GATE Application Form 2026: Dos, Don’ts, and Common Mistakes to Avoid

The GATE exam is one of the most prestigious entrance examinations in India for engineering, science and other disciplinary graduates. Every year, lakhs of candidates apply with the hope of securing admissions to the top NITs, IITs or landing jobs in PSUs. But before you even step into the GATE preparation and exam hall, the first stage is filling the GATE application form 2026, a process that seems simple but often leads to many unnecessary mistakes. 

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• GATE 2026 registration link OUT at gate2026.iitg.ac.in: Apply now at GOAPS portal

Even a small error in the application form can result in rejection, delay or unnecessary hassle. To ensure that you don’t fall into the traps, here are some do's and don'ts and common mistakes to avoid while filling out the GATE 2026 registration form. 

1. Entering Incorrect Personal Details

Yes, entering the incorrect personal details is one of the most common errors that students make while filling out the GATE 2026 application form. It includes your personal name, date of birth, category, etc. This may seem common but also cost you heavy. Any mismatch in the information can cause issue during document verification process ad admission. 

Here’s what you can do: Double-check all your information. In case you’ve changed your name or contact details, or address, use the new one. Provide the mobile number and email address that remain active all the time. Ensure that your ID proof is linked to your mobile number. 

2. Uploading Invalid or Poor-Quality Documents

The authorities have mentioned the photo and signature specifications on the website. Candidates must follow the specifications and upload it in the GATE registration form 2026. Candidates must upload the scanned images properly. However, many students make mistake and due to which form rejection happens. 

Here’s what you can do: Read the GATE 2026 photograph and signature specifications carefully. Use online tools to format the image. Check application status to track your form. 

3. Selecting the Wrong GATE paper code or subject code

GATE offers admission to 30 subject papers and allows candidates to choose at least two papers in a two-paper combination. In such cases, candidates often get confused while choosing. Entering the wrong paper code can cause problem in admission and PSU recruitment. Therefore, carefully enter the GATE paper code while filling the application form. 

Here’s what you can do: Go through the GATE test paper and codes carefully. Check the paper combinations. Research them and choose the subject that is aligned with your graduation discipline and career goals. If you’re planning to apply for PSU recruitment, check which papers are accepted by your target companies.

4. Choosing the wrong GATE exam cities or centres

The application form allows you to select your preferred exam cities. A common mistake is selecting cities can cause issue in travelling and reporting on time. Candidates can select at least three exam cities from the same zone. 

Here’s what you can do: Always choose the GATE 2026 exam cities closest to your residence. Avoid picking far test centres. 

5. Ignoring Category or Reservation Certificates

Candidates applying under reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD) must provide valid and updated certificates. Submitting out dated certificates is one of the biggest reasons why your application form can be rejected. Ensure that your documents are scanned properly and are in PDF format. 

Here’s what you can do: Check the date of issue and validity of the certificate. Scan it as per the GATE specifications and then upload it. 

6. Making Errors in Educational Qualification Details

Another frequent issue is entering incorrect details about your qualifying degree, passing year, or college name. Such mistakes can create complications during counselling or admission.

Here’s what you can do:  Refer to your mark sheets or provisional certificates while entering details. Don’t rely on memory. Enter the exact name of your college/university as mentioned in official documents.

7. Delaying the GATE 2026 application form submission till the last minute

Many candidates wait for the last day to fill out the form, only to face server crashes, technical glitches, or incomplete submissions. This can cause stress and panic and you might miss the deadline as well. 

Also read: GATE 2026 early Vs late registration: Which is better for aspirants?

Here’s what you can do: Submit the form as soon as possible to avoid technical glitches or site under maintainenace. 

8. Not Reviewing before Final Submission

Fill out the form as early as possible. Early submission also gives you enough time to correct mistakes if the correction window opens.

Here’s what you can do: Take your time to review every detail before hitting submit. Cross-check spelling, numbers, and uploaded documents. Ask a friend or family member to review for a fresh perspective.

9. Ignoring the GATE application form correction window

Even after being careful, mistakes can still happen. The GATE authorities provide a correction window where candidates can make necessary changes. Many students ignore this opportunity and end up regretting it later.

Here’s what you can do: Keep track of the correction window dates announced by the conducting body. Log in to your account and verify all details once again.

10. Using Inconsistent Information Across the Platforms

Provide correct details in the GATE application form. Crosscheck your qualification, personal and communcation details before submitting. 

Here’s what you can do: Use one standard spelling and detail across all platforms. If there are discrepancies, resolve them well before applying.

Therefore, make sure to check all the details carefully and submit the GATE application form before the due date. 

Also read:

• How to check GATE 2026 application form status?
• GATE 2026 eligibility criteria: check age, educational qualification, and other criteria
• What is the GOAPS portal: check how to create, use, guidelines and more