This article will mainly focus on the GATE 2026 Admit Card Out: Download Link, Branch-Wise Schedule & Instructions. One of the most eagerly awaited competitive tests for Indian engineering candidates is the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026. The publication of the admit card is a crucial milestone for each applicant since it serves as the entry point to prestigious M.Tech programs at IITs/NITs and lucrative positions in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
The latest information about the status of your hall pass, how to use the GOAPS portal, and crucial advice for your February 2026 exam day are all included in this guide.
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GATE 2026 Admit Card Out: Download Link, Branch-Wise Schedule & Instructions
The GATE 2026 admit card is now available online at IIT Guwahati’s official website. The hall pass is available for download at gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Candidates must fill out the necessary blanks with their enrollment ID and password in order to download the GATE admission card. On test day, candidates must bring their GATE admission card and one legitimate photo ID to the testing location. The candidate’s personal information, exam location, date, and other facts are listed on the hall pass. Digital copies of the GATE admit card will not be accepted by the exam authority. Candidates will not be permitted to enter the exam site without a valid ID and admission card.
Important Dates & Schedule: GATE 2026
Effective preparation requires an understanding of the timeline. The revised timetable, which takes into account the most recent notifications from IIT Guwahati, is shown below:
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Conducting Institute | IIT Guwahati (IITG) |
| Admit Card Release Date | Jan 13, 2026 |
| GATE 2026 Exam Dates | February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026 |
| Announcement of Results | March 19, 2026 |
| Scorecard Validity | 3 Years from Result Date |
Steps to download the GATE 2026 Admit Card
Candidates must download their hall passes from the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) after the link has been authorized. To guarantee a seamless download, adhere to following comprehensive instructions:
1) Go to the official website
Go to gate2026.iitg.ac.in, the official GATE 2026 website. On the homepage, look for the “GOAPS” or “Admit Card Download” link.
2) Enter your login information.
Enter your password and your Enrollment ID, which was issued to your email or mobile device after registration. Additionally, you must complete a basic arithmetic captcha.
3) Check Your Information
Click “Download Admit Card” once you’ve logged in. It will open as a PDF. Verify your photo, signature, and exam center information before saving.
4) Save and Print
Take an A4-sized sheet and print it out in color. Make sure the signature and photo are easily readable. It is also advised to store a digital copy in your cloud storage.
Things to Look for on Your Hall Pass: Important Checklist
You may be disqualified from the exam center if there is a mistake on your admit card. Make sure the following details are correct:
- Personal Information: Complete name that corresponds to your ID.
- Signature and photo: They must be distinct and easy to read.
- Exam Paper: Correct Paper Code (such as CS, ME, EE, or XE).
- Center Address: If available, a Google Maps link and a detailed location.
- Time slot: 9:30 AM in the morning or 2:30 PM in the afternoon.
Required Documents to Bring: Exam Day
There are stringent security procedures for the GATE exam. The following paperwork is required of applicants at the entrance gate:
1) Admit card that is printed
You can only accept a hard copy printout. Digital copies on tablets or phones are not allowed.
2) The original ID photo
Keep a current, valid government ID with you. Among the recognized proofs are:
- Aadhar Card
- Voter ID
- Driving License
- PAN Card
- Passport
GATE 2026: Overview
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering test details are available in the table below.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| GATE Full Form | Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering |
| Conducting Body | IIT Guwahati |
| Official Website | gate2026.iitg.ac.in |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Number of Questions | 10 (General Aptitude) + 55 (Subject) = 65 |
| Question Type | MCQ, NAT, MSQ |
| Language of Exam | English |
| Marking Scheme | Questions carry 1 mark and 2 marks |
GATE 2026 Exam Date
The GATE exam date has been made public on the official website of IIT Guwahati. In order to prevent missing any exam-related events, applicants are urged to keep track of exam dates. The application form must be completed by October 13th, after which there will be a late fee. The dates of the GATE 2026 exam are set for February 7, 8, 14, and 15. Candidates can consult the table below for further information.
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| Starting with online applications | August 28, 2025 |
| Deadline for online applications without Late Fees | 7th October 2025 |
| Last date to fill the application form with a late fee | 13th October 2025 |
| GATE exam dates 2026 | February 7, 8, 14 & 15, 2026 |
| GATE result 2026 | March 19, 2026 |
GATE Preparation Tips 2026
Here are some GATE preparation tips to assist you get ready for the test.
- Start by fully comprehending the syllabus and exam format. Learn about the themes, sections, and marking system. This aids applicants in developing a methodical study schedule.
- Answer the previous year’s GATE question papers. This will assist applicants in identifying their strengths and shortcomings in addition to helping them with the exam format.
- To evaluate your degree of preparation and replicate the exam setting, take frequent practice exams. Examine test results and pinpoint areas that want improvement. Mock exams also aid in efficient time management during the test.
- Make time in your study routine specifically for revision. To facilitate rapid rewriting, take brief notes on key ideas, formulas, and points.
FAQs on the GATE 2026 Admit Card
Will the admission card be mailed by IIT Guwahati?
No. The GOAPS portal is the sole way to download the admission card online. Hard copies won’t be mailed or emailed.
Does GATE 2026 have any new papers?
Indeed, Energy Science (XE-I) has been added to the Engineering Sciences (XE) category as a subsection paper for 2026.
What happens if my name or picture is incorrect?
You need to get in touch with the IIT Guwahati help desk or Zonal IIT right away. You might not be able to take the test if you have the wrong admit card.
What does a good GATE score mean?
For admission to IITs, a GATE score of less than 200 is regarded as a good rank. Candidates must receive a score of less than 100 on the GATE exam in order to be admitted to PSUs. However, a score of less than 300 is also regarded favorably for NITs.
Does the GATE exam allow me to use a real calculator?
No, you are not permitted to use an actual calculator during the test. A virtual calculator is given to candidates. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the GATE virtual calculator before to taking the test.
