GATE 2026 Exam Starts Today – Check Shift Timings, Entry Rules,Mandatory Documents & Prohibited Items List

GATE Exam 2026: The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 examination, conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, will be held from February 7th. The exam will also be conducted on February 8th, 14th, and 15th, 2026, at various examination centres across the country. The first shift of the GATE exam will be from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, while the second shift will be from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

This time, the exam is being conducted in computer-based mode and includes 30 papers. A new section, Energy Science, has also been added under Engineering Sciences. The GATE exam is considered very important for engineering and science students, as it opens doors to higher education in IITs, NITs, and other prestigious institutions.

Strict rules have been made regarding the examination. Candidates will not be allowed to enter the centre 30 minutes after the start of the examination. Also, no one will be allowed to leave before the end of the examination.

Multiple Choice Questions
Multiple Selection Questions
Numerical Answer Type

MCQs will have four options, only one of which will be correct. There will be negative marking for incorrect answers.

MSQs may have more than one correct option. There will be no negative marking, but no partial marks will be awarded either.

In NAT questions, candidates will have to enter the numerical answer using the on-screen keypad, and there will be no negative marking for these questions either.

No candidate will be allowed inside the examination hall without an admit card, so make sure to check that you have your admit card before leaving home. It is also mandatory to carry a valid photo ID proof along with the admit card. This ID can be any government ID, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or driving license. Carefully check your photo, name, roll number, and examination centre details on the admit card beforehand to avoid any problems on the day of the exam.

What are the guidelines for the GATE Exam 2026?
1. The GATE exam is starting from February 7th across the country. This exam will have 30 test papers. The GATE exam will be conducted in computer mode. While taking the exam, make sure that you have answered all the questions.

2. It is mandatory for all candidates to carry their admit card with them. Along with the admit card, also carry your ID proof. Candidates will not be allowed to enter the examination centre without an admit card.

3. The morning shift exam will start at 9:30 AM, and the afternoon shift exam will start at 2:30 PM. All candidates are advised to arrive at least one or two hours before the exam. Candidates arriving late will not be allowed entry.

4. Candidates will be allowed to take their seats 40 minutes before the start of the exam and log in 20 minutes before the exam begins.

5. On the day of the exam, candidates must bring a valid ID proof, such as an Aadhaar card or identity card and a photograph.

6. Candidates are strictly prohibited from bringing mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, books, calculators, smartwatches, and other electronic devices.

About the Author

Priyanka Singh

Priyanka Singh is an experienced journalist and Chief Copy Editor at Timesbull.com with more than six years of experience in digital media. She currently leads the Entertainment, Business, and Education desks, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and editorial excellence across content. Originally from Bihar, she brings strong subject understanding to her reporting....

PriyankaSingh@tb.com Author at TimesBull TimesBull
Priyanka Singh is an experienced journalist and Chief Copy Editor at Timesbull.com with more than six years of experience in digital media. She currently leads the Entertainment, Business, and Education desks, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and editorial excellence across content. Originally from Bihar, she brings strong subject understanding to her reporting. A native of Bihar, Priyanka developed a strong foundation in journalism through her education in Mass Communication at Jaipur National University and an early internship in print media. Her career spans both print and digital platforms, with extensive coverage in education, business, astrology, and entertainment. Her strength lies in presenting trending and complex information in a clear, engaging, and reader-friendly manner. Priyanka is known for delivering accurate, insightful, and engaging content.
Priyanka Singh - Author at TimesBull
About the Author

Priyanka Singh

Priyanka Singh - Author at TimesBull

Priyanka Singh is an experienced journalist and Chief Copy Editor at Timesbull.com with more than six years of experience in digital media. She currently leads the Entertainment, Business, and Education desks, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and editorial excellence across content. Originally from Bihar, she brings strong subject understanding to her reporting....