September 2025 Intake in UK: Universities, Courses & Deadlines
Are you planning to study abroad for the September 2025 intake in UK? September is the beginning of the academic year in UK so, it is also known as the Fall intake. September is the most popular intake in the UK. According to the UCAS, the deadline for the September intake clearing is on 30th June.
The deadline for the UK September intake varies from university to university. However, according to the UCAS, the September intake deadline for undergraduate courses is 29th January of the same year. However, UCAS added some extra openings on 26th February, and applications received after 30th June will be automatically entered into Clearing.
If you want to study at Oxford or Cambridge University and for most courses in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine/science your application deadline will be on 15th October of the previous year.
In this blog, we will discuss the September 2025 intake universities, courses, requirements and deadlines for international students. So, if you have missed the deadline for the January/ May 2025 intake in UK, now it is time to prepare for the September 2025 intake in UK.
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How Many Intakes are Available in UK for International Students?
Want to know about the admission intakes in UK? There are three intakes in the UK for international students:
September (Fall Intake)
September is the largest and most traditional intake, with the majority of universities offering their full range of courses starting at this time. This means you’ll have the widest selection of programmes and universities to choose from. Most postgraduate and postgraduate research programmes, along with many undergraduate degrees, are available during the fall intake in UK. This gives you more options to find the perfect programme for your academic goals.
January (Spring Intake)
January intake in UK provides a second chance for students who missed the September intake or weren’t ready to start then. This can be helpful if you need more time to complete your studies, take additional exams, or finalise your finances. Not all universities or programmes offer a January intake, with the range being generally smaller compared to September.Â
May (Summer Intake)
Unlike the January/September intake, the May intake in the UK is less common. Only a few universities and select programmes offer this option. This means you’ll have fewer choices compared to the other intakes.
What is the September Intake in UK?
The September intake begins in late August or early September and ends in May or June. The September intake in the UK is a time when students from around the world come together to learn and grow. It’s a great opportunity for international students to start planning their studies and make the most of the chances available.Â
Let’s look at the top universities, the admission timeline, and the important dates and deadlines for the September intake in the UK!
Timeline for Application | January – June |
Last dates to apply | June |
Commencing date of the classes | September |
End date of the first semester classes | December |
Popular courses of Fall semester 2025 | MS in Business Analytics, MBA in finance, Executive MBA, MSc in Strategic Marketing & Customer Experience Management |
Brief Overview of the September 2025 Intake in UK
The September intake in the UK is considered the primary intake. In the September 2025 intake, 80% of international students will apply to UK universities. The reason students choose the September intake is:
- Most of the universities in the UK offer all of the courses.
- All the academic records, transcripts, and scores are ready before the September intake.
- Students can find their preferred universities and courses easily.
- As almost all UK universities are open for the fall intake, students can choose an affordable, medium, or high-range university according to their choice. In short, a student will not be limited in their options for choosing a university.
- Maximum financial aid and scholarships are offered through this intake.
- This intake offers students effortless ways to plan, study, or take the necessary exams.
What Makes the September 2025 Intake Popular?
September is the most popular intake in the UK for international students. Here is what makes the September 2025 intake popular for the students applying for the UK student visa.Â
- Alignment with Academic Calendars: Most universities worldwide follow an academic calendar that starts in September. This makes it an ideal time for students completing high school or undergraduate studies to transition into the next academic level.
- Higher Scholarship Opportunities: Institutions often provide more scholarships and financial aid options for students applying for the September intake compared to others.
- Longer Time for Preparation: Students have ample time to meet application deadlines, prepare required documents, and fulfil language proficiency or entrance exam requirements.
- Optimal Weather for Settling In: Starting in September means students experience the fall season in many countries, offering mild weather, which is ideal for adjusting to a new environment.
- Easier Visa Processing: With most students applying for this intake, embassies and consulates are well-prepared to handle visa applications efficiently.
- Active Campus Life: September marks the start of the academic year, ensuring vibrant campus life, welcome events, and orientation programs to help new students integrate seamlessly.
