Difference Between September and January Intake in UK: Guide & Timelines

Introduction

Studying in the UK is one of the most crucial decisions to shape your future. Probably the first big decision will be choosing the right intake for your study. UK provides two major intakes to international students: September and January. Each of them comes with different benefits, timelines, and challenges. This guide takes you deeper into the two options for you to make the right choice based on your goal.

What are the Main intakes in the UK?

September Intake

September intake is known as a Fall intake, which becomes the primary entry period for higher education in the UK. They begin the academic year at this time and enroll the greatest number of students.

January Intake

The other secondary intake in the UK is known as a winter intake. Students take an additional intake after missing it during September or after completing preparation.

Other Minor Intakes

In addition to the September and January intakes, other universities also offer smaller intakes, like in May or April. These are restricted when it comes to courses offered and are usually tailored for specific programs.

Following are the deadlines for UK Intakes: 

Why Intakes Matter for International Students

Your intake choice will impact:

• Academic Flexibility: Not all courses are offered in every intake.
• Application Deadlines: Missing a deadline can delay your study plans by months.
• Visa Processing: There is a need for documentation and approval.
• Career Opportunities: Some sectors have hiring seasons that fall in line with the academic calendar.

UK September Intake

Overview

The September intake is the most extensive and popular, with almost all universities offering a wide range of courses.

Advantages

• Extensive course options
• Easier alignment with internships and placement cycles
• Larger student community for better networking

Popular Courses

• Business Management
• Engineering and Technology
• Life Sciences
• Arts and Humanities

Timeline for September Intake Applications

• March to May: University research and course shortlist.
• May to July: Submit applications, SOPs, LORs, test scores-IELTS/TOEFL
• July to August: Accept the offers, student visa, travel arrangements.

January Intake in UK

January intake is perfect for the students who did not meet the September deadline or were not prepared for that time period.

Advantages

• It gives extra time to prepare the application.
• It has low competition compared to the September intake.
• Personalized attention due to smaller class sizes

Popular Courses

• Computer Science
• Nursing and Healthcare
• Accounting and Finance
• Media and Communication

January Intake Application Timeline

• August - September: Research universities and courses on offer
• September - November: Apply and submit application documents
• November - December: Confirm admission, apply for a visa, and plan travel

Read More: Get Your Free Study Abroad Counselling with Edysor

Differences between September and January Intakes

Here’s are the Differences between September and January Intakes:

Steps to Apply for UK Universities for September Intake

The September intake is the major admission cycle in the UK and allows access to the maximum number of courses and opportunities for international students. Follow these steps to make your application process smooth:

1. Start Early: Research Universities and Courses (January – March)

• Identify which universities offer your desired course.
• Check their entry requirements, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL), and other prerequisites.
• Make a list of universities and courses to concentrate your applications.

2. Prepare Your Documents (March – April)

• Collect the following documents:
• Academic transcripts
• English language proficiency scores
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Passport

Ensure that all the documents are updated and according to the requirements of the university.

3. Take Required Tests (March – May)

• Take IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, or GRE, if required.
• Allow enough time to prepare and retake the tests if necessary.

4. Apply to Universities (April – June)

• Submit your applications through the university portal or UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
• Pay attention to deadlines for application to each university.
• Customize your SOP according to the course and university.

5. Wait for Admission Decisions (June – July)

• Track your application portal for updates.
• Respond to any other document requests within the shortest time possible.
• Accept offers and pay the deposit to secure your admission.

6. Scholarships and Financial Aid Applications (May-July)

• Seek scholarships by universities, government, or private organizations.
• Fill out scholarship application forms with accompanying essays and other requirements.

7. Visa Application Preparation (July-August)

• Gather necessary documents for a visa:
• CAS confirmation
• Financial document
• Medical certificates
• Submit an application for a Tier 4 (Student) Visa
• Book and appear for the visa interview when necessary.

8. Arrange Accommodation (July – August)

• Look for university accommodation or private housing.
• Confirm your booking and review rental agreements.

9. Plan Your Travel (August)

• Book flights to the UK in advance.
• Review baggage allowance and pack according to guidelines.
• Familiarize yourself with UK customs and immigration procedures.

