The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 examination begins February 7, 2026 . The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati is conducting the exam. It will continue on February 8, 14, and 15, 2026.
GATE 2026 is a national entrance test. It is for postgraduate programs in engineering and science. These include M.Tech, ME, and PhD. Top Indian institutions like IITs, NITs, and IIITs accept GATE scores.
The exam is a 3-hour computer-based test. It has 100 marks. There are 65 questions. General Aptitude accounts for 15 marks. Subject-specific questions are worth 85 marks.
Exam Day Instructions
Candidates must arrive at the exam center one hour before the start time. Read all instructions carefully. Read questions quickly and accurately.
Bring your GATE 2026 admit card . Carry an original, valid photo ID. Acceptable IDs include Aadhaar card and PAN card. Ensure all details on the admit card match your ID.
Candidates must bring passport-sized photographs. These photos must match the ones on the admit card. Cooperate fully with exam staff. Follow their instructions during the checking process.
Do not leave the examination hall before the 3-hour duration ends. This is strictly prohibited. Leaving early will not be permitted.
Permitted Items
Only the following items are allowed inside the exam center:
- GATE 2026 admit card
- Original ID proof
- A simple pen or pencil
- A transparent water bottle
Prohibited Items
The following items are strictly forbidden:
- Mobile phones
- Smartwatches
- Physical calculators
- Bluetooth devices
- Wallets
- Belts
- Jewelry
- Study materials
Dress Code
Wear simple, comfortable clothing. Avoid clothes with many pockets. Do not wear items with large metal buttons. Sandals or flip-flops are recommended. Closed shoes may need to be removed outside the hall.
Following these instructions ensures a smooth exam experience. Candidates should adhere to all guidelines provided by the examination authority.