GATE 2026 Exam Schedule: IIT Guwahati Announces February Dates and Shift Timings
The wait is finally over for engineering graduates across the country, including thousands of aspirants from Odisha. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has officially released the comprehensive timetable for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026.
The organising institute has confirmed that the computer-based examination will be conducted over four days in February next year. The scheduled dates are February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. Students preparing for this crucial competitive exam can now access the specific paper-wise slots and session details directly on the official GATE portal.
Session Timings and Structure
IIT Guwahati has divided the examination days into two distinct shifts to accommodate the 30 different papers.
Forenoon Session: Runs from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
Afternoon Session: Scheduled between 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM.
This national-level examination is being managed by IIT Guwahati under the guidance of the National Coordination Board–GATE, Ministry of Education. The registration process for this cycle had previously commenced on August 28, 2025.
Admit Card and Exam Day Guidelines
Aspirants must keep a close watch on the website for the release of the GATE 2026 Admit Card. Once available, candidates must download it to verify vital details such as the assigned examination centre, exact date, and reporting time. The admit card will serve as the primary entry document and must be presented alongside a valid government-issued photo ID.
Strict Security Measures
The authorities have reiterated that strict protocols will be in place. Since the test is entirely computer-based, candidates are prohibited from bringing physical calculators. A virtual calculator will be provided on the screen interface for calculations. Furthermore, electronic gadgets, including mobile phones and smartwatches, are strictly banned inside the examination hall.
Candidates are urged to arrive at their respective venues at least 60 minutes prior to the commencement of the exam to complete security checks smoothly.
