When applying to study in the UK, timing is one of the most important parts of your plan especially as an international student. UK universities offer multiple intakes each year, each with its own application windows, deadlines, and timelines for visa processing and course starts.
Here are the main UK study intakes for 2026, what they involve, and when you should apply.
1. September (Autumn) Intake
This is the biggest intake in the UK. Most undergraduate and postgraduate programmes open for September/October 2026 and it offers the widest choice of courses, scholarships, and support services. Nearly all UK universities participate in this intake.
Key Dates & Deadlines
Applications Open:
Around Oct–Dec 2025 for many universities.
Undergraduate Deadlines (via UCAS):
15 Oct 2025 — Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science hard deadline.
14–31 Jan 2026 — Main UCAS deadline for most undergraduate programmes.
After Jan 31, 2026 — Applications go into Clearing if places remain available.
Postgraduate Deadlines:
- Vary by university and course but often Jan–July 2026.
- Competitive scholarships may close earlier in 2025.
Classes Begin:
From September to October 2026.
How to Best Apply for September Intake
Start research and tests (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL) mid-2025 at the latest.
Apply early for scholarships and funding.
Begin visa applications soon after getting your CAS letter.
2. January (Winter) Intake
This intake gives you a second chance if you miss the September cycle — and it’s especially helpful for those still preparing English tests, funding, or supporting documents.
Key Timeline
Applications Open:
Around June–October 2025 for January 2026.
Application Deadlines:
Typically between Oct–Dec 2025, depending on the university.
CAS & Visa Processing:
Often Nov–Dec 2025 ready for final visa steps.
Classes Begin:
January 2026 (Late Jan – Early Feb).
What to Know
- Fewer courses participate compared with September, but many postgraduate and some undergraduate programmes still admit in January.
- Application requirements (documents, English test, finances) remain the same.
3. May (Spring/Summer) Intake
A smaller intake that’s ideal for students who missed both January and September deadlines, or who want exactly that start date. Although fewer universities and programmes participate, it’s particularly useful for certain postgraduate and vocational courses.
Typical Timeline
Applications Open:
Around Oct 2025–Feb 2026.
Application Deadlines:
Usually Feb–Apr 2026 (varies by university).
Classes Begin:
May 2026.
What to Expect
- Smaller applicant pool and sometimes easier to get offers.
- Good option if you need more time to complete documents, tests, or finances.
Summary of UK Intakes 2026
| Intake | Application Opens | Typical Deadline | Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 2026 | Oct–Dec 2025 | Undergraduate UCAS: Jan 2026; Postgrad: Jan–July 2026 | Sept–Oct 2026 |
| January 2026 | Jun–Oct 2025 | Oct–Dec 2025 | Jan–Feb 2026 |
| May 2026 | Oct 2025–Feb 2026 | Feb–Apr 2026 | May 2026 |
Note: Deadlines vary widely by university and course, always check the specific university’s admissions page.
UCAS Key Deadlines You Must Know
For undergraduate admissions via UCAS:
15 October 2025 — Early deadline for Oxbridge and competitive courses (Medicine, Dentistry, Vet Science).
January 2026 — Main UCAS deadline for most undergrad programmes.
26 February – 5 July 2026 — UCAS Extra and Clearing options for late applications.
Clearing can be a useful second chance if your application wasn’t successful or you missed deadlines.
Best Application Practices
Start Early: Good applicants begin planning 8–12 months before intake.
Prepare Documents in Advance: SOP, transcripts, recommendations, test scores.
Respect Deadlines: Especially UCAS deadlines if you’re applying for competitive courses.
Visa Timing: Once you get your CAS, apply for your UK student visa early — processing times vary.
FAQs
Q1: Which intake has the most options in the UK?
September intake. Almost all courses at all levels are available.
Q2: Can you start in January instead of September?
Yes. Many universities offer January intake, especially for postgraduate courses.
Q3: Is May intake widely available?
It’s limited compared with Sept and Jan, but still useful for specific courses.
Q4: When should I start preparing?
Ideally 8–12 months before your intended intake.
Q5: What’s the last date to apply via UCAS?
Most undergrad courses close on 31 January 2026 for equal consideration.
