Thousands of GATE 2027 aspirants were stuck at the same wall: their DigiLocker account wasn’t verified, and the portal wouldn’t let them proceed. IIT Madras has now changed the rule — you can register even with an unverified DigiLocker account. Here’s exactly what changed, what you must do instead, and why you shouldn’t wait, with the deadline days away.
What actually changed
GATE 2027 DigiLocker rule: before vs now
A verified DigiLocker account was effectively needed to complete registration — and verification delays were locking students out near the deadline.
You can register with an unverified DigiLocker account. Pick the default ID proof and continue — your details are checked after the deadline.
In short: DigiLocker verification is no longer a wall between you and your application. This matters most for candidates who created a DigiLocker account late and couldn’t get it verified in time. (DigiLocker itself applies to Indian nationals; foreign nationals follow the separate ID route.)
If your DigiLocker is unverified: do this
- Select the default ID proof during the application, instead of waiting for DigiLocker verification.
- Complete and submit your registration and fee before the deadline — don’t let verification hold you back.
- Carry your original documents to the exam hall. Applications with unverified accounts are scrutinised after the registration deadline, and originals are checked at the centre.
Which documents you actually need
A lot of the DigiLocker panic was unnecessary — most candidates don’t need to upload much at all:
| Category | DigiLocker / document upload |
|---|---|
| General / OBC-NCL / EWS | No DigiLocker uploads required |
| SC / ST | Category certificate must be uploaded in the specified format |
| Academic marksheets (10th, 12th, UG, PG) | No DigiLocker upload required |
The fees
| Category | Regular (by 27 Sep) | With late fee (by 5 Oct) |
|---|---|---|
| SC / ST / PwD / Female | ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 |
| All other candidates | ₹2,000 | ₹2,500 |
The dates that matter
New to GATE 2027?
Get the full picture in our GATE 2027 application guide — eligibility, step-by-step registration, fees and dates.
Quick answers
Can I really register without verifying DigiLocker?
Yes. IIT Madras now lets you register with an unverified DigiLocker account — select the default ID proof and proceed. Your application is scrutinised after the deadline and originals are checked at the exam hall.
Do General/EWS candidates need to upload anything on DigiLocker?
No. General, OBC-NCL and EWS candidates are not required to upload DigiLocker documents. Only SC/ST candidates must upload the category certificate.
What is the last date to apply?
27 September 2026 without a late fee, and 5 October 2026 with the late fee. The exam is held on 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21 February 2027.
Does this apply to foreign nationals?
DigiLocker is for Indian nationals. Foreign national candidates follow the separate identity-document route specified in the GATE 2027 guidelines.
Should I still verify DigiLocker if I can?
Yes, if you have time — a verified account makes later checks smoother. But if verification is delayed, don’t let it stop you from registering before the deadline.