Reporting Time, Documents, Dress Code, Allowed Items & CBT Rules

GATE 2026, conducted by IIT Guwahati, is taking place over four days, February 7, 8, 14 and 15, 2026, in multiple shifts in computer-based testing (CBT) mode.

With the exam underway or very close, it is important for many to follow the GATE 2026 exam day guidelines.

From reporting times and mandatory documents to dress codes, what you can carry (and what you definitely can't carry), scribble pad rules, use of virtual calculators and hall instructions, getting these right helps you stay calm and focused rather than dealing with last-minute stress or disqualification.

GATE 2026 Exam Dates, Shift and Reporting Time

GATE 2026 Exam Schedule (Dates and Changes)

The examination is conducted in two shifts each day: Forenoon (FN) from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and Afternoon (AN) from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Here is the official branch-wise schedule from IIT Guwahati:

Your specific paper and shift is printed on your admit card; Double check it!

Reporting time and admission rules for GATE 2026

Most guidelines recommend arriving 60-90 minutes (some say up to 3 hours) before your exam time for smooth biometric registration, frisking and document verification.

Gates are closed strictly 30 minutes before the exam, no late entry allowed, no exceptions. Plan your journey, traffic and any unexpected delays to avoid missing out.

Documents required on the day of GATE 2026 exam

mandatory documents

Bring these original copies to your phone, not photocopies or digital versions:

• Printed GATE 2026 Admit Card (Clear A4 print with your photo and details).

• Original valid photo ID proof (same as used during registration): Aadhar, Passport, PAN, Voter ID Card, Driving License, etc.

If your ID photo is unclear, carry a recent passport size photo as a backup. Without these, entry is prohibited, simple as that.

GATE 2026 Exam Day – Permitted and Prohibited Items

What should you carry to GATE 2026 center

Keep it to a minimum:

• Printed Admit Card.

• Original photo identity card.

• Transparent blue/black ball-point pen (for signing or writing pad notes, if necessary).

• Clear water bottle (check your center's rules, some allow, others don't).

• Small hand sanitizer (if allowed locally).

Scribble pads/rough sheets are provided inside the hall; Bring your opinion.

Prohibited items in GATE 2026 exam hall

These will disqualify you immediately, even if you don't use them:

• Mobile phone, smartphone, smartwatch, any watch (analog/digital).

• Physical calculators (Basic, Scientific, Programmable, None allowed).

• Earphones, headphones, Bluetooth devices, fitness bands, or any electronic gadget.

• Books, notes, papers, charts, log tables, or study materials.

• Bag, Purse, Wallet, Pencil Box, Geometry Box, Clipboard.

• Heavy jewelry, metal jewelry, belts with large buckles, or anything that could complicate the search.

The examination center is not responsible for your belongings, leave valuables at home.

GATE 2026 Dress Code Guidelines

There is no strict uniform here, but the focus is on streamlined security checks:

• Wear simple, light, comfortable clothing, avoiding bulky jackets, hoodies, full-sleeve outfits with lots of pockets, or any layered attire that requires extra checking.

• Avoid heavy jewelry, metal accessories, belts with large buckles, or shoes with thick soles.

• Opt for slippers or sandals if your center allows (easier to check in); Avoid wearing heavy shoes with covers.

The goal is quick entry, dress to do it.

GATE 2026 Inside the Exam Hall – Instructions to Follow

before the exam starts

• Simply sit at your designated computer, verify your name, registration number and paper code on the screen.

• Log in 20 minutes early to read the on-screen instructions carefully.

• Follow supervisor's announcements, no debate or partisan conversation.

during the exam

• It is completely CBT, answers everything on the computer interface.

• Use only the on-screen virtual scientific calculator - no physical calculator.

• Do all the rough work on the scribble pad provided (first write your name and registration number on it).

• Not talking, signaling or communicating with others.

• Save/Submit from time to time to avoid any errors.

exit rules

• Do not leave before 3 full hours, remain seated until the inspector gives permission.

• Return the scribble pad before leaving.

• Follow orderly evacuation instructions.

GATE 2026 Scribble Pad and Virtual Calculator Rules

• Scribble Pad: Provided one by one by the inspector. Write your name and registration number on it. Return used items to get a new one; In the end everyone returns.

• Virtual Calculator: A scientist appears on your screen, practice with official mock tests at gate2026.iitg.ac.in to get comfortable. No need to bring anything.

GATE 2026 Exam Pattern Snapshot (For Last Minute Strategy)

The 3-hour CBT consists of 65 questions of 100 marks: General Aptitude (15 marks), Engineering Mathematics (about 13 marks in the relevant paper), and questions from the main subject.

Types include MCQ (negative marking for wrong answers), MSQ (no negative if partially correct), and NAT (no negative). Use your time wisely, practice mocks to improve the interface.

Do's and Don'ts on GATE 2026 exam day

What to do on GATE 2026 exam day?

• Arrive 60-90 minutes early for hassle free verification.

• Carry only admit card, ID and minimum permitted items.

• Read the admit card and screen instructions thoroughly.

• Stay calm, manage time, skip difficult questions at the beginning and review if possible.

What not to do on the day of GATE 2026 exam?

• Do not bring phones, watches, calculators or study materials.

• Do not wear heavy clothes or heavy metal items.

• Don't talk, mimic, or engage in inappropriate behavior.

• Don't rush in, the full session is required.

gate 2026 exam pattern