GATE 2026 Day 1 Schedule:
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati is conducting the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 today, February 7, in two separate shifts. The forenoon session (Shift 1) is scheduled from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm for papers AG, ES, GG, IN, MA, MN, TF, XE, and XL. The afternoon session (Shift 2) will take place from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm for subjects AE, BT, CH, CY, GE, PH, and XH. Each GATE 2026 paper will be conducted for a total duration of three hours.

Candidates appearing for the exam must strictly follow the GATE exam day guidelines, prescribed dress code, and instructions regarding prohibited items to prevent any last-minute inconvenience at the test centre. Carrying the GATE 2026 admit card is mandatory, and all instructions issued by authorities must be followed. Entry into the examination centre will be closely monitored, and candidates are advised to reach the venue early for biometric verification and security screening.

GATE 2026 Exam and Shift Timings

The IIT GATE 2026examination will be held in two shifts. The official exam timings are as follows:

• 9:30 am to 12:30 pm

• 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Candidates must report to their allotted exam centre at least one hour prior to the commencement of their respective shift.

Essential Documents to Carry for GATE 2026 Exam

On the day of the examination, candidates must bring the following mandatory documents:

• A printed (hard copy) of the GATE 2026 admit card

• The photograph and personal details printed on the admit card should be clearly visible

• One original and valid photo identity proof, such as Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN card

• The photo ID must be the same as submitted during the GATE registration process

• Photocopies or digital versions of identity proofs will not be accepted

Also Check: GATE 2026 list of items allowed and prohibited inside the examination hall

Important Guidelines for GATE 2026 Aspirants

Candidates must ensure compliance with the following rules while appearing for the exam:

• Entry into the exam hall must be completed before the reporting deadline

• Candidates must carry their admit card and original valid photo ID proof

• A scribble pad for rough work will be provided by the invigilator; candidates must write their name and registration number on it before use

• Candidates should not interfere with or damage the computer systems or related equipment provided at the exam centre

• Any candidate found tampering with computer hardware will face immediate cancellation of candidature

GATE 2026 Dress Code

According to the prescribed instructions, male candidates appearing for GATE 2026 should wear simple, light, and comfortable clothing. Shirts or T-shirts with large buttons, metal zippers, badges, or multiple pockets should be avoided. Wearing caps, hats, or mufflers that cover the head is strictly prohibited.

Female candidates are advised to wear plain, comfortable attire without any metal components. Accessories such as jewellery, watches, stoles, belts, bangles, and hair accessories containing metal are not permitted inside the examination centre.