Planning to study in the United States? Then you should know about the intakes in USA. The USA offers multiple intakes throughout the year, providing flexibility and options for Indian students.
There are three main intakes in USA: Fall, Spring and Summer. Fall is the most popular intake, offering a wide range of courses. If you miss this intake, the Spring intake serves as a great alternative with limited course selection. Summer intake is less common and is primarily suited for short courses or special programs.
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But how do you decide which one is better? In this blog, we’ll explore all aspects of intakes in USA, including benefits, deadlines and other key considerations.
Intakes in USA 2025 – 2026
Most American Universities offer two main intakes for international students:
- Fall Intake( Primary Intake)
- Spring Intake(Secondary Intake)
- Not all universities accept Summer or May intake. This intake has the lowest availability for courses and scholarships and can be referred to as an additional or tertiary intake.
Below is a quick overview of the intakes in USA timeline.
| Intakes in USA | Duration |
|---|---|
| September Intake/Fall Intake | September- December |
| January Intake/Spring Intake | January- April |
| May Intake/Summer Intake | May-August |
Key Differences Between Intakes in USA
With multiple intakes in USA, it’s crucial to understand the factors that can influence your choice before applying to any American university.
Here are some key differences listed b/w intakes in USA.
| Factors | Fall Intake | Spring Intake | Summer Intake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Availability | Wide selection of courses available (90%) | Fewer courses available (30%) | Limited courses, mostly vocational (10%) |
| Scholarships | Many scholarships and funding opportunities are available | Fewer scholarships, as many are awarded in the Fall | Very limited scholarship availability. |
| Job Opportunities | More on-campus jobs, internships, and co-op opportunities. Better alignment with the academic year for internships. | Fewer on-campus jobs and internships. May miss out on some summer internship opportunities. | Limited job opportunities, primarily focused on short-term or part-time roles. |
| Class Size | Generally larger | Typically smaller | Smaller class sizes compared to spring |
| Acceptance Rate | Higher due to a larger applicant pool. | Lower as compared to Fall. | Varies; generally less competitive. |
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Which Intake in USA is Right for You: Fall, Spring or Summer?
Choosing the right intake is a crucial step when planning to study in the USA. Each intake in the USA offers unique benefits for Indian students.
Here are some key benefits of intakes in USA that’ll help you make an informed decision.
| Fall Intake | Spring Intake | Summer Intake |
|---|---|---|
| -Wide range of programs and courses to choose from. -High availability of universities. -Enough time to adjust to the new lifestyle. -Most number of scholarships and financial aid. -Better possibilities of getting part-time jobs and internships during the break. | -More time to prepare your application. -Less competition, more chances of getting in. -Some universities have lower tuition fees for January intake. -Affordable accommodation due to lower demand. | -Competition is cut down by more than half, and it is easier to get admission. -You have the opportunity to start sooner than the September intake. |
By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can choose the intake that best suits your needs and helps you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Fall Intake in USA 2025: The Most Popular Option
The fall intake in USA marks the start of the academic year for most universities offering a comprehensive range of programs during this semester. Popular programs like MBA, MS, and MA are widely available for Indian students during this intake.
Application Deadlines: November 2024 – February 2025
Key Dates
| Application Opens | October – November 2024 |
| Application Closes | December – March 2025 |
| Classes Commence | Late August to Early September 2025 |
| First Semester Ends | December 2025 |
Since the competition is relatively high during this intake, it’s essential to keep an eye on the deadlines and apply at the earliest.
Here is a list of the September intake universities in the USA
| Top Universities for Fall Admissions | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | March 15, 2025 |
| Duke University | January 4, 2025 |
| Yale University | December 15, 2024 |
| University of Pennsylvania | January 5, 2025 |
| Princeton University | January 1, 2025 |
Also Read: Universities in USA with High Acceptance Rate for International Students
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Spring Intake in USA 2026: A Viable Alternative
Spring intake, also known as winter intake in USA, is a good backup for those who missed the primary intake. This intake gets the second-highest admissions yearly and offers a great option for Indian students looking to begin their studies mid-year in a less competitive environment.
