GATE 2026 Exam Date Released: Shift-wise Schedule and Timings
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has officially announced the exam dates for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026. This prestigious examination is a gateway for engineering graduates to pursue postgraduate studies or secure jobs in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the GATE 2026 exam schedule, including shift timings and important dates.
GATE 2026 Exam Schedule
The GATE 2026 exam will take place on the following dates:
- February 7, 2026
- February 8, 2026
- February 14, 2026
- February 15, 2026
The examination will be conducted in two shifts each day:
- Forenoon Shift: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Afternoon Shift: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
GATE 2026 will be held at 235 designated test centres across 8 IIT zones.
Overview of GATE 2026
Understanding the key details about GATE 2026 is essential for candidates preparing for the exam. Below is an overview:
| Name of the Exam | Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati |
| Purpose of the Exam | For admission in PG courses and jobs in PSUs |
| Exam Dates | February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026 |
| Official Website | gate2026.iitr.ac.in |
Important Dates for GATE 2026
To ensure a smooth preparation process, candidates should be aware of the following important dates:
- Online Submission of Application Form: November 10, 2025
- GATE 2026 Admit Card Release Date: Second Week of January 2026 (Tentatively)
- Examination Dates: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026
- Declaration of Result: March 19, 2026
- Score Cards Available for Download: March 28, 2026, to May 31, 2026
GATE 2026 Exam Pattern
Familiarity with the exam pattern is crucial for candidates. The GATE exam consists of a total of 65 questions, covering the following sections:
- General Aptitude
- Engineering Mathematics
- Core Engineering Subjects
The exam will be conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format with a total duration of 3 hours. Below are the specifics of the GATE exam pattern:
| Sections | General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, Core Engineering |
|---|---|
| Total Number of Questions | 65 |
| Time Allotted | 3 hours |
| Mode of Exam | Online |
| Maximum Marks | 100 |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), Numerical Answer Type (NAT) |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 for 1 mark questions in MCQ, 2/3 for 2 marks questions in MCQ; no negative marking for MSQ and NAT |
Conclusion
With the GATE 2026 exam dates officially announced, candidates are encouraged to begin their preparations early. Understanding the exam structure and important dates will aid in effective planning and execution of study strategies.
Note: For the latest updates and detailed information, please visit the official GATE website.
