Intakes in Australia: When Should Nepalese Students Apply for the 2025 Academic Year?
Australia continues to be one of the top study destinations for Nepalese students who are looking for a high-quality, world class education as well as high paying job opportunities. Before applying for study in Australia, it is very crucial to choose the right university and course that matches your interest. However it is equally important to consider the timing while applying for abroad studies, which most students often overlook. Any delay in the application process can make all your efforts go in vain. It can cost you a seat in your desired university, your preferred course or chances of scholarship or even an entire academic year. If you wish to study in Australia in 2025-2026, knowing when to apply for different intakes in Australia is the starting point of getting accepted and enjoying your time studying in Australia! Intakes In Australia for International Students Australian universities usually have three major intakes each year for international students: February, July and November. Each intake offers different opportunities with regard to courses, scholarships and visa timelines. Students need to determine which intake is best for them, their academics and personal circumstances. February Intake (Semester 1) : The main intake with the most courses and scholarships at nearly all universities. July Intake (Semester 2) : The mid-year intake, which offers a variety of popular courses, although there may be slightly fewer places and scholarships. November Intake (Semester 3/Summer) : A smaller intake and only offered at selected universities with limited options. For Nepalese students, the February 2026 intake would be the most ideal intake, especially for students who will complete their +2 or Bachelor’s by the end of 2025 and want complete access to the best programs and funding. February Intake: The Primary Choice The February intake, also known as Semester 1, is the primary and most popular intake. Nearly all the universities in Australia offer their full range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs during this period and it has the biggest field of scholarships and seats available. The February intake matches with Australia’s hiring and internship seasons too. So, students are in the best position to find work experience during or post-college. Therefore, it’s the most competitive but also the best alternative to start your education in Australia. Courses available: Full range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across all major disciplines Universities participating: Almost all universities including Monash, ANU, Deakin, UniMelb, UTS, UNSW, and many more Best for: Students completing +2 or Bachelor’s in 2025, or planning a gap year Key Deadlines for February 2026 Intake: Application opens: July 2025 Application closes: November – December 2025 Classes commence: February 2026 Recommended Action in 2025: March – May 2025: Research and shortlist universities and courses. May – July 2025: Gather academic and financial documents July – August 2025: Take IELTS/PTE Test August – October 2025: Apply to desired university and preferred course of choice October – November 2025: Wait for application assessment. November – January 2026: Apply for student visa and explore scholarship. January – February 2026: Time to fly to Australia, look for accommodation options. July Intake: The Secondary Intake The July Intake, also known as Semester 2, is a mid-year alternative with minor offerings of courses and programs. However, there are many courses that have a high level of intake such as IT, engineering, nursing and business, among others. July intake is the best option for students who missed the February deadline or need an additional time to complete their English pathway requirements, financial arrangements or document requirements. Courses available: Good selection in Business, IT, engineering, nursing, health sciences and more Universities participating: CQU, UniSA, Monash, UNSW, Griffith, RMIT, Macquarie and more Best for: Students who miss their February intake or are completing their studies in early 2026 Key Deadlines for July 2026 Intake: Application opens: February 2026 Application closes: April – May 2026 Classes commence: February 2026 Recommended Action in 2025: August – October 2025: Research and shortlist universities and courses. October – December 2025: Gather academic and financial documents December – January 2025: Take IELTS/PTE Test January – March 2025: Apply to desired university and preferred course of choice March – April 2025: Wait for application assessment. April – June 2026: Apply for student visa and explore scholarship. June – July 2026: Time to fly to Australia, look for accommodation options. November Intake: The Limited Option The November Intake, also known as Semester 3 or Summer intake, is the least common and limited option for international students. It typically includes limited programs; primarily focuses on vocational courses, diploma programs and selected postgraduate courses. While it offers flexibility for late applicants, it may not be ideal for everyone due to narrower course range and fewer scholarship opportunities. Courses available: Limited programs, mostly in Business/It and diploma levels Universities participating: La Trobe, Deakin, Griffith, CQU, Kaplan, Federation Best for: Students who want quick entry, are applying late or whose courses are available in this intake Key Deadlines for November 2026 Intake: Application opens: Around June – July 2026 Application closes: September – October 2026 Classes commence: November 2026 Recommended Action : December 2025 – February 2026: Research and shortlist universities and courses. February – April 2026: Gather academic and financial documents April – June 2026: Take IELTS/PTE Test June – August 2026: Apply to desired university and preferred course of choice August – September 2025: Wait for application assessment. September – October 2026: Apply for student visa and explore scholarship. October – November 2026: Time to fly to Australia, look for accommodation options. How To Choose The Right Intake as a Nepalese Student Choosing the right intake time is an important step in your study journey. For a Nepali student, this decision depends on a number of academic, financial and personal circumstances. Here’s how you can assess your best decision: Course Availability Many universities offer their full range of available programs and courses in February intake, including competitive courses in nursing, business, IT and engineering. For many smaller or regional universities,