Application Deadlines: July 2025 – November 2025
Key Dates
| Application Opens | July 2025 |
| Application Closes | November 2025 |
| Classes Commence | January – February 2026 |
| First Semester Ends | April – May 2026 |
The spring semester in USA can buy you enough time if you plan to take a gap year.
Here is a list of the jan intake universities in USA.
| Top Universities for Spring Admissions | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| New York University | October 15, 2024 |
| Boston University | November 1, 2024 |
| Columbia University | November 1, 2024 |
| University of Massachusetts Dartmouth | January 15, 2025 |
| San Jose State University | November 1, 2024 |
Also Read: Most Affordable Universities In The USA 2024
Summer Intake in USA 2025: For Specialised Programs
The summer intake is the lesser known of all intakes in USA. May intake is less popular because it has fewer applicants. Very few universities offer the intake in the first place, and courses are limited for Indian students. You should be aware of summer intake deadlines as the application process starts earlier than fall intake.
Application Deadlines: November 2024 – February 2025
Key Dates
| Application Opens | November 2024 |
| Application Closes | January – February 2025 |
| Classes Commence | May 2025 |
| First Semester Ends | August 2025 |
May intake does have its advantages, and it could be an excellent choice if you’ve skipped the first two intakes. However, we don’t recommend considering the summer or May intake as your first choice.
Here is a list of the May intake universities in USA.
| Top Universities for Summer Admissions | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Boston University | April 7, 2025 |
| University of California, Berkeley | February 28, 2025 |
| New York University | March 17, 2025 |
| Stanford University | May 12, 2025 |
| Illinois State University | April 1, 2025 |
Suitable Programs for Summer Intake in USA
The summer intake universities in USA have the fewest course options available. It’s important to confirm course availability with your chosen university before planning for the summer intake.
Here’s a list of popular programs available for summer intake in USA.
| UG | PG |
|---|---|
| Business Administration Computer Science Engineering Psychology Biological Science | MBA MS Biomedical Engineering MS in Business Law MS Finance MS in Economics |
Also Read: Most Popular Courses In USA
When to Apply for Intakes in USA?
Getting admission in the USA is highly competitive, so it’s advisable to keep an eye on the deadlines and apply as soon as possible.
The application process for intakes in USA begins almost a year in advance. So you should plan ahead and prepare accordingly.
Here’s a timeline for your reference.
| Month | Actions |
|---|---|
| Initial Research and Planning(1 year before) | Do your research and choose a country. |
| Choose Universities and Programs (9-8 months before) | Research and gather information about universities. Shortlist them based on your requirements, or let us do it for you! |
| Application Material Preparation(7-6 months before) | Start preparing your application. Take all the exams you need to. Prepare your letter of recommendation, statement of purpose and gather all documents. |
| Application Submission and Visa (5-3 months before) | Begin the application process (fill out forms, submit documents), apply for scholarships. Receive offers from universities, and take your time to make a decision. Apply for a student visa |
| Pre-departure Preparation(2-1 month before) | Paying your fees/deposit. Look for accommodation options. |
Want to know what you should do next in the process? Book a free call with our experts and get a plan chalked out for yourself!
What Common Mistakes You Should Avoid When Planning for Intakes in USA?
- Avoid applying to too many universities, as it may lead to rushed submissions. Focus on a balanced selection that aligns with your goals.
- Providing inaccurate or inconsistent information across your application can raise red flags.
- Failing to meet deadlines for applications can lead to automatic rejection.
- Neglecting to follow application instructions carefully can lead to disqualification.
- Neglecting to follow up after submitting your application can make you seem less interested.
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect forms can cause delays or rejections.
- Refrain from plagiarising SOP or LOR, as it may lead to rejection of visa and university applications.
