Academic Year Dates in Australia
The academic year in Australia varies depending on the type of study students are undertaking. Many institutions also offer a mid-year, or second semester start. Start dates and the number of semesters vary by course and institution.
Below is a general guide on the academic year for the different levels of study in Australia:
Below is a general guide on the academic year for the different levels of study in Australia:
Schools
- •Length - 13 years in total (Kindergarten/Preparatory to Year 12)
- •Semesters - 4 (usually called terms')
- •Starts - Late January/early February
English
- • Length - From 5 weeks to 1 year
- • Semesters - The year is split into weeks
- • Starts - Throughout the year
Foundation
- • Length - 1 year
- • Semesters - The semester breaks will depend on students’ course
- • Starts - February but can vary by course and institutions
Vocational Education and Training
- • Length - 1 to 4 years
- • Semesters - Two
- • Starts - February, but can vary by course and institutions
Undergraduate
- • Length - Typically 3 years (4 years for honours degree)
- • Semesters - Two, although some institutions offer three semesters (trimesters)
- • Starts - Typically March, but can vary by course and institution
Postgraduate
- • Length - 1 to 2 years
- • Semesters - Two, although some institutions offer three semesters (trimesters)
- • Starts - Typically March, but can vary by course and institution
Doctoral
- • Length - 3 years
- • Semesters - As most doctoral candidates do not attend class, there are usually no formal semester
- • Starts - Students’ start date will be negotiated with their supervisor