GATE 2026 registration closes on October 6, 2025, without a late fee. Candidates can apply online at gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Know registration steps, fees, and important dates here.
Introduction: Final Call for GATE 2026 Registration
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 registration window without a late fee will close on October 6, 2025, as announced by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, the organizing institute this year. Eligible candidates who have not yet applied for the prestigious national-level exam must complete their registration before the deadline on the official website – gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
The GATE exam is one of India’s most competitive entrance tests for postgraduate engineering, technology, architecture, and science programs. It also serves as a gateway to PSU recruitments, research fellowships, and higher education opportunities in India and abroad.
Latest Update: GATE 2026 Registration Extended
Originally, the last date to apply for GATE 2026 without a late fee was September 28, 2025. However, IIT Guwahati extended the date to October 6, 2025, providing students additional time to submit their applications.
Candidates who miss the October 6 deadline can still register during the extended period, which ends on October 9, 2025, by paying a late fee. After this, no further registrations will be accepted.
📢 Important Reminder:
The GATE 2026 registration must be completed only through the GOAPS portal (GATE Online Application Processing System) available on the official website.
Key Highlights of GATE 2026 Registration
Here are the essential details that every GATE aspirant must keep in mind:
🗓️ Registration (Without Late Fee) Ends: October 6, 2025
🗓️ Extended Registration (With Late Fee): October 9, 2025
🌐 Official Website: https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in
🏛️ Organizing Institute: IIT Guwahati
🎓 Exam Type: National-Level Engineering Entrance Test
💻 Application Mode: Online Only
Candidates are advised not to wait until the final day, as heavy traffic may slow down the application portal.
GATE 2026 Registration Schedule
Below is the revised timeline released by IIT Guwahati:
Activity Date
Opening of GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) August 28, 2025
Last Date for Registration (Without Late Fee) October 6, 2025
Last Date for Registration (With Late Fee) October 9, 2025
After registration closes, candidates can expect the GATE 2026 admit cards to be released in January 2026, and the examination will be held in February 2026.
How to Apply for GATE 2026 Online
The GATE registration process is entirely online. Candidates who are yet to apply can follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Visit the official website:
Go to https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in. - Click on the application link:
Access the GOAPS portal (GATE Online Application Processing System). - Register as a new user:
Enter your name, valid email ID, and mobile number to create an account. - Fill in the application form:
Provide academic details, examination center preferences, and personal information accurately. - Upload documents:
Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and required certificates (as per the specifications). - Pay the application fee:
Make the payment online using a debit/credit card or net banking. - Submit and download confirmation:
Review all details carefully before submitting. Save and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Documents Required for GATE 2026 Application
Applicants must upload the following documents while filling out the GATE 2026 form:
High-quality passport-size photograph (recent, color image).
Signature in black ink on white paper (scanned and as per format).
Valid photo ID proof such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, PAN Card, or Driving License.
Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL) in PDF format, if applicable.
PwD or Dyslexia certificate, if applicable.
Certificate for compensatory time or scribe, if required.
Relevant Annexure documents as per official instructions.
📎 Important Note: The same ID proof used during registration must be carried to the examination center on the day of the GATE 2026 exam.
GATE 2026 Application Fee Structure
The registration fee varies based on category and the timing of the application. Here is the official fee chart:
Category Regular Period (Aug 28 – Oct 6, 2025) Extended Period (Oct 7 – Oct 9, 2025)
Female / SC / ST / PwD Candidates ₹1,000 ₹1,500
All Other Candidates (Including Foreign Nationals) ₹2,000 ₹2,500
Candidates are advised to make the payment using secure online channels only and avoid third-party intermediaries to prevent application errors.
Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2026
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria set by IIT Guwahati:
Candidates must have completed or be in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, or Humanities.
There is no age limit for appearing in GATE.
Candidates from recognized universities and colleges, including those outside India, are eligible to apply.
This open eligibility makes GATE one of the most inclusive and competitive exams for higher education and career advancement.
Why GATE 2026 is Important
GATE isn’t just an exam—it’s a gateway to multiple opportunities in both academia and industry. A good GATE score can help you:
Get admission to IITs, NITs, IIITs, and other premier institutes for M.Tech/M.E/M.Arch programs.
Qualify for Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like ONGC, NTPC, HPCL, IOCL, and BHEL.
Secure research fellowships in institutions such as CSIR and DRDO.
Strengthen your resume for PhD programs abroad where GATE scores are accepted.
Thus, timely registration is crucial to secure your chance to participate in the upcoming session.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Registration
Here are a few key points candidates should keep in mind to avoid errors during registration:
Ensure your name and date of birth match the official ID proof.
Upload clear and correctly formatted images (photo, signature, certificates).
Verify application details twice before submission—no major changes will be allowed later.
Use a reliable internet connection to prevent payment failures.
Keep a printed copy of your application form and fee receipt for reference.
A small mistake can lead to disqualification or delayed admit card issuance, so double-check every entry.
Related Educational Updates
If you’re preparing for competitive exams, here are a few other important updates you shouldn’t miss:
🧠 Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 Registration Open Till October 6
A nationwide innovation challenge for school students by the Ministry of Education and NITI Aayog.
🎓 NIELIT Digital University Launched – Five New Centres Inaugurated
A step forward in India’s mission toward digital and inclusive education.
These initiatives reflect India’s focus on empowering youth with innovation and skill development opportunities.
Next Steps After Registration
Once registered, candidates must stay updated with further announcements, including:
Correction window dates for editing application details.
Admit card release date (expected in January 2026).
GATE 2026 Exam Schedule, expected in early February 2026.
It is strongly recommended that candidates regularly visit the official website for all updates.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Final Deadline
The GATE 2026 registration window without a late fee closes on October 6, 2025. With the extended registration period lasting only until October 9, 2025, aspirants are urged to complete the process as soon as possible to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
This national-level exam is a defining moment for engineers and science graduates across India, opening doors to higher studies, government jobs, and research opportunities.
🔗 Official Website for Registration: https://gate2026.iitg.ac.in
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