- Ignoring visa requirements or failing to apply for the correct visa can prevent you from entering the USA.
The intake you choose will greatly affect your career, so it’s best to take your time and select wisely. Our experienced counsellors can help you begin your study journey to the UK. Book a free call today to find out!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. In which month should I apply for admission in the USA?
Ans. Application timelines in the USA depend on the intake period. For the Fall intake (starting in September), applications typically open in November and close by May. For the Spring intake (beginning in January), the application window is usually from July to December. It’s advisable to start preparing your application 6-12 months in advance to meet these deadlines.
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Q. Is January intake good in the USA?
Ans. The January intake, known as the Spring intake, is a viable option for students who miss the Fall intake. While it offers fewer courses and university options compared to the Fall, it still provides ample opportunities for admission. Additionally, competition is generally lower during this period, potentially increasing your chances of acceptance.
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Q. Which intake is best for USA?
Ans. In the USA, the September intake, which is also known as the fall intake, is like the main event! It’s super popular and gets a ton of admissions every year. A lot of students love starting in the fall because it’s when everything kicks off on campus. Plus, you’ll have loads of courses and activities to choose from right from the start.
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Q. How early should I apply for the intakes in USA?
Ans. If you are an international student planning to study in the US, it is advisable to start the university application process at least 6-12 months before the intended semester of enrollment. This proactive approach is recommended because the admission process can be lengthy and complex, especially for international applicants who may need to obtain a student visa. It’s also wise to double-check the specific application deadlines and requirements of the university or program you’re interested in.
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Q. Can I apply to more than one intake in the USA at the same time?
Ans. Yes, you can apply to more than one intake in the USA at the same time. However, keep in mind that each application will require its own set of documents and application fees. It’s also important to note that some universities may have restrictions on how many intakes you can apply to in a given year. Be sure to check with the specific university or program you’re interested in to confirm their policies regarding multiple applications.
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Q. When does fall semester start in USA?
Ans. So, the fall intake in the USA usually begins around August or September. It’s super popular among international students because it syncs up with the start of the academic year. But hey, the dates can vary depending on the uni or program you’re eyeing. It’s smart to double-check with them to nail down the exact start dates for the fall intake.
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Q. How many intakes in USA for international students?
Ans. In the USA, international students usually have three main times to start their studies: September, January, and May. These times match up with the fall, spring, and summer terms. Each one gives students a chance to begin their academic journey at different points in the year. It’s important for international students to plan when they’ll apply to match up with these times.
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Q. Is May intake available in USA?
Ans. Yes, the May intake, referred to as the Summer intake, is available in the USA. However, it is less common, with limited course and university options. This intake is suitable for students who missed the Fall and Spring intakes, but it’s important to note that scholarship opportunities and course availability may be restricted.
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Q. Which intake is best for a USA student visa?
Ans. The Fall intake (September) is generally considered the best for obtaining a USA student visa. It aligns with the traditional academic year, offers a wider range of courses, and provides more opportunities for scholarships and internships. However, the Spring intake (January) is also a viable option, especially for students who require additional time for application preparation.
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Q. How many semesters are there in a year in the USA?
Ans. In the USA, the academic year typically consists of two main semesters: Fall (August/September to December) and Spring (January to May). Some institutions also offer a Summer session (May to August), which is optional and may be shorter in duration.
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Q. Which intake is available for the USA now?
Ans. As of January 2025, the upcoming intake in the USA is the Fall intake, which begins in September 2025. Application periods for this intake typically open in November and may extend until May. It’s advisable to check specific university deadlines and begin your application process promptly to ensure timely submission.
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Q. When should I start applying for USA intakes for masters programme?
Ans. You should start applying for master’s programmes in the USA at least 12-18 months before the intended intake. For the Fall intake, begin your preparations around August of the previous year, and for the Spring intake, start by February. This timeline allows you to complete requirements like tests, applications, and documentation.
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