Have you heard that 1.8L Indian students went to Australia to pursue higher studies?
Australia is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Sydney Opera House, world-renowned academic institutions such as the University of Melbourne, and the breathtaking beaches of the Gold Coast. However, do you know the best time to apply to study in Australia?
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The country offers three annual intakes: February, July, and November, each with unique benefits. As an international student looking to study in Australia, you need to know which is best for you.
Let’s quickly take a look at the three intakes in Australia:
- February intake in Australia is the most popular and significant, offering international students various scholarships and networking opportunities.
- July intake provides flexibility and coincides with the winter break, making it a favourable option for Indian students who want to align with their university academic year-end.
- November intake is the least popular and has limited options, but it can be a good choice for adding on courses or gaining specific skills and knowledge.
Keep reading to learn more about the deadlines, application process, eligibility criteria and more.
What are the Main Intakes in Australia in 2025?
Australia’s main intakes for higher education are in February, July, and November, with February offering the broadest range of courses across all universities.
Most undergraduate and postgraduate programs are available this February, which aligns with the start of the academic year.
The July intake is smaller but offers a good selection of programs, allowing students to begin their studies mid-year.
Some universities also have a November intake, particularly those on a trimester system, which provides opportunities for accelerated programs or specialised courses. Application deadlines vary but generally fall a few months before the start of each intake.
February Intake in Australia for 2025 (T1)
February is Australia’s most popular and major intake, T1. All the courses in this intake are available for international students, including Indian students. Completing your course in the second half of the year allows students to align with the high hiring seasons and potentially secure internships or employment opportunities.
Check below the details for the February intake in Australia 2025:
| Category | Details |
| Application Deadline | Between October and November of the previous year. |
| Classes Start | Last week of February |
| Universities | All Australian universities offer February Intake |
| Program | All of the UG and PG programs are offered |
Benefits of opting for February Intake:
- Various universities offer scholarships and financial aid opportunities for students commencing their studies in Semester 1. These scholarships may include both merit-based and need-based options.
- Semester 1 in Australia has many orientation programs and networking events. These events provide students with the opportunity to connect with their peers.
- It helps international students, including Indian students, to align their visa application timelines with their universities’ academic calendars, facilitating a smooth transition from the application process to the start of the semester.
Let’s explore some famous universities offering the February intake in Australia.
- University of Melbourne
- Australian National University
- Monash University
- University of Queensland
- University of Western Australia
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July Intake in Australia for 2025 (T2)
The options available during the July intake in Australia are similar to the first semester, are also known as the T2 intake, and are deemed the secondary intake in Australia. You can apply to UG, PG, PhD and research programs. However, you might only have access to some courses in this intake, and the university only offers some majors.
Check below the details for the July intake in Australia 2025:
| Category | Details |
| Application Deadline | Between April and May |
| Classes Start | Last week of July |
| Universities | Almost all the universities offer July intake |
| Program | Majorly all of the UG and PG programs are offered |
Benefits of opting for July Intake:
- It provides flexibility to the students, especially those who want to plan their studies or have missed the deadline for the February intake.
- Many universities and organisations specifically offer scholarships and financial aid for the July intake.
- The July intake coincides with the winter break from June to July. The break provides the student with the opportunity to engage in part-time opportunities and gain experience in the industry.
- It perfectly aligns with the Indian university academic year-end, and it is one of the biggest advantages for Indian students.
Let’s explore some famous universities offering the July intake in Australia.
- Australian National University
- Monash University
- University of Western Australia
- University of Technology, Sydney
- University of Adelaide
November Intake in Australia 2024-25 (T3)
Unlike the two main intakes in Australia, the third intake, also known as T3, is the least popular. The November intake is the least popular because it has limited university options, a small class size, and few courses available. Applying for add-on courses to boost your credentials or gain skills and knowledge from certification is a good intake.
Check below the details for the November intake in Australia in 2025:
| Category | Details |
| Application Deadline | September |
| Classes Start | Last week of November |
| Universities | Limited universities offer November intake |
| Program | Limited programs are offered in the November intake |
Let’s explore some famous universities offering the November intake in Australia.
- Bond University
- Australian National University
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Charles Sturt University
- CQ University
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How to Choose the Right Intake in Australia?
Choosing the right intake in Australia involves considering several key factors beyond simply aligning with application deadlines.
Here’s how you can approach this decision:
- Course Availability: Ensure the program you wish to study is offered during the intake you’re considering. While February offers the most variety, not all courses are available in the July or November intakes.
- Application Readiness: Consider when you will be ready to submit a complete and competitive application. If you’re still gathering documents like academic transcripts and English proficiency scores or awaiting scholarship decisions, it might make sense to target a later intake.
- Visa Processing Time: Student visa processing can take time, so choose an intake that gives you enough time to secure your visa. February intake might require you to apply earlier, while the July intake gives you a mid-year start.
- Financial Planning: Ensure you have enough funds secured for tuition, living expenses, and travel by the time your intake begins. Some students might need more time to prepare financially, making a later intake a better option.
- Academic Calendar Considerations: Consider how the intake fits your current academic calendar, especially if you are finishing previous studies. Some students prefer the February intake as it aligns with the end of the academic year in many countries, while others might prefer July if they need extra time to prepare.
