Upcoming Intakes in Australia 2026
Your choice of intake and university can impact your graduation timing and your entry into Australia’s major hiring seasons. Align your academic profile with the 2026 university calendars and find your ideal enrollment window. Make an informed decision with this comprehensive guide to upcoming intakes at Australian universities.
Australian universities offer admission to international students in two major intakes and one minor intake. The primary intake in Australia is in February (Semester 1), the secondary intake in July (Semester 2), and the minor intake in November (Semester 3).
Different intakes offer different sets of courses, have varied acceptance rates, and offer unique employment prospects. Aspects like prior academic performance, exam results, and individual circumstances play a significant role in selecting the best intakes in Australia for international students.
The highest number of courses and financial aid opportunities are offered in the February intake, which attracts a diversified student body. The July intake offers an acceptable substitute to applicants who could not get enrolled in February. The November intake offers the fewest course options and is not open for the popular Australian universities.
Let us explore each of these intakes in detail and help you find the best intake in Australia for your education.
Types of Upcoming Intakes in Australia
As discussed before, the three main enrollment periods for international students are February (Semester 1), July (Semester 2), and November (Semester 3).
Semester 1 - Primary / February Intake in Australia: Students from all around the world apply in large numbers for the most sought-after and competitive intake, which occurs in February. It provides the most academic alternatives, a variety of financial aid and scholarships, and a multicultural student body. This intake marks the start of the Australian academic year for most universities.
Semester 2 - Secondary / July Intake in Australia: For those unable to attend the February intake, the July intake offers a suitable substitute. This stands as a good choice for students who could not get into the February intake because it is not as competitive as it was in February.
Semester 3 - Tertiary / November Intake: The November intake in Australia has the fewest number of course options and applications. Not all Australian universities offer admission in the November intake, and even those that offer it only do so for limited programmes. November intake in Australia offers short courses, pathway programmes, or specific postgraduate programmes. Most prestigious universities primarily stick to the February and July intakes.
February, July, or November: what is going to be your best start? The best intake depends on your specific goals—whether you are chasing a top-tier scholarship in February or seeking a faster, less competitive start in November. Do not miss the deadlines and do not leave your entry to chance. Register with us and get your profile evaluated and start your journey toward Australia’s premier universities.
February Intake in Australia (Primary)
The February intake, which draws the greatest number of applications from students across the globe, is referred to as the primary or major intake. Here’s a quick look at the primary / February intake in Australia:
| Primary Intake - Semester 1 | |
|---|---|
| Session Starts In | February |
| Programmes Offered | Widest range of courses, more scholarships and financial aid |
| Application Deadlines | End of October to Mid-December (of the previous year) |
Key Benefits of February Intake in Australia
- The greatest selection of courses offered by colleges
- More options for financial aid and scholarships
- More exposure to different cultures and a diverse student body
- Greater adaptability in beginning the academic career
- Early access to internship and part-time employment opportunities
Application Procedure for February Intake in Australia
- The application procedure takes place in October or November of the preceding year.
- For the February intake, most universities have application deadlines of late November to mid-December (of the preceding year). Some flexible institutions may accept applications until late January.
- Academic transcripts, any supporting documentation, and results from English proficiency tests must be submitted by international students.
Top Universities for February Intake in Australia
Top Australian institutions accepting applications for the February intake include the following:
- University of Melbourne
- University of Sydney
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Monash University
- University of Queensland (UQ)
- Australian National University (ANU)
The February Intake offers the widest range of courses and the most significant scholarship pools, but places at Group of Eight (Go8) universities fill up fast. To secure your spot in Australia’s most competitive intake, register with AECC now. Our experts can help you beat the October–December rush with priority application filing.
July Intake in Australia (Secondary)
In Australia, the July intake is the secondary intake, sometimes referred to as the Semester 2 or T2 intake. Here’s a brief look at the July intake in Australia:
| Secondary Intake - Semester 2 | |
|---|---|
| Session Starts In | July |
| Programmes Offered | Fewer course options than in the February intake |
| Application Deadlines | End of March to End of May |
Key Benefits of July Intake in Australia
- Ideal for people who were unable to enrol in February
- Corresponds to the academic calendar in several nations
- The application process is less competitive than in February
- Allows additional time to gather application paperwork and obtain a visa.
Application Procedure for July Intake in Australia
- The application period runs from January to May.
- For the July intake, most universities have application deadlines ranging from March to late May.
- Similar documentation is required for international students as for the February intake.
Top Universities for July Intake in Australia
Some of the top Australian universities that accept applications for the July intake include:
- University of Melbourne
- University of Sydney
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Monash University
- University of Queensland (UQ)
- Australian National University (ANU)
Missed the February deadlines? Worry not. You still have a path to success. The July Intake is the perfect alternative, offering a lower competition level while still providing access to Australia’s top institutions. We specialise in fast-tracking July applications and finding mid-year scholarship opportunities that others might miss. Register with us to ensure your documents and visa are ready before the March–May deadlines.
