The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is a prestigious national-level examination conducted jointly by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). The exam opens opportunities for M.Tech, PhD admissions, and PSU recruitments across India.
The IIT GATE 2026 Online Application Form will soon be released on the official portal. Candidates interested in higher studies and government/PSU jobs must carefully read the eligibility criteria, important dates, and step-by-step process before applying.
GATE 2026 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | One of the IITs / IISc (To be announced) |
| Mode of Application | Online only |
| Exam Level | National |
| Courses Offered | M.Tech / M.E / Ph.D / PSU Recruitment |
| GATE 2026 Notification Date | Expected in August 2025 |
| Online Application Start | September 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | October 2025 |
| Exam Dates | February 2026 (Tentative) |
| Official Website | GATE Official Website (update soon) |
Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2026
- Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Technology/Architecture (4 years after 10+2 or 3 years after Diploma).
- Master’s degree in relevant science subjects.
- Final-year students of UG/PG programs are also eligible.
- Nationality
- Indian and international candidates are eligible.
- Age Limit
- No upper age limit for appearing in GATE.
How to Apply Online for GATE 2026?
Follow the step-by-step process to fill the IIT GATE 2026 Admission Online Form:
- Visit the official GATE 2026 portal (link will be updated after release).
- Register using your email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and communication details.
- Upload photograph, signature, and other required documents in the prescribed format.
- Pay the application fee through online modes (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking/UPI).
- Submit and download the confirmation page for future reference.
GATE 2026 Application Fee (Expected)
| Category | Fee (Regular) | Fee (Late Application) |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC (Male) | ₹ 1,800 | ₹ 2,300 |
| Female Candidates | ₹ 900 | ₹ 1,400 |
| SC / ST / PwD Candidates | ₹ 900 | ₹ 1,400 |
| International Students | US $100 | US $120 |
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern (Tentative)
- Mode of Exam: Computer Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Total Questions: 65
- Maximum Marks: 100
- Question Types: MCQ, MSQ, NAT (Numerical Answer Type)
- Sections: General Aptitude (15 marks) + Subject Paper (85 marks)
Benefits of Qualifying GATE 2026
- Admission to M.Tech/M.E./Ph.D. programs in IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other top institutes.
- Direct recruitment in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like NTPC, ONGC, IOCL, HPCL, BHEL, etc.
- Eligibility for scholarships and financial assistance from AICTE and MHRD.
- Global recognition for higher studies abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will GATE 2026 notification be released?
A. The official notification is expected in August 2025.
Q2. What is the exam date for GATE 2026?
A. The exam will likely be held in February 2026.
Q3. Can a final-year student apply for GATE 2026?
A. Yes, final-year students of undergraduate or postgraduate programs are eligible.
Q4. What is the application fee for female candidates?
A. The expected fee is ₹900 (regular) and ₹1,400 (late application).
Q5. Which institutes accept GATE scores?
A. All IITs, NITs, IIITs, IISc, and many government/private universities across India.
Q6. Is there any age limit for GATE 2026?
A. No, there is no upper age limit for appearing in GATE.
Conclusion
The IIT GATE 2026 Admission Online Form will open new opportunities for students aspiring for higher studies and PSU careers. Candidates are advised to keep documents ready, check eligibility, and apply before the deadline.
👉 Stay connected for official updates on the GATE 2026 Notification, Exam Dates, and Online Form link.
