Architecture & planning competitive exam calendar 2026
This calendar lists key graduate-level exams for architects and town planners in India — GATE Architecture & Planning, central/state PSC recruitments, and related cycles. Dates change every year; always confirm on the official notification before planning travel or fees.
Last updated: June 2026 · Sources linked in each row
Upcoming & recurring exams (graduate level)
| Exam / cycle | Typical window | Who it is for | Official source |
|---|---|---|---|
| GATE AR 2027 — registration | Aug–Sep 2026 (expected) | B.Arch / B.Plan graduates for M.Arch, M.Plan, PSU score | GATE portal (IIT Madras · 2027 site when live) |
| GATE AR 2027 — exam | Feb 2027 (expected, 2 weekends) | Same as above | gate2026.iisc.ac.in (prior cycle reference) |
| GATE AR 2026 — result & scorecard | Mar 2026 (published) | 2026 cycle candidates | GATE 2026 portal |
| UPSC Engineering Services (CE) | Prelims Jan · Mains Jun · Interview winter (typical) | Engineering graduates including architecture-related roles where notified | upsc.gov.in |
| State PSC — Assistant Town Planner / Architect | Ad hoc notifications year-round | State-specific; eligibility varies by PSC | Respective state PSC portal (e.g. MPPSC, TNPSC, UPPSC) |
| CPWD / PSU architect recruitment | When vacancies notified | Often GATE-qualified or degree + experience per notification | APJ jobs hub + employer site |
How to use this calendar
- Mark registration open/close dates in your calendar app — GATE closes without extension.
- Cross-check GATE AR syllabus when the new brochure publishes.
- Start PYQ work 8–12 weeks before exam — see GATE AR previous year papers.
- For job-linked exams, watch architecture & planning jobs for recruitment that specifies GATE or PSC scores.
FAQ
Does APJ list school-level exams like NATA or JEE?
No. APJ focuses on graduate exams and jobs for degree holders. School-level UG entrance exams are out of scope for this calendar.
Are these dates guaranteed?
No. We publish expected windows based on prior cycles. Only official notifications are authoritative.
Where is the GATE AR syllabus for the current year?
On the official GATE portal each cycle. Our GATE AR syllabus page summarises sections and links to the free APJ course.
How often is this page updated?
Monthly when major dates shift, and within 48 hours after GATE or PSC notifications we track.