IIT Madras Postpones GATE 2027 Registration Start Date

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has announced a delay in the commencement of the registration process for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2027. While the application link was initially expected to go live soon, the official portal currently displays a status of 'To be Announced' regarding the start date for form submissions.

This postponement provides prospective candidates with additional time to prepare the necessary documentation required for the application process. Although the registration window has been delayed, IIT Madras has confirmed that the examination schedule itself remains unaffected. The institute is set to conduct the GATE 2027 examinations over six days: February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21, 2027, with tests held in two daily shifts.

Preparation Steps for GATE 2027 Applicants

As the registration window remains pending, candidates are encouraged to use this time to organize their credentials. Applicants must ensure they have a functional DigiLocker account, as this is a critical component of the registration process. Furthermore, students should prepare digital copies of their passport-sized photographs and signatures, ensuring they meet the specific technical requirements stipulated by the examination authorities.

For candidates belonging to reserved categories, or those falling under the PwD or dyslexic categories, it is essential to have valid certificates scanned and converted into PDF format well in advance. Additionally, applicants should finalize their preferred examination cities to ensure a smooth submission process once the GOAPS portal becomes active. Experts recommend that candidates wait a few days after the portal opens to avoid potential server congestion or technical glitches during the initial rush.

Registration Deadlines and Application Details

While the start date for the application process has been deferred, the official deadlines for submission have been established. The final date to register for GATE 2027 without incurring a late fee is September 27, 2026. For those who miss this initial window, applications will remain open until October 5, 2026, albeit with the inclusion of a late fee. The application fees themselves remain consistent with previous years and are structured based on candidate categories.

Candidates are advised to monitor the official GATE 2027 website regularly for the announcement of the revised registration start date. All applications must be submitted exclusively through the official GOAPS portal. As the process moves forward, students should ensure all information provided in their application is accurate to prevent any complications during the admit card issuance or examination phases.