Summer/May Intake in the UK 2026: Top Universities, Courses & Deadlines
The May intake in the UK, also known as the summer intake, is a minor but growing intake period for UK universities. May intake offers fewer courses and less competition compared to the January and September intakes.
This option is ideal for international students who missed earlier deadlines, want to start their studies sooner, or prefer to apply for specialised postgraduate, MBA, or diploma programs. Some universities that offer May intake include Northumbria University, Ulster University, and Brunel University.
Why Choose May Intake in the UK?
Choosing a May intake in the UK is advantageous because it allows you to start studying sooner, leading to smaller class sizes and potentially a more personalised experience. This intake is beneficial for students who missed previous deadlines or want to fast-track their education. Let’s explore the benefits of the May intake in the UK.
- Less competition: The May intake has fewer applications, increasing your chances of being accepted into your preferred university.
- Smaller class sizes: A reduced student population often results in smaller classes, leading to more personalised attention from professors.
- Flexibility and faster start: It’s a great option for those who missed the January or September intake deadlines and don’t want to wait a whole year.
- Specific course availability: Many universities offer a range of postgraduate courses, including unique programs, that are only available during the UK May intake.
- Quicker application processing: With fewer applications, you may experience faster admission and visa processing.
- Early career start: Starting in May allows you to finish your degree sooner, giving you a quick start on your career and potential PSW opportunities.
Popular UK Universities that Offer May Intake in the UK
Popular UK universities offering a May intake include Ulster University, Northumbria University, Brunel University, and the University of East London. Other demanding May intake universities include the University of Kent, University of Greenwich, and Teesside University, offering various undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Universities | Ranking in the UK | Popular Courses | Deadlines for May 2026 Intake |
107th | Business, Engineering, IT, Social Sciences | Early April 2026 | |
BPP University | Not given | Law, Business, Accounting | Till April 2026 |
University of Chester | 74th | Management, Marketing, Health Sciences | Early April 2026 |
University of Roehampton, London | Not given | Creative Arts, Business, Psychology, Social Work | April 2026 |
82nd | Business, Engineering, IT, Media | Early April 2026 | |
Teesside University | 92nd | Cybersecurity, Business, Health, Digital Technology | Late March 2026 |
37th | Business, IT, Social Sciences | January 2026 | |
54th | Pre-masters courses | Not Specified | |
Not given | Cybersecurity, Business, Health, Digital Technology | Not Specified | |
University of Hull | 81st | Management, Marketing, Health Sciences | January 14, 2026 |
Available Courses for May Intake in the UK
May intake UK courses are more limited than the September and January intakes, focusing on niche, specialised, or pathway programs. Some universities also offer certain postgraduate and research degrees. Available courses can include subjects like business, computer science, and various arts and humanities degrees. Let’s explore the available courses for the May intake in the UK.
- Business & Management
- Engineering & Technology
- Computer Science / IT
- Health & Nursing
- Law
- Social Sciences
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Short foundation / pathway courses
Application Timeline for May 2026 Intake in the UK
For May 2026 UK intake, the application timeline typically runs from November 2025 to March 2026. The specific application deadline is often around March 15, 2026. However, some universities may have earlier deadlines for specific programs. So it’s crucial to check individual university websites for the most accurate dates. Let’s explore the application timeline for May 2026 intake in the UK so that you don’t miss the deadline.
Timeline | Activities |
August – October 2025 | Identify universities and courses offering May intake |
October – November 2025 | Gather academic transcripts, references, and draft personal statements |
November – December 2025 | Apply directly to universities or through UCAS(Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), depending on the program |
January – February 2026 | Monitor application portals and respond to any additional information requests |
February – March 2026 | Confirm your place, pay deposits, and secure funding or scholarships |
March – April 2026 | Prepare and submit your visa application with all necessary documentation |
April – May 2026 | Finalise accommodation and travel plans to arrive before the course start dates |
Eligibility Requirement for May 2026 Admission in the UK
Eligibility for a May 2026 UK admission includes academic qualifications (which vary by course), English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS with a 6.5 overall score), an updated CV and a valid passport. Some courses also require specific entrance exams like the PAT or MAT, you’ll also need proof of financial support for the visa and to meet the “Genuine Student” criteria.
Document Requirements for UK May 2026 Intake
To take the May intake admission in the UK, you have to submit the following documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Valid passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Resume or CV
Common Mistakes to Avoid while Applying for the UK May Intake
To ensure a smooth application process for the UK May intake, you should avoid common mistakes such as not researching deadlines, applying too late, submitting an incomplete application, and ignoring visa requirements. The May intake is smaller and less competitive, so diligence is mandatory to secure a spot. Here are some common mistakes that you should avoid:
- Incomplete application forms
- Ignoring potential scholarships
- Lack of English language preparation
- Insufficient financial documentation
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Insufficient research
- Not fulfilling financial requirements
- Missing deadlines
- Late visa application
- Failure to disclose a visa refusal, etc.
Ready to apply for the May 2026 intake in the UK? Get help from the expert counsellors of AIMS Education. Book an appointment now and one of our expert counsellors will contact you within 24 hours.
How to Apply for the May Intake in the UK?: Step-by-Step Guideline
To apply for a May intake in the UK, you have to research and select a course and university, prepare the necessary documents, apply directly through the university’s portal or UCAS and then accept an offer and arrange your visa. The process is similar to other intakes, but be mindful of deadlines, which vary by institution.
Research Universities Offering May Intake
Explore universities and courses that align with your academic and career goals. Check if the universities and courses you are interested in offer a May intake. Investigate specific admission requirements, which can vary by university and course.
Prepare Documents
You have to prepare all the documents that are mentioned above. All the documents should be written and translated into English. Any mistake, such as spelling mistakes or informational mistakes, should be amended.
Apply through UCAS or Direct University Portal
Use the UCAS portal to apply to multiple universities at once, or you can apply directly through each university’s individual online application portal. Pay any required application fees. Be aware of application deadlines, which can be earlier for the May intake than for September, often around March.
However, to take the application process hassle-free, you can get help from the trusted study abroad consultancy firms like AIMS Education.
Receive & Accept the Offer Letter
After making an application, you’ll get a response within 3-7 days. The university will send you the offer letter via email. However, you have to respond to the offer letter and take the necessary action.
Get CAS from University
After receiving an unconditional offer letter, the university will ask for a payment and a pre-CAS interview. Once you have completed the payment and passed the interview, you will get a CAS from the university via email.
Apply for UK Student Visa
Once you have accepted a CAS letter, apply for your UK student visa. Start the visa process early, as visa processing times can vary (usually 3 weeks).
Book Accommodation & Travel
After getting a UK student visa, you have to book your accommodation. For accommodation, you can get help from AIMS Education, as we have a partnership with Amberstudent and Uhomes. You can also book accommodation by yourself. You have to book your air ticket also. Remember, you can travel to the UK 1 month before your course starts date
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any May intake in the UK?
Yes. The UK universities offer three intakes for international students. The two main intakes are the September intake and the January intake. The third is the May intake, which is offered by some UK universities.
Which UK universities offer the May 2026 intake?
University of Greenwich, BPP University, University of Chester, University of Roehampton, London, University of Hertfordshire, etc., offer a May 2026 intake.
Is the fall intake in May?
No, the fall intake is in September month.
Which semester is in May?
The best intake depends on your individual needs, but September is the most popular and offers the widest course offerings and a traditional academic year structure.
Which intake is best for students in the UK?
The best intake depends on your individual needs, but September is the most popular and offers the widest course offerings and a traditional academic year structure.
