The September intake is the best choice to study in the UK. It has the most courses, the highest university capacity, and the best scholarship opportunities. Over 732,000 international students study across 160+ UK universities, and more than 90% of undergraduate and postgraduate programs open admissions in September.
It also gives early CAS issuance, smooth visa processing, and easier access to part-time work and internships. The January intake is a good alternative for Business, IT, Engineering, and Health, while the May intake is limited. For most international students, September is the most flexible and popular intake.
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How many Study Intakes are available for International Students in the UK?
UK universities offer three main intakes for international students: September, January, and May.
1. September Intake
This is the largest and most popular intake. Over 90% of undergraduate and postgraduate programs open admissions during this period. It provides the widest range of courses, more scholarship opportunities, early CAS issuance, smoother visa processing, and better access to part-time work and internships.
2. January Intake
A secondary intake for students who miss September. Available in programs like Business, IT, Engineering, and Health, with smaller class sizes and less competition. Scholarship opportunities are fewer compared to September but still available.
3. May Intake
The smallest intake, offered only by selected universities. It has limited course options, mainly in Business and Computing, with faster admission processing but fewer scholarships.
Why most International Students prefer the September Intake in the UK?
The September intake is the most preferred option for international students because it offers the largest range of courses and the highest university capacity. Over 90% of undergraduate and postgraduate programs open admissions during this intake, making it easier for students to find their preferred course and university.
Scholarship opportunities are highest in September, with most merit-based and need-based funding aligned to this intake. Students also benefit from early CAS issuance, smoother visa processing, and better access to part-time work and internships, as most academic and hiring cycles begin in this period.
While January is a strong alternative and May is limited, September remains the top choice for international students due to its combination of course availability, scholarships, and structured timelines.
How to Choose the Right Intake to Study in the UK?
Choosing the right intake is crucial for international students planning to study in the UK. Each intake - September, January, and May differs in course availability, application timelines, scholarship opportunities, and admission competitiveness. Reviewing your academic readiness, preferred program, and personal goals will help you select the intake that suits you best.
Application Timeline for UK Study Intakes:
|
Intake |
Applications Open |
Course Start |
|
September |
October – January |
September |
|
January |
April – September |
January |
|
May |
September – January |
May |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a UK Intake:
|
Intake |
Course Availability |
Chances of Admission |
Scholarship Opportunities |
|
September |
Very High |
Balanced |
High |
|
January |
High |
High |
Medium |
|
May |
Limited |
High |
Limited |
Best Courses to Study in the UK for International Students
Choosing the right course is one of the most important steps for international students planning to study in the UK. Course availability varies by intake, and some programs are more in demand among international applicants. The UK offers a wide range of options across Business, IT, Engineering, Healthcare, and Creative fields, ensuring students can find programs that match their career goals and interests.
Some of the top 10 courses most popular among international students:
- Business & Management
- MBA
- Computer Science & IT
- Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Engineering
- Finance, Accounting & Economics
- Public Health & Healthcare Management
- Marketing & Human Resource Management
- Psychology
- Hospitality & Tourism Management
Eligibility Requirements to Study in the UK for International Students
International students must meet specific eligibility criteria set by UK universities and immigration authorities. While each university may have its own requirements, most programs share the following core criteria:
- Academic Qualifications: Class 12 or equivalent for undergraduate programs; a recognized bachelor’s degree for postgraduate studies.
- English Language Proficiency: Valid IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo scores meeting the university’s minimum requirement.
- Supporting Documents: Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), CV (for PG), transcripts, passport, and any required portfolios or work experience.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements, sponsorship documents, or approved education loans covering tuition and living costs.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Accept your offer, meet conditions, and submit documents to receive CAS from the university.
- Visa Requirements: Apply for a UK Student Visa using the CAS and provide all necessary documents as per UKVI guidelines.
Step-by-Step Application Process to Study in the UK
Step 1: Select courses based on your interests, eligibility, budget, and preferred intake.
