Study in the UK · Intakes
UK university intakes and application timelines
Choosing an intake is really choosing a timeline. This guide explains the main intakes and gives a practical plan for offers, English tests, funding, ATAS and your visa.
- Written by
- Devanka Pathak
- Reviewed by
- Devanka Pathak
- Published
- Last reviewed
Quick answer
When do UK university courses start?
Most UK undergraduate and postgraduate courses start in September or early October. Some postgraduate courses, and a smaller number of undergraduate courses, also start in January, and a few start at other times. Undergraduate applications normally go through UCAS with published deadlines, while postgraduate applications usually go directly to each university, so applying early keeps more options open.
Last reviewed: 13 September 2026. Fees, visa rules and deadlines change. Check the official sources listed below before making decisions.
Key facts
- Main intake
- September or early October
- Second intake
- January, for selected courses
- Undergraduate applications
- Usually through UCAS
- Postgraduate applications
- Usually direct to each university
- Earliest visa application from outside the UK
- 6 months before the course starts
The main UK intakes
| Intake | Typical courses | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| September or October | Most undergraduate and postgraduate courses | The widest choice of courses, scholarships and accommodation |
| January | Selected postgraduate courses and some undergraduate courses | Fewer courses; the academic calendar and summer project period may differ |
| Other months | A small number of courses | Check how teaching, assessment and holidays are arranged |
Undergraduate timelines
Undergraduate applications normally go through UCAS, which publishes the application deadlines for each year's entry. Courses at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and most courses in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science have an earlier deadline in October, and most other courses have a later deadline for equal consideration. Check the current dates on the UCAS website, and apply well before the deadline if you will also need a Student visa.
A postgraduate timeline for September
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 12 to 18 months before | Research subjects, check entry requirements for Indian degrees and look at scholarship deadlines |
| 9 to 12 months before | Shortlist courses, book an English test if you need one, and ask referees |
| 6 to 9 months before | Apply, ideally before popular courses fill, and apply for scholarships |
| 3 to 6 months before | Compare offers, pay deposits, apply for ATAS if required and prepare your funds |
| Up to 3 months before | Receive your CAS, apply for your visa and arrange accommodation |
Many postgraduate courses consider applications as they arrive rather than waiting for a single deadline, and some close early when they are full. The UK university application process guide explains each step in detail.
Choosing between September and January
- September usually offers the most courses and the most complete induction and social programme.
- January can suit you if you need more time for results, English tests or funding, but check how the course is structured.
- Some scholarships, and some university accommodation, are designed around the September intake.
Our article on September or January intake for a UK Master's compares the two in more depth.
Visa timing to build into your plan
- You can apply for a Student visa from outside the UK up to 6 months before your course starts, and you need your CAS to apply.
- If your course needs ATAS clearance, allow at least 30 working days for it before your visa application.
- GOV.UK says decisions from outside the UK usually take within 3 weeks. Read our overview of the UK Student visa.
Frequently asked questions
Is the January intake worse than September?
Not necessarily. Fewer courses start in January, but it can be the right choice if you need more time. Compare the course structure, support and scholarships rather than the start month alone.
Can I defer to a later intake after receiving an offer?
Some universities allow deferral and some do not. Ask the university's admissions team before you accept, and get any agreement in writing.
Sources
- Student visa — GOV.UK, checked 11 September 2026
- Student visa: your course — GOV.UK, checked 13 September 2026
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) — GOV.UK, checked 11 September 2026
How this guidance was written
Written by Devanka Pathak. Devanka holds a PhD in Creative Computing from Bath Spa University, an MPhil in Gravitational Physics from Cardiff University and an MSc in Physics from Tezpur University, and has taught in UK higher education. Facts are checked against the official sources listed above and reviewed before publication. This page is general guidance, not immigration or legal advice, and does not guarantee any admission or visa outcome. Read our editorial standards.
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