GATE Exam Registration 2027

GOAPS is the portal every GATE 2027 candidate must use to register. IIT Madras runs it as this year's organising institute. Registration opened on September 2, 2026, after the portal's original launch date was pushed back twice. The regular deadline falls on September 27, 2026, only days away. Candidates who need a bit more time can still apply with a late fee until October 5, 2026.

This year brings three changes. DigiLocker-based registration is now mandatory for Indian nationals. Live facial verification is part of that DigiLocker identity check. A new Robotics and Automation (RA) paper joins the list of 30 papers. GATE 2027 scores count toward admission to M.Tech, ME, MS and PhD programmes at IITs, IISc, NITs and other institutes. Many PSUs use the same scores for recruitment. A valid score stays usable for three years from the result date.

This page covers registration dates, eligibility conditions, the application fee, required documents, photo and signature rules, and the correction window.

IIT Madras conducts GATE 2027 and runs registration through GOAPS.

Keep a valid photo ID, verified DigiLocker account, and scanned photo and signature files ready before you start.

Why did the GATE 2027 registration schedule change?

IIT Madras revised the original GOAPS opening date twice before registration finally went live on September 2, 2026. Rely only on the official dates below, and check GOAPS regularly for updates.

Missing the regular deadline does not close registration. The extended window needs an additional Rs 500 late fee per paper.

Avoid applying on the last day. Heavy GOAPS traffic in the final hours often causes payment failures and upload errors, a common issue every year.

Is there an age limit for GATE 2027?

No, GATE 2027 has no age limit. Any candidate can apply if they meet the educational qualification criteria.

Which candidates are eligible for GATE 2027?

Eligibility depends on your current degree, year of study, or an equivalent professional qualification.

Is there a limit on the number of attempts?

No, GATE 2027 does not limit the number of attempts.

Do I need a minimum percentage to register?

No, GATE 2027 sets no minimum percentage or CGPA for registration.

Can I apply before completing my degree?

Yes, you can apply before finishing your qualifying degree. IIT Madras asks for proof of a completed degree only at counselling or admission.

Cross-check your specific stream and qualifying degree against the official eligibility page, since rules differ for non-standard academic backgrounds.

What is the registration process for GATE 2027?

Registration for GATE 2027 runs through eight steps on GOAPS.

Monitor your application status on GOAPS after submission. It shows stages such as under scrutiny, defective, or accepted. Act quickly if a correction is needed.

How much does GATE 2027 registration cost?

GATE 2027 charges a fee per test paper, based on category.

Does the fee concession apply to overlapping categories?

No, the concessional fee applies only once. A female SC/ST/PwD candidate still pays Rs 1,000, with no further reduction. OBC-NCL and OBC-CL candidates both pay the full fee, the same as General category.

Payment happens only through GOAPS, using net banking, debit card, credit card or UPI. The gender-based concession comes from your verified DigiLocker or Aadhaar-linked profile, so no separate proof is needed.

Scorecards stay downloadable free for a limited period after the result. Extended access after that costs Rs 500 per paper, available until December 31, 2027.

What documents does GATE 2027 registration need?

GATE 2027 registration needs six documents and details, most fetched or uploaded on GOAPS.

Educational certificates or mark sheets are not needed at the registration stage. IIT Madras verifies them only at admission or counselling.

What are the format rules for the photograph and signature?

GATE 2027 sets separate format rules for the photograph and the signature.

How do I avoid rejection of my photo or signature?

Keep your face at roughly 60 to 70 percent of the photo frame, with the forehead, eyes, nose and chin clearly visible. Avoid caps, hats and tinted or dark glasses. Regular prescription spectacles are fine if there is no glare. Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons, provided your facial features stay clearly visible.

Your signature must be made by you alone. It must match the signature you use at the exam centre, or you risk disqualification. The same photograph carries forward to your admit card and scorecard, so use a recent, good-quality image.