- Job and Internship Opportunities: Students arriving in September can align their studies with industry hiring cycles, enhancing opportunities for internships and part-time jobs during their studies.
What are the Benefits of September Intake?
September intake in UK is considered the primary intake. Almost every university in the UK offers September semester and almost 80% of international students enroll through this intake. Here are some benefits of the September intake in the UK-
- Most of the universities in the UK offer all of the courses.
- All the academic records, transcripts, and scores are ready before the September intake.
- Students can find their preferred universities and courses easily.
- As almost all UK universities are open in the intake, students can choose an affordable, medium, or the highest range university according to their choice. In short, a student will not be limited in their options of choosing a university.
- Maximum financial aid and scholarships are offered through this intake.
- This intake offers students effortlessly to plan, study, or take the necessary exams.
Admission Timeline for September 2025 Intake in UK
A student can plan or make preparations a year ahead before applying through the September 2025 intake in UK. The September intake is quite competitive, as a large number of applicants apply through it. That’s why making preparations ahead is a great choice so that you can apply as early as possible.
Let’s know the admissions process timeline for the Fall 2025 intake in UK. Here is the estimated preparation period and admission timeline:
Timeline | To-do list |
April 2024 – August 2024 | Research Universities and Courses |
September 2024 – November 2024 | Prepare for standardised Tests |
November 2024 – January 2025 | Start Online Application Process |
January 2025 – February 2025 | Prepare for Visa Application |
March 2025 – April 2025 | Secure Funding |
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the September 2025 Intake in the UK
Before we have discussed the admission timeline shortly. Now here is the Guide to Applying for the September 2025 Intake in the UK universities.
April-September 2024 (Shortlist the Universities)
- Once you have made a plan to study abroad, it’s time to shortlist some universities according to your academic and financial plans. So what you need to do is:
- Check the admission requirements and eligibility criteria. ( Academic and language)
- Find suitable scholarships.
- Check other details like accommodation, location, post-study work permit, and part-time work opportunities.
June-December 2024 (Take the Standardised Test)
By this time, you should make preparations for language proficiency. You must take the English language proficiency test if you are a native of a non-English speaking country. Taking UKVI IELTS is the best option. However, there are several other options available. Take a test and obtain a good score.
August–December 2024 (Arrange All Application Documents)
Making an application to a UK university requires you to provide some mandatory documents. So by this time, arrange all the documents, like Academic transcript, SOP, LOR, Reference letter, passport copy, etc. Make sure all the documents are translated into English to apply for the September 2025 intake in UK.
December 2024–July 2025 (Start Making Application)
So after gaining English language proficiency and arranging all the documents, it’s time to make an application. Apply to some of your desired universities. You can apply through the official website of the university or UCAS. It is advisable to apply a few weeks before the application deadline. Making an application will be one of the most important steps to enrol in British universities through the January 2025 intake.
April-July 2025 (Arrange your Funds and Apply for a Visa.)
After making an application, either you will get a conditional offer letter or an unconditional one. If you get conditional, you have to make it unconditional to enrol in a UK university. However, if you get the unconditional offer letter, it’s time to arrange your bank statement and apply for the visa with all the required documents.
July-August 2025 ( Plan your Travel)
Getting a visa is the final step to enrolling in UK universities through the September 2025 intake. When you get your visa, plan your travel properly. Follow all the travel guidelines and instructions to have a hassle-free journey.
Deadline for the September Intake in the UK
Applying for the September 2025 intake in the UK requires some strategising and planning to ensure you meet all deadlines and have the best chance of securing your desired course. Here’s a breakdown of the application deadlines for the September 2025 intake at UK universities:
- 15th October 2024: This is the main deadline for applications to Oxford and Cambridge universities and for most courses in medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry at all other institutions. Remember, these deadlines are strict, and applications received after this date will not be considered.
- 31st January 2025: This is the main application deadline for the majority of undergraduate courses for both domestic and international students on an equal consideration basis. If you miss this deadline, you can still apply through UCAS Clearing or directly to universities until June 30th, but your options may be more limited.
- 28th February 2025: This is the application deadline for most art and design courses.
