The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 commences tomorrow, February 7, 2026, marking a crucial moment for lakhs of engineering graduates across India. Conducted by IIT Guwahati, this examination opens doors to prestigious M.Tech programs at IITs, NITs, and recruitment opportunities in top PSUs. With less than 24 hours remaining, candidates must understand all exam day protocols, document requirements, and prohibited items to ensure a hassle-free experience.
What Is GATE 2026 & Why It Matters
GATE is India’s premier competitive examination evaluating comprehensive understanding of engineering, technology, architecture, and science subjects. Beyond academic admissions to Master’s and doctoral programs at top institutions, GATE scores are crucial for recruitment in Public Sector Undertakings like ONGC, BHEL, NTPC, GAIL, and IOCL. The examination also enables candidates to secure prestigious fellowships and scholarships, making it an essential milestone for career advancement in the technical domain.
GATE 2026 Exam Dates & Shift Timings
GATE 2026 will be conducted on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026 across designated test centers in India and international locations. The examination follows a dual-shift pattern:
- Forenoon Session: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM (3 hours)
- Afternoon Session: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM (3 hours)
Candidates must check their admit card carefully to identify their specific examination date, session timing, and test center location.
Documents to Carry to the GATE Exam Centre
Proper documentation is absolutely essential for entry. Missing documents will result in denial of entry regardless of preparation level.
Mandatory Admit Card Instructions
Download your GATE 2026 admit card from the official GOAPS portal at gate2026.iitg.ac.in and print it on A4 size paper. The printout must be clear and legible with your photograph, signature, and examination details visible.
Important: Candidates assigned to center code 2082 must download the revised admit card from the portal due to administrative changes.
Valid Photo ID Proofs
Carry one original government-issued photo ID that matches your application details. Acceptable IDs include:
- Aadhaar Card (ensure it’s unlocked for biometric verification)
- Passport
- PAN Card
- Voter ID Card
- Driving License
- College/University Photo ID Card
- Employee ID Card (government organizations)
The photo ID must exactly match details on your admit card to avoid verification complications.
What NOT to Carry: Prohibited Items List
Understanding prohibited items is critical. Possession of banned items can lead to disqualification. Strictly prohibited items include:
- Mobile phones, smartphones, or any communication devices
- Smart watches, fitness bands, or digital watches
- Personal calculators (virtual calculator provided on screen)
- Bluetooth devices, wireless earphones, or headphones
- Bags, wallets, purses, or carrying accessories
- Books, study materials, notes, or reference guides
- Personal stationery (pens, pencils, erasers)
- Electronic gadgets (tablets, power banks, cameras)
- Food items (transparent water bottles may be allowed at some centers)
- Metallic accessories (heavy belts, jewelry, ornaments)
- Goggles, caps, hats (unless medical/religious reasons with prior permission)
Note: Examination centers do not provide storage facilities, so avoid bringing unnecessary items.
Dress Code & Health Guidelines
While no strict dress code exists, follow these recommendations for quick security clearance:
- Wear light, comfortable clothing with minimal pockets
- Avoid metallic accessories, heavy jewelry, and elaborate embellishments
- Choose slippers or sandals over heavy shoes (some centers require shoe removal)
- Keep clothing simple without complex patterns or metal buttons
- Maintain clean fingertips for biometric verification (no mehendi or ink)
Candidates wearing religious attire should report 90-120 minutes before the scheduled time for additional security verification.
Reporting Time & Gate Closing Rules
Critical: Reach the examination center 60 to 90 minutes before the reporting time on your admit card. This allows time for traffic delays, security checks, biometric verification, and document verification.
Gate closing times:
- Forenoon Session: Gates close around 8:30-8:45 AM
- Afternoon Session: Gates close around 1:30-1:45 PM
Late entry after gate closure is NOT permitted under any circumstances. No exceptions are made for traffic, vehicle breakdowns, or any other reasons.
Biometric Verification & Security Checks
Before entering the examination hall, all candidates undergo:
- Fingerprint scanning: Keep fingertips clean and dry
- Photography: Recent photo captured and matched with admit card
- Security frisking: Metal detector screening and physical checking
- Document verification: Admit card and photo ID scrutinized for accuracy
If you have worn fingerprints or injured fingers, inform officials immediately for alternative verification methods.
Inside the Exam Hall – Rules Candidates Must Follow
Once inside, strict adherence to these rules is mandatory:
- Occupy only your assigned seat number
- Use only the scribble pad provided for rough work (must return before leaving)
- Use only the virtual calculator on screen (no physical calculators)
- No communication with fellow candidates
- Inform invigilators immediately if technical issues occur (don’t troubleshoot yourself)
- Cannot leave the hall during the first hour
- Submit all materials before exiting (re-entry not allowed)
What to Do If You Forget a Document
If you forget your admit card:
- Return immediately if time permits and residence is nearby
- Ask someone to deliver it to the center
- Access GOAPS portal and download a fresh copy if possible
If you forget your photo ID:
- Use any alternative acceptable ID you have
- Explain your situation to the center superintendent
- Entry without documents is highly unlikely but officials may document your case
Prevention is best: Prepare your document kit the night before and triple-check everything before leaving.
Last-Minute Tips for GATE 2026 Aspirants
- Visit your examination center location beforehand to familiarize yourself with the route
- Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep; avoid last-minute cramming
- Eat light, nutritious meals and stay hydrated
- Maintain a calm, positive mindset through deep breathing or meditation
- Plan your examination strategy: attempt easy questions first, then progress to challenging ones
- Keep track of time throughout the exam
- Keep multiple copies of your admit card and ID proof
Official Website & Helpline Information
For queries or assistance:
- Official Website: https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in
- GOAPS Portal: Access through main website for admit card download
- Helpline Number: +91 361 258 6500 (9:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
- Email: helpdesk.gate@iitg.ac.in
- Address: GATE-JAM Office, IIT Guwahati, Guwahati – 781039, Assam
- updates: updateindia
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact reporting time for GATE 2026?
Reporting time is mentioned on your admit card. Arrive 60-90 minutes before exam commencement. For 9:30 AM session, reach by 8:00 AM; for 2:30 PM session, arrive by 1:00 PM. Gates close strictly at reporting time.
Can I carry my mobile phone to the examination center?
No, mobile phones are strictly prohibited. Since no storage facilities are available, avoid bringing your phone entirely. Make arrangements to leave it outside if necessary for emergency communication.
Is there any dress code for GATE 2026?
No mandatory dress code exists, but wear simple, comfortable clothing with minimal metal accessories to facilitate quick security clearance. Avoid heavy jewelry, thick-soled shoes, and elaborate embellishments.
Can I carry a calculator or rough paper?
No, physical calculators are prohibited. A virtual calculator is provided on-screen. The center provides scribble pads for rough work, which must be returned before leaving.
What if I lose my admit card before the exam?
Log in to GOAPS portal immediately using your enrollment credentials and download a fresh copy. Print it on A4 paper. Keep multiple printed copies and digital backups to prevent such situations.
Are water bottles allowed inside the examination hall?
Policies vary by center. Generally, transparent water bottles without labels may be permitted in some centers. Check your admit card instructions or contact your examination center for specific guidelines.
