Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering
Excellence in Engineering and Research
GATE 2026 is a premier national-level examination that tests the comprehensive understanding of various undergraduate subjects in engineering and science. Conducted by IIT Guwahati for the 2026 cycle, it serves as the benchmark for admission to M.Tech, M.S., and PhD programs at IISc and IITs, as well as recruitment in several Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
Exam Level
National
Frequency
Once Yearly
Mode
Computer Based (CBT)
Conducted By
IIT Guwahati
About GATE
What is the GATE Exam?
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a standardized test that evaluates proficiency in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, and Humanities. It consists of 30 test papers, and a candidate can appear in up to two papers. The score is valid for three years from the result declaration.
Why Take GATE?
Qualifying GATE opens doors to India’s most prestigious technical institutes like IISc and IITs for higher education with financial assistance (MHRD scholarship). It is also the primary selection criteria for high-paying roles in leading PSUs like ONGC, IOCL, and NTPC, and is recognized by international universities like NUS and NTU Singapore.
Key Highlights
Score Valid for 3 Years
PSU Recruitment Gateway
Direct PhD Entry Opportunity
Scholarships (Stipend) Enabled
PSU Recruitment Gateway
Score Valid for 3 Years
Sectional time limits enforced
8 Lakh+
Registered Candidates
100
Maximum Marks
30
Total Test Papers
23
IITs Participating
Eligibility Criteria
Mandatory
Study Status Rule
Students in their 3rd year or higher of any undergraduate degree program (10+2+3 or 10+2+4) are eligible to apply.
Mandatory
Degree Requirement
Bachelor's degree holders in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, or Arts are eligible.
Relaxed Rule
Age Restriction Policy
There is no minimum or upper age limit set for candidates to appear for the GATE 2026 national examination.
Flexible
Academic Stream Diversity
The exam is open to students from Science, Commerce, and Humanities backgrounds for specific eligible test papers.
Flexible
Nationality Status
Both Indian and International candidates are eligible to apply; international candidates must travel to India for the exam.
Relaxed Rule
Attempt Limit Rule
There is no restriction on the number of times a candidate can appear for the GATE examination.
Application Process
Visit official GOAPS portal
Fill Personal & Eligibility Details
Select Papers & Exam Cities
Register & Create Enrollment ID
Application Process
Upload Photo, Sign & Certificates
Documents Required
Keep these documents ready before starting your application
Passport Size Photo (JPG)
Category Certificate (if any)
Class 12 Marksheet (or appearing certificate)
PwD Certificate (if applicable)
Scanned Signature (JPG)
PwD Certificate (if any)
Dyslexic Certificate (if any)
Scribe Request Letter (if required)
Exam Pattern
Understanding the structure and marking scheme
General Aptitude (15 Marks)
Subject Section (85 Marks)
Total Questions: 65 Questions
MCQ: Negative | MSQ/NAT: No
100 Marks
Question Types: MCQ, MSQ, NAT
180 Minutes
Confused About Exam Selection?
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Important Dates
Keep note of the important dates regarding the examination.
Aug 28 – Oct 13, 2025
Feb 07, 08, 14, 15, 2026
May 2026 (COAP/CCMT)
Jan 13, 2026 (Released)
March 19, 2026
Preparation
Tips
Master Engineering Mathematics
Practice with Virtual Calculator
Take full-length mock tests
Start Prep
Solve 15 years of PYQs
Analyze Subject-wise weightage
Practice with Virtual Calculator
Practice with Virtual Calculator
Top Colleges
IISc Bangalore
IIT Madras
IIT Delhi
IIT Bombay
IIT Kanpur
IIT Kharagpur
IIT Roorkee
IIT Guwahati
IIT Hyderabad
IIT BHU (Varanasi)
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