GATE 2027 Form Fill-Up Guide: Filling out the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) application form is the first major milestone in your exam journey. Organised by IIT Madras for GATE 2027, the registration process takes place online through the GATE Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) portal. While the process is straightforward, even minor errors in personal details, paper selection, or document uploads can lead to form rejection or last-minute correction hassles.
To help you submit your application smoothly, this comprehensive guide covers important instructions, required document specifications, step-by-step registration stages, application fees, and common mistakes to avoid.
Knowing the official schedule helps you prepare your documents on time and avoid paying late submission fees. Below are the key dates for GATE 2027 registration:
| GATE 2027 Important Dates Overview | |
| Activity | Details |
| Exam | GATE 2027 |
| Conducting Institute | IIT Madras |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Release of Official Notification | July 20, 2026 |
| Opening of GOAPS Portal | 27 August 2026 |
| GATE 2027 Exam Dates | February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2027 |
| Official Website | gate2027.iitm.ac.in |
IIT Madras has officially released the GATE 2027 Notification PDF (Information Brochure) on its official portal. Click the button below to download the official notification PDF:
GATE 2027 Notification PDF Download Link
Candidates can register online via the GOAPS portal (goaps.iitm.ac.in) using the GATE 2027 Apply Link. The registration process integrates DigiLocker for document verification. Click the button below to apply:
GATE 2027 Apply Online Direct Link (Active Soon)
Follow this sequential process to complete your registration on the GOAPS portal:
Visit the official portal (gate2027.iitm.ac.in).
Click on "Register Here" and enter your Full Name, Email Address, and Mobile Number.
Generate a strong password to create your account.
Verify your details using the OTP sent to your registered email and mobile number.
Note down the generated Enrolment ID sent to your email.
Log in with your Enrolment ID/Email and Password.
Link your DigiLocker account to fetch verified identity details.
Fill in basic personal details including date of birth, gender, nationality, category, and residential address.
Select your qualifying degree (e.g., B.E., B.Tech, B.Sc, M.Sc).
Enter your college name, address, PIN code, and year of passing/expected passing year.
(Note: 3rd-year undergraduate students are eligible to apply).
Choose your primary GATE paper from the 30 available subject disciplines.
Optional Second Paper: If opting for two papers, select the secondary paper only from the officially approved combinations released by IIT Madras.
Select three preferred examination cities from the listed zones.
Upload your passport photo and signature as per the size rules.
Complete the live camera photo verification.
Upload your photo ID proof and category/PwD certificates (if applicable).
Carefully review all filled details on the preview page.
Proceed to the payment gateway and pay the application fee via Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI.
Download and save the final Application Confirmation Page for future reference.
The application fee varies based on category, gender, and the submission timeline. The fee is non-refundable.
| GATE 2027 Application Fee | ||
| Category | Fee per Paper (Regular Window) | Fee per Paper (Extended Window with Late Fee) |
| Female Candidates | ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 |
| SC / ST / PwD Candidates | ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 |
| All Other Candidates (Including General/OBC) | ₹2,000 | ₹2,500 |
| International Candidates | Varies by test centre country | Additional late fee applicable |
(Note: Applying for two papers doubles the total fee amount).
IIT Madras has introduced updated protocols to make identification seamless and prevent fraud during the registration process. Keep these prerequisites ready before you start filling out the form:
DigiLocker Account Integration: Indian national candidates must possess an active DigiLocker account. The GOAPS portal will retrieve verified personal details such as full name, date of birth, and ID numbers directly through DigiLocker.
Live Facial Recognition: Aside from uploading a standard photograph, candidates must complete a live photo capture via their device camera to verify their identity.
Valid Personal Contact Details: Provide your primary email ID and mobile number, as all official communications, OTPs, and admit card links will be sent here.
To avoid delays while filling out the form, keep scanned copies of the following documents ready according to the official specifications:
Valid Photo Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Passport, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Driving License.
Passport-Size Photograph: Clear colour photograph taken against a plain white background.
Category Certificate (If Applicable): Valid SC/ST certificate in PDF format. (Note: OBC-NCL and EWS certificates are checked during admissions/counseling, but keep valid updated documents ready).
PwD / Dyslexic Certificate (If Applicable): Valid UDID card or PwD certificate in PDF format.
Incorrect image formatting is one of the top reasons for GATE application rejections or correction flags. Ensure your files match these exact measurements:
| GATE 2027 Photo and Signature Image Specifications | ||
| Parameter | Photograph Specifications | Signature Specifications |
| Format | JPEG / JPG | JPEG / JPG |
| File Size | 5 KB to 600 KB | 3 KB to 300 KB |
| Dimension | 3.5 cm (width) × 4.5 cm (height) | Aspect ratio (Height: Width) = 1:2.75 to 1:3.75 |
| Pixel Resolution | Min: 200 × 260 | Max: 530 × 690 |
| Background | Plain White | Plain White |
| Ink Color | N/A | Dark Blue or Black Ink Only |
| Key Criteria | Face must cover 60–70% of the image. No caps, sunglasses, or glare on spectacles. | Signature must cover 70–80% of image area. No initial-only signatures or capital letters. |
Mismatched Name/DOB: Entering a name that does not match your official government ID or DigiLocker profile will lead to rejection.
Invalid Second Paper Combination: Choosing a second paper outside the approved list will invalidate the second paper selection.
Incorrect Photograph Requirements: Uploading selfies, photos with colored glasses, caps, or side angles will cause form failure.
Signing in ALL CAPS or using Initials: Signatures done in full capital letters or using only initials are strictly rejected by the GOAPS system.
Delaying Till the Last Date: Server crashes and payment failures frequently happen on closing days. Complete your form well before the deadline.
