GATE 2026 Mock Tests Now Live — Paper-wise Practice Tests Released by IIT Guwahati

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, the organizing institute for GATE 2026, has officially activated the paper-wise mock tests on its website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in. This crucial step provides all aspirants with a realistic, high-fidelity simulation of the Computer Based Test (CBT) environment for the exam scheduled in February 2026. Taking these free, official mock tests is indispensable for mastering time management, familiarizing oneself with the interface, and identifying final preparation gaps. All 30 paper links are live now for immediate practice.

The final phase of preparation for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 has officially begun. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, this year's organizing institute, has released the official mock tests for all 30 test papers on its website, providing a vital tool for aspirants in the crucial months leading up to the examination. The GATE 2026 exam is scheduled to be conducted on the weekends of February 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2026, in two daily sessions (Forenoon: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and Afternoon: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM IST).

​The mock tests are not mere sample papers; they are high-fidelity simulations designed to perfectly replicate the actual Computer Based Test (CBT) interface, navigation tools, and on-screen calculator. For the lakhs of candidates vying for seats in M.Tech./M.E./Ph.D. programs at IITs, NITs, and IIITs, or for coveted Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) jobs, integrating these mock tests into their daily schedule is no longer optional—it is a mandatory final step. With the exam just over two months away, the immediate focus should be on rigorously practicing under timed conditions using the official platform.

​Accessing and Utilizing the Official GATE CBT Simulation

​The official mock tests are available for free on the GATE 2026 website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in, and can be accessed without providing any login credentials. This accessibility ensures that every aspirant can familiarize themselves with the exact testing environment.

• ​Simple Access: Candidates only need to navigate to the 'Mock Test Links' section on the official website and click on their respective subject link (e.g., Computer Science & Information Technology (CS), Electrical Engineering (EE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), etc.).
• ​Interface Familiarity: The mock test precisely mimics the functionalities available in the actual exam, including: 
  • ​The virtual calculator interface and its limitations.
  • ​The question palette indicating answered, unanswered, marked for review, and not-visited questions.
  • ​The process of switching between sections, including the General Aptitude (GA) section (15 marks) and the subject-specific paper (85 marks).
• ​Two New Papers Included: The mock links cover all 30 papers, including the newly introduced Data Science & Artificial Intelligence (DA) paper and the new sectional paper on Energy Science (XE-I) within the Engineering Sciences (XE) paper, allowing candidates to fully grasp the structure of these new formats.

​ Strategic Benefits of Attempting Official Mock Tests

​Solving these official, paper-wise mock tests is perhaps the most effective way to transition from theoretical knowledge to high-stakes exam performance. The benefits extend far beyond simply testing subject knowledge.

• ​Mastering Time Management: The GATE exam is a rigorous 3-hour test (180 \text{ minutes}) involving 65 \text{ questions}. Mock tests force aspirants to practice the delicate balance of allocating time across MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions), MSQ (Multiple Select Questions), and NAT (Numerical Answer Type) questions to ensure all 100 marks are attempted efficiently.
• ​Accuracy and Speed Enhancement: Consistent practice under timed pressure sharpens the ability to solve problems quickly and minimizes calculation errors, a common pitfall in high-pressure exams. Mock tests help establish a crucial Question-Attempt Strategy (e.g., which section to attempt first, how much time to dedicate to the GA section).
• ​Identifying Weakest Links: The performance analysis derived from mock tests provides an objective assessment of knowledge gaps, pinpointing specific high-weightage topics or subjects that require immediate and intensive revision. This allows for focused study during the final preparation phase, optimizing the limited time remaining.
• ​Building Exam Endurance and Mental Fortitude: Sitting through a full 3-hour computer-based test session is mentally exhausting. Regular mock tests build the necessary physical and mental stamina required to maintain focus and accuracy throughout the entire duration of the actual GATE 2026 examination.

​ The Final Countdown: Key Dates for GATE 2026 Aspirants

​With the registration and application correction windows now closed, the focus is entirely on the examination and subsequent results. Aspirants must align their mock test schedule with the critical dates provided by IIT Guwahati.

• ​Admit Card Availability: Expected in January 2026. Candidates must download and verify their details, including the assigned exam slot.
• ​GATE 2026 Examination Dates: 
  • ​February 7, 2026 (Saturday)
  • ​February 8, 2026 (Sunday)
  • ​February 14, 2026 (Saturday)
  • ​February 15, 2026 (Sunday)
• ​Official Result Announcement:March 19, 2026 
  • ​The GATE score remains valid for three years from the date of result announcement, allowing flexibility for admission and PSU recruitment applications.
• ​COAP Counselling Portal: The Common Offer Acceptance Portal (COAP), used for centralized M.Tech. admissions across IITs/NITs, typically opens shortly after the result in late March 2026.

​Conclusion

​The release of the official GATE 2026 mock tests by IIT Guwahati is the ultimate signal to ramp up preparation. As the exam dates in February 2026 rapidly approach, all aspirants must immediately integrate these paper-wise simulations into their study plan. Using the official CBT interface is essential for converting hard-earned knowledge into a high GATE score, opening doors to advanced studies and prestigious careers. Start your official mock test series today to optimize your final two months of preparation.

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