GATE Exam Attempt Limit 2026: Number of Attempts, Age Limit

How many attempts for GATE 2026? There is no restriction on the GATE exam attempt limit 2026. However, the GATE score will only be valid for three years.

Moreover, authorities have not set any specific age limit to appear for this entrance exam. You can fill out the GATE application form as many times as you wish. To learn more about the important instructions and information related to the GATE 2026 exam, you can check this article.

GATE Exam Attempt Limit 2026

If you wonder,  how many attempts are allowed for GATE 2026? As mentioned above, there are unlimited attempts to sit for the GATE exam 2026. However, you must keep the following things in mind about the GATE exam attempt limit 2026: 

• For research and PG seat admission, the number of attempts in GATE relies completely on the institution.
• The GATE exam scores are generally valid for 3 years after the result announcement. So, ideally, if the aspirant obtained high scores in the exam, he/she need not appear for GATE for the next 3 years.
• Experts suggest that those who could not secure the desired rank in 3-4 attempts should opt for M.Tech or other career options.
• Lecturers and professors, however, sit for the GATE exam every year to keep their knowledge up-to-date.
• Candidates must note that after GATE, there is an age restriction to apply for PG courses or PSU job openings. 

Also Read: GATE Score Validity 2026

How Many GATE Exam Attempt Limits Are Allowed in a Year?

The GATE exam is organised annually. Therefore, the GATE exam attempt limit in 2026 is one per year. However, it is essential to note that the GATE scorecard is valid for only three years from the GATE exam results declaration date.

So, if candidates want to use the GATE score 2026 for admission to a master's program or a PSU job, they must clear the exam within three years.

For example, if the candidate is appearing for the GATE exam in 2026, their scorecard will be valid till January 2028. It means they can reapply to appear for the exam in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

However, suppose they do not clear the exam in any of these attempts. In that case, their scorecard will expire, and they will have to appear for the exam again after three years.

Also Read: GATE Normalization Process 2026

GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria

IIT Roorkee has declared the GATE Exam Eligibility Criteria 2026 in its official notification. The following are the eligibility requirements that one must meet to apply for the exam.

• Nationality: Applicants should be Indian citizens. However, those from Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and the UAE can also apply.
• Age: There are no age restrictions for taking the GATE 2026 exam.
• Academic Qualification: Aspirants must have completed or should be pursuing their B.E./B.Tech or M.Sc degree in a relevant field.

Also Read: How to Choose the Right GATE Paper for Your Career?

GATE 2026 Organising Institute

Each year, one among the seven IITs in collaboration with IISc Bangalore conducts the GATE entrance test. In 2026, IIT Roorkee is organising the entrance exam. Check out the year-wise list of GATE organising institutes in the table below:

Also Read: PSU Recruitment Through GATE 2026

GATE Admission Process 2026

Now that candidates are aware of the GATE exam attempt limit, they can check the GATE 2026 admission process. Make sure to follow the process carefully for successful admission:

• Filling out the Application Form: Firstly, candidates must fill out the GATE 2026 application form by registering on the GOAPS portal.
• The download of Admit Card: After registration, candidates need to download their GATE admit card once it is released. 
• Appear for the Exam: Then, candidates have to take the test on the designated date, as per the subject they opt for.
• GATE Result 2026: The organising body of GATE will declare the results on Mar 19, 2026. Candidates will be able to check their marks, normalised scores, and ranks.
• Attend the Counselling Process: Those who will qualify for GATE 2026 will be eligible for the GATE 2026 Counselling process. It will allow them to fill in their choices and preferences for various colleges and courses.

Also Read: Opportunities After GATE Exam