GATE 2027 Registration Postponed: IIT Madras Updates Portal Status
Prospective candidates for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2027 are facing a brief delay in the application process. IIT Madras, the organizing institute for this year’s examination, did not activate the online registration portal on August 27, 2026, as originally scheduled.
The official website currently displays a notification stating that the registration process will “start soon,” leaving the specific launch date uncertain. While the opening of the portal has been deferred, the original closing date for regular applications remains September 27, 2026.
Potential Reasons for the Delay
Although IIT Madras has not released an official statement detailing the cause of the postponement, experts suggest the delay is likely due to the rigorous load-testing of new security protocols. GATE 2027 is set to implement mandatory DigiLocker integration and advanced live facial recognition systems to enhance identity verification, both of which require seamless technical infrastructure before going live to thousands of users.
Exam Pattern and New Additions
The GATE 2027 examination will remain a three-hour Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted in English, consisting of 65 questions worth a total of 100 marks. The paper will be divided into General Aptitude (15 marks) and the core domain subject (85 marks).
A significant highlight for this cycle is the introduction of Robotics and Automation (RA) as the 30th paper, catering to candidates specializing in smart systems, mechatronics, and robotics engineering. Additionally, the syllabus for Biotechnology (BT) has been revised, and updates have been implemented for Engineering Sciences (XE), Humanities and Social Sciences (XH), Life Sciences (XL), and Textile Engineering (TF).
Important Exam Marking Scheme
Candidates should note that negative marking applies exclusively to Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- 1-mark MCQ: One-third mark deducted for an incorrect answer.
- 2-mark MCQ: Two-thirds mark deducted for an incorrect answer.
- MSQ and NAT: No negative marking applies to these question types.
Key Requirements for Applicants
The registration process for GATE 2027 includes mandatory digital verification steps. Indian nationals are now required to have a verified DigiLocker account to pull identification details directly into their application form. Furthermore, the portal will utilize live facial recognition, requiring applicants to verify their identity via their device camera rather than relying solely on uploaded photographs.
As the GATE 2027 registration status remains in flux, candidates are encouraged to monitor the official IIT Madras portal frequently for updates. Those planning to select two-paper combinations should also review the permitted pairings provided by the institute, keeping in mind that registering for a second paper will result in a double application fee.