10. Attend Orientation and Begin Your Journey (September)

• Arrive early to attend university orientation programs.
• Register for your courses and settle into your accommodation.
• Utilize campus resources and get to know the other students.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Study in UK: Admission Process, Costs, Scholarships, and More

Timeline for September intakes in UK universities

Here is a timeline for taking admissions in September intake in the UK –

Steps to Study in January Intake in the UK

January intake, also called the Winter intake, is ideal for students who could not make it to the deadlines in September or needed extra time to prepare. The steps to apply for a January intake in UK universities are as follows:

1. Early Research (June-August)

• Research on the universities and courses available that have an intake in January.
• Review eligibility criteria, including academic requirements and language proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL).
• Shortlist the universities according to your priorities and objectives.

2. Gather Necessary Documents (July – September)

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Passport
• English language test scores

Verify each of the documents for accuracy and for the standards of the particular university.

3. Get registered and prepare for entrance examinations (July – September)

• If required, apply for exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, or GRE.
• Study well for these exams and leave some time for re-appear if needed.

4. Apply to Universities (August – October)

• Apply through UCAS or directly to the universities.
• Tailor your SOP to show interest in the course and institution.
• Track deadlines for each university.

5. Accept Admission Offers (October – November)

• Track your application portal for updates.
• Accept offers and pay any applicable deposits to secure your spot.
• Request a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from your chosen university.

6. Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid (August–November)

• Search for scholarships that exist for January intake students.
• Submit application forms with all the document requirements, such as essay or personal statement.

7. Prepare for the Visa Process (November–December)

Collect all the documents to be submitted for your Tier 4 (Student) Visa, including:

• CAS
• Financial Evidence
• TB test results (if required)
• Student visa application online and go to a biometric appointment

8. Accommodation Booking (November – December)

• On-campus accommodation or private renting
• Book as early as possible to avoid the hassle of last-minute bookings

9. Travel Planning (December)

• Booking your flights to the UK should be done well in advance.
• Check the luggage allowances and pack essentials, such as winter clothing and academic material.
• Understand the immigration procedure to the UK

10. Arrival and Orientation in the UK (January)

• Report to campus early to participate in the university's orientation programs.
• Follow up on on-campus registration and determine your course schedules.
• Find your way into campus life and become acquainted with peers.

Timeline for January intakes in UK universities

Here is a timeline for taking admissions in January intake in the UK: 

September & January Intake Universities in the UK

There are two major intakes provided by the UK for international students: September and January. The following is a brief rundown of the top universities for each intake:

Top Universities for September Intake

• University of Oxford – Provides a plethora of courses, mainly for the September intake.
• University of Cambridge – Famous for its extensive academic programmes.
• University College London (UCL) – Especially famous for research-intensive courses.
• University of Manchester – A science, engineering, and arts hub.University of Edinburgh – Offers a range of disciplines and has high international ranking.

Best Universities for January Intake

• University of Greenwich – Business, engineering, and IT courses.
• University of Lincoln – Arts, media, and management programs.
• Bangor University – Psychology and healthcare.
• De Montfort University – Flexible courses in a wide range of fields.University of Sunderland: Strong on business, tourism, and social sciences.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to the May Intake in USA 2024

Which Intake to Choose: September or January?

September Intake

• Good for: More courses, more scholarship opportunities, and full university facilities.
• Ideal for: Students who have all their documents ready, test scores, and are prepared to begin their studies in the fall.

January Intake

• Good for: Students who missed the September deadlines or need extra time to prepare.
• Ideal for: Fewer course options, but a good choice for specific programs with flexibility.

Where September is the best time for more options and opportunities, January suits best for a second chance with fewer courses and deadlines.

FAQs

1. Can I switch intakes after applying?

A. Yes, some universities allow intake transfers, but it depends on the course and availability.

2. Is January intake less competitive than September?

A. Generally, yes. Intakes in January usually have fewer applicants.

3. Are scholarships available for both intakes?

A. Yes, many scholarships are available to students from both intakes, but deadlines may vary.

4. Which intake is better for internships?

A. September intake is better aligned with internship and job opportunities.

5. Are all courses available in both intakes?

A. No, some courses are only offered in September.