The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 registration process has officially started at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati’s official portal – gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Aspirants aiming to secure admissions in M.Tech, PhD programs, or apply for jobs in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) that recruit through GATE scores can now complete their online application form. This article provides you with a comprehensive guide about GATE 2026 registration, eligibility, exam dates, fees, and the step-by-step process to apply online.
What is GATE Exam?
GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a national-level examination conducted jointly by the IITs and IISc Bangalore on behalf of the National Coordination Board (NCB), Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India. The exam primarily tests candidates’ comprehensive understanding of undergraduate-level engineering, technology, science, architecture, and humanities subjects.
The GATE score is highly valuable because it is accepted for:
- Admission to M.Tech, MS, and PhD programs in IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other leading institutes.
- PSU recruitments (ONGC, NTPC, IOCL, HPCL, BHEL, PowerGrid, etc.).
- Scholarships and financial aid for higher education.
GATE 2026 Important Dates
Here are the key dates you need to remember for GATE 2026:
- Start of Online Registration: August 2025 (Now Open)
- Last Date for Registration (without late fee): Likely September 2025
- Last Date for Registration (with late fee): Expected October 2025
- Application Correction Window: October – November 2025
- Admit Card Release Date: January 2026
- GATE 2026 Exam Dates: February 2026 (Tentative weekends)
- Result Announcement: March 2026
👉 For live updates, candidates can visit the official portal: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they fulfill the eligibility criteria:
- Educational Qualification:
- Candidates must have completed or be in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Technology/Architecture (4 years after 10+2 or 3 years after Diploma).
- Candidates with Master’s degrees in Science/Mathematics/Statistics/Computer Applications or equivalent are also eligible.
- Age Limit:
- There is no upper age limit for appearing in GATE.
- Nationality:
- Indian as well as foreign candidates are eligible.
- Number of Attempts:
- No restriction on attempts; candidates can appear multiple times.
GATE 2026 Application Fees
The application fee for GATE 2026 varies by category and gender. Below is the expected fee structure:
| Category | Regular Fee | Late Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Female Candidates | ₹900 | ₹1400 |
| SC/ST/PwD Candidates | ₹900 | ₹1400 |
| All Other Candidates | ₹1800 | ₹2300 |
| International Candidates (in USD) | $100 | $150 |
👉 Note: The exact fee may vary slightly, so candidates must check the official website for updated details.
Steps to Apply for GATE 2026
Candidates can register and fill the application form online through the official portal. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in
- Click on ‘Apply Online’ and register using your email ID and mobile number.
- Fill the application form with personal details, academic qualifications, and exam preferences.
- Upload documents such as photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the application fee through net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI.
- Submit and download the confirmation page for future reference.
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is essential for preparation:
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Questions: 65
- Marks: 100
- Question Types:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
- Multiple Select Questions (MSQ)
- Numerical Answer Type (NAT)
- Negative Marking: Applicable for MCQs only
GATE 2026 Syllabus
The syllabus for GATE varies depending on the paper chosen by the candidate. However, it generally includes:
- General Aptitude (GA): Compulsory for all papers (15 marks)
- Core Subject: Based on the chosen discipline (Engineering/Science/Humanities)
👉 Candidates can download the official syllabus PDF at gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
GATE 2026: Benefits of Qualifying
- Higher Education Opportunities: Admission to IITs, NITs, and global universities (like in Singapore and Germany).
- PSU Jobs: Attractive career opportunities in leading PSUs with high salary packages.
- Scholarships: MHRD scholarships for GATE-qualified candidates.
- Global Recognition: GATE scores are valid internationally in select institutes.
Internal Link: Related Exam Updates
If you are also preparing for other competitive exams, you may find these resources useful:
- UPSSSC PET 2025 City Slip & Admit Card Updates
- BSF Constable Recruitment 2025 – Apply Online
- ICSI Company Secretary Exam 2025 Live Updates
Final Words
The GATE 2026 registration window is now live, and candidates should complete their application form well before the deadline to avoid last-minute hassles. Since the GATE exam is highly competitive and opens doors to prestigious academic and career opportunities, aspirants are advised to start their preparation early.
For the latest notifications, application updates, and direct apply link, visit the official portal: gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
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