
Updated On: 28 June 2025
Know all about UK intakes for International Students
In the United Kingdom, in general, there are three intakes for students to start their studies. These intakes are autumn, winter, and summer intakes. However, the timing and availability of these intakes vary from one institution or program of interest to another. Hence, students can opt for the intake season of their choice depending upon the fit of their academic schedules and personal dispositions. UK is one of the top study abroad destination for foreign students since it has an impeccable education system and programs in various disciplines.
Intakes in the United Kingdom for International Students 2025
To study in the UK, international students must focus on 3 intakes in the UK. These intakes are as follows:
Autumn Intake (September/October): This is the main intake period offered by most universities in the United Kingdom. Generally, the autumn intake coincides with the commencing of an academic year and, in fact, ranks as the most popular UK intake among students. Those who start during the autumn intake would be able to participate in orientation programs that provide services to aid their settling and adjustment into academic and social life.
Winter Intake (January/February): Winter intake is smaller and mostly known as January intake. It is more suited for students who have missed the autumn intake or who are a bit late to prepare for studies. However, not all courses may be offered during this intake, and some institutions may limit admissions for winter intake.
Read More: Why You Should Consider Applying for January Intake in UK?
Summer Intake (May): It is not a common intake period in the UK, but some institutions may have courses beginning in May or June. This UK intake may, therefore, be suitable for students who wish to start their studies a little off the traditional academic year and thus have had more flexibility on their schedules.
It should be kept in mind that availability of courses and programs depends on the institution, and some courses may be available at just one intake during the year.
So, it is advisable to do research beforehand and make inquiries through the institution of interest about the availability of courses and programs during that particular intake period. There is a third intake called Summer intake (June through August) for select courses only, however.
See Also: MBA in UK: A Guide for International Students
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Timeline for UK Intake 2025 Application Process: When to Apply
Here is a timeline for students planning to study in the UK in 2025:
Time Period |
Task |
June/July 2025 |
Start Researching universities and programs |
August/September 2025 |
Register for standardised tests |
October/November 2025 |
Submit applications |
December 2024/January 2025 |
Confirm offers |
February/March 2025 |
Apply for a student visa |
August/September 2025 |
Begin your studies |
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Which intake to choose?
It can get a bit confusing while choosing which intake would suit you best. One has to consider such things as whether the program of his choice is available, his academic records or grade points in the entrance test, the acceptance rate, employment chances, and his readiness to join the program before making his final choice to study in UK and which UK intake would be best for him.
While most Indian students prefer the September intake, January and April intakes may be better for some programs. If your score cards are not yet ready, it is better to take the more relaxed approach of applying for the next intake.
For any enquiries and assistance in choosing the best university and course to study in the UK, or you need any more information on UK intakes, feel free to contact SIEC, one of India’s best study abroad consultants. Get FREE counselling to study abroad.
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