The GATE 2026 February 14 Shift 1 exam concluded successfully at 12:30 PM across various test centres. The morning session was conducted for Civil Engineering (CE-1), Electrical Engineering (EE), and Production & Industrial Engineering (PI) in computer-based mode. As per initial student reactions, the overall difficulty level of the exam ranged from easy to moderate for Civil Engineering (CE-1), while the Electrical Engineering (EE) paper was rated moderate to tough by several candidates. The examination was held in a three-hour format from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, following strict entry guidelines and biometric verification procedures at centres.
GATE 2026 CE-1 Paper Analysis
Candidates appearing for Civil Engineering (CE-1) reported that the paper was conceptually driven with a balanced mix of theoretical and numerically based questions. Key highlights:
- Engineering Mathematics carried approximately 13 marks
- Questions were largely conceptual with moderate numerical weightage
- A few questions were reported as lengthy
- Safe attempts ranged around 20+ questions for many candidates
Students described the overall structure as predictable but moderately analytical.
GATE 2026 EE Paper Analysis
The Electrical Engineering (EE) question paper was perceived as slightly more challenging compared to CE.
Major observations include:
- Higher weightage of numerical-based questions
- Balanced coverage of core subjects
- Moderate to tough difficulty level
- Time management played a crucial role
Several candidates mentioned that although the paper was manageable, it required strong conceptual clarity and speed.
GATE 2026 Shift 2 to Begin at 2:30 PM
Following the completion of Shift 1, the second shift of GATE 2026 on February 14 is scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM and will continue until 5:30 PM The afternoon session is expected to be conducted for CE-2 and Mechanical Engineering (ME) papers. Candidates appearing in Shift 2 are advised to reach their exam centres well in advance for document verification and security procedures.