GATE 2026: The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 is scheduled from February 07 to 15, 2026, and will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and all 23 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the exam will cover 30 test papers across engineering, technology, and science disciplines. Admit cards will be available for download from January 02, 2026.
The examination will be held in two shifts: forenoon (9:30 AM to 12:30 PM) and afternoon (2:30 PM to 5:30 PM), across more than 200 cities and towns nationwide.
Important Dates For GATE 2026
| Exam Dates | February 07, 08, 14, 15, 2026 |
| Result Announcement | March 19, 2026 (via GOAPS) |
| Scorecards Free Download | March 27 - May 31, 2026 |
| Scorecards Paid Download (Rs 500 per paper) | June 01 - December 31, 2026 |
The GATE 2026 score will remain valid for three years from the announcement of results, making it a crucial credential for both higher studies and career opportunities.
Opportunities With GATE Qualification
Postgraduate Scholarships And Assistantships
- A qualifying GATE score opens doors to scholarships and assistantships for postgraduate programs at centrally funded institutes. Admission may be based on: GATE score alone
- GATE score combined with departmental tests/interviews and academic record
- The Ministry of Education (MoE) recommends 70% weightage to GATE performance, with the remaining 30% based on other assessments.
Candidates must check individual institute guidelines for detailed admission procedures and eligibility for financial assistance.
Employment Opportunities Through GATE
Several Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and central government bodies use GATE scores for recruitment. Some top organisations include:
- PSUs: ONGC, BHEL, NTPC, IOCL, SAIL, NALCO, NPCIL, Powergrid, BSNL, CIL
- Other Organisations: Airports Authority of India, Engineers India Limited, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, CRIS, CVPPL
Additionally, certain Group-A central government posts, such as Senior Field Officer (Tele) and Senior Research Officer (Crypto/S&T), now consider GATE scores for direct recruitment. Notifications are typically published in Employment News/Rozgar Samachar.
With its dual relevance for higher education and career progression, qualifying GATE 2026 can be a game-changer for aspirants aiming for academic and professional advancement.
