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. 

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. 

With the help of GATE application status, candidates can track their registration form, whether it is accepted or is under scrutiny. Applicants can get details regarding their application status, following process below -

• Visit GATE offiicial website - gate2026.iitg.ac.in
• Then click on application form link
• Enter enrollment ID and password
• The status will be displayed on screen
• Check and logout

Yes, candidates can change their secondary paper at the time of GATE 2026 application form correction. The facility is available at the GOAPS portal. The last date to submit changes is November 10. The fee to change GATE secondary paper is INR 500. The accepted payment mode include debit card/credit card/net banking/UPI.