Which intake is right for a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Technology graduate with 2 years of work experience?

The intake decision here is really about course availability, not urgency. A smaller, earlier intake can feel like it saves time, but it usually comes with fewer programme choices than the country's main intake, which matters more once you factor in your 2 years of relevant experience.

Main Intakes By Country

Why Your 2 Years Of Experience Matters Here

• Strengthens eligibility: it supports applications to MSc Information Technology, MSc Data Science and similar technical master's programmes.
• Widens course choice: the main intake at most universities offers more of these programmes than a secondary intake does.
• Improves application timing: applying to a main intake gives you more time to prepare a stronger application around your work experience.

How To Plan Your Application Timeline

Work backward from your target intake rather than starting applications close to the deadline. For a September UK intake or a Fall Canada intake, most universities open applications 10 to 12 months in advance and expect IELTS scores, transcripts, a statement of purpose and reference letters submitted at least 4 to 6 months before classes start. With 2 years of IT work experience, budget extra time to get a detailed reference letter from your current employer, since admissions teams increasingly expect it to describe specific projects rather than a generic confirmation of employment. Once you receive an offer letter, an education loan sanction and any pre-departure documentation typically take several more weeks, so applying to the main intake a full year ahead leaves you comfortable room rather than a rushed final quarter.

This Information Is Also Available On

RMIT University's own international student intake page, which lists Australia's primary and secondary intake timings for postgraduate courses.

My Advice

In my experience, applicants sometimes choose the earliest available intake purely to start sooner, then discover their preferred specialisation is not offered in that smaller intake. Confirm which specific master's programmes run in each intake at your shortlisted universities before deciding, rather than assuming every course is available year round.