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How Early Should You Apply To Study Abroad?

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    How Early Should You Apply To Study Abroad?

    If you're hoping to study abroad, here’s something you need to know: the process of applying to overseas universities can get pretty complicated.

    You’ll have to take certain standardized tests, compile relevant documents for your application, write admission essays… the list goes on and on.

    At this point, you might have a ton of questions running through your head, including…

    What’s the typical college application timeline?

    What are the deadlines to apply?

    What do I need to do to apply?

    In this blog post, we demystify the process of applying to overseas universities, and walk you through all that you need to know!

    When Do You Start Applying To University?

    Simply put, the deadlines for applying to college depend on two factors: which country you’re applying to, and whether you apply through early decision or regular decision.

    We’ve outlined the relevant dates for applying to colleges in the UK, Australia and more in the following sections, so read on to find out more!

    Intakes for Canada Universities

    When it comes to applying to Canada universities, you’ll often be required to prepare documents like a Letter of Intent, language results like IELTS, a complete application for your course, proof of funds and also have your education assessed with an Educational Credential Assessment if you have not studied in Canada before.

    If you’re unsure or need reassurance when it comes to applying, simply make an appointment with one of our friendly counsellors who’ll provide free advice and even give you study abroad tips. This applies to other destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and the UK.

    In general, these Canada has three available intakes:

    Canada University Intakes

    Fall

    Stars in the month of September

    Winter

    January

    Summer

    Around April and May

    Additionally in Canada, there are varying intakes for universities and colleges, and with that, deadlines differ as well. Here's a quick overview:

    Programme

    Intake

    Deadline

    University Undergraduate or Postgraduate

    Fall - September
    Winter - January

    December - March
    September - November

    College Diploma

    January
    May
    August/September

    August - September
    January - February
    February - April

    Intakes for UK Universities

    Most UK universities will require you to send in a “personal statement” with your application, but there are no standard tests (such as the SAT test) that you’ll have to take to apply.

    If you’re hoping to study Medicine or Dentistry in the UK, applications for these courses typically open in early September and closes in mid-October.

    The same goes for all other courses at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge - applications open in early September and close before the end of October.

    In general, you're looking at these timelines:

    Intake for UK Universities

    Term 1

    September to December

    Term 2

    January to April

    Summer

    April to June

    Do check with the specific university you want to attend to confirm their admissions deadline, and if they require you to sit for additional (non-standard) admissions tests.

    Generally speaking, we recommend that you start preparing to study in the UK two months prior to when admissions close.

    Intakes for Australian Universities

    For those applying to Australian universities, you’ll require a Statement of Purpose, resume, school certificates, two letters of reference, an IELTS score sheet and a copy of your Birth Certificate.

    In Australia, universities generally have two intakes in February and July, with some universities offering intakes also in September and November. For international students, admission deadlines are as follows:

    Intake

    Deadline

    Semester 1 (February Intake)

    October - November

    Semester 2 (July Intake)

    April - May

    This differs from university to university, but generally speaking, Australian universities normally take 4 to 6 weeks to process your application.

    If you’re hoping to study in Australia, you’ll want to play it safe, and start preparing for your applications seven months prior to when admissions close.

    Study Abroad and Experience Life in Another Country

    Here at IDP, we’ll walk you through the process of applying to study overseas, including:

    • Giving you advice on what course to take

    • Applying for your course and student visa

    • Preparing for your departure guide

    Want to take the first step in embarking on an amazing adventure? Find a course on IDP today!

    One account for all your study abroad needs

    Create your profile and unlock a wide array of features including personalised recommendations, fast-tracked applications and much more.

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