What are the upcoming intakes in Canada?

Unlike the single intake system in Nepalese universities, Canadian colleges and universities offer three distinct intakes throughout the year, providing flexibility for students to commence their studies at different times. These intakes are commonly referred to as semesters and are structured as follows:

1. Fall Intake in Canada :

This is the primary and most popular intake among Nepalese students, beginning in September. A wide array of programs across various disciplines are available during this period. Application deadlines typically range from December of the previous year to March. For instance, for the Fall 2025 intake, deadlines would generally fall between December 2024 and March 2025.

2. Winter Intake in Canada :

Commencing in January, the Winter intake serves as an alternative for students who may have missed the Fall intake. It offers a substantial selection of programs, though slightly fewer than the Fall. Application deadlines usually occur between September and November of the preceding year. For the January 2026 intake, prospective students should plan to submit applications between September and November 2025.

3. Summer Intake in Canada:

Also known as the Spring intake, this period starts around May and is available for a limited number of programs and institutions. Application deadlines for the Summer intake are typically set between January and February of the same year. For the May 2025 intake, students should aim to complete their applications by February 2025.

Choosing the Appropriate Intake:

Selecting the right intake requires careful consideration of several factors:

  • Program Availability: Not all programs are offered in every intake. It's essential to verify whether your desired program is available during your preferred intake period.

  • Academic Preparedness: Ensure that you have met all academic requirements, including prerequisite courses and standardized test scores, before the application deadlines.

  • Entrance Test Scores: Prepare for and complete any necessary entrance exams (e.g., IELTS) well in advance to ensure your scores are ready before application deadlines.

  • Acceptance Rates: Research the competitiveness of the programs and institutions to which you are applying, as acceptance rates can vary between intakes.

  • Job Opportunities: Consider the alignment of your graduation date with industry hiring cycles, which can influence employment prospects post-graduation.

  • Personal Readiness: Assess your personal circumstances, including financial preparedness and emotional readiness, to embark on studies abroad.

While the Fall intake is highly favored due to the extensive range of programs and opportunities, the Winter and Summer intakes also offer valuable prospects, especially for students who require additional time to prepare their applications or prefer less competitive admission periods. If your application materials, such as test scores or prerequisite courses, are not ready in time for the Fall intake, it is advisable to consider applying for a subsequent intake to ensure a well-prepared and timely application.

Overview of Intakes and Application Deadlines:

Program Type

Intake Period

Application Deadline Period

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs in Universities

Fall – September
Winter – January

December (previous year) – March
September – November (previous year)

Diploma Programs in Colleges

Fall – September
Winter – January
Summer – May

December (previous year) – March
September – November (previous year)
January – February

* Deadlines vary basis institution and your program. Please speak with your IDP counsellor for more information.

Missed the Last Intake? Here's What to Do:

If you have missed the application deadline for your desired intake, consider the following steps:

  • Contact Institutions Directly: Reach out to the admissions offices of your chosen institutions to inquire about the possibility of late applications or any remaining available spots. Some programs may have extended deadlines or rolling admissions.

  • Prepare for the Next Intake: Use the additional time to strengthen your application by improving test scores, gaining relevant experience, or securing financial resources.

  • Consult Educational Counselors: Seek guidance from educational counselors who can provide personalized advice and keep you informed about upcoming application cycles and requirements.

Remember, planning and timely preparation are key to securing admission to your desired program and institution in Canada.

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