GATE 2026 Exam Day Instructions: Reporting Time, Dress Code & Entry Rules

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has issued important hall instructions and last‑minute guidelines for candidates appearing in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026. The exam will be conducted from 7 to 15 February 2026 in a computer‑based test (CBT) mode across centres nationwide.

GATE 2026 Reporting Time and Entry Procedures

Candidates must arrive at their exam centre well before the scheduled reporting time, as entry checks will include biometric authentication and document verification. Late entry will not be permitted under any circumstances once entry gates close.

• Report to the centre at least 90 minutes before the exam start time.
• Carry your printed GATE 2026 admit card and a valid original photo ID proof.
• Biometric and document checks will take place before entry into the exam hall.
• Transparent water bottles and simple writing tools (pen/pencil) are permitted.

Candidates are also strongly advised to confirm their exact shift timings and centre address on their admit card before the exam day.

Dress Code and Hall Guidelines for GATE 2026

To ensure security checks are efficient, candidates must follow a simple and comfortable dress code with minimal accessories. Avoiding metallic items helps reduce delays during scrutiny.

• Wear lightweight and comfortable clothing with no excessive metal parts.
• Men and women should avoid garments with large buttons, metal zippers, or heavy embroidery.
• Jewellery, watches, belts, bracelets, goggles, and other metallic accessories are prohibited.
• Candidates should prefer open footwear such as sandals or flip‑flops, as covered shoes may not be allowed.
• Ensure hands and palms are clean with no pen marks, mehendi, or stains before security checks.

Following these clothing norms will help candidates pass through entry checks swiftly and focus on their GATE exam without unnecessary delays.

Prohibited Items and Exam Hall Rules

Certain items are strictly banned, and bringing them may lead to denial of entry or disqualification.

• Mobile phones, smartwatches, electronic gadgets, and calculators
• Study material, books, notebooks, or written notes
• Bags, wallets, or any unrelated personal belongings
• Metal items or accessories that may delay frisking

Inside the exam hall, candidates are expected to follow invigilator instructions and use only the virtual calculator provided on the computer screen. Rough sheets will be supplied at the centre, and candidates must return them before leaving.

Shift Timings and Final Tips

GATE 2026 exams are being held in two shifts each day, typically 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM, but candidates should verify their specific reporting time on their admit cards. Candidates are urged to plan their travel and stay arrangements ahead of time to reach exam centres early, ensuring all documents and dress requirements are met to avoid last‑minute issues. These instructions are intended to uphold fairness, security, and discipline on the GATE 2026 exam days, helping aspirants focus on their performance and reduce anxiety related to administrative procedures.