Type of Application | Application Deadline | Admission Decision |
UCAS Undergraduate (Oxford, Cambridge, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science) | 15 October 2024 | By the end of March 2025 |
UCAS Undergraduate (most courses) | 31 January 2025 | By early May 2025 |
Postgraduate | Varies by university (typically between January and July 2024) | Usually, within 4-8 weeks after the application |
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UCAS Entry Timeline for September 2025 Intake in UK
The UCAS has updated their September 2025 intake entry timeline for the UK on 3rd September 2024. Almost every application in the UK is submitted through the UCAS portal. Here are the key deadlines for UCAS entry for September intake 2025 in the UK.
UCAS Entry Timeline For September Intake 2025 in UK | |
Date | Event |
30 April | Available courses are displayed on the UCAS search tool |
07 May | UCAS adviser portal opens |
14 May | Undergraduate application for 2025 entry opens |
10 July | Conservatoire applications for 2025 entry opens |
03 September | All UG applications are submitted to UCAS |
02 October | Deadline for conservatoire music application |
15 October | Deadline for application submission to the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, and most courses in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine/science |
29 January | Equal consideration date of applications for most undergraduate courses |
26 February | UCAS extra opens |
14 May | UCAS UG Applicant declines by default |
04 June | UCAS Undergraduate applicant decline by default |
04 June | UCAS Conservatoires for applicants who receive all decisions by 14 May must reply by today |
30 June | Applications that are received by this deadline will be sent to universities and colleges |
04 July | Last day for applicants to add an Extra choice to their application |
05 July | Clearing opens for eligible applicants, and vacancies are displayed in UCAS’ search tool |
17 July | UCAS Undergraduate applications rejected by default |
23 July | UCAS Undergraduate applicant decline by default |
30 July | UCAS Conservatoires applicants who receive all decisions by 9 July must reply by today |
List of Universities for September Intake in UK
The United Kingdom is a land of top-ranked universities in the world. Here are some universities known for their academic excellence and international appeal for the Fall 2025 intake in the UK.
University | QS World Ranking 2024 |
559 | |
535 | |
1001-1200 | |
711-720 | |
531 | |
901-950 | |
418 | |
851-900 |
Popular Courses for September 2025 Intake in UK for International Students
Are you worried about which course you should apply for? Here are some popular courses that have September 2025 intake in UK:
- Business and Management
- Engineering and Technology
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Arts
- Finance and Accounting
- Natural Science
- Social Science
- Sports Science
- Law
- Media and Communications
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Politics
Admission Requirements for September 2025 Intake in UK
Admission requirements for the September 2025 intake in the UK can vary depending on the university, the specific programme of study, and your educational background. It’s crucial to check the admission criteria for the particular course and institution you are interested in.
Academic Requirements
For undergraduate programmes, you typically need to have completed your secondary education or its equivalent. The qualifications accepted may include A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other equivalent qualifications. For postgraduate programmes, you generally need a relevant bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
English Language Requirements
If English is not your first language, you will likely need to provide evidence of English language proficiency. Accepted language proficiency tests include the IELTS, TOEFL, and others, depending on the university. The minimum accepted IELTS score is overall 6.0 for UG and 6.5 for PG.
Documents Requirements
The specific document requirements can vary depending on the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate), the university, and the programme you are applying to. Such as-
- Application Form
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- English Language Proficiency Test Results
- Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Standardised Test Scores (if required)
- Portfolio (for certain art and design programmes)
- Copy of Passport
- Reference Letters
When to Apply for September Intake in UK?
In the United Kingdom, the September intake, also known as the fall intake, is the primary period when most universities offer all their programmes. The application deadlines for the September intake typically fall between February and June of the preceding academic year. You should apply 2-4 months before the deadline.
How to Apply for the September 2025 Intake in the UK?
Applying to universities in the UK can be challenging, but breaking it down into simple steps can make it more manageable. From research to submitting your application, these tips will guide you through the process.
