Upcoming intakes in Australia 2025-2026

Australia has long been a sought-after destination for international students, offering world-class education and a multicultural environment.

Whether you're dreaming of studying in vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne or exploring regional campuses, the upcoming intakes in Australia offer various possibilities. Students eager for an enriching educational journey will find plenty to choose from.

In this article, we will delve into the upcoming intakes in Australia for the academic year 2025-2026. If you want to study in Australia, you need to follow the procedures outlined below, which include deadlines, qualifying requirements, application procedures, and associated benefits.

Popular intakes in Australia

Australian universities and institutions offer three major intakes – February, July, and November – to accommodate international students' varying needs and preferences.

1. February intake

The February intake, often referred to as the first semester or main intake, stands out as the most popular intake for international students. This intake marks the beginning of the academic year for most Australian universities and institutions.

Typically, application deadlines for the February intake fall between August and November of the previous year.

This intake is ideal for students wishing to begin their academic journey in Australia and experience a pleasant Australian summer. Starting in February enables students to align their studies with the Australian academic calendar, making it easier to transition to further studies or employment opportunities there.

Also read: Courses in Australia for international students

2. July intake

The July intake, known as the mid-year or second semester intake, ranks second most popular among international students. Application deadlines for the July intake typically range from March to May.

This intake is an excellent choice for students who either miss the February intake or require additional time to prepare for their studies in Australia.

The July intake offers flexibility in the academic calendar and provides opportunities for students to engage in part-time work or internships during the Australian winter months.

Also read:Undergraduate courses in Australia

3. November intake

The November intake, also known as the summer or tertiary intake, serves a niche group of international students. Application deadlines for the November intake usually fall between June and August.

This intake is primarily designed for students who want to commence their studies during the Australian summer months. With a wider range of course options available than the others, it can be an excellent choice for those with specific program requirements or personal preferences regarding the Australian climate.

Intakes in different destinations

• Intakes in USA
• Intakes in UK
• Intakes in Canada
• Intakes in Ireland

Benefits of various intakes in Australia

The Australian education system offers multiple intakes throughout the year, each with unique benefits. These intakes cater to international students' diverse needs and preferences, providing flexibility and options to align with individual circumstances.

Benefits of February intake in Australia

• Wide range of programs
• Full campus experience
• Summer season
• Post-higher education work opportunities

Benefits of July intake in Australia

• Tailored preparation
• Specialised programs
• Seamless transition
• Internships and part-time work opportunities

Benefits of November intake in Australia

• Flexibility
• Smaller cohorts
• Focused studies
• Balanced weather

How to apply for different intakes in Australia

Each major intake – February, July, and November – follows a similar application process but with distinct timelines.

The general steps that most international students will need to follow are:

Step 1. Research and choose programs - Research universities and programs that are both interesting and offer something substantial for your academic and professional goals. Consider course content, reputation, location, and post-higher education work opportunities.

Step 2. Check eligibility - Make sure you review your programs' eligibility criteria again to ensure you haven't missed anything and confirm that you meet all the prerequisites.

Step 3. Prepare documents - Gather and organise all the necessary documents, including transcripts, test scores, SOP, letters of recommendation, and others listed in the university's requirements.

Step 4. Apply online - Set up an online account on the university's application portal and ensure you accurately input your personal information and program preferences.

Step 5. Upload documents - Upload the required documents to your application portal. Make sure each document is properly scanned and clear.

Step 6. Pay application fee - Follow the university's instructions to submit the application fee and keep a transaction record.

Step 7. Submit application - Before finalising, carefully review your application to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Step 8. Track application status - Utilise the application portal to monitor the progress of your application. You might also receive notifications via email regarding any additional requirements.

Step 9. Get accepted - If the university loves your application, you'll receive an offer letter you'll have to accept. This letter will have the details you need about your fees, program, etc.

Step 10. Confirm enrollment - Following an offer, follow the instructions to accept the offer and confirm your place in the program. This might involve paying a deposit.

Step 11. Apply for a student visa - Start the application process after accepting the offer. Gather the required documents and submit your visa application online.

Step 12. Attend pre-departure orientation (if available) - Many universities provide orientations to aid your journey to Australia. Attend these sessions to gather useful information and insights.

Don't miss these proven Statement of Purpose (SOP) templates. Download now for free!

Documents checklist

When applying for an intake in Australia as an international student, you will need to prepare a set of documents to support your application for a student visa and admission to an Australian educational institution.

