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UK University Intakes: January vs September - Deadlines and Timeline

Which UK intake suits you, when to apply for each, and a month-by-month plan from shortlisting courses to arriving on campus.

Adept International

, 2 min read

A laptop on a desk, ready for a university application

Most UK universities have two main intakes: September, the largest, and January. A few courses also start in May. Here's how the intakes compare and how to plan for each.

September intake

  • The main intake - every university runs it, so you have the widest choice of courses.
  • More scholarships, and more time to settle in before exams.
  • Undergraduate: apply through UCAS. The equal-consideration deadline is usually in mid-to-late January of the year you start (earlier, in October, for Oxford, Cambridge, medicine, dentistry and veterinary courses). Check UCAS for the exact date for your year.
  • Postgraduate: there's no single deadline - universities accept applications until courses fill. Aim to apply six to nine months ahead (around November to March) for the best chance of places and scholarships.

January intake

  • Offered by many - but not all - universities and courses.
  • A good option if you missed September, are waiting for results, or need more time for an English test or funds.
  • Apply roughly between June and October of the previous year; popular courses can close earlier.
  • Fewer scholarships, and some courses have a shorter first term.

Month-by-month plan for September entry

  1. September-October (a year before): shortlist courses and universities, and plan your English test.
  2. October-December: take IELTS or another accepted test; prepare transcripts, references and your personal statement.
  3. November-March: submit applications - undergraduates must meet the UCAS deadline.
  4. March-June: receive offers, accept one and meet its conditions; pay the deposit.
  5. June-July: receive your CAS; prepare your bank statement and your TB test.
  6. July-August: apply for your Student visa; book accommodation and flights.
  7. September: arrive and enrol.

For January entry, move this plan about four months earlier: apply by around October, get your CAS in November and apply for your visa in November or December.

Which intake should you choose?

If you're ready, September gives you the most choice. If you need a few more months for tests or funds, January saves you waiting a full year. Book a free consultation and we'll build a timeline for your target intake.

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