UK Study Visa Intakes 2026

For international students planning to study in the UK, understanding UK study visa intakes is crucial. In 2026, the September intake in UK remains the primary entry point, offering around 90% of courses and attracting the largest number of applicants.  

The February intake in UK serves as a secondary option, particularly for postgraduate programs, while the May intake in UK is limited and available only at select universities. Choosing the right intake affects application timelines, CAS issuance, and visa approval, making early planning essential for a smooth transition to studying in the UK. 

Key Highlights: 

Highlight	Details
Main Intake	September – ~90% courses, most popular
Secondary Intake	January – fewer courses, mainly postgraduate
Limited Intake	May – select universities only
Visa Window	Apply up to 6 months before the start
CAS Needed	Must get CAS before visa

Main UK Study Visa Intakes 2026

There are three primary Intakes in UK in 2026 for international students: September, January, and May. Each intake affects course availability, application deadlines, and visa timelines. Choosing the right intake ensures your CAS is issued on time and your visa process runs smoothly, helping you start your studies without delays. 

September (Fall) Intake in UK Universities 

The September intake in UK universities is the largest and most popular admission cycle, covering nearly 90% of available courses. It is ideal for both undergraduate and postgraduate students and offers the widest range of scholarships, making it the preferred choice for international applicants. 

Key Details	Information
Application Timeline	Submit applications 12–15 months in advance
CAS Issuance	Universities issue CAS between January–April
Visa Application	Apply between May–July for timely processing
Best For	Students seeking maximum course options, scholarships, and career opportunities

January (Winter) Intake in UK Universities 

The January/February intake in UK universities is the secondary admission cycle, mainly catering to postgraduate programs. While it offers fewer courses compared to September, it is a great option for students who missed the main intake or need more flexibility in planning. 

Key Details	Information
Application Timeline	Submit applications between June–September of the previous year
CAS Issuance	Universities issue CAS letters between October–November
Visa Application	Apply shortly after CAS issuance to ensure timely approval
Best For	Students seeking flexibility or late applicants

May (Summer) Intake in UK Universities 

The May intake in UK universities is the smallest and least common admission cycle. It is available only at selected institutions and for specific postgraduate or vocational programs. While limited, it can be a good option for students who missed earlier intakes or are targeting niche courses. 

Key Details	Information
Application Timeline	Submit applications between January–February
CAS Issuance	Universities issue CAS letters between February–March
Visa Application	Apply between March–April before the course starts
Best For	Students targeting select universities or specialized programs

UK Study Visa Application Timeline by Intake 

Timing is critical when applying for a UK study visa. Each university intake has specific windows for CAS issuance and visa submission. Planning ahead ensures you meet deadlines and avoid delays in enrollment. 

Intake	CAS Issuance	Visa Application
September (Fall)	January–April	May–July
January (Winter)	October–November	Shortly after CAS issuance
May (Summer)	February–March	March–April

 

Tips for Smooth Application: 

• Start your university applications early to secure CAS within the specified timelines. 
• Keep all supporting documents ready, including financial proof and English language test results. 
• Apply for your visa as soon as CAS is issued; visas can be applied for up to six months before course start. 
• Early preparation reduces the risk of delays or missed intakes. 

How to Plan Your UK Student Visa Around Intakes 

Proper planning is essential to ensure your UK study visa is approved on time and aligns with your chosen university intake. Each intake has specific deadlines for applications, CAS issuance, and visa submission, so early preparation reduces stress and avoids delays. 

Steps to Plan Your Visa: 

1. Select the Right Intake 

• September for maximum course options and scholarships. 
• January for flexibility, mainly postgraduate programs. 
• May for specialized courses at select universities. 

2. Apply Early 

• Submit your university applications at least 12 months before September intake. 
• For January, apply 6–8 months in advance. 
• May intake applications should be sent 4–5 months prior. 

3. Secure Your CAS 

• CAS must be issued before applying for your visa. 
• Ensure all required documents, including proof of funds, are ready. 

4. Apply for the Visa 

• You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date. 
• Standard processing takes ~3 weeks outside the UK. 

5. Prepare Documents and Funds 

• Keep passport, CAS, financial proof, and English language test results ready. 
• Early organization ensures smooth visa approval. 

UK Universities Offering Multiple Intakes 

Several UK universities provide more than one intake per year, giving international students flexibility in choosing when to start their studies. These universities typically offer September and January intakes, while a few also provide a May intake for select courses. Opting for a university with multiple intakes increases your chances of securing admission and aligning your UK study visa intakes with your preferred start date. 

University	Available Intakes	Notes
University of Glasgow	September, January	Most undergraduate and postgraduate courses
University of Manchester	September, January	Limited courses in May intake for select postgraduate programs
King’s College London	September, January	Popular for postgraduate programs, some courses offer May start
University of Birmingham	September, January	Undergraduate courses mainly September; select postgraduate programs January
University of Leeds	September, January	Most postgraduate programs; some undergraduate courses offer January start
University of Edinburgh	September, January	Offers select courses in May; strong postgraduate intake
University of Nottingham	September, January	September is main intake; January available for selected programs
University of Warwick	September, January	Mainly postgraduate courses; limited May intake in specialized programs
University of Bristol	September, January	Undergraduate intake mostly September; postgraduate programs available January
Queen Mary University of London	September, January	Offers some postgraduate courses in May; flexible for international students

Scholarships and Funding by Intake in UK

Scholarship opportunities in the UK vary depending on your chosen intake. The September intake offers the widest range, including prestigious awards for postgraduate and undergraduate students. The January intake has fewer scholarships, mainly for postgraduate courses, while the May intake is limited to select programs and universities.  

Planning early and aligning your scholarship applications with your intake increases your chances of securing funding. 

Scholarship Name	Intake Availability	Notes
Chevening Scholarships	September (Fall)	Prestigious UK government scholarship for postgraduate international students
Commonwealth Scholarships	September (Fall), January (Winter)	Funded by UK government for students from Commonwealth countries; mainly postgraduate
Gates Cambridge Scholarship	September (Fall)	For postgraduate students at University of Cambridge
Erasmus+	January (Winter)	Selected postgraduate programs; EU exchange opportunities
University-specific Merit Awards	September (Fall), January (Winter), May (Summer)	Varies by university; can be merit- or need-based
University-specific Postgraduate Awards	May (Summer)	Limited to select universities and programs

Conclusion 

Planning your studies in the UK requires understanding the UK study visa intakes and aligning them with university applications, CAS issuance, and visa timelines. The September intake offers the most courses and scholarships, January provides a secondary option, and May is limited to select programs. Early preparation ensures smooth visa processing, access to funding opportunities like Chevening or Commonwealth scholarships, and timely enrollment.  

By choosing the right intake and planning ahead, international students can maximize course options, secure financial aid, and start their UK academic journey without delays. Proper planning is the key to a successful study abroad experience.  

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