Intakes in the UK 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students
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The UK continues to be among the top 3 study destinations in the world alongside the USA and Australia because of its globally recognized universities, diverse culture, and educational heritage. On average the UK hosts over 500,000 international students annually. Along with the unique benefits of studying in the UK, students can enjoy a vibrant social life with a wide range of clubs, cafes, concerts, and cultural events.
If you are aspiring to study in the UK in 2025, it is crucial that you understand the different intakes the UK universities offer. This guide will help you understand the intakes in UK universities including the key dates, deadlines, top courses, and other important information.
Intakes in the UK 2025: Types and Details
UK universities offer three major intakes for international students. These intakes are the entry points for new students to begin their courses. Each intake serves different purposes and has its own advantages and disadvantages based on the course and university you choose. In 2025, the primary intakes in the UK are:
| Intake | Months |
|---|---|
| Fall Intake | September/October |
| Winter Intake | January/February |
| Summer Intake | May |
September Intake in the UK 2025
The September intake, also known as the Fall intake, is the largest and most popular intake in the UK. Most students, both domestic and international, prefer this intake due to the wide range of courses offered and the alignment of graduation with job opportunities.
UK September Intake Application Deadlines
Applications for the September intake UK generally start early in the year and deadlines can range from January to June. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot and receiving a scholarship.
| Courses | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | January 29 (UCAS deadline) |
| Postgraduate | Between December and June |
Why Choose the September Intake in the UK?
The September intake in the UK offers many benefits for international students. A few of the best benefits of September Intake in the UK include:
- Maximum Course Availability: Most undergraduate and postgraduate courses are available during the fall intake.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Many universities offer a wide range of scholarships and financial aid during this intake.
- Job Market Timing: Completing your degree during the summer makes it easier to align with hiring cycles, giving you an advantage over securing a job after graduation.
Also Read: Scholarships to Study in the UK
Top 5 September Intake Universities in the UK
Major universities in the UK offer the September intake. Here is the list of the top universities with September intake in the UK.
| University | Top Courses |
|---|---|
| Imperial College London | Business Analytics, Management, Finance, Engineering, Medicine |
| University of Oxford | Computer Science, Medical Sciences, MBA, Fine Arts, History & Politics |
| University of Cambridge | Economics, Computer Science, Architecture, Engineering, MBA, MBBS, Finance, Management |
| University College London | Anthropology, Law, Media, Architecture, Data Science, Computer Science |
| University of Edinburgh | Computer Science, Psychology, Engineering, MBA, Data Science, Sound Design |
How to Apply for the September Intake in the UK?
The UK September intake, being the most popular intake in the UK, has very high competition. So adequately applying for this intake is very important. Here is how you can apply for the September intake UK.
- Start Early: Start researching about different universities and courses well in advance. Check course requirements, eligibility criteria, and other relevant details according to your academic interests.
- Prepare for Language Tests: If you are a non-native English speaker, you will need to demonstrate your English proficiency by taking standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Start preparing for these tests early to ensure you meet the minimum score requirements.
- Submit Your Application: Complete your application through the UCAS portal or the university’s application system. Make sure to include all required documents such as transcripts, English language test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- Final Decisions: Some universities will require you to attend interviews. After attending interviews, your application will be reviewed and universities will start sending offers to successful applicants. After you receive all your offers, check all conditions and decide on your preferred university within the given time.
Quick Reads:
- Best Courses in the UK for International Students
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) for the UK
- Cost of Living in the UK for Indian Students & Immigrants
January Intake in the UK 2025
The January intake in the UK, also referred to as the Winter intake, is the second most common intake in the UK. It provides an additional opportunity to students who may have missed the fall intake or need extra time to prepare for admissions.
UK January Intake Application Deadlines
The January intake universities in the UK allow students to join in the middle of the year. Make sure to plan ahead and submit all necessary documents within the given timeframe.
Application Deadlines:
| Courses | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Between October and December |
| Postgraduate | Between September and November |
Why Choose the January Intake in the UK?
Choosing universities with January intake in the UK can be beneficial in many ways. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose the January intake in the UK.
- Lower Competition: Compared to the September intake, the January intake sees fewer applicants, which can increase your chances of getting admission.
- More Time to Prepare: For students needing extra time to prepare for admissions, improve their language skills, secure funding, or any other requirements, opting for Jan intake universities in the UK is the perfect choice.
- Catching Up on Missed Applications: If you missed applying for any university during the September intake, this is a great second opportunity to submit your application and secure admission.
Quick Reads: Cost of Studying in the UK
January Intake Universities in the UK
The January intake in the UK has a lesser number of universities and courses for students compared to the September intake. Find below the list of universities in the UK for January intake.
| University | Top Courses |
|---|---|
| University of Manchester | Business Analytics, Adult Nursing, Accounting & Finance, International Business Management, Digital Marketing Communications |
| King’s College London | Data Science, International Management, Banking & Finance, Cyber Security |
| University of Warwick | Economics, English Literature, Advanced Clinical Practice, Accounting & Sustainability, Behavioural and Data Science |
| University of Birmingham | Management, Data Science, International Business, Human Resource Management |
| Queen Mary University of London | Finance, Management, Computer Science, Commercial and Corporate Law, Investment & Finance |
How to Apply for the UK’s January Intake?
The January intake works as an excellent second chance for international students who may have missed the September intake or needed more time for admissions.
