GATE 2026 Photo and Signature Guidelines: step-by-step instructions, samples, and specifications

Confused about how to upload your photograph and signature in the GATE application form without mistakes? Get a complete step-by-step tutorial to edit and upload the documents in the GATE 2026 registration form. Read below for more. 

GATE 2026 registrations are now closed (without late and with late fees). For correction process will begin soon. Filling and submitting GATE form is the first stage in admission process and can lead to multiple rejections and errors. So, candidates must be aware of GATE photo and signature guidelines and exam instructions. Check below to get complete information regarding prescribed guidelines by authorities. Here's a complete step-by-step on how to fill and submit GATE 2026 application form with no errors.

GATE 2026 Shiksha Poll: What Worries Students the Most?

While filling out the GATE application form, even the smallest step can be overwhelming. Our GATE 2026 Shiksha poll reflects this clearly:  38% of candidates said uploading photo and signature worries them the most, followed by choosing exam city (27%) and payment process (14%), and interestingly, 20% feel confident and fully prepared, must have submitted their application form in one go. 

This is exactly why we created our GATE 2026 application form step-by-step tutorial on how to upload a photo and signature as per GATE specifications. From correct dimensions to file size and upload tips, the guide is designed to help you complete this tricky step without stress.

Documents to be Uploaded while filling the GATE 2026 Exam Application Form

The GATE 2026 registration form requires the following documents to be uploaded -

• Photograph and signature
• Valid ID proof
• Category certificate, Dyslexic, or PwD certificate (if any) in PDF format

Also read:

• GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria: check eligibility and more

• Common mistakes to avoid while filling the GATE application form 2026: check details here

Step 1 -First things first, understand the Specifications

Candidates can check the GATE 2026 application form photograph and signature specifications below -

Photograph specifications

• Upload a good-quality scanned colour passport photo  (3.5 × 4.5 cm), face covering 60 to 70%
• Must have a plain background with frontal face view, visible forehead, eyes, nose, and chin.
• No caps, hats, sunglasses, or tinted glasses; normal spectacles allowed
• JPEG/JPG format, aspect ratio 0.66–0.89, face 60–70% after cropping.
• Resolution: 200×260 (min) to 530×690 (max); size: 5 kB to 600 kB.
• Face must be clear, not covered by cloth or shadow.
• Non-compliant photos may cause rejection without refund.
• Head coverings only for religious reasons; full facial features must be visible.

GATE 2026 Signature Specifications

• GATE signature must be uploaded in JPG or JPEG format
• The aspect ratio must be Aspect ratio: 1: R (R = 2.75–3.75)
• 70 to 80% of image must be in black or dark blue only
• The file size must be between 3 to 300 kb
• Resolution must be between 250×80 (min) to 580×180 (max)
• Must be the applicant’s own signature

Step- 2 Prepare photograph

Get a passport size photo clicked, make sure it is clear. Edit as per specifications using photo editing tools. Go through instructions and upload.

Alternative Method- How to resize a photograph at home?

Candidates can resize their photo using MS Paint, here's how  -

• Right-click your photo and select "Open with Paint" option
• Click on resize and change dimensions and counselling 
• Select pixels accordingly
• Check aspect ratio and click file and save 

To upload signature -

• Take a clean paper in white
• Sign in black or blue pen, make sure it's clear
• Scan using phone and save it in JPG or JPEG and upload it

GATE 2026 Photograph and Signature Samples

How to upload documents in GATE application?

• Visit the GATE website and click on application link 
• Register and create an account at GATE candidate login 2026
• Login using credentials and enter details
• Upload documents and choose file to upload
• Preview images and move to next stage
• Submit the application form

Common Mistakes to Avoid while uploading documents in the GATE 2026 Registration Form

• Do not upload selfies 
• No colored patterned background are allowed.
• Do not sign in capital or block letters
• Do not scan for the photo from the ID cards or certificates
• Do not upload blurred or pixelated images

Also read:

• How many questions to attempt to score 40 marks in GATE 2026?
• GATE Scholarships: official notification OUT, dates, steps and more
• GATE 2026 two paper combination OUT: check paper codes and more

How to check your GATE 2026 Application Form Status?

The application form status shows your progress, which means where your application form stands in the submission/acceptance process. It tells you whether your application form is under scrutiny or needs correction in the photo and signature. A mail will be sent to the candidates mentioning the deadline to rectify. 

Steps to check your GATE application form 2026 status

• First candidates need to visit GATE GOAPS portal
• Now login using the credentials 
• Application form status will be displayed on the screen.

If there is any change or error, it will be intimated through email or registered mobile number. So, make sure that your contact details are active.