GATE 2026 Admit Card and Exam Preparation

GATE 2026 Admit Card: Release Date Postponed & Latest Updates from IIT Guwahati

The **Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026** is one of the most anticipated competitive exams for engineering aspirants in India. As the gateway to premier M.Tech programs at IITs/NITs and lucrative careers in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), the release of the admit card is a critical milestone for every candidate.

⚠️ LIVE UPDATE: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has officially postponed the release of the GATE 2026 Admit Card. Initially scheduled for January 2, 2026, the revised date will be announced soon on the official portal.

In this guide, we provide the most recent information regarding the hall ticket status, how to navigate the GOAPS portal, and essential tips for your exam day in February 2026.

GATE 2026 Important Dates & Schedule

Knowing the timeline is essential for effective preparation. Below is the updated schedule based on the latest notifications from IIT Guwahati:

Event Dates
Conducting Institute IIT Guwahati (IITG)
Admit Card Release Date January 2, 2026 (Postponed - New Date Soon)
GATE 2026 Exam Dates February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026
Announcement of Results March 19, 2026
Scorecard Validity 3 Years from Result Date

How to Download GATE 2026 Admit Card

Once the link is activated, candidates must download their hall tickets from the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS). Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth download:

1. Access the Official Portal
Visit the official GATE 2026 website at gate2026.iitg.ac.in. Look for the "GOAPS" or "Admit Card Download" link on the homepage.
2. Enter Login Credentials
Provide your Enrollment ID (sent to your email/mobile during registration) or Registered Email Address and your Password. You will also need to solve a simple arithmetic captcha.
3. Verify Your Details
After logging in, click on the "Download Admit Card" button. A PDF will open. Before saving, check your photo, signature, and exam center details thoroughly.
4. Print and Save
Take a color printout on an A4-sized sheet. Ensure that the photograph and signature are clearly visible. It is recommended to save a digital copy on your cloud storage as well.

Essential Checklist: What to Check in Your Hall Ticket

An error on your admit card can lead to disqualification at the exam center. Ensure all the following information is accurate:

Personal Info: Full name matching your ID proof.

Photograph & Signature: Must be clear and recognizable.

Exam Paper: Correct Paper Code (e.g., CS, ME, EE, XE).

Center Address: Detailed location and Google Maps link if available.

Slot Timing: Forenoon (9:30 AM) or Afternoon (2:30 PM).

Exam Day: Mandatory Documents to Carry

The GATE exam has strict security protocols. Candidates must present the following documents at the entry gate:

1. Printed Admit Card
Only a physical printout is accepted. Digital copies on phones or tablets are NOT permitted.
2. Original Photo ID
Carry a valid, non-expired government ID. Accepted proofs include:
  • Aadhar Card / E-Aadhar
  • Passport
  • Voter ID
  • PAN Card
  • Driving License

Facing Issues with GOAPS Login?

If you have forgotten your credentials, use the "Forgot Enrollment ID/Password" link on the GOAPS portal to reset them via OTP on your registered mobile number.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will IIT Guwahati send the admit card by post?
No. The admit card is only available for download online through the GOAPS portal. No hard copies will be sent by mail or email.
Q: What if there is a mistake in my name or photo?
You must immediately contact the Zonal IIT or the IIT Guwahati helpdesk. Carrying an incorrect admit card may prevent you from appearing in the exam.
Q: Are there any new papers in GATE 2026?
Yes, for 2026, Energy Science (XE-I) has been introduced as a sectional paper within the Engineering Sciences (XE) category.

Stay tuned to this page for the revised admit card release link as soon as IIT Guwahati activates it. Good luck with your final rounds of revision!

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