The wait for engineering graduates across India is almost over. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, the organizing institute for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026, is expected to release the GATE 2026 Admit Card today, January 7, 2026.
Once released, candidates will be able to download their hall tickets directly from the GOAPS (GATE Online Application Processing System) portal. This document is your entry pass to the examination center, so it is crucial to download and verify it immediately.
Here is a complete update on the release status, the detailed exam schedule, and a final roadmap for your preparation.
GATE 2026 Admit Card: Direct Download Link
The admit card will strictly be available in online mode only. No hard copies will be sent by post. You will need your Enrollment ID (or Registered Email Address) and Password to access the dashboard.
Release Update: While the official date was tentatively scheduled for early January, latest reports suggest the link will be activated anytime today. Keep your login credentials ready!
Download Your Hall Ticket
The GOAPS portal is the only official source. Log in with your Enrollment ID and Password to download your GATE 2026 Admit Card now.
How to Download Your Hall Ticket?
- Visit the official website:
gate2026.iitg.ac.in. - Click on the "Download Admit Card" link on the homepage.
- Enter your Enrollment ID/Email ID and Password.
- Solve the arithmetic expression (Captcha) and click "Submit".
- Your admit card will appear. Download the PDF and take a printout on A4 paper.
Check Details: Verify your Name, Registration Number, Paper Code, Exam Centre, and Photograph. If there is any discrepancy, contact IIT Guwahati immediately.
Detailed GATE 2026 Exam Schedule
The exam will be conducted on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, in two sessions:
- Forenoon (FN): 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Afternoon (AN): 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Here is the paper-wise schedule based on the official notification:
| Date | Session | Paper Codes (Test Papers) |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 07 (Sat) | Forenoon | AG, ES, GG, IN, MA, MN, TF, XE, XL |
| Afternoon | AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH, XH | |
| Feb 08 (Sun) | Forenoon | CS-1 (Computer Science), ST |
| Afternoon | CS-2 (Computer Science), EY, NM, PE | |
| Feb 14 (Sat) | Forenoon | CE-1 (Civil), EE (Electrical), PI |
| Afternoon | BM, CE-2 (Civil), ME (Mechanical), MT | |
| Feb 15 (Sun) | Forenoon | EC (Electronics) |
| Afternoon | AR (Architecture), DA (Data Science & AI) |
Final Preparation & Revision Tips
With less than a month left, your strategy should shift from "learning" to "refining".
1. Master the Virtual Calculator
Unlike physical calculators, the on-screen Virtual Calculator in GATE is slightly tricky to use. Practice performing calculations on it daily to avoid wasting precious seconds during the exam.
2. Focus on "High-Yield" Subjects
- Engineering Mathematics & General Aptitude: These two sections constitute 28-30 marks of the paper. They are the easiest to score in if practiced well. Do not neglect them.
- Core Technical Subjects: Revise your strongest technical subjects first. Don't start new heavy topics now.
3. The Power of Mock Tests
The GATE exam tests your endurance as much as your knowledge. Sitting focused for 3 hours requires conditioning.
- Full-Length Mocks: Attempt at least one full-length mock every alternate day at the exact time of your exam slot (9:30 AM or 2:30 PM). This aligns your biological clock.
- Analyze Errors: After every mock, note down whether the mistake was conceptual or a calculation error.
Master the Virtual Calculator
Don't lose marks to calculation errors. Attempt full-length mock tests for General Aptitude and Core subjects to practice with the exam interface.
4. Short Notes are Your Best Friend
Stop reading full textbooks. Revise only from your short notes or formula sheets. If you haven't made them, use standard formula handbooks available online.
The final lap is crucial. Stay calm, keep revising, and ensure you have your admit card ready well in advance. All the best for GATE 2026!