GATE Application Form 2026 OUT: 62% Students Plan to Register for in first week, reveals Shiksha Poll Results

62% students plan to register for GATE in the first week: GATE 2026 registrations are closed. A recent Shiksha poll shows that 62% students plan to register for GATE 2026 in the first week. Read below for more. 

The GATE 2026 admission process began. The GATE exam dates are out, followed by small yet significant changes in the GATE 2026 registration fees and the introduction of a new paper (Energy Science) under Engineering Sciences. The exam will take place on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, and aspirants are already making smart moves and decisions toward their career goals.

Latest Updates:

• GATE 2026 registration link activated at gate2026.iitg.ac.in: Apply now
• GATE two-paper combination list 2026 OUT: check details here
• How to get a job in FAANG companies through GATE 2026?

62% students had planned to register in first week, says Shiksha poll. 

A recent Shiksha poll reveals that 62% of the students plan to register for GATE in the first week itself. This mind-set of the aspirants indicates awareness among the students about their preparation, planning and avoiding last minute hassle. Let's check out. 

 GATE 2026 Poll Summary: What Students Are Planning?

This clearly shows that nearly 2 out of every 3 students are keen to complete their application in the first week of GATE 2026 registration.

Why Aspirants Plan to Register in GATE early?

Early registrations in GATE 2026 aren’t just about being proactive; it’s also being practical. Here's how-

Avoid late fees- GATE 2026 applications submitted after the regular can lead to late charges. However, early GATE registration helps save both time and money. The application form was activated on the GOAPS portal from August 28 onwards. Candidates can check the GATE 2026 dates and fee details below -

Less Stress- Registering early reduces stress gives time to prepare. The GATE 2026 application form correction facility is available after the registration process is completed. Candidates can access the correction window using their enrollment ID and password. 

By registering early, students can have the following benefits -

• Prepare well for the GATE exam without worrying.
• Get their desired test centre (as priority)
• Avoid technical issues

Not planned for GATE 2026 yet

As per Shiksha poll, 12% applicants plan to register for next year. 

According to the poll, 11% of students haven’t considered registering yet, and 12% plan to register next year. If you fall under this category -

• Look for your goal and target
• Check your GATE eligibility and start preparing

The Shiksha GATE 2026 registration poll highlights indicates students behavior towards the exam. Majority are planning to fill their forms in the first week itself to avoid hassle and tension. So, go register now. 

Also read:

• GATE 2026 CS Strategy: Topics like DSA and CN are hot topics in student forums and communities; here's why

• GATE 2026 most underrated branches that can lead to high-paying careers: check insights, cutoff, top IITs and more