The admit cards for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 are expected to be released soon. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, which is organizing the exam this year, announced that the release date for the admit cards has been postponed. Candidates who have applied for GATE 2026 can download their hall tickets from the official website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in , once the new date is announced.
Previously, the admit cards were scheduled to be released on January 2, 2026. Based on past trends, it was later expected around January 7, 2026. However, IIT Guwahati confirmed a delay. Students should keep checking the official website for the exact new release date.
The GATE exam is important for students looking to get into Master of Technology (M.Tech) and Ph.D. programs in engineering and science at top institutions in India.
GATE 2026: Key Dates and Timings
Here are the important dates and timings for the GATE 2026 exam:
| Event | Date/Time |
| Admit Card Release Date | To be updated soon (Postponed) |
| GATE Exam Dates | February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026 |
| Exam Timings (Forenoon) | 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM |
| Exam Timings (Afternoon) | 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM |
How to Download Your GATE 2026 Admit Card
Once the admit cards are released, candidates can follow these simple steps to download them:
- Visit the official GATE 2026 website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in .
- Look for the link to the 'Application Portal' or 'Admit Card Download'.
- Log in using your enrollment ID and password .
- Check all the details shown on the hall ticket carefully.
- Download the admit card and print at least two copies for the exam day.
Remember, the admit card will only be available online. No physical admit card will be sent by post or email.
Information on Your Admit Card
Your GATE 2026 admit card will have important details. Make sure all the information is correct:
- Your Name
- Your Photograph and Signature
- Your Roll Number
- Your Enrollment ID
- The subject paper code (e.g., CS for Computer Science)
- Exam Date and Time
- Full Address of the Exam Centre
- Important instructions for exam day
If you find any mistakes in your admit card, contact the GATE helpdesk immediately to get it corrected.
What to Carry to the Exam Centre
On the day of the exam, you must carry these items:
- A clear printed copy of your GATE 2026 admit card .
- A valid photo ID proof. This should be the same ID you used during your application.
- A simple pen or pencil for rough work.
- A transparent water bottle.
You do not need to carry a passport-size photograph to the centre.
GATE 2026 Exam Day Rules
To ensure a smooth exam experience, follow these rules:
- Reach the exam centre at least 60 minutes early .
- Do not bring electronic gadgets like mobile phones, calculators, pagers, or Bluetooth devices into the exam hall. Study materials are also not allowed.
- You cannot leave the exam hall before the exam time ends.
Important Changes in GATE 2026
This year, IIT Guwahati has introduced a few changes for GATE 2026:
- The application fees for GATE 2026 have been updated.
- A new subject paper, Energy Science (XE-I) , has been added under the Engineering Sciences section.
GATE Scorecard Validity
The GATE scorecard is valid for three years from the date of result announcement. Candidates can download their scorecard for free between March 27 and May 31, 2026. After that, from June 1 to December 31, 2026, a fee of INR 500 will be charged for downloading the scorecard.
Recovering Your Login Details
If you forget your enrollment ID or password, you can recover them:
- Go to the GOAPS login page and click on "Forgot Credentials".
- Enter your enrollment ID or registered email ID.
- Provide your mobile number.
- Follow the steps to use an OTP (One-Time Password) to reset your details.
After downloading your admit card, check your exam centre location and plan your travel beforehand to avoid any last-minute rush.