IIT Guwahati Releases Provisional Answer Keys for GATE 2026 Examination
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has officially released the provisional answer keys and candidate response sheets for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026. This significant announcement follows the successful completion of the computer-based test (CBT), which was administered across the nation on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, covering a comprehensive range of 30 specialized subjects.
Examination Format and Candidate Assessment
The GATE 2026 examination presented a challenging mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions (MCQs), multiple-select questions (MSQs), and numerical answer type (NAT) questions. This diverse format rigorously tested candidates' precision, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving abilities across various engineering and science disciplines. With the provisional answer keys now accessible, aspirants can meticulously evaluate their performance through detailed score calculations, providing a clear preliminary assessment of their results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Download GATE 2026 Answer Key
Candidates seeking to download the provisional answer key and response sheet must follow these specific steps on the official portal:
- Visit the official GATE 2026 website at gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
- Locate and click on the dedicated link labeled “GATE 2026 Answer Key and Response Sheet.”
- Securely log in using your unique application number, registered email address, and password.
- Download the provisional answer key document for your respective subject.
- Save and print your personal response sheet to facilitate accurate score estimation and record-keeping.
This process enables candidates to obtain all necessary materials for thorough performance analysis before the final results are declared.
Answer Key Challenge Window Now Open
Concurrently with the release, IIT Guwahati has activated the answer key challenge link on its official portal. Candidates who identify any discrepancies or errors in the provisional answer key are encouraged to submit formal objections within the stipulated deadline. This initiative is not merely procedural; each valid challenge will undergo rigorous scrutiny by a panel of subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and fairness.
Only after a comprehensive review of all objections will the institute publish the definitive final answer key. It is crucial to note that the GATE 2026 results will be calculated exclusively based on this finalized version, underscoring the importance of the objection process for result integrity.
GATE 2026 Marking Scheme and Score Calculation Details
With the provisional key and response sheet in hand, candidates can now proceed to estimate their scores. For the majority of papers—including AE, AG, BM, BT, CE, CH, CS, EC, EE, ME, and others incorporating Engineering Mathematics—the total marks are set at 100. The marking structure is clearly defined as follows:
- 15 marks are allocated for the General Aptitude section.
- 85 marks are designated for the core subject component.
Alternatively, papers such as GG, AR, and GE follow a distinctive two-part format, comprising a compulsory section and an optional section. Across all papers, the General Aptitude section consistently carries 15 marks.
Candidates must exercise caution during score calculation, particularly noting that certain MCQ types may involve negative marking for incorrect responses, whereas MSQs and NAT questions do not incur negative penalties. It is highly recommended that aspirants prepare and submit any objections with supporting evidence well before the deadline to ensure consideration.
All GATE 2026 participants are advised to monitor the official IIT Guwahati website closely for updates on the answer key status, objection outcomes, and final result announcements.
