Hey, this is Gurmeet here. If you're an Indian student planning to start your studies in Australia in February 2026, you're looking at the main intake for most universities—it's still the biggest entry point with the widest range of courses, full campus life, and the best scholarship and job opportunities. February (also called Semester 1 or Autumn intake) is when almost everything starts, and getting the timeline right is one of the most important things to avoid stress later. As education consultants who help Indian students with Australian applications every year, we see the same key steps coming up again and again. Here's a clear, month-by-month timeline for February 2026 so you know exactly what to do and when.

Now – October 2025: Research Shortlist Universities Courses

This is the time to decide what you want to study undergraduate, postgraduate, master's, MBA, engineering, business, IT, nursing, etc. February intake offers the full menu of programs at almost every university. Start shortlisting 6–10 universities that offer your course in February 2026, have realistic entry requirements for your marks and profile, provide scholarships or fee reductions for Indian students, and are in cities that suit your budget (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth). Indian students select The University of Melbourne Monash University the University of Sydney UNSW ANU the University of Queensland RMIT Deakin University and Curtin University as their most common choice of universities. Universities provide their intake information through their websites while students can use the Australian Government's Study in Australia portal to verify February intake availability.

November 2025 – January 2026: Prepare Submit Applications

Australian universities begin their application process for February 2026 between the months of August and October 2025 which reaches its peak from November 2025 until January 2026. Take IELTS/PTE if you haven’t already (aim for 6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0 for most programs; some require 7.0).Gather documents: academic transcripts, degree certificate, passport, CV, personal statement/SOP, 2–3 references. Apply directly through the university portal or via an agent (most Indian students use agents for free help with applications). Pay application fee (AUD 100–150 per university). Submit early many universities have rolling admissions, and early applicants get faster offers and better scholarship chances. The February intake in 2026 admission deadlines for Australian universities which hold their 2026 differ between institutions. The top universities of Melbourne Sydney ANU and UNSW establish their international student application deadlines from November 2025 until January 2026.Mid-tier universities accept applications until late January or early February 2026 or until places fill. Apply by December 2025 if possible to stay safe.

February – April 2026: Receive Offers Accept

Universities start giving offers from December 2025 onwards, but most Indian students hear back between February and April 2026. You will get three possible results which include an unconditional offer that you can accept and a conditional offer which requires you to fulfill specific conditions and a rejection which occurs only when your profile does not match. Compare offers by evaluating their tuition expenses and scholarship options and campus locations and course information. The Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) can be obtained after you pay the necessary deposit which typically ranges between AUD 5,000 and AUD 15,000.

April – June 2026: Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)

You need to apply for an Australian student visa after you receive CoE. You should schedule your VFS appointment at least three to four months before your course begins. The visa fee requires payment of AUD 710 which needs to be paid in 2025 according to current pricing. You must provide financial documentation which includes your first-year tuition expenses and your annual living expenses of AUD 24,505 outside major cities and your travel costs. You need to submit proof of OSHC health insurance coverage. The TB test certificate is a requirement for all Indian applicants. The GTE statement will explain your reasons for studying in Australia and your reasons for taking this particular course.

June – July 2026: Pre-Departure Arrival

The process requires students to book flights which must occur between two and four weeks before their academic classes begin. Students need to organize their housing by choosing between university halls and private shared options. Students must attend pre-departure sessions which take place either at the university or through consultant-led programs. Students need to complete their preparation work for orientation activities. The academic schedule will begin between mid-February and early March 2026 which requires students to arrive between late January and early February.

Final Thoughts: Is February Intake Right for You?

The timeline is longer than UK April intake, but it gives you plenty of time to prepare properly. If February feels right, February Intake in Australia 2026 is the classic and strongest entry point. For help shortlisting universities, checking entry requirements, scholarships, applications, visa guidance, or deciding between intakes, contact study in Australia Consultants for Indian students who specialise in Australian pathways, we can guide you step by step. Always check each university’s official website for the latest deadlines, fees, and requirements, things change yearly. February gives you the fullest, most supported start to studying in Australia in 2026. If you want to talk about your profile, course choices, or where to start, feel free to reach out.