The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has opened GATE 2026 registration from August 28. Candidates can apply exclusively through the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) on the official portal.
GATE 2026 will be conducted on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, in two shifts daily: 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 2:30 pm–5:30 pm. The registration window without a late fee runs until September 28, 2025. Late applications will be accepted from September 29 to October 9, 2025, with an additional fee of Rs 500.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates for GATE 2026 must have completed or be in the final year of a qualifying degree. Eligible qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degrees in Engineering, Technology, or Pharmacy (BE/BTech/BPharm)
- Master’s degrees in Science, Arts, Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Applications (MSc/MA/MCA)
- Professional degrees such as BArch, MBBS, BDS, BVSc, or PharmD
- Integrated or dual degrees like Integrated ME/MTech, Dual Degree, or Integrated MSc/BS-MS programs
Professional Society Examinations (e.g., AMIE, AMICE) recognized as equivalent to BE/BTech/BArch
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Steps to Register for GATE 2026
- Visit the official website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
- Click on the “GATE 2026” registration link
- Register and create login credentials
- Log in and complete the application form
- Upload scanned documents
- Pay the application fee
- Review and submit the application
Candidates should complete their applications early to avoid technical issues or last-minute delays.
GATE 2026 Application Fee
The application fee for GATE 2026 is:
- Female, SC, ST, and PwD candidates: Rs 1,000 (regular) | Rs 1,500 (extended)
- All other candidates, including foreign nationals: Rs 2,000 (regular) | Rs 2,500 (extended)
- Fees must be paid according to the registration timeline to complete the application successfully.
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
GATE 2026 will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across 30 papers, including a new Energy Science paper (XE-1) under Engineering Sciences. Each paper carries 100 marks, with 15 marks for General Aptitude and 13 marks for Engineering Mathematics, where applicable. Questions include MCQs, MSQs, and NATs. Negative marking applies only to MCQs: 1/3 mark for 1-mark questions and 2/3 mark for 2-mark questions. MSQs and NATs have no negative marking.
Candidates may choose two-paper combinations as per the official list, with IIT Guwahati reserving the right to add more combinations. Sample papers for XE-1 and previous GATE papers (2007–2025) are available on the official portal.
The information brochure provides full details on the syllabus, exam centres, marking scheme, and guidelines. Candidates should check the official website regularly for updates.
Frequently Asked Question
When does GATE 2026 registration start?
Registration opens on August 28, 2025, and continues until September 28, 2025 without a late fee.
How can I apply for GATE 2026?
Apply online via the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) at gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
Who is eligible for GATE 2026?
Candidates must hold or be in the final year of a qualifying degree, including BE/BTech/BPharm, MSc/MA/MCA, BArch, MBBS, BVSc, PharmD, or recognized professional/dual degrees.
What is the exam pattern?
The exam is computer-based, includes MCQs, MSQs, and NATs, and each paper is 100 marks with negative marking only for MCQs.
Can I choose two papers?
Yes, two-paper combinations are allowed as per the official list.
Where can I find syllabus and sample papers?
The official GATE portal provides the information brochure, syllabus, and sample papers for all papers, including the new XE-1 Energy Science paper.
Conclusion
GATE 2026 registration is now open, offering aspiring engineers and professionals the opportunity to secure admission to top postgraduate programs and public sector jobs. Candidates should complete the application early, review eligibility criteria, and familiarize themselves with the exam pattern, fees, and important dates. Regularly checking the official portal ensures you stay updated with the latest notifications and resources for a smooth application process.
