The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 exam dates have been announced. Students taking the exam are now waiting for the GATE 2026 admit card (hall ticket). While the official release date for the admit card is not yet out, past trends suggest it will be available in mid-January 2026.
GATE 2026 Exam and Admit Card Dates
The GATE 2026 exams are scheduled for February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. This is an important exam for students who want to study further in Master of Technology (M.Tech) courses or get jobs in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
Based on previous years, there is usually about a 25-day gap between the admit card release and the first day of the exam. If this pattern holds, the GATE 2026 admit card is likely to be released between January 13 and January 18, 2026.
Here is a comparison of recent GATE exam and admit card release dates:
| GATE Exam Year | Admit Card Release Date | Exam Dates | Time Gap between Admit Card and Exam |
| 2025 | January 7, 2025 | February 1, 2, 15, and 16, 2025 | 25 days gap |
| 2026 | Yet to be announced | February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026 | Expected between January 13 to January 18 |
Where and How to Download Your GATE 2026 Admit Card
Once released, candidates can download their GATE 2026 admit card from the official website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Look for the GOAPS portal on the website. GOAPS stands for GATE Online Application Processing System.
To download your admit card, you will need your enrollment ID and password. Make sure to keep these details ready before the admit card release. It is important to download your admit card as soon as it is available to avoid last-minute issues.
Steps to Download GATE 2026 Admit Card:
- Go to the official GATE 2026 website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
- Click on the link for the GOAPS portal or Admit Card Download.
- Enter your enrollment ID and password.
- Your GATE 2026 admit card will appear on the screen.
- Check all details carefully.
- Download the admit card and take a printout.
Important Details on Your Admit Card
Your GATE 2026 admit card will contain important information. This includes your name, roll number, exam date, shift timings, exam centre name and address, and special exam day guidelines. You must check all these details carefully. If you find any mistakes, contact the exam authorities immediately.
The admit card is a must-have document for the exam day. Without it, you will not be allowed to enter the exam hall. Remember to carry a valid photo ID proof along with your admit card to the examination centre.
About the GATE Exam
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national-level entrance exam conducted in India. It is for students who want to get admission into postgraduate engineering and science programs (like M.Tech, MS, Ph.D.) at top Indian institutes, including the IITs and IISc. Some public sector companies also use GATE scores for recruitment.
The GATE 2026 exam will be held in around 200 cities across India. The exam is computer-based (CBT) and tests students' understanding of various undergraduate engineering and science subjects. Preparing well for the exam is key, and having your admit card on time helps in planning your travel and final preparations.
