Which intakes can I apply for an MSW in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand?
Fall or September is the main MSW intake in the USA, UK and Canada, while February is a major, though not the primary, intake in Australia and New Zealand. January, May or July intakes may exist at selected universities. Start preparing 8 to 12 months ahead.
The main MSW intake is September in the UK and Canada, August to September in the USA, and February is a major (not the only) intake in Australia and New Zealand, where starts vary (February, March, June or July). Smaller intakes may be available at selected universities. How many intakes you get depends on the university and the country.
MSW Intakes by Country
| Country | Main intake | Other possible intake |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Fall, around August to September | Spring in January at selected universities |
| UK | September (Autumn) | January, depending on the university and programme |
| Canada | Fall, September | January winter intake and a May summer intake at selected universities |
| Australia | February | July (Semester 2) at selected universities |
| New Zealand | February, for many postgraduate programmes | June or July at selected universities |
When to Start Preparing
The main intake usually offers the widest choice of courses. Begin preparing around 8 to 12 months before your preferred intake so you have time to shortlist universities, take an English test, write your SOP and gather recommendation letters, apply for scholarships and complete the visa process.
My Advice
Work backwards from your target intake and set a date for each step, starting with your English test. Check each university's MSW page to confirm which intakes it actually runs, since smaller intakes are offered only at selected institutions.
Australia Feb, Jul or Nov 2027: Which Intake Can You Still Apply For?
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