GATE 2026 Eligibility: Know who can apply for the exam, dates, fees, tips for successful registration

GATE 2026 Eligibility: The Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati has activated GATE 2026 official website along with revised fees and a new paper inclusion. But question lies, are you eligible for GATE this year? Check below to know your eligibility for GATE 2026 exam. 

GATE 2026 GOAPS portal will open for registrations from August 25 onwards and will remain active till the completion of admission process. But, before clicking on the GATE 2026 candidate registration option, it is important to know the GATE 2026 eligibility. So, what is GATE 2026 eligibility criteria? Check below. 

Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2026 exam

Applicants can check GATE 2026 eligibility below -

• Candidates who are in third year or final year are eligible to apply for GATE. Candidates can be of any stream
• BTech passed candidates can also apply
• In addition, candidates who have certification from professional societies or institutions are also eligible for GATE

 GATE 2026 Eligibility for International Candidates

The eligibility remains the same for international candidates as well.

GATE 2026 Application Form Release Date

If you meet all eligibility conditions for GATE 2026, then proceed to apply. GATE 2026 registration link will be made available from August 25 to September 25 (without late fees) and till October 6 (with late fees). Candidates can apply for GATE through GOAPS portal, where they have to register to receive a GATE enrollment ID and password (to be used for all GATE-related activities).

What are the fees for the GATE 2026 Application Form?

IIT Guwahati has revised GATE registration 2026 fees and is updated on GATE’s official website - gate2026.iitg.ac.in. GATE 2026 application fees for regular and extended timelines are as follows -

 GATE 2026 Exam Dates

IIT Guwahati has announced GATE 2026 exam dates on official website- gate2026.iitg.ac.in. The exam will take place on February 7, 8, 14, and 15. 

Tips and Hacks to Note before Applying for GATE 2026

According to a recent poll conducted by Shiksha, 62% of the candidates have planned to register for GATE 2026 in first week itself. This will not only save money but also stress.

Here’s what aspirants can do -

• Gather all documents that are required for GATE registration 2026. 
• Ensure that photograph and signature fulfil specifications. 
• Check if your mobile number and email ID that you want to provide are active. 
• If providing Aadhar card for ID proof, ensure that your name, date of birth and other details are correct. 
• Category candidates must make sure that they get their necessary certificates issued or signed by respective authorities. 

 Also read:

• 62% candidates plan to register for GATE 2026 in the first week itself: Shiksha poll reveals strategy
• Will GATE 2026 be tougher than GATE 2025? Here's what experts say
• Documents to keep ready before GATE 2026 registration starts