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.
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- 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, some courses may not be available for July or November intake. Make sure to check your course availability before you make a decision.
- Your Academic Readiness
If you’re finishing your +2 or Bachelor by late 2025, then February 2026 is the perfect intake to aim for. If your results will be pending for longer or you’re still preparing for IELTS/PTE, then July 2026 intake gives you more time and feel confident about your application.
- Scholarship Opportunities
The most scholarships are available if you apply for the February intake. For Nepalese students who need high financial support, applying during the February intake significantly increases your chances of obtaining financial support.
- Visa and Documentation Timeline
Usually, Nepalese students face tight visa timelines due to delayed documentation or bank loan approvals. If you think you need some more time for financial preparation or document collection, July or even November intake can give you the time you need without wasting a whole year.
- Admission Competitiveness
The February intake is highly competitive since there are many students applying for seats in almost all of the universities. So, if your academic profile is average or below average, or you have a gap year in your profile, July or November intake can help you progress with admission as there is less competition and flexible entry points.
- PR and Career Planning
The February intake may give you better alignment with post study work visa timelines, graduation season or internship opportunities, especially if you are also planning to apply for PR (Permanent Residency) or skilled migration later on.
Not sure when to apply?
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Note: This blog is written and updated as of July 2025, based on available data and official university information. For further information, you can also check out:
