Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2027 registrations opened on September 2, 2026. Regular applications close September 27; the late-fee window runs until October 5. A new Robotics and Automation paper debuts. DigiLocker-based registration is mandatory for Indian nationals. Apply early to avoid rush and verification delays.
Third-year and final-year undergraduates across Engineering, Science, Architecture, Commerce, Arts, and Humanities are eligible. Candidates can choose six exam cities within one zone. IIT Madras is the organising institute, and the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) link is active. Read instructions carefully before proceeding.

Regular registration ends Sunday, September 27, 2026; the late-fee window closes Monday, October 5. Application correction opens October 14 and closes October 21. Exams are planned across four February weekends, with results due March 19, 2027. All dates follow Indian Standard Time as per schedule.
The one-paper fee is ₹1,000 for Female, SC, ST, and PwD candidates, and ₹2,000 for others. Late-window fees rise by ₹500. To claim concessions, SC, ST, and PwD candidates must upload certificates in a GATE2027 DigiLocker folder; General, EWS, and OBC-NCL need none.
| Category | Regular (One) | Regular (Two) | Extended (One) | Extended (Two) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Female / SC / ST / PwD | ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 | ₹1,500 | ₹2,500 |
| All other candidates | ₹2,000 | ₹4,000 | ₹2,500 | ₹4,500 |
Create a verified DigiLocker account and grant consent in GOAPS. Choose the photo ID with correct name and birth date. A live photo is captured; the fetched DOB cannot be edited. Follow photo and signature rules. Frequent defects include wrong ID numbers, swapped images, and incorrect paper selection.
Robotics and Automation joins the list with code RA, signalling focus on autonomous systems. RA can pair with Computer Science, Data Science, Electronics, Electrical, Instrumentation, or Mechanical. These are permitted two-paper choices. Review the syllabus and combinations to align with electives, internships, and target postgraduate or industry roles.
Several Public Sector Undertakings shortlist using valid GATE scores, including NPCIL and Power Grid. DRDO also cites GATE for Scientist roles. GATE additionally unlocks MoE scholarships for M.Tech and revised direct PhD stipends. Apply by September 27, then use the October 14–21 correction window to protect opportunities.