GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge Window (Open): Don’t Miss the Deadline to Submit Objections

The GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge Window is now officially live on the GOAPS portal, following the release of the provisional answer keys by IIT Guwahati. Candidates who appeared for the exam on February 7, 8, 14, and 15 have until February 28, 2026, to submit their objections. Each challenge requires a non-refundable processing fee of ₹500 per question (for Indian candidates) and must be accompanied by valid documentary proof from standard textbooks. Since the final results—scheduled for March 19, 2026—will be based entirely on the revised key, this three-day window is a critical opportunity for aspirants to ensure their scores accurately reflect their performance.

GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge Window (Open)

The GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge Window is officially open from February 25 to February 28, 2026. During this period, candidates can log in to the GOAPS portal to contest the provisional answers by paying a non-refundable fee of ₹500 per question. Each objection must be accompanied by a clear PDF containing supporting evidence from standard textbooks, as handwritten notes or coaching materials will not be considered valid. Once the window closes, no further requests will be entertained, and the expert committee will finalize the keys for the result declaration.

The direct link to challenge the answer key is given below:

GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge Window Link (Active)

Why You Should Check the GATE 2026 Answer Key Now

Many candidates ignore the provisional key, assuming the evaluation will be correct. However, reviewing the answer key is important because:

• Even minor errors can affect your final score.

• GATE scores determine admission to M.Tech, M.E., and PhD programs.

• Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) also consider GATE scores for recruitment.

If you believe any answer is incorrect, this is your only chance to request correction before the final key is released.

Also Read, How to Raise Objections to GATE 2026 Answer Key

GATE 2026 Key Dates You Should Not Miss

Here are the important updates:

• GATE Exam Dates 2026: February 7, 8, 14 & 15, 2026

• Provisional Answer Key Release: February 22, 2026

• Response Sheet Release: 22 February 2026

• Objection Window: 25 - 28 February 2026

• Final Answer Key: Before result declaration

• Result Date: March 19, 2026

Missing the objection deadline means you lose the opportunity to challenge any error.

Who Can Raise Objections?

Any candidate who appeared for the GATE 2026 exam and finds discrepancies in:

• Answer options

• Correct answer marked

• Question framing

can raise objections through the official portal.

GATE 2026 Objection Fee Details

Before submitting objections, note the fee structure:

• ₹500 per question (Indian candidates)

• $10 per question (NRI candidates)

Payment must be made online through:

• Credit card

• Debit card

• Internet banking

The fee is non-refundable, even if your objection is rejected.

How to Submit Objection Online for GATE 2026

Follow this carefully to avoid errors during submission:

1. Visit gate2026.iitg.ac.in.

2. Login using your Enrollment ID/Email ID and Password.

3. Click on the “Contest Answer Key” link.

4. Select the question you want to challenge.

5. Upload supporting documents in PDF format.

6. Pay the required fee online.

7. Review and submit your objection.

Always download and save the confirmation receipt after payment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting objections without valid reference proof.

• Waiting until the last day to apply.

• Uploading unclear or incomplete documents.

• Challenging questions without verifying from standard textbooks.

Careless submissions may lead to rejection.

What Happens After You Submit Objection?

Once the challenge window closes:

• Subject experts review all objections.

• Corrections are made if valid.

• GATE 2026 Final answer key is released.

• Results are declared on March 19, 2026.

The final key is binding and cannot be challenged further.

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