Official Guide 2026
How to Apply for GATE (General)
Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Every year, thousands of Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering applications are rejected due to incorrect photograph and signature formats. Follow this strict guide to ensure your registration is accepted.
Updated for 2026 Exams
Based on Official GATE Notification
100% Private – No Data Leaves Your Device
1 Register on the Official Portal
All GATE applications start on the official recruitment portal. Ensure you are on the correct, government-operated website.
Visit gate2026.iitg.ac.in NEVER share your login credentials, OTP, or payment details with third parties. GATE will never call you asking for these.
2 Upload Photograph
Strict Photo Rules for GATE
- File size: 5KB – 600KB
- Background: white
- • Face must cover 60–70% of the photograph. Passport size (3.5 cm × 4.5 cm).
- • JPEG/JPG format only. Aspect ratio must be between 0.66 and 0.89.
- • White background only. No caps, hats, sunglasses, or colored glasses.
- • Normal spectacles allowed, but glare on glasses is not acceptable — remove spectacles if glare cannot be avoided.
- • Head coverings permitted only for religious reasons, but full facial features (chin to forehead, both edges) must be visible.
3 Upload Signature
Strict Signature Rules for GATE
- File size: 3KB – 300KB
- Ink color: blue or or or black
- • JPEG/JPG format. Aspect ratio (height:width) must be 1:R where R is between 2.75 and 3.75.
- • Signature must cover 70–80% of the image area.
- • Black or dark blue ink only. Initials, ALL CAPITALS, or illegible signatures are not allowed.
- • Signature must be signed horizontally and must not extend outside the signature box.
4 Review & Submit Application
- Double-check name spelling exactly as it appears on your 10th Marks card.
- Ensure category selection (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS) is correct as it cannot be changed later.
- Save the final Application Form PDF and Payment Receipt PDF immediately after submission.
Next Steps for GATE (General)
Continue preparing your application documents with official specifications.