The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is set to commence tomorrow, February 7. The national-level examination assesses candidates’ understanding of undergraduate-level subjects in Engineering, Technology, Science, Architecture, Humanities, Commerce, and Arts. The examination will continue until February 15 and will be conducted in two shifts each day.
The forenoon session will be held from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, while the afternoon session will run from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Candidates are advised to carefully follow the exam-day instructions issued by the organising authorities to avoid disqualification.
GATE 2026: Documents to Carry
Candidates must bring the following items to the examination centre:
- A printed copy of the GATE 2026 admit card
- An original, valid photo identity proof that was used during the registration process
Entry to the examination hall will not be permitted without these documents.
Important Exam-Day Guidelines
- Candidates must report to the examination centre well before the scheduled start time. Late entry is allowed only if the candidate can log in within 30 minutes of the exam’s commencement. No relaxation beyond this will be granted.
- A scribble pad for rough work will be provided by the invigilator inside the exam hall. Candidates must write their name and registration number on it before use.
- Only one scribble pad is allowed at a time. To obtain a new one, the previous pad must be returned. All scribble pads must be handed back after the examination.
- Candidates must not tamper with the computer systems or related hardware. Any such act will result in immediate cancellation of candidature and may invite legal action.
Items Prohibited Inside the Examination Hall
The following items are strictly not allowed:
- Mobile phones (even if switched off), smartwatches, wristwatches, or any type of physical calculator
- Electronic or communication devices, wallets, papers, loose sheets, pen or pencil boxes, pouches, or any printed or handwritten material
- Any form of communication with other candidates during the examination
If any prohibited item or activity is detected, the candidate’s candidature will be cancelled and results will not be declared. Authorities will not be responsible for the safety of personal belongings brought to the exam centre.
Use of Calculator
Physical calculators are not permitted. A virtual scientific calculator will be available on the computer screen for all candidates during the online examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many papers can a candidate apply for?
A candidate may apply for one or two papers, selected from the permitted combinations listed in the GATE 2026 Information Brochure. The choice of paper is the responsibility of the candidate.
Can candidates choose any exam session?
No. If a paper is conducted in multiple sessions, each candidate will be assigned only one session, as mentioned on the admit card.
Is it possible to change the exam paper, city, or category after application submission?
Yes. Requests for changes in paper, examination city, or category will be accepted only after the application deadline and upon payment of an additional fee. Dates for these changes will be announced separately.
Is extra time provided for late entry?
No. Candidates allowed late entry will not receive any additional examination time.
Can candidates leave the exam hall during the test?
No. Candidates are permitted to leave only after the scheduled end of the examination.
Paper-Specific Ranking Details
- Architecture and Planning (AR): No separate ranks for Part B1 (Architecture) or Part B2 (Planning).
- Geomatics Engineering (GE): No separate ranks for Section I or Section II.
- Geology and Geophysics (GG): Separate scores and ranks will be awarded based on the section attempted, with different cut-off marks for Geology and Geophysics candidates.
Candidates appearing for GATE 2026 are advised to review all guidelines carefully and reach their examination centres on time to ensure a smooth and stress-free exam experience.
