Upcoming 2025 Intakes in UK for International Students: Apply Before its Closed
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In 2025, there are 3 intakes in the UK for undergraduate and postgraduate students. The September/October intake (Fall intake) The January/February intake (Winter intake) The April/May intake (Spring intake).
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.
2025 Intakes in UK International Students
September/October (Fall) Intake
Features |
Details for September/October Intake |
Intake Timing |
Starts late September to early October; application deadlines generally February to May (undergraduate UCAS deadline 29 Jan 2025) |
Popularity |
Most popular and traditional intake; largest number of international applicants |
Course Variety |
Widest range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs available |
Preparation Time |
Students have summer months to prepare visas, accommodation, and orientation |
Scholarships & Financial Aid |
Many universities offer scholarships specifically for September intake; amounts vary (£500 to £5,000+); automatic eligibility assessment upon offer |
Application Process |
UCAS for undergraduates (deadline 29 Jan 2025); postgraduate deadlines vary (mostly April–June 2025); early application recommended |
Top Universities |
University of Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, Nottingham Trent University, University of Manchester, and many others |
Benefits |
More course options, better internship and career opportunities post-study, larger peer group for networking |
January/February (Winter) Intake
ٳܰ |
Details for January/February Winter Intake |
Intake Timing |
Starts in January or February; application deadlines ranges September–November of previous year |
Ideal For |
Students who missed September intake or need extra preparation time |
Course Availability |
Limited compared to September intake; choice of universities and programs offer January starts |
Flexibility |
Allows students to start studies sooner instead of waiting for next September |
Application Process |
Direct application to universities (no UCAS for most courses); deadlines vary by institution and program |
Scholarships & Financial Aid |
Fewer scholarships available compared to September intake; check with individual universities |
Top Universities |
University of Leicester, University of Greenwich, Northumbria University, University of East London, etc. |
Benefits |
Smaller class sizes, faster admission decisions, opportunity to catch up with September cohort |
May/June (Spring) Intake
ٳܰ |
Details for May/June Intake |
Intake Timing |
Starts in May or June; application deadlines differs, usually early in the calendar year |
Popularity |
Less common intake compared to September and January intakes |
Course Availability |
Limited options, mainly select postgraduate programs; fewer undergraduate courses available |
Flexibility |
Perfect for students who want to start outside traditional academic cycles |
Application Process |
Direct applications to universities; deadlines vary by institution and program |
Scholarships & Financial Aid |
Comparatively fewer scholarships available; check with individual universities |
Top Universities |
Some universities with specialized postgraduate programs may offer this intake |
Benefits |
Flexibility in start dates; smaller cohorts; potential for quicker entry into certain programs |
Also Read:Scholarships to Study in UK: All You Need to Know
UK Intake 2025 Application Process: Find the Right Time To Apply
Here are the specific timeline to apply for UK Intake in 2025:
Time Period |
Details |
January – February 2025 |
Research universities and courses; shortlist preferred programs |
February – April 2025 |
Register and take standardized tests (IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE, etc.) |
May – June 2025 |
Register with UCAS (for undergraduates); prepare application materials |
End of June 2025 |
Complete and submit UCAS application (final deadline: 30 June 2025) |
February – March 2025 |
Apply to shortlisted universities/colleges (for postgraduates, check university deadlines) |
April – May 2025 |
Receive acceptance letters; prepare for interviews if required |
April – May 2025 |
Apply for student visa and arrange education loan/scholarships |
July – August 2025 |
Prepare for arrival: book accommodation, flights, and finalize travel plans |
September/October 2025 |
Begin your studies in the UK |
Which Intake is Better for the UK?
All the intakes are good for international students. However, the May intake in the UK is better among all. Here are the reasons why?:
Perfect Time to Apply for UK Work Visa:The May intake is ideal for students who could not apply for September or January Intake. Moreover, the May intake in UK is the perfect time to apply for a UK work visa and study in the UK.
Competition for Admission is Least in Summer:The competition for admission is least in Summer intake, which means applicants who are academically average can apply without fear this year.
UK summer intakes have small cohort sizes:UK summer intakes have comparatively smaller cohort sizes , making it easier to get into the program and stay on top of your studies.
Quick Reads:
- Best Courses in the UK for International Students
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) for UK: Format,Tips & Sample
- Cost of Living in the UK for Indian Students & Immigrants
How to Choose the Right Intake in the UK for Your Requirements in 2025?
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.
ٴǰ |
September/Fall Intake |
January/Winter Intake |
May/Spring Intake |
Academic Requirements |
Seamless transition if you finish studies mid-year; aligns with most global academic calendars |
Good for those needing extra time for admissions or missed September deadlines |
Flexible option for those preferring to start outside traditional cycles |
Course Options |
Widest selection of undergraduate and postgraduate courses; nearly all universities participate |
Fewer courses than September, but still many options in popular fields |
Limited courses, mostly in select postgraduate or niche programs |
Admission Competitiveness |
Highly competitive due to large applicant pool; more scholarships available |
Less competitive; easier to secure admission, especially in postgraduate programs; some scholarships offered |
Least competitive; higher chances of admission but fewer scholarships |
Internships & Careers |
Many internships align with this intake, especially summer placements |
Internships available, but planning needed to fit academic schedule |
Fewer structured opportunities; may require additional planning |
Visa & Application Deadlines |
Application window: Dec–July; visa processing can be slower due to high volume; start preparations early for tests and finances |
Application: Sept–Nov (previous year); visa processing is quicker due to fewer applicants |
Application: Jan–Feb; visa processing typically fast; early application recommended |
Top Universities (2025) |
Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, Edinburgh |
Fewer universities participate; check individual university/course availability |
Brunel, Coventry, Greenwich, Chester, Northumbria |
Scholarship Opportunities |
Most scholarships available, including fully funded options; deadlines Oct–Dec (previous year) |
Some scholarships available; deadlines Sept–Oct (previous year) |
Fewer scholarships; check university-specific options |
Which Intakes in the UK Are You Preparing for? Choose the Right One with ÿմ
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 atÿմ. From preparation for TOEFL or IELTS, and visa application processing, to drafting impressive SOP, and university selection, we have got you covered!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which intake is best in the UK for Indian students?
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How much gap is accepted for study in the UK?
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