How to Raise Objection to GATE 2026 Answer Key? Step-by-Step Guide

The GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge process will soon start as the release of the provisional key on February 22, 2026. Candidates who appeared for the exam can now review their responses and raise objections if they find any discrepancies.

The answer key and response sheet have been released online by the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati at the official portal gate2026.iitg.ac.in. The objection window is open before the final answer key is prepared ahead of the result announcement on March 19, 2026.

If you are unsure about how to challenge the GATE 2026 answer key, here is a complete step-by-step guide.

GATE 2026 Answer Key Challenge – Important Dates

Here are the key events related to the GATE 2026 Answer Key objection process:

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

• Provisional Answer Key Release Date: February 22, 2026

• Response Sheet Release: February 2026

• Answer Key Challenge Window: February to early March 2026

• Final Answer Key Release: Before result declaration

• GATE 2026 Result Date: March 19, 2026

Candidates must submit objections within the given timeline.

Is GATE 2026 Response Sheet Released?

Yes, the GATE 2026 Response Sheet has been released along with the provisional answer key. Candidates can log in to the official portal and download:

• Candidate response sheet

• Provisional answer key

• Question paper

Comparing your responses with the official key helps you calculate tentative scores and identify errors.

GATE 2026 Answer Key Objection Fee

To raise objections, candidates need to pay:

• Rs. 500 per question (Indian candidates)

• USD 10 per question (NRI candidates)

The payment can be made through:

• Credit card

• Debit card

• Internet banking

The fee is non-refundable, so candidates should verify their claims carefully before submitting objections.

How to Raise Objection to GATE 2026 Answer Key? (Step-by-Step Process)

Follow these simple steps to challenge the GATE 2026 provisional answer key:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to gate2026.iitg.ac.in.

Step 2: Login to Your Account

Use your Enrollment ID/Email ID and Password to log in.

Step 3: Click on “Contest Answer Key”

Find the option available under the dashboard.

Step 4: Select the Question

Choose the question number you want to challenge.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach valid proof such as reference books, research papers, or official sources.

Step 6: Pay the Objection Fee

Pay INR 500 (or USD 10 for NRI candidates) per question through the online payment gateway.

Step 7: Submit the Objection

After successful payment, submit your challenge and save the confirmation.

Make sure you review your objection carefully before final submission.

Important Guidelines Before Raising Objection

• Cross-check answers with authentic reference material.

• Ensure supporting documents clearly justify your claim.

• Submit objections within the challenge window.

• Keep payment confirmation for future reference.

Incomplete or unsupported objections may be rejected.

What Happens After Raising Objection?

After the challenge window closes:

• Experts will review all submitted objections.

• If found valid, corrections will be made.

• The GATE 2026 Final Answer Key will be released.

• Results will be declared on March 19, 2026.

The final answer key cannot be challenged further.

Why Challenging the Answer Key Is Important?

Raising objections ensures:

• Fair evaluation

• Correction of potential errors

• Accurate calculation of final scores

• Transparency in the examination process

Candidates should take advantage of the challenge window if they find genuine discrepancies.