IIT Guwahati Releases Full GATE 2026 Schedule with Dates, Papers, and Shift Slots
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has officially released the detailed schedule for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026. This announcement provides engineering aspirants with an early insight into the exam plan, which is set to take place over two weekends in February 2026.
Exam Schedule Overview
GATE 2026 will be conducted across four days: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. The exam will be held in two sessions each day:
- Forenoon Session: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Afternoon Session: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Candidates are encouraged to carefully check their respective paper timings to avoid any confusion on the day of the exam. The results for GATE 2026 are expected to be declared on March 19, 2026.
Application Process
The application process for GATE 2026 commenced on August 25, 2025. Key dates for the application process are as follows:
- Regular Application Deadline: September 28, 2025
- Late Fee Application Deadline: October 9, 2025
It is crucial for candidates to adhere to these deadlines to ensure their eligibility for the examination.
Coordination with UPSC
IIT Guwahati has coordinated with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to avoid scheduling conflicts with the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. This effort aims to provide relief to candidates who plan to appear for both exams, ensuring they can manage their preparation effectively.
Exam Format and Subjects
GATE 2026 will cover a total of 30 papers, encompassing a wide range of fields including:
- Engineering
- Technology
- Science
- Architecture
- Interdisciplinary Subjects
The exam will feature a mix of question types, including:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Multiple Select Questions (MSQs)
- Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions
GATE scores are valid for three years and are widely recognized for admissions to various postgraduate programs at prestigious institutions such as IITs, NITs, and IISc, as well as for recruitment in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
Important Reminders for Candidates
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official GATE 2026 website for updates regarding:
- City intimation slips
- Admit cards
- Other important announcements
Staying informed through the official portal will help candidates manage their preparation and logistics effectively as the exam date approaches.
Conclusion
The release of the GATE 2026 schedule by IIT Guwahati marks an important milestone for engineering aspirants across the country. With the exam set to cover a diverse range of subjects and a clear timetable established, candidates can now focus on their preparation with a structured plan in mind.
Note: For further details and updates, candidates should visit the official GATE 2026 website at gate2026.iitg.ac.in.

