Intakes in UK
Study Abroad Expert October 4, 2023

Upcoming Intakes in UK

The UK’s academic year is divided into three main terms: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Among these, the Fall intake is the most important for Indian students. As one of the key intakes in UK for Indian students, the Autumn term usually begins in September or October. It is the most popular intake for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. It offers the broadest range of programs and opportunities. 

For Indian students, the Autumn intake is the best time to start studying in the UK. It provides more course options, scholarships, and a chance to experience a lively campus atmosphere with many new students. While the Spring and Summer terms also offer intakes in the UK, they are smaller in comparison and have fewer course options. 

How Many Intakes are there in UK? 

Excited to study in the UK? There are three intakes in the UK for undergraduate and postgraduate students:  

  • September intake (Fall intake)  
  • January intake (Winter intake)  
  • April intake (Spring intake) 
Upcoming Intakes in UK 2025  Time Frame  Applications open 
September Intake/Fall Intake  September to December  December-July of the previous year  
January Intake/Winter Intake  January to April  September-November of the previous year  
May Intake/Spring Intake  May to August  October-November of the previous year 

When choosing the proper intake for studying in the UK, factors such as course availability, scholarships, and personal preferences are important.  

The intakes in the UK are typically divided into three main categories, offering students various options to start their academic journey based on their goals and availability. 

1. September/Fall Intake in the UK 

The UK intake 2025 for international students is an essential opportunity for those looking to study in the United Kingdom. 

  • The September or fall intake is an essential enrollment period for UK universities. It attracts many international student applications.  
  • Approximately 80% of all applicants prefer this intake, primarily due to the broader selection of courses available and the scholarship opportunities that come with it. 
  • This intake gives students more opportunities to pursue their desired courses at their dream universities.  
  • The application window for the UK intake 2025 typically opens in December and closes in July.  
  • For postgraduate or master’s courses, application deadlines may differ, so students should check specific dates for their desired programs. 

Top 5 universities in September/Fall intake in the UK 2025 

As students prepare for the fall intake in the UK 2025, here are the top five universities that stand out for international applicants. 

University Name  Global ranking  Average tuition fees 
University of Cambridge  2  £24,507 
University of Oxford  3  £33,050 
Imperial College London  6  £35,100 
University College London  9  £35,000 
The University of Edinburgh  22  £38,500 

When to Apply for September Intake in the UK 2025? 

Understanding the key timelines for intakes in the UK is crucial for prospective students planning to apply for the September intake in 2025. 

 

Months   Timeline 
April to May 2024  Shortlist universities and find important deadlines and requirements by visiting their websites. 
June to December 2024  Based on your chosen universities’ program requirements, prepare for standardised tests like GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS.  

 

While waiting, start drafting your Statement of Purpose (SOP) for the UK and gather necessary documents like transcripts and letters of recommendation. 

December 2024 to July 2025    The next step is to complete and submit the application forms for your chosen universities and the required documents per their guidelines. 
April 2025 to July 2025  After submitting your applications, wait for the universities to respond. Once you receive offer letters, choose the one that best fits your preferences. Then, if needed, apply for education loans and scholarships. 
June to August 2025  Begin your UK Student Visa application when you receive your offer letter. 
August to September 2025  Time to fly!  

2. January/Winter Intake in the UK 

The January/Winter intake in the UK presents a 2nd most valuable opportunity for international students, especially those from India, who may have missed the September intake. 

  • January (or Winter) intake is a secondary option for international students in the UK. 
  • Classes usually run from January or February to April. 
  • Ideal for students who missed the September intake and want to pursue their studies at the earliest without losing further time or creating a gap in their curriculum vitae. 
  • There are generally fewer universities and courses offered during this intake. 
  • This intake allows students more time to prepare or offers an earlier start to their studies.  

Top 5 Universities in January/Winter Intake in the UK 2025 

Discover the top five universities offering exceptional January/Winter intake opportunities for 2025! 

 

University Name  QS ranking  Average tuition fees 
University of Birmingham  84  £20,000 
Newcastle University  601  £30,000 
Queen Mary University of London  145 

 

£22,000 
The University of Bath  148  £21,000 
University of Liverpool  176  £30,000 

When to apply for January/Winter Intake in the UK 2025? 

For the January/Winter Intake in the UK for 2025, the application timeline generally follows these guidelines: 

 

Months   Timeline 
August to September 2024  You can shortlist universities and find deadlines and requirements by visiting their websites. 
September to October 2024  Preparing for standardised exams like the GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS is essential based on your chosen colleges’ requirements. 

