Upcoming Intakes in USA

intakes in usa
Study Abroad Expert October 19, 2023

The United States is one of the most popular destinations for international students, and for good reason. With its world-class universities, diverse culture, and abundant opportunities for every intakes in USA, it has something to offer everyone.  

In 2023- 24, there were over 914,000 international students studying in the USA, accounting for over 5% of the total student population. 

There are three main intakes in USA: fall, spring, and summer. The fall intake in USA is the most popular, with the widest range of programs available and the most competitive application process. The spring intake is less competitive than the fall intake, but there are fewer programs available and a shorter summer break. The summer intake is the least competitive, but there are even fewer programs available, and the semester is the shortest. 

Let’s understand more about the upcoming intake in USA for 2025 and why choosing the right intake is crucial for international students. 

Why is Choosing the Right Intake Important?

Choosing the right intake is important for several reasons: 

  • First, it will affect your program choices. Some programs are only offered in certain intakes, so it’s important to check the program requirements carefully. 
  • Second, the timing of your intake will affect your student visa application process. You will need to apply for your visa well in advance of your intake date. 
  • Finally, the intake you choose will affect your student life experience. Each intake has its own unique culture and atmosphere.

How many intakes in USA?

There are three main intakes in USA: Summer, Spring and Fall.

Upcoming Intake in USA Deadlines
Fall Intake From September to December
Spring Intake From January to April
Summer Intake From May to August

Help me choose the right intake! 

1. USA Fall intake (September 2024)

The fall intake in USA, scheduled for September, stands as the most popular and widely sought-after opportunity for international students. It is also the most competitive intake, with the widest range of programs available. Early application deadlines typically fall in November and December. 

Why is the Fall Intake Popular?

  • US universities offer a wide range of programs at all levels of education, and the fall intake typically has the most programs available. This means that students have more choices when it comes to finding the right program for them. 
  • Starting your academic journey in the fall allows you to experience the vibrant cultural scene in the USA. Many universities host special events and orientation programs to welcome international students, making it easier to adapt to life in a new country. 
  • Graduating in the spring after a fall intake gives you time to explore internship and job opportunities in the USA. 
  • The fall intake marks the start of a new academic year, which can be a great time for students to make a fresh start and pursue their educational goals.

Given its popularity, the fall intake is also highly competitive. Top universities in the USA receive a significant number of applications, making it essential for prospective students to meet admission criteria and prepare outstanding application materials. 

Top 10 USA Universities Offering Fall Intake 2024

Rank  University/College  Graduate Application Deadline  Undergraduate Application Deadline 
1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) December/January January 15, 2024
2 Stanford University December to March (varies for each program) January 1, 2024 (Early Action), November 1 (Regular Decision)
3 Harvard University December 1 (Master’s), December 15 (PhD) January 1, 2024 (Early Action), November 1 (Regular Decision)
4 California Institute of Technology (Caltech) November to March (varies for each program) January 3, 2024 (Early Decision), November 1 (Regular Decision)
5 University of Chicago December 1 to January 31 (varies for each program) January 3, 2024 (Early Action), November 1 (Regular Decision)
6 University of Pennsylvania December 1 to February 1 (varies for each program) January 1, 2024 (Early Decision), November 1 (Regular Decision)
7 Columbia University December 15 to January 15 (varies for each program) January 1, 2024 (Early Decision), November 1 (Regular Decision)
8 Yale University December 28 (PhD), January 5 (Master’s) January 1, 2024 (Early Action), November 1 (Regular Decision)
9 Princeton University December 15 (Master’s), December 31 (PhD) January 3, 2024 (Early Action), November 1 (Regular Decision)
10 Duke University December 1 to January 30 (varies for each program) November 1 (Early Decision), January 10 (Regular Decision)

Please note that the deadlines for these intakes are just rough estimates and may vary depending on programs and university guidelines. It is always better to check with the university’s official website or get in touch with study abroad expert to make informed decisions.

Don’t Miss Out – Request a Consultation!

The fall intake typically requires students to submit their applications well in advance. To secure a spot in your desired program and increase the likelihood of obtaining financial aid, it’s crucial to be well-prepared and meet early application deadlines. 

2. USA Spring intake (January 2025)

While the fall intake might be the popular one for studying in the USA, the upcoming spring intake 2025, which commences in January, is a hidden gem worth exploring. Spring Intake are the second opportunity for those who may have missed the fall deadlines or need extra time for preparations. 

