Intakes in Australia: What You Need to Know for 2025

When deciding on the best intake in Australia, consider the following factors: 

• Availability of Your Course: Some programs are only available during specific intakes. Check your specific school and program of interest to confirm. 

• Academic Readiness: If you are graduating from a Canadian school, but need time to improve your language test scores or prepare documents, a later intake may be better, so you have ample time beforehand.  

• Scholarships and Financial Aid: There is more availability during the February intake, including the Australian Awards Scholarship, which opens for applications on February 1 for 2026. ​​ 

• University-Specific Deadlines: Some universities follow multiple round-based admission cycles, like the University of Sydney and UNSW and some prestigious business schools.

Intake timing can differ from school and program, but Australian universities and colleges typically offer three primary intakes similar to the following: 

1. February Intake (Semester 1) – Primary Intake 

• Start Date: Early February to early March 

• Application Deadline: October–November (previous year) 

• Course Availability: Most undergraduate and postgraduate programs, research degrees 

• Scholarships: Various scholarship opportunities, including the Australian Awards Scholarship and awards/scholarships offered by Australian schools. 

• Best For: This is the main intake stream and is best for students looking for maximum course availability.  

• Advantages: Aligns with many scholarships and courses/programs. It also has the most availability for spots which means higher acceptance rates. 

2. July Intake (Semester 2) – Secondary Intake 

• Start Date: Early July to late August 

• Application Deadline: May - June 

• Course Availability: A variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, though fewer than the February intake. 

• Scholarships: Limited compared to February intake 

• Best For: Students who missed the February deadline, need more time to prepare their documents or secure financial aid.  

• Advantages: Less competition, smaller class sizes, and better faculty interaction 

3. November Intake – Minor Intake/Summer School 

• Start Date: Late November to early December 

• Application Deadline: September - October 

• Course Availability: Select postgraduate programs, vocational courses, and diplomas or other short-term programs.  

• Scholarships: Fewer than the other intakes 

• Best For: Students looking for quick entry into the academic year or wanting to do extra courses via summer school.  

• Advantages: A good option for students seeking academic flexibility 

Make sure you check your individual Australian school and program for the most accurate information and deadlines for applications. However, this is generally what you can expect for each intake for 2025.  

1. Research and Choose Your Intake & Course – Check your school’s website for program availability, specific intake deadlines and start dates.  

2. Meet Admission Requirements – Ensure you meet the English language proficiency and academic criteria. 

3. Prepare Required Documents: According to the Government of Australia’s Study in Australia page, the documents required will vary depending on the school and the program you are applying for. It is best to refer to your school for the most accurate information. But generally, you may be required to supply documents such as:  

• Valid passport 

• Academic transcripts 

• English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores) 

• Grading system 

• Certificates of any completed degrees 

• Documentation for scholarships 

• CV or Resume 

• Letter of Recommendation (LOR) 

• Statement of Purpose (SOP) 

• Other documents as specified by your individual university or college 

4. Submit Your Complete Application – Use your school’s portal to submit your application before the deadline. Double check to make sure you have all necessary documents completed in full. 

5. Receive Offer Letter – If selected, you will receive an offer letter from the university. 

6. Pay Tuition Fees & Apply for a Visa – Once accepted, pay tuition fees and apply for a ​​Student Visa (Subclass 500) using your Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) and other documents. 

7. Plan Your Travel & Accommodation – Book flights and secure your student housing before your course starts. 

Myth 1: February Intake is the Best Options 

Reality: While February is considered the primary intake, this does not mean that other intakes are less promising. Depending on your goals and needs, the July and November intakes also offer great prospects for schools, courses, and financial aid. 

Myth 2: July Intake is Easier to Get Into 

Reality: This is not necessarily true. Admission requirements remain the same for all intakes, but competition may be lower in July since it is considered a minor/summer school intake.  

Myth 3: Scholarships Are Only Available for February 

Reality: While February has the most funding options, many universities still offer scholarships for July and November intakes. 

Which intake you decide on depends on your career and study goals, your chosen degree and program, and what funding opportunities you want to pursue. While February, as the primary intake, provides the most options, there are still many opportunities and benefits to the July and November intakes, depending on your needs and priorities. Regardless, make sure you plan early and check in with ​​student visa requirements processing times using the Government of Australia’s tool, so you are prepared for what is ahead. 

Legal Disclaimer: IDP Canada is not a registered migration consultant and does not provide immigration services or provide immigration advice. The contents of this page are for general information only and is based on information from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website, which you can access through: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/. Information can change from time to time. For the most up to date information visit the website.