 

Meanwhile, start drafting your Statement of Purpose (SOP) and gather necessary documents, such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. 

October to November 2024   The next step for UK intakes is to complete and submit the application form for your chosen universities and the required documents per their guidelines. 
November to December 2024  If needed, apply for education loans and scholarships, and start your UK Student Visa application upon receiving the offer letter. 
December 2024 to January 2025  Time to fly!  

3. May/ Spring Intake in the UK 

While the May or Spring intake in the UK may be less popular, it offers unique opportunities for students looking to stand out in a less competitive environment. 

  • The May or Spring intake is less prevalent, with only a few universities offering limited degree options during this period. 
  • The fewer applicants, the less competition there is, increasing your chances of acceptance. 
  • Not all universities offer a May intake, so applying early is crucial, ideally in January or February. 
  • The April/May intake is generally less competitive than the September and January intakes. 
  • Application deadlines can differ for postgraduate or master’s programs, so be aware of specific dates. 
  • Completing your application well before the deadline is highly recommended for a smooth admission process. 

Top 5 universities in May/ Spring intake in UK 2025 

Here are the top five universities in the UK that typically offer programs for the May/Spring intake in 2025: 

University Name  QS Ranking  Average tuition fees 
Brunel University London  343  £20,000 
Coventry University  571  £19,850 
University of Greenwich  671  £18,500 
University of Chester  1201  £13,500 
Northumbria University  535  £13,000 

When to apply for May/ Spring intake in UK 2025? 

To secure a spot for the May/Spring intake in the UK for 2025, aim to submit your application between January and February 2025. 

Months   Timeline 
January to February 2025  Shortlist universities and find deadlines and requirements by visiting their websites. 
Feb to March 2025  For UK intakes, complete and submit the application form for your chosen universities and the required documents per their guidelines. 
March to April 2025  Reply to emails before the deadline and engage in the selection process. Once you receive an offer, proceed with your visa application and arrange accommodations and flight tickets. 
April to May 2025  Time to fly High!  

Choosing the Right Intake for Your Bachelor’s or Master’s in the UK 

When planning your studies in the UK, it’s essential to consider the upcoming intakes: fall, spring, and winter. Each intake offers unique opportunities and timelines, so here’s a brief overview to help you select the best option for your academic journey. 

Undergraduate/UCAS Deadline in the UK for Indian Students 

UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the UK’s centralised system for managing applications to higher education. This non-profit organisation, based in Cheltenham, England, connects students to universities across the UK.  

It makes it the go-to platform for both domestic and international applicants. For Indian students, applying through UCAS is crucial when planning to pursue their bachelor’s in the UK. 

If you’re aiming for the September/Fall 2025-26 intake, one of the key upcoming intakes in the UK, it’s essential to be mindful of deadlines. The UCAS deadline for undergraduate courses for this intake is 31st January 2025.  

UCAS also offers a “clearing” system after the primary deadline for students who miss the initial cutoff or want to apply for remaining places, though options may be more limited.  

Terms  Fall Intakes in UK (September)  Spring Intakes in UK (January)  Winter Intakes in UK (May) 
Duration  September to October   January to February  May to June
Applications Open  December to July  September to November  October to November 
Benefits 
  • Diverse courses offered   
  • Standard academic calendar   
  • More adjustment time   
  • Better Scholarship Opportunities   

 

  • Reduced admission competition   
  • Extra time for visa preparation   
  • More flexible course deadlines  
  • Less competitive admissions   
  • Flexible deadlines   
  • Fewer applicants   
  • Unique course structures available   

 

Drawbacks 
  • High competition   
  • Strict UK application deadlines   
  • Limited access to specialized courses   

 

  • Fewer on-campus job options   
  • Limited course offerings   
  • Shorter adjustment period   

 

  • Limited on-campus job opportunities   
  • Fewer course options   
  • Shorter acclimation period   

 

Choose the fall intake for a traditional academic year and competitive environment; opt for spring for a less competitive setting and more prep time; or consider winter for specialised or unique courses. 

Shuraa Education’s Guide to Intakes in UK for Indian Students 

Each intake in the UK has pros and cons, making it essential for students to choose the option that best aligns with their needs and aspirations. Shuraa Education is dedicated to guiding students in selecting the most beneficial intakes in the UK for Indian students, considering their competencies and budgets.  

Our overseas education experts provide personalised assistance, ensuring you make informed decisions that pave the way for academic success.  

To learn more about the intakes in the UK, contact Shuraa’s overseas education experts today at +91 931 9998925 or email info@shuraaeducation.com. Let us help you with your educational journey!

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