Step 2: Ensure you meet academic and English language requirements for your chosen programs.
Step 3: Gather SOP, LORs, CV (for PG), transcripts, passport, and English test scores.
Step 4: Apply via university portals or UCAS before the intake deadlines.
Step 5: Complete compliance checks to obtain your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.
Step 6: Apply for Student Visa
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Which UK Intake Offers the Most Scholarships for International Students?
The September intake offers the most scholarships in the UK, including merit-based, need-based, and government-funded options. Most universities release their full scholarship funding during this intake. The January intake provides fewer scholarships, mostly for selected postgraduate programs.
The May intake has very limited scholarship opportunities, usually for specific courses like Business or Computing. For international students looking for the best chances to secure scholarships, the September intake is the top choice.
Also Read
Top 10 Scholarships in the UK for International Students
FAQs
Which intake is best to study in the UK for international students?
The September intake is the best because it offers the most courses, scholarships, and university options. January is a strong alternative for students needing more time to prepare, while May is limited to selected programs. For most international students comparing UK study intakes, September provides maximum flexibility and availability, making it the top choice for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
How many study intakes are there in the UK?
There are three main study intakes in the UK: September, January, and May. September is the largest and offers the widest range of programs. January is the second major intake, ideal for postgraduate and business courses. May is smaller and available at selected universities. Understanding these UK university intakes helps students plan applications, deadlines, and visa timing effectively.
What is the difference between the September, January, and May intakes in the UK?
The September intake offers the most programs and scholarships. The January intake provides good options, especially for business, IT, and postgraduate studies. The May intake is limited to selected universities and specific courses. The main differences across these UK intakes for international students are course availability, deadlines, and competition. Students seeking maximum choice usually choose September.
Is September intake better than January intake in the UK?
Yes. The September intake is considered better because it offers more courses, higher scholarship availability, and a traditional academic-year experience. The January intake is still a good option, especially for postgraduate students or those needing extra preparation time. Both intakes are useful, but for the widest academic choices, September is the stronger option among UK university intakes.
Which intake offers more courses in UK universities?
The September intake offers the highest number of courses at almost all UK universities. January provides a good selection, especially for postgraduate and business programs, while May offers limited options at selected institutions. Students searching for UK study intakes with maximum flexibility should choose September, as it provides the broadest academic range across multiple disciplines.
Which intake in the UK has better scholarship opportunities?
The September intake offers the best scholarship availability because universities release most funding during this main cycle. January provides fewer scholarship options, and May has limited opportunities. Students aiming for financial support should apply early for September to increase their chances. Among all UK intakes for international students, September remains the most scholarship-friendly intake.
What is the best intake for a UK study visa?
The September intake is the best for a UK study visa because it offers early CAS issuance, smoother processing, and ample preparation time. The January intake also works well but may face holiday delays. May is available but limited to fewer programs. Students applying for a study visa intake in the UK benefit most from the September cycle.
When should I apply for UK university intakes?
Students should apply months in advance of their chosen intake. For September, applications usually open early in the year. For January, applications open mid-year, and for May, deadlines are later. Each course has specific UK university intake deadlines, so checking university requirements is essential. Applying early helps secure offers, scholarships, and visa processing without delays.
Which UK universities offer multiple intakes for international students?
Several universities offer multiple intakes, including Coventry University, Middlesex University, University of Hertfordshire, University of East London, University of Portsmouth, and University of Wolverhampton. These institutions provide September and January options, with selected programs also available in May. Checking intake availability by course is important when planning UK study intakes.
Which intake is recommended for master’s students in the UK?
The September intake is recommended for master’s students because it offers the most postgraduate programs, better scholarship opportunities, and stronger academic support. The January intake is also suitable for students who prefer flexibility or need extra time for preparation. The May intake is limited. For maximum choice across UK university intakes, September is ideal.