The GATE 2026 XL Answer Key will be released soon on the official portal. Candidates who appeared for the Life Sciences paper can use the answer key and solutions to estimate their scores before the final result. The GATE 2026 XL exam was conducted on 7 February 2026 by Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. Initial feedback suggests the paper was moderate to difficult.
GATE 2026 XL Answer Key Date and Schedule
Candidates can check the important dates related to the answer key below.
The official answer key will be released on the GOAPS portal at gate2026.iitg.ac.in.
GATE 2026 XL Answer Key PDF Download Steps
Candidates can follow these steps to download the official answer key:
- Visit the official GOAPS portal
- Click on GATE 2026 Answer Key link
- Enter Enrollment ID/Email ID and Password
- Open the XL Answer Key PDF
- Download and save for reference
- Check the response sheet alongside the answer key
GATE 2026 XL Paper Structure and Sections
The Life Sciences (XL) paper includes one compulsory section and optional subjects.
- Chemistry (XL-P) – compulsory
- Choose any two subjects:
- Biochemistry
- Botany
- Microbiology
- Zoology
- Food Technology
The paper carries a total of 100 marks with around 65 questions.
GATE 2026 Marking Scheme to Calculate Score
Candidates can use the official marking scheme to estimate scores.
Using the answer key, candidates can compare responses and calculate probable scores.
How to Challenge GATE 2026 XL Answer Key?
If discrepancies are found, candidates can raise objections within the given window.
- Log in to the GOAPS portal
- Select the question(s) to challenge
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay the required fee (per question)
- Submit the objection
If the challenge is valid, the final answer key will be revised accordingly.
Why GATE 2026 XL Answer Key is Important?
- Helps estimate scores and rank before results
- Identifies correct and incorrect responses
- Assists in predicting cutoff chances
- Useful for planning M.Tech admissions and PSU applications
The GATE 2026 XL final answer key and result were scheduled for 19 March 2026, after which candidates can confirm their final scores.
