Preparing for Fall Intake 2026? A Step-By-Step Application Guide For Indian Students

Fall intake, also known as the September intake, is the most popular academic term for Indian students applying to universities in the US and Canada. Every year, fall intake sees a strong wave of global applicants, and now is the perfect time to start preparing for fall intake 2026 if you want to be one of them. Fall intake is usually preferred by Indian students over the spring intake, as it aligns better with the academic calendars of most universities and provides ample time for students to prepare. This makes it the ideal choice for those planning their higher education journey abroad. Additionally, the fall intake offers the widest range of courses, scholarships and research opportunities compared to other intake seasons.

Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s degree or a master’s programme, this step-by-step guide will help you plan your Fall 2026 intake and stay ahead of deadlines, from shortlisting universities to acing your English proficiency test.

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Choose a Course

The first step in your study abroad journey is understanding what you want to study and why. Are you drawn to the innovation and problem-solving of computer science? Interested in the growing demand for data analysts and AI specialists? Or do you want to explore creative fields like media studies, design or public health? The US and Canada offer some of the world’s best programmes in these areas, with Indian students often gravitating toward courses like Computer Science, Data Science, Business Management, Public Health and Engineering.

Step 2: Research Universities

After narrowing down your course and country, take time to research individual universities. Explore which universities are known for the course you wish to apply for. For instance, in the US, institutions like NYU, Columbia University, the University of Chicago and Northeastern University offer world-class programmes and accept a broad range of applicants, including those submitting the Duolingo English Test (DET). In Canada, the University of Toronto, McGill University and the University of British Columbia are among the top picks, and they, too, recognise the DET as valid proof of English proficiency. Also, look at course structure, internship and research opportunities, tuition fees and scholarships available for you.

Step 3: Understand Application Requirements

Most universities list detailed eligibility criteria on their websites, including required academic scores, language proficiency tests, SOP (Statement of Purpose) and Letters of Recommendation. The Statement of Purpose is especially important. This is your chance to explain why you’ve chosen the course, how it aligns with your career goals and why you’re a good fit for that university. Make sure your application tells a cohesive story, balancing academic achievements, extracurricular involvement and future aspirations.

Step 4: Choosing the right English Proficiency Test

As an Indian student applying to universities in the US and Canada, demonstrating English proficiency is non-negotiable. While tests like the IELTS and TOEFL have traditionally been popular, there’s a growing shift toward more flexible, accessible options like the Duolingo English Test (DET), which is accepted by over 5700 universities globally.

- The DET is entirely online and can be taken from your home, anytime.

- It takes just about an hour to complete and delivers results in 48 hours, making it ideal for students juggling multiple application deadlines.

- It’s also one of the most affordable tests available globally at just $70 USD with no additional costs for sending scores to universities.

- Uses adaptive technology to adjust questions based on proficiency level, ensuring a fair and stress-free experience.

- You can take unlimited practice tests for free on the DET website.

- DET scores remain valid for two years, providing flexibility in planning study-abroad applications.

- It includes an integrated video interview and writing sample, offering admissions teams a more complete picture of your communication skills.

Thousands of top universities in the US and Canada accept the DET from Ivy League institutions to leading state universities and liberal arts colleges. This includes names like Yale, University of Chicago, NYU and Duke in the US, as well as McGill, UBC and the University of Alberta in Canada. Choosing DET gives you access to a wide range of global options with less hassle and a more student-friendly format.

Step 5: Explore Scholarships and Financial Aid

Financing your education abroad is often one of the biggest concerns, but there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available for Indian students, both merit-based and need-based. Many Canadians universities also offer automatic entrance scholarships, such as the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) programmes, while US institutions may provide research or teaching assistantships, especially at the graduate level. Make sure you check the scholarship deadlines, which may be earlier than regular application deadlines. A strong academic record, well-written essays and even your English proficiency score (like a high DET score) can strengthen your scholarship application.

Step 6: Get Ready for Visas and Departure

After you’ve received your admission offer, the next step is applying for a student visa. For the US, you’ll need an F-1 visa, while Canada requires a study permit. Both require proof of admission, financial documents, a passport, and your English proficiency score. If your chosen university accepts the Duolingo English Test, it can significantly streamline the visa process. The process can take a few weeks, so start early. While you wait, you can look into on-campus housing or nearby apartments, connect with other incoming students, and attend any pre-departure sessions offered by your university.

Planning to study in the US or Canada in Fall 2026 is an exciting journey, and with the right steps and the right test, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The Duolingo English Test is designed for the way today’s students learn and apply: it’s fast, flexible and widely accepted. As you put together your dream application, let DET be your smart pathway to getting there.