The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2025 will be conducted on February 1, 2, 15, and 16, 2025. It will be conducted in two shifts. As thousands of students are appearing for this prestigious exam, it is essential to adhere to all GATE 2025 exam day guidelines to have a hassle-free experience.
GATE 2025 is one of the most competitive exams for admission to postgraduate engineering courses and recruitment in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). To avoid last-minute hassles, we have compiled essential information about the GATE 2025 exam timetable, required documents, prohibited items, and exam-day strategies.
GATE 2025 Exam Timetable and Shift Details
| Exam Date | Shift 1 (Morning) | Shift 2 (Afternoon) |
| February 1, 2025 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
| February 2, 2025 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
| February 15, 2025 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
| February 16, 2025 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM | 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
One-Day Prior Checklist: Essential Documents and Preparation
It is usual for candidates to forget important documents on the day of the exam. To avoid last-minute stress, ensure the following items are ready a day before the exam.
Documents to Carry:
- GATE 2025 Admit Card – Print it in A4 size, single-sided.
- Valid Photo ID – Aadhaar-UID, Passport, PAN card, Voter ID, Driving License, or any other government-issued ID.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph – It should match the one uploaded during registration.
Items Permitted in the Examination Hall:
- Black or blue pen
- Transparent water bottle
- Face mask and pocket-sized hand sanitizer
Prohibited Items:
- Electronic devices (smartphones, smartwatches, calculators)
- Study materials, books, or notes
- Wallets, purses, metallic items, or jewelry
Tip: Candidates should visit the exam center one day before the exam to avoid last-minute confusion about the location.
GATE 2025 Exam Day Guidelines
Before the Exam:
- Report to the center 90 minutes before the start time of the exam.
- Entry closes 30 minutes after the start of the exam; candidates will not be allowed in thereafter.
- Login opens 20 minutes before the exam. Candidates can read instructions during this time.
- Scribble pads will be provided for rough work. Candidates should write their name and registration number on it before use and return it before leaving the hall.
During the Exam:
- Use the Virtual Calculator – No personal calculators are allowed. A scientific calculator will be provided on the exam screen.
- Time Management is Crucial – Start with one-mark questions, then move to two-mark questions.
- Mark Doubtful Questions – If unsure, mark the question for review and revisit it later.
- Avoid Negative Marking – Do not guess answers for MCQs, as incorrect answers will lead to a deduction of marks.
After the Exam:
- Ensure all answers are saved before the test is submitted.
- Ensure there are no unanswered questions
- Carry the scribble pad back before leaving.
