How to Plan Your Study in Australia: The Best Time to Apply & Ideal Intakes 

If you’re serious about studying in Australia, timing is everything. The school year, application windows, and language test schedules can all make or break your plan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through when and how to apply so you don’t miss out on your preferred semester or wind up scrambling at the last minute. 

Begin up to one year in advance. One Education team recommends starting your application process a full year before your intended start date. For example, if you want to begin in February 2026, you could start applying as early as February 2025. This early timeline gives you enough buffer to handle any bumps missing documents, interview scheduling, or delays from English test scores. 

✅ Good news: You don’t have to wait until you graduate to apply. A predicted result or your first semester’s grades might be sufficient for application purposes.  

⚠️ Exception: Some specialized courses (e.g., Medicine) may have different or stricter application timelines. Please check with One Education for more information. 

While you may not need to submit your English test score (such as IELTS) when you first apply, you will likely need it later to satisfy the “conditions” in your offer letter. Without meeting this condition, you might not be able to enroll in your chosen semester.  

It’s wise to plan your English test (IELTS or equivalent) early. Ideally with enough time to retake it if you don’t achieve the required score the first time.  

💚 Our recommendation: April is a practical target for obtaining your test score if you’re aiming for a February intake, because some universities offer pre-session English courses starting between September and January.  


🟢 Thinking about studying in Australia? Contact One Education, the official representative, for free advice and support every step of the way! Add Line: @one-edu or submit an enquiry form 


Once you receive your offer, it’s smart to accept it promptly, especially if you’ve already made all the preparations. Paying your deposit early can secure your spot. Without that payment, your “offer” isn’t truly guaranteed. 

Why hurry? Rules and quotas can change. Things like visa regulations or university admission policies might shift, and early commitment helps lock in your place. You’ll also give yourself more time to arrange housing and visa paperwork without the stress of a last-minute scramble.  

If you’re feeling unsure about your timeline, English test planning, or university choices, One Education’s consultants can guide application timeline for you. Our team has 30+ years of experience working with Australian universities, including those in the Group of Eight. Our service is free of charge. 


For more information and assistance with the application process, you can contact One Education, an official representative of Australian Universities. We offer free consultation and support throughout your application journey.   
Add our Line official account: @one-edu   
Submit an enquiry form. We will get back to you as soon as possible.    
Call us: 02-652-0718     

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ONE EDUCATION

We are an official representative of UK and Australian universities. We provide free counselling and services to support Thai and international students in Thailand.

30 years experience
Over 30 Years Experience

UK and Australian education experts

3 offices in Thailand
3 office locations

Across Bangkok, Thailand

Group of Eight Representative
Group of Eight Representatives

Represent all Group of Eight universities

Russell Group Representatives
High Ranking UK Universities

Represent prestigious universities

Qualified Education Agent
Qualified Education Agents

As a consultant for studying in the UK and Australia

Support 3,000+ students
Support over 3,000 students

Both Thai and international students in Thailand

One Education brings the professional services of Thailand's leading education advisors, Hamilton International's UK expertise together with Insight Education Consulting's Australia expertise. One.