GATE Application Form

No, a bonafide certificate is not required while filling the GATE application form. However, candidates must keep their bonafide ready, as it will be needed at the time of counselling and in the admission process. The required documents for GATE 2026 registration include -

• GATE photo and signature and,  
• Scanned valid photo ID

Candidates must upload scanned signature while filling GATE application form. The properties are as follows-

Candidates can choose upto three exam cities/centers while filling the GATE 2026 application form. The exam city preference must be from the same zone itself. This year, the GATE 2026 exam is being conducted in more than 200 cities across eight zones. 

The GATE exam (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is conducted for 30 test papers. The GATE papers are defined by the specific paper codes which is mentioned in the GATE 2026 information brochure, as well as in the application form. Candidates must check the paper codes and include them properly. 

The eligible GATE 2026 two-paper combinations for XE, XH, and XL are as follows -

Candidates can add a new paper in GATE 2026 form by logging to their credentials at GOAPS portal.  Select add paper and pay additional fee to submit. They can further change their paper during correction facility.

OBC-NCL and EWS category need not submit any category certificate while filling the GATE application form. All candidates have to submit the following -

• Photograph and signature (as per specifications)
• Valid photo ID (such as Aadhar card, PAN Card, Voter ID, etc.)
• Foreign nationals have to upload, either a Driving License or passport (in the valid ID section)

Category candidates must upload their caste certificate, and PwD/Dyslexic candidates must submit their medical (PwD or dyslexic certificate) to avail compensatory time. 

Here's what different GATE status mean-

• Received - this means that application has been received
• Under scrutiny - form is under review
• Accepted - means form is accepted by authorities
• Defect status - has discrepancies in form and needs to be corrected within given time
• Status after rectification - application status after submitting rectification
• Rejected - means GATE form is rejected for valid reasons

Candidates can check their GATE application status using enrollment ID and password