- Step 1: Research Universities and Programs
- Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
- Step 3: Prepare for Standardized Tests
- Step 4: Gather Required Documents
- Step 5: Write Your Statement
- Step 6: Request Letters of Recommendation
- Step 7: Complete the Online Application (UCAS for undergraduate, university portals for postgraduate)
- Step 8: Pay Application Fees
- Step 9: Submit Applications
- Step 10: Prepare for Interviews (if required)
- Step 11: Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Step 12: Track Your Application Status
- Step 13: Wait for Admission Decisions
Does the UK Offer Scholarships for the September 2025 Intake for International Students?
Yes, the UK offers several scholarships for international students for the September intake. Scholarship opportunities for the September 2025 intake in UK can vary widely, and they are often specific to individual universities or external organisations. Here are some general scholarships to study in the UK for the September 2025 intake:
- Chevening Scholarship UK
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship
- GREAT Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- Scotland Saltire Scholarships
- Inlaks Scholarships etc.
What Should You Do If You Miss the September Intake Deadline in UK?
Don’t worry! If you miss the deadline for the September Intake 2025 in UK. The UK is very flexible for international students so, there are still options available. AIMS Education is always there to help you. Here’s what you can do:
- Apply through Clearing: Many UK universities offer open spots through the UCAS Clearing process for students without an offer, especially those who have applied after 30th June.Â
- Check other intakes: Many UK universities also have January and May intakes. Use our course search to find the next available option for your preferred course.
- Explore other universities: Look for some universities that may still have spaces after the deadline, though this isn’t always guaranteed.
- Plan for the next intake: If you can’t find any options now, use the extra time to prepare for the next intake.
Get expert help: We have British Council Certified agents who are very passionate about student counseling. So, you can Book a free call today with our trained counselors for guidance. They can help you find the best options and how can you advance your steps for the next intake.
What are the Disadvantages of September Intake 2025 in UK?
Like the coins have two sides, September intake also has some downsides. While the UK’s September intake is a popular choice with plenty of advantages, there are a few disadvantages of September intake 2025 in UK.
- More Competition for Courses and Housing: September is the most popular time to study in the UK, so courses and student housing fill up quickly. It can be harder to get into popular programs or secure on-campus accommodation or private rentals.
- High Demand for University Resources: With so many students starting at the same time, libraries, study spaces, and academic support services are much busier, especially at the start of the semester.
- Busy Campus and Events: Universities hold lots of welcome events, social gatherings, and club fairs in September. These are great for meeting people but can feel overwhelming, especially for international students adjusting to a new place.
- Tougher Competition for Part-Time Jobs: Many students look for part-time work in September, making it harder to find jobs on or off campus. If you plan to work while studying, try applying early or consider starting in January or May, when there’s less competition.
Final Words
By following this timeline, you’ll ensure a smooth and organised application process, allowing you to make the most of your September 2025 intake in the UK. Keep in mind that specific timelines may vary by university and Programme, so always refer to the official guidelines provided by the institutions you’re applying to. You can also get a hassle-free application service through AIMS Education.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Yes, you will find September, January, and May intake in the UK.
Ans: The UCAS portal in the UK will only accept international students’ applications till June 30. So you can take ample time to make an application. But keep in mind that late applications may charge more fees.
Ans: There are three intakes in UK such as September, January and May.
Ans: The September intake is the most popular intake in the UK. Almost all the universities are opened with multiple courses in this intake. The high percentage of international students apply for higher education through this intake.
Ans: The other name of September intake is the fall intake in the UK. The fall intake generally begins in September and ends in December. Through the September 2025 intake, universities of the UK invite students for all the programmes.
Ans: Â If you are planning to take a degree in the September 2025 intake, then you must apply at least 3-4 months before the course commencement in the UK university. Sometimes, the application process takes a lot of time. Besides, the more you are late, the less percentage you will have to find your preferred program.
Ans: Are you planning to begin your higher studies through the September 2025 intake in the UK? Then you must prepare to apply between December and June. It is because the UCAS portal in the UK will only accept international students’ applications until June 30. So you can take ample time to make an application. But keep in mind that late applications may charge more fees.
Ans: The UCAS deadline for all applications for the September 2025 intake is set for June 30th. Applications received after this date will automatically be entered into the clearing.
