The UK offers three main intakes for international students: September (Fall), January (Winter), and May (Summer). The September 2025 intake is the most popular, with the widest range of courses and scholarships. January 2026 offers flexibility for late applicants, while May 2026 suits students seeking shorter programs. Apply early, prepare documents, and choose the intake that aligns with your goals for studying in the UK.
The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for international students. Known for its world-class universities, diverse programs and post-study work opportunities, the UK attracts thousands of students every year.
But before applying, it’s crucial to understand when to apply — because UK universities have multiple intakes (admissions seasons) throughout the year.
In this blog, we’ll explain the main intakes in the UK, their timelines, application deadlines and how to choose the right one for your study goals.
What Are Intakes in the UK?
An intake is simply the period when universities open applications for new students.
Unlike some countries that have only one major intake per year, the UK offers three primary intakes, giving you flexibility to plan your study abroad journey according to your academic and personal schedule.
| Intake | Duration | Also Known As | Application Period |
| September/Fall Intake | September–December | Autumn Intake | November – May (Previous Year) |
| January/Winter Intake | January–April | Spring Intake | June – September (Previous Year) |
| May/Summer Intake | April–July | Summer Intake | October – February (Previous Year) |
1. September/Fall Intake in the UK (Major Intake)
The September intake is the largest and most popular intake in the UK. Nearly all universities open admissions during this period, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Key Highlights:
- Most preferred by international students.
- High availability of courses and scholarships.
- Aligns with global academic calendars.
- Plenty of time for visa processing and pre-departure planning.
Timeline for September 2025 Intake:
- Applications Open: November 2024 – May 2025
- Offer Letters & Interviews: February – July 2025
- CAS & Visa Applications: June – August 2025
- Classes Begin: September 2025
Top Universities Offering September Intake:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- University of Manchester
- University of Leeds
- University of Glasgow
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Birmingham
Tip: Apply early to increase your chances of securing scholarships and accommodation.
2. January/Winter Intake in the UK
The January intake is the second-largest and a great alternative for students who missed the September intake. While not all courses are available, it still offers a variety of programs in business, engineering, and computer science.
Key Highlights:
- Ideal for students who need more time to prepare for IELTS or documents.
- Smaller class sizes for better academic support.
- Easier accommodation availability compared to September.
Timeline for January 2026 Intake:
- Applications Open: June – September 2025
- Offer Letters: August – October 2025
- CAS & Visa Applications: October – December 2025
- Classes Begin: January 2026
Top Universities Offering January Intake:
- University of Liverpool
- University of South Wales
- University of Lincoln
- University of Greenwich
- Northumbria University
- De Montfort University
Tip: Double-check course availability, as some programs (especially in law and medicine) may not offer January intake options.
3. May/Summer Intake in the UK
The May or Summer intake is a minor intake — perfect for students who missed earlier deadlines or prefer flexible schedules. Though fewer universities participate, it’s still valuable for vocational and master’s programs.
Key Highlights:
- Smaller number of applicants — faster admission process.
- Best for short courses, MBAs, or specialized postgraduate programs.
- More relaxed visa application timeline.
Timeline for May 2026 Intake:
- Applications Open: October 2025 – February 2026
- Offer Letters: December 2025 – March 2026
- Visa Applications: February – April 2026
- Classes Begin: May 2026
Top Universities Offering May Intake:
- University of Chester
- University of Bedfordshire
- Coventry University
- University of the West of Scotland
- Teesside University
Tip: This intake is ideal for students who need extra time to prepare finances or language test results.
Comparison of UK Intakes (At a Glance)
| Factor | September/Fall | January/Winter | May/Summer |
| Availability of Courses | Highest | Moderate | Limited |
| Scholarship Options | Most Available | Moderate | Few |
| Competition | High | Moderate | Low |
| Visa Processing Time | Longer | Moderate | Short |
| Ideal For | Students ready after high school or college | Late applicants or retakers | Flexible learners or working students |
How to Choose the Right Intake in the UK?
Choosing the best intake depends on several personal and academic factors. Ask yourself:
- When will I finish my current studies?
- Do I have my IELTS/TOEFL results ready?
- Am I financially and emotionally prepared?
- When do my preferred universities accept applications?
If you’re unsure, consult an education counselor (like Stubard) to match your goals with the right intake.
Documents Required for Applying to the UK Intakes
Regardless of the intake, you’ll need:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Passport copy
- Work experience (if applicable)
- Proof of funds (for visa application)
Conclusion
Understanding the upcoming UK intakes helps you plan your applications, documents, and finances effectively.
If you’re ready now, the September 2025 intake offers the widest opportunities, while the January 2026 intake is great for late applicants. The May 2026 intake gives you extra flexibility to catch up.
Whichever intake you choose, plan early, meet deadlines and keep your dream of studying in the UK on track.
Top UK Universities:
- University of London: A Guide for International Students
- Imperial College London: A Complete Guide to Courses, Fees & Admissions
- University of Oxford: What Makes It the Best University in the World?
- Durham University: Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, Courses, and Accommodation
- Lancaster University: Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, and Courses
- University of Exeter: Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, and Courses
- University of Reading: Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, Courses
- University of Birmingham: Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, Courses, and Accommodation
- University of Liverpool: Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, Courses, and Accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main intakes for UK universities in 2025–2026?
The primary intakes for UK universities are the September (Autumn/Fall) intake, January (Winter) intake, and a limited May (Spring/Summer) intake. September is the most popular with the widest range of courses.
2. When should I apply for the September 2025 intake in the UK?
Applications for the September 2025 intake typically open in October 2024 and close by June or July 2025, depending on the university and course. It’s best to apply early to secure your seat and visa.
3. Which UK universities offer January 2026 intake for international students?
Top universities like University of Birmingham, University of Greenwich, Northumbria University, and Coventry University offer January 2026 intake for selected programs, mostly in business, computing, and engineering.
4. Is the May 2026 intake available in UK universities?
Yes, but it’s limited. The May intake is offered by a few universities like Ulster University, University of Roehampton, and University of West London for selected master’s and foundation programs.
5. Which intake is best for international students in the UK?
The September intake is best for international students as it offers more courses, scholarships, and job opportunities. However, January intake is a great option for those who miss the September deadlines.
6. What are the deadlines for January 2026 intake in the UK?
Deadlines vary, but most universities close applications for January 2026 intake by October to November 2025. Some may extend into December if seats are available.
7. Can I get scholarships for the January 2026 intake in the UK?
Yes, many UK universities offer merit-based or course-specific scholarships even for the January intake. Check with individual universities for eligibility and application timelines.
8. How do I choose the right intake to study in the UK?
Choose your intake based on course availability, visa timelines, budget, and graduation goals. September offers more options, while January and May are good if you’re late to apply.
9. How long does the UK student visa process take after applying for an intake?
The UK student visa (Tier 4) typically takes 3 to 6 weeks to process. It’s advisable to apply at least 3 months before your course start date to avoid delays.