The UK’s prime student intakes are in September and January when most universities open admissions, aligning with the academic calendar. Some schools offer a smaller May intake for those who missed earlier deadlines. When selecting your preferred term, consider scholarship options, specific degree availability, and competition for placements, as the September intake sees peak demand. For the widest selections, apply early for September or January start dates, researching deadlines and offerings at your shortlisted universities.

UK Intakes  Duration 
September Intake/Fall Intake  September to December 
January Intake/Winter Intake  January to April 
May Intake/Spring Intake  May to August 

September/Fall Intake

The September intake is the most popular enrollment term in the UK, attracting 83% of applicants with its vast course offerings across universities. The application window runs December to July, though undergrad UCAS deadlines close 31st January 2024. Postgraduate timelines vary. With peak demand in fall, students gain optimal program/university selection and placement odds before seats fill. Key dates:

  1. December-July: Application window 
  2. Varying dates: Postgraduate deadlines

Research exact timelines for your desired course/institution and apply early amid competition. Consult university sites to pinpoint postgraduate due dates.

Top Universities for UK Fall Intake

Some of the Top Universities for the Fall Intake are : 

University   Program  Eligibility and Requirements 

  

Intake  
London School of Business  Full Time MBA  
  1. Undergrad. Degree 
  1. IELTS 7.5 
  1. GMAT Average 720 
  1. 5 Years Work  
  1. 2 Essays 
  1. CV 
  1. Transcript 
  1. 1 Reference  
September  
University of Cambridge Judge Business School  MBA 

Master of Studies in Entrepreneurship 

  

  1. 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent 
  1. 2 Years Work Experience 
  1. GMAT Around 710 
  1. 1 Reference 
  1. 4 Essay Questions  
September 
Saïd Business School, University of Oxford  Oxford 1+1 MBA programme 

  

  1. Recognised Undergraduate Degree 
  1. 2 Years Full-time Work Experience 
  1. GMAT: 670 
  1. IELTS 7.5 
  1. SOP 
  1. Assessment 
  1. 1-Page CV 
  1. 2 References  
September 
Imperial College Business School  Full-Time MBA 
  1. Good Undergraduate Degree 
  1. 3 Years Work Experience 
  1. GMAT 650 
  1. IELTS 7.0 
  1. Transcripts 
  1. SOP 
  1. CV 
  1. 2 References 
  1. Video Assessment  
September 
  

Alliance Manchester Business School 

  

Full-Time MBA 

  

  

  1. 1st or 2:1 Degree 
  1. 3 Years Work Experience 
  1. GMAT 680 
  1. IELTS 6.5 
  1. 2 Essays 
  1. CV 
  1. Video Assessment   
  

September 

Warwick Business School  Full-Time MBA 
  1. 2:1 Undergraduate Degree 
  1. 3 Years Work Experience 
  1. GMAT 680 
  1. IELTS 7.0 
  1. Application Form 
  1. 2 References  
September 

January/Winter Intake

The January intake offers a second chance for international students to begin their UK education. With fewer universities and programs available compared to the popular September intake, it provides an alternative entry point for applicants needing more preparation time or wanting to start studies sooner. 

Postgraduate deadlines vary by university. 

To allow for document processing and visa approvals, students should complete their applications well in advance of published deadlines. Planning ahead ensures a smooth admission journey amidst peak demand from other applicants. Contact target universities early to confirm requirements and availability for the January intake. 

Additional Tips:
 

  1. Check university websites early – some may not offer January intake for all programs 
  2. Start your student visa application as soon as you get your university offer letter 
  3. Arrange accommodation well in advance as options are limited 
  4. Join pre-arrival Facebook or Whatsapp groups to connect with coursemates 
  5. If funding your own studies, have finances ready before applying

Contact target universities early to confirm requirements and availability for the January intake.

Universities for UK Winter Intake

Spring/May Intake

The May intake provides a less competitive third option to start university in the UK, though limited in terms of programs and institutions compared to September and January. With most students preferring spring break holidays, fewer apply for the spring admission cycle. This allows greater chances for acceptance despite the narrow degree choices. 

Tips for Applying: 

  1. Verify program/intake availability on university websites early 
  2. Expect limited scholarship availability 
  3. Start visa process quickly after receiving offers 
  4. Reach out to admitted students/alumni for accommodation tips 
  5. With fewer applicants vying for limited spring intake seats, careful planning and preparation still pays dividends for admission success. Submit applications well before deadlines to assure enough processing time.

Universities for UK Spring Intake

Here is a list of UK universities offering a May intake: 

Conclusion

UK application deadlines pass quickly; don’t delay. Applying early raises your chances for admission success and scholarships. Let our experts guide you – book a free consultation and get timely advice tailored to your goals from experienced Admission Scholars.