The IIT GATE 2026 called Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is one of the most awaited national-level entrance examinations in India. It is conducted by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) on a rotational basis for admission into postgraduate programs and recruitment in top public sector undertakings (PSUs).
In 2026, the GATE Exam will be organized by IIT Kanpur (tentative). Here’s everything you need to know about the IIT GATE 2026 Notification, Eligibility, Exam Dates, and Registration Process.
GATE 2026 Highlights
- Exam Name: Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
- Organizing Institute: IIT Kanpur (Expected)
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Frequency: Once a year
- Official Website: gate.iitk.ac.in
GATE 2026 Important Dates
- Notification Release: September 2025 (Tentative)
- Application Start Date: First week of September 2025
- Last Date to Apply: First week of October 2025
- Admit Card Release: January 2026
- Exam Dates: February 2026 (Two weekends)
- Result Declaration: March 2026
GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for IIT GATE 2026, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, or a Master’s degree in Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Applications.
- Final-year students are also eligible.
- Age Limit:
- There is no age limit for GATE 2026.
- Nationality:
- Indian citizens and candidates from Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Ethiopia, and UAE can also apply.
GATE 2026 Application Process
The GATE 2026 application form will be available online through the GOAPS (GATE Online Application Processing System) portal. Follow these steps to apply:
- Register on GOAPS with a valid email ID and phone number.
- Fill in personal, educational, and communication details.
- Upload scanned documents – photo, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Select exam paper and preferred exam centers.
- Pay the application fee using debit/credit card or net banking.
- Submit and download the confirmation page.
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Total Papers: 30+ (including newly introduced subjects)
- Total Questions: 65
- Maximum Marks: 100
- Question Types: MCQs, MSQs, and NATs
Benefits of Qualifying GATE 2026
- Admission to M.Tech, M.E., and Ph.D. programs in IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other top institutes.
- Recruitment opportunities in PSUs like ONGC, BHEL, NTPC, GAIL, and IOCL.
- Financial assistance and scholarships for higher studies.
- Opens pathways for fellowship programs and research opportunities abroad.
GATE 2026 Preparation Tips
- Start preparation at least 8–10 months before the exam.
- Focus on previous year papers and mock tests.
- Create a realistic study plan and stick to it.
- Use standard books and online resources for conceptual clarity.
- Revise regularly and focus on high-weightage topics.