GATE 2027 Registration: IIT Madras Delays Application Process Again; DigiLocker Mandatory for Applicants
The commencement of the GATE 2027 registration process remains in limbo as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has once again deferred the start date. While the institute has yet to provide a specific reason for the administrative delay, the official portal currently states that revised dates will be announced “soon.”
This marks the second postponement for the upcoming academic cycle. The application process was originally slated to begin on August 14, which was later pushed to August 27, before being deferred for a second time. Despite these shifts, IIT Madras has clarified that the examination dates remain unchanged.
New Mandatory Requirement: DigiLocker
A significant change for the 2027 session is the mandatory integration of DigiLocker for all Indian applicants. IIT Madras has made this a prerequisite for the registration process. Candidates are strongly advised to either create a new account or ensure their existing DigiLocker profile is updated and verified before the registration portal goes live. This transition is aimed at streamlining document verification for the examination.
Essential Documents for Registration
To facilitate a smooth application experience, candidates should organize the following scanned documents in accordance with the specifications provided by the institute:
- Identification: A valid government-issued photo ID (must be carried in original to the exam center).
- Personal Branding: Recent, high-quality passport-sized photograph and a clear signature.
- Category Certificates: Valid SC/ST certificates for reservation claims.
- Disability Documentation: Scanned copies of the Unique Disability Identification (UDID) or PwD certificates, as well as documentation for compensatory time or scribe requirements (if applicable).
- Specialized Needs: Dyslexic certificates, where applicable.
Application Fees
The fee structure for the regular registration window is as follows:
- General/Unreserved/Male Candidates: Rs 2,000
- Female Candidates/SC/ST/PwD: Rs 1,000
The fees must be submitted online during the application filing process.
Exam Schedule Stays Firm
While the registration timeline has seen multiple adjustments, the examination schedule for GATE 2027 remains fixed for February. The tests are set to be held over three weekends: February 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21. The detailed subject-wise schedule will be released by the authorities closer to the date.
Advice to Candidates
With the registration window expected to open shortly, aspirants are encouraged to use this interim period to prepare their documentation and verify their DigiLocker credentials. Candidates are advised to avoid waiting for the official notification to begin these preparations and to keep a regular watch on the official GATE 2027 portal for the latest updates.