Also Read: PTE Score Required for Australia
What is the Application Process for Intakes in Australia?
You should know that intakes for masters in Australia and bachelors are the same. For intakes in Australia, you’ll need to prepare and gather some documents, such as academic transcripts and certificates, to start the application process.
Let’s look at the step-by-step guide to Intakes in Australia:
Step 1: Research and Choose a Course/Institution that aligns with your goals and plans. After shortlisting, you should check the eligibility requirements of the course and the university.
Step 2: You may start preparing your application documents to meet your preferred intake deadline. Usually, required documents include Academic Transcripts and Certificates, a Resume and Proof of English Language Proficiency.
Step 3: Once you have gathered all the required documents, you should fill out the Online Application Form and process the payment of the application fee available on the university website. Once paid, submit your application.
Step 4: You may receive an offer letter from your preferred university if you get shortlisted.
Step 5: After receiving the offer letter, accept it and pay the tuition fee deposit to block your seat at the university.
Step 6: Apply for a student visa
Step 7: Attend Health Examinations (if required)
Step 8: Plan your travel itinerary when you receive your visa approval.
Also Read: Cost of Living in Australia for International Students in 2024
Documents Required for Application Process during Intakes in Australia
Documents for the application process can vary depending on the institution and course. Providing the required documents is particularly important for international students, including Indian students, to ensure compliance with Australian immigration and education regulations when studying in Australia.
Universities and institutions can use documents to verify the credibility of the information applicants provide.
Here are the documents needed for the application process in Australia:
- Application Form
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation
- Research Proposal (for Research Programs)
- Passport Copy
- Photographs
- Proof of Financial Capacity
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Previous Institutions (if applicable)
- Application Fee Payment Receipt
- Additional Documents (if applicable)
Also Read: IELTS Score for Australia
Summing Up
After analysing the various aspects of the intake process in Australia, it is inferred that there are several factors that you need to consider before submitting your applications. The factors include understanding the admission requirements, meeting the English language proficiency standards (IELTS, TOEFL & PTE), choosing the right course and institution, and the necessary documents.
Remember the deadlines and information required for the intake process. If you need further guidance on which intake to choose, you can contact our LeapScholar team for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I get into Australian Institutions after 12th?
A. Yes, you can pursue higher education in Australian institutions after completing 12th grade. Many universities and colleges offer undergraduate programs that accept students directly after their secondary education. However, specific entry requirements, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency, must be met. It’s advisable to check the eligibility criteria of the desired course and institution, and students may also need to provide standardized test scores such as IELTS or equivalent.
Q. How many intakes do Australian universities have?
A. Australian universities typically have two main intakes: Semester 1, which starts in late February to early March, and Semester 2, which begins in late July to early August. Some institutions also follow a trimester system with three study periods in a year: Trimester 1 (around February), Trimester 2 (around May), and Trimester 3 (around September). Additionally, there may be optional intakes during the summer and winter breaks, providing flexibility for certain courses.
Q. Which Australia intake month is best for international students?
A. The best Australia intake month for international students often depends on individual preferences and academic timelines. The two main intakes are Semester 1 (late February to early March) and Semester 2 (late July to early August). The best intake depends on program availability, academic calendar alignment, and personal circumstances.
Q. What is the right to apply for Australia intakes?
A. The right time to apply for Australia intakes is typically several months before the intended semester starts. For Semester 1, applications often open around mid-year of the previous year (June or July); for Semester 2, applications begin around the same time. It’s crucial to check the specific application deadlines of the chosen institution and program.
Q. Which intake is best for Australia?
A. The best intake for studying in Australia depends on individual preferences and circumstances. The two main intakes are Semester 1 (late February to early March) and Semester 2 (late July to early August). Semester 1 is considered the primary intake, aligning with the beginning of the academic year, while Semester 2 offers a mid-year entry option.
Q. When can I apply for February intake in Australia 2024?
A. For the February intake in Australia 2024, you can typically start applying around one year before the academic year begins. Applications often open in the previous year, approximately in the year’s first half. It’s advisable to check the official websites of the universities or institutions offering the desired programs for the most accurate and up-to-date information on application opening dates and procedures.
Q. How long does it take to get a student visa for Australia?
A. The processing time for a student visa for Australia varies, but it generally takes around 4 to 12 weeks. Factors such as the type of visa, the completeness of your application, and the specific circumstances can impact the processing time.
Q. Can international students work in Australia while studying?
A. Yes, international students in Australia are generally allowed to work part-time while studying. The standard student visa allows students to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the regular academic session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
Q. Can I apply to Australian universities after the specified intake deadlines?
A. In many cases, applying after the specified intake deadlines for Australian universities may be possible, but it is subject to the university’s policies and the availability of places in the desired program. Late applications might be considered on a case-by-case basis
Q. Are scholarships available for both February and July intakes?
A. Scholarships are available for both the February and July intakes, but here is a catch: The number of scholarships in the July intake will be less than the February intake.
Q. Are there any specific eligibility criteria for international students applying for the November intake?
A. There isn’t a specific “November intake” widely recognized across Australian universities. However, if you are referring to the second semester or mid-year intake, generally occurring in July, the eligibility criteria for international students remain similar to other intakes. International students are typically required to meet academic qualifications, English language proficiency standards, and any specific program-related requirements.
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