If you’re planning for higher studies in engineering or aiming for PSU jobs, then the GATE exam is already in your list. Every year lakhs of students register, but the first step always feels a bit tricky – how to do GATE exam registration correctly.
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No stress, here I’ll explain the process in simple language with all the official dates for GATE 2026.
What is GATE Exam?
For a quick intro – GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a national-level entrance exam organized by IITs and IISc. It opens doors for M.Tech, Ph.D. admissions and even PSU jobs like IOCL, NTPC, ONGC and more.
So if you’re serious about higher studies or government sector jobs, then GATE exam registration 2026 is your starting step.
Important Dates Related to GATE 2026
Here are the official dates you must note down (don’t rely on rumors, these are confirmed):
| Activity | Day | Date* |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Date of GOAPS (Online Application Portal) | Saturday / Wednesday | 24th August 2024 / 28th August 2024 |
| Last Date for Online Registration (without late fee) | Thursday | 26th September 2024 / 3rd October 2024 |
| Extended Last Date (with late fee) | Monday / Friday | 7th October 2024 / 11th October 2024 |
| Download GATE 2026 Admit Card | Thursday / Tuesday | 2nd January 2026 / 7th January 2026 |
| GATE 2026 Examination Dates | Saturday & Sunday | 1st, 2nd, 15th, 16th February 2026 |
| Challenge/Contest on Answer Keys | Thursday – Saturday | 27th Feb – 1st March 2026 |
| GATE 2026 Results Announcement | Wednesday | 19th March 2026 |
| Score Card (Free download) | Friday – Saturday | 28th March 2026 – 31st May 2026 |
| Score Card (With ₹500 fee) | Sunday – Wednesday | 1st June 2026 – 31st December 2026 |
(Tip: Apply as early as possible. Don’t wait till the last day – server crashes are very common.)
How to Register for GATE Exam Online
Registration is done only through the GOAPS portal. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
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Go to official site – gate.iisc.ac.in
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Click “New User? Register Here” and create an account
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Fill basic details (Name, Email, Mobile, DOB, etc.)
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Enter your academic details (Branch, College, Passing year)
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Upload scanned photo, signature, and category certificate (if needed)
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Pay fees online via UPI/Netbanking/Debit Card
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Submit & download your application form for safety
Registration Fee for GATE 2026
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General / OBC (Male): ₹1700
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Female / SC / ST / PwD: ₹850
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With late fee: Around ₹2200
Things Students Often Mess Up
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Wrong subject code selection
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Blurry photo or signature not in required size
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Entering wrong email/phone and missing OTP
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Applying on last day and server not responding
Better safe than sorry – double check before final submit.
Final Words
Honestly, GATE exam registration is not rocket science. With documents ready, you can finish it in half an hour. Just remember the important dates, upload proper documents, and apply early.
This exam can change your career path – whether you dream of IITs, NITs or PSU jobs. So don’t take the registration lightly.
All the best for your GATE 2026 journey 🚀