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UK University Intakes & Application Deadlines (2026)
When to apply to study in UK — the intake seasons, a clear application timeline, and typical deadlines for top universities. Free.
▶ Find your universities (free predictor)⚡ Quick answer: The main intake in UK is September/October, with a smaller January intake at many universities. Apply roughly 6–12 months before your intake — the best programmes and scholarships close first. Always confirm exact deadlines on each university's official page.
Intake seasons in UK
Most UK degrees start in September or October. A growing number of universities also offer a January intake, useful if you miss the autumn deadline.
Application timeline — work backwards from your intake
- 12–18 months before: shortlist universities and take a free IELTS / PTE / TOEFL mock to find your gap, then book the real test.
- 8–12 months before: prepare your SOP and recommendation letters, finalise your test scores, and submit applications — apply early for scholarships.
- 3–6 months before: accept your offer, arrange proof of funds, and apply for your student visa (prepare for the visa interview).
- 1–3 months before: book travel and accommodation, and complete pre-departure steps.
Intakes & typical deadlines — top UK universities
| University | Intakes | Typical deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial College London | Sep/Oct | Rolling (apply early) |
| University of Oxford | Sep/Oct | Jan (most courses) |
| University of Cambridge | Sep/Oct | Dec–Jan (course-specific) |
| University College London (UCL) | Sep/Oct | Rolling |
| University of Edinburgh | Sep | Rolling (rounds) |
| University of Manchester | Sep | Rolling |
| King's College London | Sep | Rolling |
| London School of Economics (LSE) | Sep/Oct | Rolling (apply by Jan) |
| University of Bristol | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Warwick | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Glasgow | Sep, Jan | Rolling |
| Durham University | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Birmingham | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Southampton | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Leeds | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Sheffield | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Nottingham | Sep | Rolling |
| Queen Mary University of London | Sep | Rolling |
| University of Liverpool | September, January | Rolling |
| Cardiff University | September, January | Rolling |
| University of Surrey | September, January | Rolling |
| University of Leicester | September, January | Rolling |
Indicative for 2026 — deadlines vary by programme and change yearly. Always confirm on each university's official admissions page.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the main intake in UK?
- The main intake in UK is September/October, with a smaller January intake at many universities. Most UK degrees start in September or October. A growing number of universities also offer a January intake, useful if you miss the autumn deadline.
- When should I apply for a UK university?
- Start 12–18 months before your intake: take your English/admission tests early, then apply roughly 6–12 months ahead. Top universities and scholarships close first, so earlier is always safer.
- Are these UK deadlines exact?
- They're indicative typical deadlines and vary by university and programme — always confirm the exact date on each university's official admissions page before applying.