IIT Guwahati Unveils Complete GATE 2026 Examination Schedule
The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has officially announced the detailed schedule for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026, marking a significant milestone for engineering aspirants across the country. As the organizing institute for this prestigious examination, IIT Guwahati has released crucial dates and timings that will guide thousands of candidates in their preparation journey.
GATE 2026 Examination Dates and Shift Timings
The GATE 2026 examination will be conducted over four days: February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. Each examination day will feature two separate shifts to accommodate the large number of candidates appearing for different paper codes. The morning session is scheduled from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, while the afternoon session will run between 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM.
This two-shift system has been implemented to ensure smooth conduct of the examination across various centers while maintaining the integrity of the testing process. The detailed schedule including specific paper codes and examination patterns is now available on the official GATE 2026 website: gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
Application Timeline and Result Declaration
The application process for GATE 2026 commenced earlier this year on August 25, 2025. Candidates had the opportunity to apply without late fees until September 28, 2025, while those missing the initial deadline could submit their applications with late fees until October 9, 2025.
The most anticipated announcement for candidates will be the result declaration on March 19, 2026. This gives aspirants approximately one month after the final examination day to await their scores that will determine their future academic and professional pathways.
Strategic Scheduling and Conflict Resolution
In a significant move to assist candidates preparing for multiple competitive examinations, the GATE exam committee has proactively addressed potential scheduling conflicts. The examination dates have been carefully selected to avoid overlap with the Union Public Service Commission's Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026, ensuring that engineering graduates don't have to choose between these two crucial career opportunities.
This thoughtful planning demonstrates the examination authorities' commitment to candidate convenience and reflects their understanding of the multiple aspirations that engineering graduates often pursue simultaneously.
Prospective candidates are advised to regularly check the official GATE 2026 website for updates, detailed subject-wise schedules, and any additional instructions from the organizing institute. With the examination dates now confirmed, serious preparation can begin in earnest for what remains one of India's most challenging and prestigious engineering entrance examinations.
