GATE 2026 Exam Begins on February 7: Key Guidelines and Documents to Carry
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is all set to begin on February 7, 2026, with the exam being conducted by IIT Guwahati across the country. The national-level engineering entrance test will be held over four days — February 7, 8, 14, and 15 — in computer-based test (CBT) mode at designated exam centres.
📅 GATE Exam Schedule and Reporting Rules
- Exam Days: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026.
- Shifts: Two shifts each day —
- Forenoon: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Afternoon: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
- Candidates must check their exact shift timing and test centre details on their admit cards.
- It’s recommended to reach the exam centre well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card so entry procedures like document checks and biometric verification are completed smoothly.
📄 Documents You Must Carry
To gain entry into the examination hall, candidates must carry all of the following:
- Printed GATE 2026 Admit Card
- The admit card should be printed on A4-size paper with a clear photograph.
- Original Valid Photo ID
- It must be the same ID used during registration.
- Acceptable government-issued IDs include:
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- Voter ID
- Driving Licence
- PAN Card
- Passport-Size Photograph (if specified on the admit card)
Applicants without these documents may not be allowed into the exam hall.
🚫 What’s Not Allowed Inside the Exam Hall
To ensure fairness and adherence to rules on exam day, the following items are strictly prohibited:
- Mobile phones
- Smartwatches or electronic gadgets
- Separate calculators (a virtual calculator will be available during the exam)
- Notes, books, or stationery apart from a pen/pencil
- Bags and other personal study materials
Rough sheets for calculations or notes may be provided at the centre and must be returned after the exam.
👕 Dress and Conduct Guidelines
Candidates are advised to wear simple and comfortable clothing to avoid delays at security checks. Follow all instructions given by the exam centre officials and invigilators. Failure to comply with the rules may lead to disqualification.
🛎 Final Tips Before Exam Day
- Re-verify all details on your admit card as soon as you download it.
- Keep multiple printed copies of your admit card and photo ID ready.
- Plan your travel and reach the test centre early to avoid last-minute rush or stress.