While the specific requirements may vary depending on your chosen course and institution, here is a general checklist of documents that are commonly required:

• Valid passport
• Visa application form (student visa subclass 500)
• Visa application fee
• Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
• English language proficiency
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Financial capacity
• Health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover - OSHC)
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
• Resume/CV
• Passport-sized photos
• Health and character certificates

Also read: Australian student visa requirements

Popular universities with various intakes in Australia

Many universities in Australia provide multiple intakes, making it easier for international students to access these sought-after programs.

Here are some popular universities in Australia known for their diverse intake options:

February intakes in Australia

• University of Melbourne
• Australian National University
• University of Queensland
• Monash University
• University of Sydney
• University of New South Wales
• University of Adelaide
• The University of Western Australia
• University of Technology Sydney
• University of Canberra

July intakes in Australia

• Australian National University
• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• University of New South Wales
• University of Queensland
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Monash University
• The University of Western Australia
• University of Adelaide
• University of Technology Sydney

November intakes in Australia

• Australian National University (ANU)
• The University of Melbourne
• The University of Sydney
• The University of Queensland
• Monash University
• The University of Western Australia
• The University of Adelaide
• University of Technology Sydney
• The University of New South Wales
• University of Wollongong

Which intake should you opt for?

Selecting the right intake in Australia is a critical decision when planning to study abroad. Your choice should align with your academic goals, personal circumstances, and preferences.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding which intake to opt for:

1. Academic readiness - This includes various aspects, such as preparing your documents, applying to universities, choosing a program, arranging your finances, and getting ready to study. These processes take time, so you can prepare accordingly and select your preferred intake.
2. Program availability - Different programs may be available in specific intakes. Research the availability of your desired course or program to ensure it aligns with your chosen intake. Some programs may only offer admission in February or July, so check the specific program requirements.
3. Part-time work opportunities - The July intake is advantageous if you plan to work part-time to support your studies and living expenses. Starting in the Australian winter allows you to explore part-time job opportunities during your studies.
4. Weather preferences - Australia's climate varies throughout the year. Consider your weather preferences when choosing an intake. The February intake allows you to experience the Australian summer with warm and sunny weather. In contrast, the July intake provides a cooler winter experience. The November intake aligns with the Australian summer if you prefer a warm climate.
5. Scholarship availability - Some universities and institutions offer specific scholarships to certain intakes. Research scholarship opportunities for each intake to see if you qualify for financial support.
6. Personal circumstances - Consider any unique circumstances that may impact your intake choices, such as family commitments, visa processing times, or previous work or travel plans. Ensure your chosen intake aligns with your current situation.
7. Transition plans - Think about your long-term plans. If you intend to transition to further education or seek employment opportunities in Australia after completing your studies, starting in February may be beneficial, as it aligns with the Australian academic calendar and graduation cycles.
8. Networking opportunities - Different intakes attract different cohorts of students. Think about the potential networking opportunities and social experiences you seek. 
9. Application deadlines - Be aware of application deadlines for your chosen intake. Ensure you have sufficient time to prepare your application materials, including academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, and visa requirements.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer on which intake you should choose. Your decision should reflect your unique circumstances and goals. 

Also read: Australian scholarships for Pakistani students

Australia remains a top choice for students seeking high-quality education, and its diverse intake system plays a pivotal role in accommodating the needs and aspirations of a global student population.

You might also like

• Postgraduate courses in Australia

Frequently asked questions

Do undergraduate and postgraduate programs have separate intake periods in Australia?

Universities generally offer intakes for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. However, the availability of specific programs might vary based on the intake.

What are the benefits of applying for the February intake?

The February intake aligns with the Australian academic calendar's first semester, offering a comprehensive range of programs and a vibrant campus experience.

Is GRE or GMAT necessary to apply for intakes in Australia?

It's important to note that not all programs mandate GRE or GMAT scores. To ascertain their necessity, refer to the admission prerequisites of your selected program.

What English language tests are recognized for the November 2024 intake in Australia?

Universities in Australia typically accept IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge English scores for English language proficiency.

Which is the best intake for international students in Australia?

The February intake is the best of the three. It is also known as the primary intake in Australia. The next intake is in July, known as the secondary intake. 

When do Australian university applications open for 2025?

If students want to apply for Australian universities in 2025, the deadline for February intake is between October and November 2024. 

What is the application deadline for Australia in 2025?

The popular intake deadlines are listed below:

• February intake: October - November of the previous year
• July intake: May
• November: September

This is the common intake deadline for Australian university applications. However, the deadlines may differ based on the course and institution guidelines.

Is November intake best for Australia?

Yes, the November intake is an ideal choice for international students who want to study in Australia. This intake offers students more flexibility and access to various courses.

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