While universities with Jan intake in the UK offer a smaller range of courses compared to the September intake, it still provides a valuable opportunity for students to begin their academic journey. Here is how you can prepare and apply for the universities in the UK for the January intake.
- Start Early Research: Start researching for universities and courses that offer January intake options. You can begin your preparations between September and October. Review all the requirements for your desired courses and start preparing for them.
- Prepare for English Language Tests: Begin preparing for standardized English language tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE from October to November. Aim to meet or exceed the minimum required score to improve your chances of admission.
- Submit Applications: Submit your application through the university’s admission portal or the UCAS portal. Make sure to submit all the required documents within the given deadline.
- Prepare for Interviews: You will need to sit for interviews at some universities. Research and prepare for common interview questions related to your field of study
- Respond to Admission Offers: After reviewing your application, universities will start giving you either a conditional or unconditional offer. A conditional offer will require you to meet certain criteria before admission. Check all important factors and choose the university that meets your requirements.
Quick Reads:
May Intake in the UK 2025
The May intake or the Summer intake is usually less common and available for a limited number of courses. This intake is ideal for students looking to take specialized short-term courses or certain postgraduate programs.
May Intake Application Deadlines
The application deadline for May intakes depends on the universities. The process generally starts around January and deadlines run until March. Make sure to check the university portals for the specific timeline for admissions.
Why Choose the May Intake in the UK?
The May Intake is known as the less competitive intake in the UK. However, it has its advantages to offer to the students. The benefits of choosing May intake universities in the UK include:
- Fewer Applicants, Less Competition: The May intake has a lower number of applicants compared to the other two intakes. This makes it easier for applicants to secure admission.
- Specialized Course Offerings: Some UK universities offer specialized courses during the May intake, like short-term professional programs or niche postgraduate degrees.
- Job Benefits: As the number of students in the May intake is lesser, the competition for a job after graduation may also be lesser. Students will have better chances to land a job after graduation.
Also Read: May Intake Universities in the UK
May Intake in the UK Universities 2025
The May intake in the UK is offered by a selective number of universities. Students can mainly find specialized courses in this intake. Here is the list of May intake universities in the UK.
| University | Top Courses |
|---|---|
| Coventry University | Business Management, Applied Biosciences, Adult Nursing, Health and Wellbeing |
| University of Kent | Applied Chemical Science, Applied Bioscience, Chartered Manager |
| Northumbria University | Banking and Finance, Data Science, Business Analytics, Hospitality and Tourism |
| Brunel University | Life Sciences, Advanced Clinical Practice |
| Ulster University | Marketing, International Business with Human Resource Management, International Business with Data Analytics |
How to Apply for May Intakes in the UK?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the May intake in the UK and what you can do to stand out during the process.
- Early Research: Unlike the September or January intake, not all UK universities offer the May intake. It is crucial to start early research on which universities are offering the May intake and create a list of them.
- English Language Test Preparation: Most UK universities require proof of English proficiency for international students. They accept the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE tests. Start preparing for the tests and meet the minimum score requirements.
- Submit Application: Gather all the required documents for admission like academic transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Submit your application through the university admission portals with the necessary documents.
- Admission Offers: After submitting your application, universities will review your application and send you admission offers. Check all the details about the admission and accept admission based on your academic requirements and budget.
Quick Reads:
How to Choose the Right Intake in the UK for Your Requirements?
Choosing the right intake can depend on various factors, including your academic aspirations, course preferences, and personal circumstances. Each intake in the UK offers distinct benefits based on your academic and personal preferences. Selecting the correct intake is a critical decision that needs careful planning and consideration of multiple factors.
Here is a guide to help you decide which intake is best for you and your academic needs.
| Factors | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Readiness | If you finish your current studies by mid-year, the September intake provides a seamless transition. For those who need extra time for admissions, the January intake is a great alternative. |
| Course Availability | The September intake offers the widest selection of courses, particularly for undergraduates. Comparatively, the January and May intakes have fewer courses. Check specific program availability in each intake and start your preparations accordingly. |
| Admission Competitiveness | The September intake is highly competitive due to the large number of applicants. January and May intakes are less competitive, making it easier to secure a place, especially in postgraduate programs. Scholarships may be more available for September intake applicants, but January and May intakes have some options too. |
| Internships and Career Opportunities | Many internships align with the September intake, offering placements in the summer months. January and May intake also provide work opportunities, though they may need more planning around academic schedules. |
| Visa and Application Deadlines | Visa processing can take longer during the busy September intake due to the high volume of applications. January and May intakes tend to have quicker visa processing times because of fewer applications. Each intake has different deadlines, so start your preparations early to allow time for entry exams and financial requirements. |
Also Read: Chevening Scholarships in the UK: Eligibility & Application Process
Which Intakes in the UK Are You Preparing for? Choose the Right One with GetGIS
Studying in the UK is an enriching experience for students. By understanding the different intakes in the UK, international students can plan their applications more effectively. You will need to make sure to align your decision with your academic goals, course availability, and financial preparations before you choose one of the three intakes.
To choose the right option for your academic requirements, seek guidance from our experts at GetGIS. From preparation for TOEFL or IELTS, and visa application processing, to drafting impressive SOP, and university selection, we have got you covered!
Suggested Readings
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Is IELTS required for the UK?
How much gap is accepted for study in the UK?
Is the UK January intake good?
