GATE Process

The GATE exam is conducted once a year. The entrance test takes place on multiple dates and shifts for 30 test papers. For 2026, IIT Guwahati is conducting the exam on February 7, 8, 14, and 15. 

If you notice an error or discrepancy after submitting your GATE form, don't panic. Once the application correction window opens, log in via GOAPS using your credentials and make the corrections. Details like category, gender, exam city, paper choice, date of birth, etc., can often be edited — usually by paying a small correction fee.  Misspellings or document mismatches may trigger a “defective” status, in which case you'll be notified and asked to rectify. If the window closes, contact the GATE zonal authorities immediately by email or phone — they sometimes allow case-by-case fixes.

Qualifying GATE offers the following benefits to the students -

• Admission to the master's programmes in top institutes like IITs, NITs, IIITs, etc. 
• Jobs at PSUs like AAI, NHAI, GRID-India, ONGC, BHEL, etc. with high salary and perks
• Stipend of INR 12,400 monthly to adjust expenses.
• Research fellowships at top government organisations. 

A caste certificate in the regional language is not acceptable. In that case, what you can do is convert it into English language by the authority (where you got it issued). After getting it converted, scan it properly and upload it in PDF format while filling the GATE application form 2026. 

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

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. 

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. 

Candidates can change the following details during the GATE 2026 form correction process -

• Name
• Date of Birth
• Choice of exam cities
• Change in existing cities
• Adding a second paper
• Gender change
• Change in category, etc. 

Candidates who want to modify their application form have to pay a specific amount through netbanking/credit card/debit card, etc. Last year, the fee for each change was INR 500 per particular. 

The steps to check the GATE application form status is as follows -

• Visit the GATE 2026 website - gate2026.iitg.ac.in
• Click on the application portal and login using the credentials
• The application status of the candidate will be displayed on the screen.