GATE Exam 2026 (Ongoing): Paper Analysis (Out), Question Paper, Answer Key

The IIT Guwahati has started the GATE 2026 day 1 exam on  Feb 07, 2026. GATE Day 1 Shift 2 exam for AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH and XH subjects concluded at 5:30 PM. The GATE 2026 CH, ES, and BT papers were overall rated easy to moderate by candidates. The CH paper included moderately difficult questions with easy-to-moderate Mathematics and General Aptitude sections, though a few students found it lengthy. The ES paper mostly had direct questions with some concept-based and lengthy problems. In the BT paper, the General Aptitude section was similar to XL GA, while core questions focused on topics such as transfer function, Monod growth kinetics, and sterilisation.

The GATE 2026 XE Shift 1 exam, held on February 7, was considered easy to moderate by most candidates. While the paper was largely manageable, a few questions were lengthy and statement-based, especially in the XE-E section, with some time-consuming Thermodynamics problems. The XE-D paper was rated moderate, and the General Aptitude section was reported to be easy. Many students observed similarities with the Mechanical Engineering GATE previous year questions, leading to expectations of a higher cutoff for GATE XE this year.

The GATE Admit card 2026 was released on Jan 13, 2026 for all the registered candidates. You can log in and download your GATE admit card from the official website. The GATE exam dates 2026 are announced and will be held on Feb 07, 08, 14, and 15, 2026. Let’s look into the key details about GATE 2026, including dates, eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation tips.

GATE 2026 full form is Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, which is a national-level engineering entrance examination for postgraduate admission, PSU jobs, and research opportunities. GATE exam 2026 will be conducted by IIT Guwahati as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with 65 questions, comprising a General Aptitude section and a subject-specific section, sometimes including Engineering Mathematics. Let’s look into the key details about GATE 2026, including dates, eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation tips.

GATE Exam 2026: Key Dates and Important Events

The GATE 2026 conducting authority, IIT Guwahati, has released the exam schedule on its official website on Aug 05, 2025. The GATE results 2026 are expected to be released on Mar 16, 2026.

Candidates should regularly check the official website to stay updated on any changes in dates. Given below are the GATE important dates and events 2026:

Also Read: GATE Exam Pattern 2026 Check Weightage, Marking Scheme

What is the Official Website for GATE 2026?

The GATE 2026 official website was launched by IIT Guwahati on Aug 05, 2025. It will host:

• Online application portal
• GATE exam centers 2026
• Admit card download link
• Syllabus and exam pattern details
• GATE Answer Key 2026
• GATE Results 2026

Candidates must rely only on the official portal for authentic information. The table below shows the direct link to the GATE 2026 official website

Also Read: GATE Reference Books and Study Materials

Is There Any Change in GATE 2026?

Yes, there are several new changes in GATE 2026 compared to previous years, including updates in fees, eligibility, and the introduction of a new paper. Given below are the key changes in GATE 2026:

• The GATE application fee for women candidates has been increased from INR 900 to INR 1000 this year. For all other candidates, the fee is now ₹2000 for the regular period, and ₹2500 for the extended period
• A new optional section called Energy Science (XE-I) has been introduced to the Engineering Science paper. GATE 2026 sample papers for the same is now available in the official website
• Candidates are allowed more flexibility to appear in two papers based on the combinations approved by the authorities
• Candidates in their third year of undergraduate studies are now eligible to apply for GATE 2026
• The photo requirements in the GATE application form has been revised to a size of 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm

GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for GATE 2026 are more flexible compared to previous years. Students who are in their final year of graduation are now eligible to apply for the GATE 2026 exam. Given below is the GATE eligibility criteria 2026:

• Professional Certifications: Those with professional certifications such as AMIE (IE India), AMICE (ICE India), or AMIETE (IETE India) may also apply, provided their qualification is recognised by UGC/AICTE or equivalent
• Educational Qualification: Candidates in the final year of a qualifying degree are also eligible to apply, provided they submit the certificate from the Principal of the university or college.
• No Age Limit: There is no age limit to appear for GATE 2026.
• No Attempt Limit: Unlimited attempts are allowed; candidates can appear as many times as desired

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How to Register for GATE 2026? 

The GATE registration process is completely online through the GOAPS portal. Here’s the step-by-step process on how to register for GATE 2026:

• Step 1: Visit the official website at gate2026.iitg.ac.in
• Step 2: Register using your email address and password
• Step 3: For GATE 2026, you must access the application form by logging in using their enrollment ID and the password provided.
• Step 4: Fill in the required information such as educational qualifications, communication and personal information
• Step 5: Upload the scanned documents and double-check the size of the images and documents so everything is clear throughout the process.
• Step 6: Select exam paper and preferred GATE exam cit 2026
• Step 7: Pay the application fee online.
• Step 8: Submit and download the confirmation page for reference.

Read More: GATE Exam Day Guidelines 2026

GATE 2026 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

The GATE 2026 questions will be separated into General Aptitude and core courses. You must check on the GATE exam pattern 2026 details shared below.

Read More: GATE Exam Pattern 2026

GATE 2026 Syllabus and Important Topics

GATE Syllabus 2026 has been released by IIT Guwahati on the official website of GATE. The GATE Exam syllabus 2026 is divided into two parts: General Aptitude and Core Discipline (paper-specific courses). The General Aptitude section is common in all GATE 2026 syllabus pdf and carries a 15% weightage.

GATE syllabus 2026 is crucial since it gives students an understanding of the topics and subjects covered in the exams. Knowing the GATE exam syllabus pdf will enable students to organize their studies effectively to ace the tests. In GATE 2026, a new paper on Energy Science (XE-I) sectional paper as part of the existing Engineering Sciences (XE) category has been introduced.

The direct link to download the GATE 2026 syllabus is given below for your reference:

How to Prepare for GATE 2026?

GATE 2026 preparation requires consistent practice and dedication along with practicing GATE previous year question papers, sample papers, mock assessments, understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus and more. Here are some of the important points on how to prepare for GATE 2026:

• Be familiar with the syllabus and exam pattern as it helps you to plan your GATE preparation strategy accordingly with the time required.
• Since GATE exam date 2026 is in Feb 2026 (Feb 7, 8, 14, 15) according to the notification, You should aim to start early so you have time for revision and mock tests
• Make sure you understand the concepts and fundamentals rather just memorising the definitions

How Many Attempts Are Allowed for GATE 2026?

There is no official limit to the number of times you can attempt the GATE exam, meaning you can appear for it as many times as you wish, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. Candidates are allowed to take the exam multiple times to improve their scores and chances of admission to postgraduate programs, securing a job in a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), or pursuing further academic opportunities

Conclusion

With the exam being conducted by IIT Guwahati, candidates should stay updated with the official website, understand the new changes in eligibility, paper options, and fee structure, and begin preparing strategically based on the latest syllabus and exam pattern.

Whether you're a final-year student, a working professional, or a PSU aspirant, thorough preparation, timely registration, and awareness of all important dates and requirements can significantly improve your chances of success. Start early, stay consistent, and make use of official resources like previous year papers, mock tests, and subject-wise planning to excel in GATE 2026.