The registration process for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 has been postponed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, the organising institute for the exam. Originally set to begin on August 25, the application window will now open on August 28 through the official GATE website. Although this is a slight delay, it does not affect the overall schedule of the exam, which will take place in February 2026.

Candidates can submit their applications without a late fee until September 28. Those who miss this deadline can still apply during an extended period until October 9, but they will need to pay an additional late fee. The exam will be held over four days: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. Results are expected to be announced on March 19, 2026.

GATE is a highly popular competitive exam in India, serving as a pathway to postgraduate studies, research opportunities, and jobs in both public and private sectors. It is jointly conducted by the IITs and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) on a rotating basis, with IIT Guwahati responsible for the 2026 edition. Every year, hundreds of thousands of candidates register for the exam, highlighting its importance for those aiming to build careers in engineering, technology, and related fields.

The eligibility criteria for GATE 2026 remain broad, welcoming students from various disciplines. Candidates currently in their third year or higher of undergraduate programs, as well as those who have already completed a qualifying degree, can apply. Eligible programs include Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, Arts, and Humanities, provided the institutions are recognised by the Ministry of Education, AICTE, UGC, or UPSC. Degrees from foreign institutions recognised as equivalent to Indian qualifications are also accepted, allowing international candidates to participate.

This year, GATE introduces a new Energy Science section within the Engineering Sciences (XE) paper. This addition reflects a growing focus on emerging areas like sustainable development, renewable energy, and environmental issues. With this new subject, GATE 2026 will cover around 30 disciplines, including core subjects such as Computer Science, Electronics and Communication, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Civil Engineering, as well as interdisciplinary fields that are becoming increasingly important.

The application fee varies depending on the candidate’s category and when they apply. Female candidates, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) need to pay ₹1,000 per paper during the regular registration period and ₹1,500 per paper during the extended period. Other candidates pay ₹2,000 per paper for regular registration and ₹2,500 per paper during the late registration. This fee structure is designed to support underrepresented groups while covering the costs of conducting the exam.

GATE has become more than just a qualifying exam for postgraduate admissions. It is also a key benchmark for recruitment in many public sector undertakings (PSUs) in sectors like energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and defence. Several foreign universities also accept GATE scores for admissions, adding to its global importance. As industries demand more advanced technical skills, the exam continues to evolve to meet both academic and market needs.

Though the registration delay is minor, it affects candidates who were planning to apply starting August 25. IIT Guwahati has not explained the reason for the postponement but has confirmed that the exam dates and result announcements will follow the updated schedule. Aspirants should regularly check the official GATE website for the latest updates and instructions.

As preparations for GATE 2026 pick up across the country, students are expected to work harder. With new subjects added, broad eligibility criteria, and steady demand for skilled engineers and researchers, GATE remains a crucial step for many career paths. The revised registration timeline offers a small shift, but the exam’s importance as a career milestone stays the same.