January Intake in UK 2024-2025: Deadlines & Best Universities

9 min read

The United Kingdom has grown its international reputation tremendously in the past few years. Unlike in India, UK universities open admissions three times a year in January/February, May/June and September/October. 

The fall or the September intake starts in September and continues till December or early January. September intake is considered the primary intake in the UK and gets the most admissions. 

January intake in UK is considered the secondary intake. As the name implies, it starts in January, sometimes February and is also called the Winter Intake. 

The January intake in UK 2025 deadline for International students will be around November 2024 (differs from universities).

The number of universities and courses available during this period is much less than the primary intake. Usually, students who cannot meet deadlines for the primary intake apply for the January intake as it gives them extra time to prepare.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about January 2025 intakes in UK. 

January intakes in UK
More than a 100 universities accept January Intake in UK.

List of January intake universities in UK 2024-2025

The availability of January intake universities in UK is slightly lesser than the September or Fall intake, but universities are still widely available. Applicants with a portfolio and prior work experience are given more preference.

Following are some popular UK universities with January that offer postgraduate/graduate courses. Talk to our counsellors to get a complete list of universities and their eligibility requirements! 

University~Average tuition fee range
Queen Mary University of London10,000 GBP- 54,000 GBP
University of Liverpool17,000 GBP
Kingston University16,000 GBP – 24,000 GBP
University of Derby15,000 GBP
Edinburgh Napier University12,000 GBP – 14,000 GBP
Brunel University17,000 GBP – 21,000 GBP
Oxford Brookes University12,000 GBP
University of Brighton12,000 GBP – 17,000 GBP
University of Bedfordshire11,000 GBP – 18,000 GBP
London Metropolitan University10,000 GBP – 18,000 GBP

Pros of Applying for January Intake in UK 2024-2025

More time to prepare college applications: January intake is great for you if you want to study in the UK but need more time to make up for extracurriculars or entrance tests.

Enough time to select the right course: Choosing subjects for higher education is challenging for most students. January intake in UK gives you more time to consider your options before making a decision. 

However, we recommend checking if the courses you’re interested in are available for the intake. 

Best time to take preparation courses: Many UK universities grant conditional admission offers to applicants who still need to meet the admission requirements fully. Those students may enrol in foundation courses to prepare for the college year. 

January intake is the best time for students to apply for preparation courses, as it gives you just enough time to prepare and boost your chances for the September intake.

Lower competition: Since September is the primary intake, January intake in UK gets fewer students. It’s simpler to stand out from the competition if you have a decent profile. 

Chances of cheaper accommodation: The demand is substantially lower in the secondary intake since most students secure their housing during the primary intake. Finding accommodation that doesn’t burn a hole through your pocket is easier. 

Personalised attention: Since fewer students are in January intakes, classrooms are smaller. You can expect better attention on a 1:1 basis, as typically, the staff-to-student tattoo is higher during this intake.

January intakes in UK
Only 30% of courses are available during January intake in UK, as opposed to 90% in September.
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Cons of Applying for January Intake in UK 2024-2025

Limited number of courses: While there are a good few January intake universities in UK, the number of courses is limited. Not all popular courses are available for the January intake. 

It’s important to confirm with the university before you plan to apply. 

Limited scholarships: UK offers numerous scholarships to students. However, the majority of them are applicable for the primary intake. Winter or the January intake has very few scholarships available. 

So, if you’re relying on funding scholarships, applying for September/fall instead of January intake is best. 

Timeline: When to Apply for January Intake in UK 2025?

April- May 2024Research universities and shortlist universities based on the course you wish to take. Also, list down eligibility requirements for each university.
June-July 2024Take English proficiency tests and other entrance exams as per eligibility requirements.
August-September 2024Gather all the documents you need for the application process andstart applying to universities. Submit your application as soon as possible.
September- October 2024Wait for admission offers, and accept the one you think is the best for you.
November- December 2024Look for scholarships, make accommodation arrangements and prepare for your departure. 
January- February 2025Enjoy the start of your exciting journey! 

The above table is a generic timeline; however, the schedule may vary depending on where you stand.

The process will be sped up if you have already taken English proficiency tests and other entrance examinations. However, if you still need to start preparing for entrance exams, you must make adjustments. 

With an organised plan, it’s possible to file a successful application and move abroad, which is why thousands of aspiring study abroad students trust Leap with their journey! 

Our experts will not only sketch out a perfect schedule to match your needs, but they will also do the work for you. From university shortlisting to applying for a visa, Leap does it all. Talk to us today to learn more! 

Tips for a Successful Application for January Intake in UK for 2025

University applications can be tricky if not done right.

Here are some things you can do to boost your chances for successful admission. 

