The GATE 2026 Answer Key is now live. IIT Guwahati has uploaded the provisional answer key along with individual response sheets for candidates. Those who appeared in the exam can log in and check their answers immediately.
This release allows candidates to estimate their scores well before the final result. At the same time, the institute has opened the objection window for challenges.
Here is everything candidates need to know.
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Answer Key and Response Sheet Available Together
IIT Guwahati has published three important documents:
- Provisional answer key
- Candidate response sheet
- Master question papers
All these are available through the GOAPS portal. However, candidates must log in using their credentials to access their specific response sheet.
Because the key is provisional, it may change after expert review. Therefore, candidates should verify their answers carefully.
How Candidates Can Access the GATE 2026 Answer Key
Downloading the answer key is simple. Candidates only need their login details.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official GATE 2026 portal.
- Click on GOAPS login.
- Enter Enrolment ID or registered email.
- Enter password.
- Open the answer key or response sheet tab.
- Download the PDF files.
Candidates should keep a saved copy for reference. It will help during score calculation and objection submission.
Objection Window Now Active
Along with the GATE 2026 Answer Key, IIT Guwahati has enabled the challenge process.
If a candidate believes any answer is incorrect, they can submit an objection online. However, objections must include proper justification and supporting documents.
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Important details:
- Objections accepted only through GOAPS
- Challenge allowed per question
- Fee: ₹500 per question
- Payment required at submission
After the window closes, experts will review all challenges. Only valid objections will lead to corrections.
Then, IIT Guwahati will release the final answer key.
Exam Conducted in February Across Multiple Days
The GATE 2026 exam was conducted in Computer-Based Test mode. IIT Guwahati organized the examination on:
- February 7, 2026
- February 8, 2026
- February 14, 2026
- February 15, 2026
The exam covered 30 subjects across engineering and science streams.
Because the exam was held over multiple sessions, normalization will apply wherever required.
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Understanding the GATE 2026 Marking Pattern
Candidates calculating their probable score must apply the correct marking rules.
The exam included three types of questions:
MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)
- 1 mark question: +1 correct, –1/3 wrong
- 2 mark question: +2 correct, –2/3 wrong
Negative marking applies only here.
MSQs (Multiple Select Questions)
- No negative marking
- All correct options must be selected
NAT (Numerical Answer Type)
- No negative marking
- Answers must match the required numerical value
Therefore, candidates should subtract marks only for incorrect MCQs. Many students make mistakes here while estimating scores.
Result Date Officially Announced
IIT Guwahati has confirmed the result schedule.
The GATE 2026 result will be declared on March 19, 2026.
After the final answer key release, scorecards will be made available online. Candidates must log in again to download their results.
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Why the GATE 2026 Answer Key Matters
The provisional key plays an important role in the admission cycle.
First, it helps candidates predict their scores.
Second, it ensures transparency in evaluation.
Third, it allows correction of possible errors.
Moreover, GATE scores remain valid for postgraduate admissions. Institutes such as IITs and NITs consider these scores for MTech and PhD programs.
Additionally, several Public Sector Undertakings recruit through GATE performance.
Therefore, every candidate should review the key carefully.
What Happens After Objections?
Once the challenge window closes:
- Experts examine submitted objections
- Valid challenges lead to corrections
- Final answer key is published
- Results are declared
No further objections are accepted after the final key release.
Hence, candidates must act within the allowed timeline.
Quick Summary of Key Facts
- Organising Institute: IIT Guwahati
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test
- Exam Dates: February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026
- Subjects Covered: 30
- Objection Fee: ₹500 per question
- Result Date: March 19, 2026
Candidates should monitor the official portal regularly for updates.
FAQs
Where can I check the GATE 2026 Answer Key?
You can check it through the official GOAPS portal by logging in with your credentials.
How much is the objection fee for GATE 2026?
The fee is ₹500 per question challenged.
Is negative marking applicable in GATE 2026?
Yes, but only for MCQs. MSQs and NAT questions have no negative marking.
When will GATE 2026 results be declared?
The result will be announced on March 19, 2026.
Can I challenge more than one question?
Yes, but you must pay ₹500 separately for each question.
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