
2. Register as a new user, providing name, email, mobile number, and password.
3. Log in using your Enrolment ID and complete the application form.
4. Enter personal details, academic qualifications, and select your exam paper.
5. Upload scanned documents:
   • Passport-sized photograph (specific dimensions required).
   • Signature specimen.
   • Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.).
6. Select three preferred exam cities in order of priority.
7. Pay the application fee online (₹1800 for General/OBC candidates; ₹900 for SC/ST/female candidates).
8. Review all details and submit the form. Retain a printed copy for future reference.

Early preparation remains non-negotiable for GATE success. Utilize the months ahead to master core concepts, practice rigorously, and refine exam strategy. Regularly check the official IIT Guwahati GATE website for updates, and secure your academic future starting today.

Must Know

Q: When will GATE 2026 registration start?
A: Registration is expected to open in August 2025 via the GOAPS portal. The exact date will be confirmed in the official notification released around July-August 2025. Candidates should monitor IIT Guwahati’s announcements.

Q: What is the application fee for GATE 2026?
A: The fee is ₹1800 for General/OBC candidates and ₹900 for SC/ST candidates and all female applicants. Payment is made online during registration.

Q: Which documents are needed for GATE registration?
A: You’ll need a scanned passport photo (meeting specific size/format requirements), a signature image, and a valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, etc.). Ensure documents are clear and legible.

Q: How many exam cities can I choose?
A: Candidates select three preferred exam cities in order of priority during registration. Final center allocation depends on availability and is indicated on the admit card.

Q: When will GATE 2026 admit cards be available?
A: Admit cards are typically released in January 2026. Candidates download them from the GOAPS portal using their login credentials.

Q: What is the exam pattern for GATE 2026?
A: The 3-hour computer-based test includes 65 questions worth 100 marks. Questions are a mix of MCQs, MSQs (multiple correct answers), and NAT (numerical answer type). Negative marking applies only to MCQs.