  • Start your process early: The earlier you apply, the higher your chances are of getting into the university of your dreams. By starting early, you can ensure you meet all requirements. 
  • Always keep an eye on application deadlines: An early application gets your profile reasonable consideration and helps you stand out from the competition. 
  • Write a clear and strong personal statement: Personal statements can make or break your application. Practice well, and have a professional look at it before you submit it. 
  • Have a mixture of universities: Apply to a combination of safe, moderate and ambitious universities to land the best admission offers. 
  • Choose your references wisely: A solid Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is written by those who know you well and are excited about your journey, so try your best to find such people. A forced LOR will look dull and unconvincing on your application.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to study in the UK but were unable to submit your applications for the September intake, you should surely take advantage of the January Intake in UK 2025.

Some of the top programs for January intake in UK are Business, engineering and technology, law, and medicine. However, most courses are subject to availability, so it’s best to check on the official university website.

The application dates, process and requirements also vary depending on the university and course.

Want to make your application process easier? Connect with our experts today for 1:1 guidance and a hassle-free process. Schedule a free call with us and take the first step towards your dream education in the UK!

January Intake in UK FAQs

  • Q. How many intakes are there in UK?

    A. The universities in UK generally have two primary intakes:

    -Fall Intake (September/October): This is the predominant intake, offering diverse courses.
    -Winter Intake (January/February): This intake provides a solid selection of courses and is an alternative for students who may have missed the September deadline.

    In addition to this, there can be a few universities may present a May intake featuring a smaller selection of courses.

  • Q. What is UK January application deadline?

    A. The application deadline for the January intake at UK universities usually ranges from June to September of the year before. However, it’s crucial to recognize that deadlines may differ based on the program and university. For instance, prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, as well as specialized programs such as medicine, often have earlier deadlines.

  • Q. Is January intake in UK the primary intake?

    A. No, the primary intake in the UK is in September. It offers a wider course selection, abundant extracurricular opportunities, extensive networking possibilities, a smooth transition into university life, and immediate access to resources. The September intake is favoured for its broader array of courses and richer academic and social experience. In contrast, the January intake is typically considered secondary, providing fewer options and a smaller cohort of students.

  • Q. Which intake is better among all UK intakes?

    A. The September intake in the UK is the best option, offering the most courses and diverse opportunities. However, if you miss the September deadline, the January intake serves as an excellent alternative, ensuring you can still pursue your academic goals effectively. Both intakes cater to different needs, providing flexibility and options for students to embark on their educational journey at their preferred time.

  • Q. What are the benefits of January intake in UK universities?

    A. Choosing the January intake at UK universities can increase your chances of acceptance since there’s less competition. You’ll begin your studies sooner and discover specialized programs. Graduating at a different time may give you an advantage in job hunting. Keep in mind, though, there are fewer courses available, and scholarships might be scarce. Take time to research if the January intake aligns with your goals and needs.

  • Q. What are some January entry requirements for UK?

    A. The entry requirements for January intake at UK universities closely resemble those for September intake. Typically, you’ll need academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if required), and evidence of English proficiency. However, deadlines usually range from June to September, so it’s essential to research and prepare in advance. Verify specific requirements and any differences related to January intake directly with your chosen universities.

  • Q. What is the availability of courses like for the January intake in UK?

    A. In UK universities, there are fewer courses available in January compared to the plentiful options in September. Some subjects, like business or engineering, are more common. But don’t worry! Sometimes, you’ll find unique programs only offered in January. Make sure to research well by checking university websites and contacting them directly to confirm which courses are available in January.

  • Q. How many band are required for UK?

    A. There’s no set band requirement for a UK student visa itself. However, universities set their own English language proficiency requirements. To study in the UK, you’ll need to meet the specific score set by the university you’re applying to. These typically range from a minimum of 5.5 to 6.5 overall on the IELTS test, with no band lower than a 5.5 in each section.

  • Q. Is the gap acceptable in the UK?

    A. Yes, the UK accepts study gaps, often valuing the experience gained during this time. A gap of up to two years is generally acceptable without much explanation. For longer gaps, you’ll need to provide reasons and evidence, such as work experience or volunteering. Highlighting how this time has contributed to your personal and professional growth can strengthen your application.

  • Q. How much bank balance is required for UK student visa?

    A. For a UK student visa, you generally need to show enough funds to cover your first year of tuition and living expenses. Currently, this means having around £1,334 per month (which is approximately ₹140,070) for up to 9 months if studying in London, or £1,023 per month (which is approximately ₹107,415) for up to 9 months if studying outside London. Ensure your bank balance reflects these amounts to meet the visa requirements.

  • Q. What is the 28-day rule in the UK Student visa?

    A. The 28-day rule for a UK Student visa refers to the requirement that your bank account must consistently show the necessary funds for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting your visa application. This ensures that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your studies in the UK. Make sure your bank statements meet this criterion to comply with the visa regulations.


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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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