The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, the organizing institute for GATE 2026, has officially postponed the start of the registration process. Originally scheduled to begin on August 25, the registration will now commence on August 28, 2025, via the official GATE website. This change gives aspirants a few more days to gather documents and prepare for the application process.
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a national-level exam that serves as a gateway for postgraduate admissions and recruitment in top public sector undertakings (PSUs). For 2026, the exam will cover 30 disciplines, including a newly introduced section on Energy Science under the Engineering Sciences (XE) paper.
Candidates can register without a late fee until September 28, and with a late fee until October 9. This update is crucial for all engineering, science, and humanities graduates planning to appear for GATE 2026.
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GATE 2026 Important Dates
- March 19, 2026: GATE 2026 results announced
- August 28, 2025: GATE 2026 registration begins
- September 28, 2025: Last date for regular registration
- October 9, 2025: Final date for registration with late fee
- February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026: GATE 2026 exam dates
GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for GATE 2026, candidates must be in their third year or higher of an undergraduate degree or have already completed a degree in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, Arts, or Humanities from a recognized institution.
IIT Guwahati has introduced a new Energy Science section under the Engineering Sciences (XE) paper this year. GATE 2026 will feature 30 disciplines, including Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Electronics and Communication.
Eligible degrees must be approved by MoE, AICTE, UGC, or UPSC as equivalent to BE, BTech, BArch, BPlanning, etc. International candidates with qualifying degrees from recognized foreign institutions are also eligible to apply.
GATE 2026 Application Fee Details
For GATE 2026, the application fee during the regular period is ₹1,000 per paper for Female, SC, ST, and PwD candidates, and ₹2,000 per paper for all other categories.
During the extended period, the fee increases to ₹1,500 per paper for Female/SC/ST/PwD candidates and ₹2,500 per paper for others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was GATE 2026 registration postponed?
GATE 2026 registration was deferred by IIT Guwahati due to administrative reasons. The new registration start date is August 28, 2025, instead of the earlier date, August 25.
What is the new date for GATE 2026 registration to begin?
The revised date for the start of GATE 2026 registration is August 28, 2025.
What is the last date for GATE 2026 registration without a late fee?
The last date to apply without a late fee is September 28, 2025.
Can I still apply after the regular deadline?
Yes, candidates can apply with a late fee until October 9, 2025.
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 GATE 2026 results be announced?
GATE 2026 results are scheduled to be declared on March 19, 2026.
Where can I apply for GATE 2026?
Candidates must apply through the official GATE 2026 website, managed by IIT Guwahati.
Conclusion
The postponement of GATE 2026 registration provides candidates with a few extra days to prepare their documents and plan their applications. With updated deadlines, a newly introduced Energy Science paper, and a wide range of disciplines covered, GATE 2026 continues to be a critical opportunity for students and professionals aiming for higher studies or public sector jobs. Stay updated through the official website and complete your registration well before the deadline to avoid late fees or last-minute issues.
