IIT Guwahati has announced significant updates for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026. The registration process, initially scheduled to start on August 25, will now begin on August 28. Candidates can apply without a late fee until September 28, while applications with a late fee will be accepted until October 9. The exam will take place on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, and the results will be declared on March 19.
Three major changes have been introduced in GATE 2026. A new section, Energy Science (XE-I), has been added under the Engineering Sciences (XE) category. This paper includes a compulsory Engineering Mathematics section worth 15 marks and two optional sections carrying 35 marks each. Additionally, the option to choose two papers has been updated with specific combinations allowed, such as Aerospace Engineering (AE) only being paired with Civil Engineering (CE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), or Engineering Sciences (XE).
Another key change is the increase in registration fees. For the general category, the fee has been revised from ₹1800 (₹2300 with late fee) in 2025 to ₹2000 (₹2500 with late fee) in 2026. For female candidates, as well as those from SC, ST, and PwD categories, the application fee will be ₹1000 during the regular period and ₹1500 with a late fee.
To be eligible, applicants must be in their third year or have completed a degree in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, Arts, or Humanities from a recognized institute. Candidates with equivalent qualifications from institutions abroad are also eligible to apply.
