Mistakes to Avoid While Filling GATE Application Form 2026

Mistakes to Avoid While Filling GATE Application Form 2026: The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national-level exam to assess candidates’ knowledge in engineering, technology, and related fields. It is a gateway for admission to postgraduate programs and recruitment in top PSUs. The GATE 2026 application form requires careful attention, as even minor mistakes can lead to disqualification or rejection in further stages. 

Many candidates often make errors while entering personal details, uploading documents, or selecting exam options. To help you avoid such issues, below we have provided the common mistakes candidates should avoid while filling out the GATE 2026 application form.

Check: GATE Registration 2026

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling GATE Application Form 2026

While filling out the GATE 2026 application form, even small mistakes can lead to rejection or unnecessary trouble later. Candidates should carefully enter details, upload correct documents, and check all information before final submission of the GATE application form. The GATE Application Form 2026 is open from August 28 to September 28, 2025. To help candidates, we have mentioned below some common mistakes to avoid during the application process.

Incorrect Personal Details of the Candidate
Many students make small typing mistakes in their name, date of birth, or parents’ names. Make sure the details match exactly with your government ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.).

Uploading Wrong or Blurry Photo/Signature
IIT Guwahati has given clear rules for photo and signature uploads. A frequent mistake is uploading unclear images, photos with dark backgrounds, or incorrect sizes. Use a white/light background for the photo and sign in black/blue ink on white paper.

Choosing the Wrong GATE Subject Code
Some candidates pick the wrong GATE subject paper, which causes problems in later stages of selection. Always check the eligibility and subject code carefully before submitting, as you cannot change it after the deadline.

Selecting the Wrong Exam City
Do not choose exam centres randomly. Pick locations that are easy to travel to so you do not face issues on the exam day.

Mistakes in Category or PwD Status
Uploading the wrong or expired category certificates (OBC-NCL, SC, ST, EWS, PwD) can lead to rejection. Ensure your certificate is valid and signed by the correct authority.

Errors in Educational Details
Wrong year of passing, incorrect college name, or roll number can create problems in verification. Enter the details exactly as given in your degree or provisional certificate.

Not Saving the Application Form After Payment
Some candidates pay the fees but forget to download or save the final application form. Always keep multiple copies of the filled form and the payment receipt.

Applying at the Last Moment
Many students wait until the final day to apply, but a heavy server load can block submissions. Apply early to avoid last-minute stress and mistakes.

Check: Documents Required For GATE 2026 Application Form

Steps to Apply for GATE 2026

To successfully apply for the GATE 2026 application form, candidates must follow a simple process that includes registration, form filling, document upload, fee payment, and final submission. For clarity and ease of the students, check below the step-by-step instructions to complete the application.

Step 1: Register on the GOAPS Portal

• Visit the official GATE 2026 website (organized by IIT Guwahati).

• Click on the “New User? Register Here” option.

• Enter your full name, a valid email ID, a mobile number, and a password.

• An enrollment ID will be generated, which you must note down carefully for further use.

Step 2: Login and Fill the GATE Application Form

• Use your enrollment ID and password to log in.

• Fill in your personal details such as name, date of birth, gender, nationality, category, parents’ details, and address.

• Enter your educational qualifications (college name, roll number, year of passing, etc.).

• Select your GATE paper/subject code carefully after checking eligibility.

• Choose up to three exam cities in order of preference. i.e, select only those in which you can go.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents (original documents)

• Upload scanned copies of your passport-size photograph (white/light background), signature (in black/blue ink on white paper), and category/PwD certificate (if applicable).

• Just make sure that the images match with the given instructions for size, format, and clarity.

Step 4: Pay the Required Application Fee

• Pay the GATE 2026 application fee online through net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI.

• The fee depends on category, gender, and exam centre choice (India/abroad).

• After successful payment of the fee, a confirmation message will appear on the screen.

Step 5: Preview and Submit

• Carefully check all the details you have entered.

• Make corrections if needed before final submission.

• Once satisfied, click Submit.

Step 6: Download and Save the GATE Application Form

• After submission, download the final filled application form and payment receipt. Also, keep it properly as it will be used further.

• Save multiple copies for future reference, as they may be required during admit card download, exam day, and counselling/admission process.

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