GATE 2026 Registration: Photo, Signature, and Documents Checklist

With GATE 2026 online applications opening soon, engineering aspirants need to know the official guidelines for uploading their photo, signature, and other documents. This article provides a detailed checklist to ensure a successful application.

For all engineering aspirants eyeing postgraduate studies at top institutions like the IITs and NITs, or a job in a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), the GATE 2026 examination is a crucial stepping stone. The application process for GATE 2026 is set to begin on August 25, 2025. Before the portal opens, it is essential to prepare all the required documents and images according to the specific guidelines to avoid rejection.

The Organizing Institute for GATE 2026, IIT Guwahati, has released a detailed information brochure outlining the precise specifications for the photograph, signature, and other necessary documents. Ignoring these instructions is a common mistake that can lead to application delays or even outright rejection.

Passport-Size Photograph: Specifications and Guidelines

Your photograph is not just a picture; it's a key part of your identity for the GATE exam. The same photo will appear on your GATE admit card and scorecard, so it must be clear and professional.

Here are the key specifications:

• Format: The photograph must be a recent, high-quality color passport-size photo. It should be taken after August 1, 2025.
• Background: Use a plain white or very light-colored background.
• Dimensions & Size: The standard passport photo dimensions are 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm (width x height). The file should be in JPEG/JPG format with a size between 5 KB and 200 KB.
• Face Coverage: Your face should cover 60% to 70% of the photograph, with a full frontal view looking directly at the camera. Your forehead, eyes, nose, and chin must be clearly visible.
• Prohibited: Do not wear caps, hats, or sunglasses. If you wear spectacles, ensure there is no glare on the lenses. Photos taken with a mobile phone or other self-composed portraits are often of poor quality and may lead to rejection.

Signature: How to Upload a Flawless Image

Your signature must be a clear, legible, and accurate representation of your handwriting. It will be used for verification on the admit card and at the exam center. A mismatch could lead to disqualification.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing your signature image:

• Paper & Ink: Sign on a clean A4-sized white paper using a black or dark blue ink pen.
• No Capital Letters: The signature must not be in all capital letters.
• Scanning & Cropping: Scan the signature using a professional scanner to get a high-quality digital image. Crop the image to the exact border of the signature.
• File Format & Size: The image must be in JPEG/JPG format. The file size should be between 5 KB and 200 KB.

Other Essential Documents for GATE 2026

In addition to your photo and signature, you'll need to upload other documents to complete your GATE 2026 application. Having these ready in the correct format will prevent any last-minute stress.

• Valid Photo ID: A scanned copy of a valid government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar Card, Passport, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Driving License. The name on your application form must exactly match the name on this ID.
• Category/PwD Certificate: If applicable, a scanned PDF copy of your SC/ST/PwD certificate. While OBC-NCL and EWS candidates are not required to upload a certificate at the time of application, they must provide accurate details.

The GATE 2026 application period runs from August 25 to September 25, 2025 (without a late fee). Only Education strongly advises all aspirants to begin gathering these documents immediately. For regular updates and tips on all engineering entrance exams, follow Only Education.