November Intake in Australia (Tertiary)
Of the three intakes in Australia for overseas students, the November intake is the least popular. Students searching for a particular course that is only offered in November, it is a viable alternative. The admission is the least competitive among all three intakes. This intake is also sometimes referred to as the ‘Summer Term’ or ‘Trimester 3’, depending on the university's academic structure.
| Tertiary Intake - Semester 3 | |
|---|---|
| Session Starts In | November |
| Programmes Offered | A lesser number of courses are available |
| Application Deadlines | July/August to September |
Key Benefits of November Intake in Australia
- The application process is less competitive than for the intakes in February and July.
- Ideal for those who wish to begin their studies sooner or who were unable to enrol in July
- Allows the opportunity to avoid taking a break from school and start working sooner.
- Has a greater success percentage for visas as a result of less competition and shorter waiting lists
Application Procedure for November Intake in Australia
- The application procedure starts in September, six months in advance of the deadlines for Australia intakes.
- Documents, including academic records, English proficiency tests, and statements of intent, are required for international students.
- Additional documentation, such as GRE or GMAT scores, recommendation letters, and evidence of financial means, may be required by certain colleges.
Top Universities for November Intake in Australia
Some of the universities that offer November intakes in Australia include:
- University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney
- Deakin University
- University of Southern Queensland
- Central Queensland University
- Griffith University
- University of New England
- University of Newcastle
- La Trobe University
- University of South Australia
Eligibility Criteria for Upcoming Intakes in Australia
The prerequisites for admission in Australia differ based on the university and the particular course of study. But a few standard prerequisites for each intake in Australia are as follows:
- Completing secondary schooling or a comparable programme
- Fulfilling the university's minimal academic criteria
- Language proficiency in English (as proven by exams such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic
- Submission of results from standardised tests (GMAT or GRE) for specific programmes
- Relevant work experience (for certain postgraduate programmes)
- Completing any other conditions outlined by the university
Document Checklist for Australian Intakes
International applicants aspiring to apply to either intake in Australia must present the following important paperwork:
- Application Document: Fill out the university's application form online or offline, following their guidelines.
- Academic Transcripts: Send in authentic transcripts of all the years you studied at your former institutions. This ought to be forwarded straight to the university from the issuing organisation.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Write a strong SOP that highlights your professional and academic objectives, programme interest, and pertinent experiences.
- Evidence of proficiency in English: Provide official test results that satisfy the minimal standards of the university for tests like the IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic
- Financial Records: Provide evidence of adequate finances to pay for living expenses and tuition, such as an affidavit of support, bank statements, or letters of scholarship or sponsorship.
- Copy of Passport: Please submit a copy of your current passport's identity page.
- Application Fee: As stipulated by the university, pay the non-refundable application fee.
The Australian universities and the Department of Home Affairs have tightened academic and financial checks. A single missing document or a weak SOP can lead to an immediate visa refusal. Is your Genuine Student (GS) ready for the Australian application? Register with us and let our certified counselors conduct a Document Audit to ensure your financial evidence and English scores meet the strict 2026 standards.
Application Process for Intakes in Australia
The following phases are involved in the application process for all three intakes in Australia (February, July, and November):
- Investigate and Make a Shortlist of Universities: Determine which colleges and programmes best suit your educational and professional objectives.
- Collect the Necessary Paperwork: Gather all required paperwork, including financial statements, English proficiency test results, and transcripts of academic work.
- Application Submission: Make sure you meet the deadlines for the chosen intake in Australia, whether applying to the institution directly or through an education agent.
- Attach Supplementary Documents: Provide any other materials, such as a portfolio, recommendation letters, or a statement of intent, as required.
- Await Admission Decision: After reviewing your application, the university will notify you of its decision. This could be a rejection, an offer of admission, or a request for more information.
- Accept Offer and Pay Expenses: To guarantee your spot if you are accepted, accept the offer and pay the necessary tuition and other expenses.
- Apply for the Australian Student Visa: Use the offer letter from the university to submit an Australian Department of Home Affairs student visa application.
Important Note About Deadlines
- University: Top-tier universities often have earlier deadlines.
- Course/Degree: Highly competitive programmes may close earlier.
- Nationality: Deadlines for international students using agents can sometimes differ from those applying directly.
- Proactive Applications: Students should aim to submit applications 3 to 6 months before the final deadline for highly competitive programmes and prestigious Group of Eight universities, as places often fill quickly.
All three intakes in Australia have their own advantages and requirements. International students should align their intake choice with programme availability, visa processing times, and their academic preparedness.
From intake selection to your first professional role, give wings to your dreams today. Register with AECC today to bridge the gap between your studies and a successful global career. Our experts provide an end-to-end Admissions & PR Roadmap that helps you select courses on the 2026 Skilled Occupation List.