The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, the organizing institute for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2027, has officially released the complete examination schedule and launched its dedicated web portal. Engineering, Science, Architecture, and Humanities aspirants can access the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) at gate2027.iitm.ac.in starting August 14, 2026.
This year’s registration process introduces mandatory DigiLocker verification and facial recognition technology into the GOAPS portal to streamline identity verification and secure candidate authentication.
🗓️ GATE 2027 Key Dates & Examination Schedule
Quick Summary: Online registrations via GOAPS begin on August 14, 2026. The exam will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) across six days in February 2027.
| Event / Activity | Important Dates |
| Official Website Launch | July 20, 2026 |
| GOAPS Registration Portal Opens | August 14, 2026 (Friday) |
| Last Date to Apply (Without Late Fee) | September 21, 2026 (Monday) |
| Extended Registration Window (With Late Fee) | September 30, 2026 (Wednesday) |
| Application Rectification Window | October 14 – October 21, 2026 |
| Exam City Allotment Notification | January 4, 2027 |
| GATE 2027 Exam Dates | February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2027 |
| Announcement of Results | March 19, 2027 |
💡 What’s New in GATE 2027 Registration?
IIT Madras has implemented new identity verification standards for this examination cycle:
- Mandatory DigiLocker Integration: Indian nationals must link their verified DigiLocker account to automatically fetch verified educational and identity credentials during GOAPS profile creation.
- Facial Recognition Security: Facial recognition technology has been embedded directly into the GOAPS portal to match candidate photographs and prevent impersonation.
- 30 Test Papers: Candidates can choose from 30 papers, with flexible Two-Paper Combinations allowed for eligible disciplines.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria for GATE 2027
- Educational Qualification: Candidates who have completed or are currently pursuing the 3rd year or higher of any undergraduate degree in Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Science, Commerce, or Humanities from a recognized university/institute are eligible to apply.
- Age Limit: There is no upper age limit or restrictions on attempt limits for GATE 2027.
💳 Expected Application Fee Breakdown
The application fee is non-refundable and varies by category and registration timeline:
| Candidate Category | Regular Window (Up to Sept 21) | Extended Window (Up to Sept 30) |
| Female / SC / ST / PwD Candidates | ₹ 900 – ₹ 1,000 (per paper) | ₹ 1,400 – ₹ 1,500 (per paper) |
| All Other Candidates (General / OBC) | ₹ 1,800 – ₹ 2,000 (per paper) | ₹ 2,300 – ₹ 2,500 (per paper) |
💻 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply via GOAPS Portal
Candidates can complete their GATE 2027 application by following these steps:
- Set Up DigiLocker: Ensure your DigiLocker account is active and verified.
- Visit Official Portal: Go to gate2027.iitm.ac.in and click on the GOAPS portal link.
- Register New User Account: Register using your active email address, mobile number, and set up your password.
- Complete DigiLocker & Facial Verification: Complete the automated DigiLocker authentication and facial capture verification.
- Fill Academic & Personal Details: Input degree details, parent/guardian information, and select your target GATE paper(s).
- Select Exam Cities: Choose three exam cities in order of preference from the permitted zonal list.
- Upload Documents & Pay Fee: Upload scanned signatures, category certificates (if applicable), complete the online fee payment, and print the application summary sheet.
📌 Important Tip for Candidates: Make sure your primary photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Driving License) details match your DigiLocker records and GOAPS entries exactly to avoid discrepancies during exam center entry verification.
🔗 Official Portal: gate2027.iitm.ac.in
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