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

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

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

Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2026 exam

Before filling the GATE 2026 application form, it is important to know about the criteria for GATE 2026, it is as follows -

• Candidates who are currently studying in the 3rd year or higher in any undergraduate programmes or who have completed their degree programme in any of the following disciplines are eligible to appear for the GATE exam - (Engineering/Science/Architecture/Science/Commerce/Arts/Humanities)
• Candidates who have certifications from professional societies or institutions like the following are also eligible for the examination. 

 GATE 2026 Eligibility for International Candidates

Candidates who are currently in the third year or higher or have completed their bachelor’s degree in engineering/architecture/science/technology/commerce/arts/humanities can also apply for GATE 2026. 

GATE 2026 Application Form Release Date

If you meet all the eligibility conditions for GATE 2026, then proceed to apply. The 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 the 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 the GATE registration 2026 fees and is updated on the GATE’s official website - gate2026.iitg.ac.in. The GATE 2026 application fees for regular and extended timelines are as follows -

 GATE 2026 Exam Dates

The Indian Institute of Technology has released the GATE 2026 exam dates on the official website. As per the schedule, the exam will be held on February 7,8, 14, and 15, 2026. The computer-based exam will be held in two shifts: shift 1 (9:30 am to 12:30 pm) and shift 2 (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm). 

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 the first week itself. This not only saves money but also saves time and avoids unnecessary hassles.

Here’s what aspirants can do -

• Gather all the documents that are required for the GATE registration 2026. 
• Ensure that the photograph and signature fulfil the specifications. 
• Check if your mobile number and email ID that you want to provide are active. 
• If providing the 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 the 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

With the GATE 2026 exam and application dates announced, candidates now must buckle up and start preparing for the exam with the right mindset. All the Best!