GATE 2026 answer key released: How to download, direct link, and other details

The provisional answer key for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 has been released. Candidates who appeared for the examination can access it through the official website — gate2026.iitg.ac.in.

The exam was conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati on February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026. With the release of the provisional answer key, candidates can now review their responses and estimate their probable scores.

How to download GATE 2026 answer key

Candidates can follow these steps to download the answer key and raise objections:

• Visit the official website — gate2026.iitg.ac.in
  
  
• Click on the “GATE 2026 answer key objection window” link
  
  
• Log in using your enrolment ID or email address and password
  
  
• Select the question(s) you want to challenge
  
  
• Upload supporting documents in PDF format
  
  
• Pay the required objection fee and submit the request
  
  
• Download and save the answer key PDF for future reference
  
  

Why the answer key is important

GATE is not just a competitive examination but a gateway to postgraduate programmes in premier engineering institutes such as IITs, NITs, and IISc. It also plays a crucial role in recruitment by leading Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).

The provisional answer key helps candidates compare their marked responses with the official answers. This allows them to estimate their expected scores and plan ahead for admissions, counselling, or job opportunities.

Objection window and final answer key

The provisional answer key is open to challenge. Candidates who find discrepancies can raise objections within the specified timeframe by paying a fee and submitting valid proof.

After reviewing all objections, IIT Guwahati will release the final answer key. The results of GATE 2026 will be prepared based on this final answer key.

Steps to download GATE 2026 provisional answer key

• Go to the official GATE 2026 website
  
  
• Click on the “Provisional Answer Key” link on the homepage
  
  
• Log in through the GOAPS portal using your credentials
  
  
• Select your exam paper or subject
  
  
• Download and save the answer key PDF
  
  
• Compare your responses with the official answers
  
  

Candidates are advised to regularly visit the official website for updates on the objection window, final answer key, and result announcement.