This makes it a more accessible option for students looking to start their academic journey sooner rather than later. 

Also, compared to the fall intake, the spring intake typically receives fewer applications. This translates to a less competitive admission process, giving students a better chance of securing a spot in their desired programs. 

Benefits of Spring Intakes

Here are some of the benefits of applying for the spring intake: 

  • The spring intake is less competitive than the fall intake, which means that students have a better chance of being admitted to their top-choice universities. 
  • If you missed the fall deadlines or need more time to prepare your applications, the spring intake is a good option. 
  • The spring intake starts in January, which can be a good time to start a new program if you are not ready to start in the fall. 
  • The spring intake can give you a different perspective on your studies, as you will be starting your program in the middle of the academic year. 

USA Universities Offering Spring Intake

Here are the few of the USA universities offering spring intake 2025: 

  • Rice University 
  • University of Florida 
  • Vanderbilt University 
  • California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 
  • University of Chicago 
  • Florida International University 
  • University of Houston 
  • George Mason University 
  • Oklahoma State University 
  • Northwestern University 
  • University of Michigan 
  • University of California, Los Angeles

It’s essential to note that the range of programs available for the spring intake in USA is generally more limited compared to the fall intake. Some specialized or highly competitive programs may not be open for spring admission. 

On the flip side, the spring intake offers flexibility in terms of program choice, and universities often ensure a variety of majors are available to accommodate students’ diverse academic interests. 

3. USA Summer Intake (May 2025)

While the fall and spring intakes are the more traditional choices for international students, the summer intakes in the USA, beginning in May 2025, offers a distinctive academic experience. 

The summer intake is known for having the fewest applicants among the three major intakes, making it the least competitive choice. This can be particularly advantageous for students who may have faced challenges in securing admission during the fall or spring. 

The lower competition means that students can often apply later and still secure a spot in their desired program, making it a suitable option for those who decide to study in USA on short notice. 

Who should consider USA summer intake 2025?

The summer intake is a good option for students who missed the fall or spring deadlines or need more time to prepare. It is also a good option for students who are looking for a less competitive application process.  

However, it is important to consider the drawbacks of the summer intake before applying, such as the fewer programs available, the shortest semester, and the less time to socialize. 

Popular USA Universities Offering Summer Intake 2025

  • Boston University 
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn 
  • Western Illinois University 
  • University of Central Missouri 
  • Illinois State University 
  • University of Oregon 
  • Oregon State University 
  • University of California, Santa Barbara 
  • University of California, San Diego 
  • University of Texas at Austin 
  • University of Washington

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other excellent US universities that offer summer intakes in May. 

Also, please note that the availability of programs during the summer intakes in USA may vary depending on the university. We recommend that you check the websites of the universities that you are interested in for specific information about the program. Or simply you can get in touch with overseas education experts like Shuraa Education.

Talk to an Expert Today – It’s Free! 

4. USA Fall Intake (September 2024)

Fall intake 2024 is a primary intake and most important opportunity for international students planning to study in USA. The intake will be generally starts from September 2024 and will last till November or December. 

American universities open their doors to international students with diverse academic interests, from business and engineering to liberal arts and sciences. This diversity allows students to find the perfect fit for their educational and career goals. 

The fall intake typically requires students to submit their applications well in advance. To secure a spot in your desired program and increase the likelihood of obtaining financial aid, it’s crucial to be well-prepared and meet early application deadlines. 

Applying early not only helps with university admissions but also provides ample time for visa processing and preparations. The U.S. visa application process can be time-consuming, so starting early can reduce the stress associated with it. 

Essential things to consider for Fall 2024 Intake

To make the most of the USA fall 2024 intakes, here are some key steps to consider: 

  • Spend time researching universities and programs that align with your academic and career goals. 
  • Calculate your tuition and living expenses, explore scholarship opportunities, and prepare a budget for your stay in the USA. 
  • If English is not your native language, ensure you meet the language proficiency requirements, usually through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. 
  • Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a well-crafted personal statement or statement of purpose. 
  • Familiarize yourself with the U.S. visa application process, gather the required documentation, and schedule your visa interview well in advance.

Complete Application Process for Admission in the USA University

Applying to study in the USA as an international student can be a complex process but breaking it down into step-by-step stages can make it more manageable. 

Here’s a step-by-step application process: 

1. Choose a university and program

The first step is to choose a university and program that is a good fit for your academic goals and personal preferences. You can research different universities and programs on the websites of the universities themselves or you can get assistance from educational experts. 

2. Check the requirements

Once you have chosen a university and program, you will need to check the requirements for international students. This may include requirements for English proficiency, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. 

3. Complete the Application Form

Fill out the application forms for each university. Be prepared to provide personal information, academic history, and sometimes a statement of purpose or personal essay. 

4. Financial Aid and Scholarships

If eligible, apply for scholarships and financial aid, including institution-specific scholarships, government-sponsored programs, and private scholarships. 

5. Visa Process

Obtain a Student Visa: After receiving acceptance from a university, you’ll need to apply for a student visa (typically an F-1 visa). The process includes paying the fee, scheduling a visa interview, and preparing the required documentation.

Comparison – USA Fall, Spring, and Summer Intakes

Aspect Fall Intake Spring Intake Summer Intake
Start Month September January May
Popularity Most popular Less popular Least popular
Program Availability Widest range of programs Fewer programs available Limited program choices
Competition Most competitive Moderately competitive Least competitive
Application Deadlines Early application deadlines Late application deadlines Late application deadlines
Career Opportunities Longer time for internships and employment Shorter time for internships and employment Shorter time for internships and employment
Suitable for High school graduates, undergraduate and graduate students Gap-year students, those needing more prep time Students seeking an accelerated learning experience
Visa Processing Time Adequate time for visa processing Adequate time for visa processing Adequate time for visa processing
Weather Conditions Based on location Based on location Based on location

Overall, the best intakes in USA for you will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. If you are looking for the widest range of programs to choose from and are comfortable with a more competitive application process, then the fall intake is a good option.  

If you are looking for a less competitive application process or need to start your studies sooner, then the spring or summer intakes may be better options. 

Cost of Studying in USA for International Student

The cost of living and tuition fees in the USA for international students can vary depending on several factors, including the type of institution, the location of the institution, and the student’s lifestyle. 

However, as a general rule of thumb, international students can expect to pay between $30,000 and $60,000 per year in total costs, including tuition, fees, living expenses, and other expenses. 

Essential Tips For applying to US universities

  • The application process for US universities can be complex and time-consuming, so it is important to start planning early. 
  • Pay strict attention to application deadlines. Some U.S. universities have early action or early decision deadlines. 
  • Keep track of all of your deadlines and requirements. 
  • Explore all intakes and assess which one aligns best with your goals and timeline. 
  • If English is not your native language, ensure you meet the language proficiency requirements. 
  • Calculate the cost of your education including tuition fees and living expenses. 
  • Consider consulting with study abroad experts like Shuraa Education for assistance with the application process, visa process, and selecting right university. 
  • And most importantly, do not get discouraged by rejection letters or setbacks. Keep refining your applications and exploring opportunities.

Next Steps with Shuraa Education

In the ever-evolving landscape of international education, the upcoming intakes in USA for 2024-2025 offer a golden opportunity for students to turn their dreams into reality. 

The fall intake, the spring intake, and the summer intake each come with their unique advantages, whether it’s the rich academic variety, flexibility for those who need more time, or the accelerated pace for those seeking quick progress. 

However, meeting application deadlines, securing scholarships, and the visa process require careful planning and attention. That’s where experienced study abroad experts like Shuraa Education come into play. 

With our extensive network of prestigious universities and a student-centric approach, you can receive invaluable guidance at every step of your application process. 

The right consultation at the right time can make the difference between a dream deferred and a dream achieved. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to Shuraa Education at info@shuraaeducation.com or through call or WhatsApp at +91 931 999 8924. 

Your journey begins now, and your future awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I start preparing for the upcoming intake in USA?

It is recommended to start preparing for the upcoming intakes at least 6-12 months in advance. This includes researching universities, preparing application materials, taking standardized tests such as the SAT or TOEFL, and gathering necessary documents. 

2. What documents do I need to apply for the upcoming intakes?

The required documents can vary depending on the university and program you are applying to. However, common documents include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, test scores, and financial documents to demonstrate your ability to cover tuition and living expenses. 

3. Can I apply for a student visa for the upcoming intakes?

Yes, once you receive an admission offer from a university in the USA, you can apply for a student visa. However, the specific visa process can vary depending on your country of residence. 

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