Over 110,000 Indian students chose the UK for higher studies last year. If you plan to follow in their footsteps, the May intake in the UK 2026 could be the perfect chance to begin your academic journey.
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This mid-year intake offers flexibility for those who missed the September intake or prefer a later start. With fewer applicants competing for spots, students can benefit from a less competitive environment while accessing the same quality education and resources available during the other prominent intakes.
Let’s explore the May intake in the UK in detail for the academic year of 2025-2026, with top universities, popular programs, application timelines, and tips for your application.
Key Highlights:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| UK May Intake 2026 Application Deadline | October 2025 – February 2026 |
| Starting Date of Classes | April – May 2026 |
| End Date of Classes | October – November 2026 |
| Popular Programs | MBA MSc Computer Science MSc Civil Engineering MSc Cloud Computing BA Digital Media MA International Relations |
What is the May Intake in the UK?
UK universities offer three admission cycles during their academic year for Indian students. While many students prefer January or September intakes for studying abroad, some opt for the May intake.
The May intake, also known as the spring/summer intake in the UK, usually begins in April/ May, with a few institutions offering course starts as late as June. It’s not the most popular choice because applying in the summer for the May intake in the UK offers fewer options for programs and universities.
Since the May intake is less popular than the September/January intakes, chances of getting admission is high. You can apply for the April intake in the UK between October and February.
Why Choose May Intake in the UK?
If you’re considering studying in the UK but feel unsure about the usual September or January intakes, the May intake could be a great fit for your plans. It provides many benefits for Indian students aiming to pursue higher education at top UK universities.
Let’s look at each of them in detail.
- Opportunity for Late Applicants: Maybe you missed the January intake deadline or feel you need extra time to get your application or finances in order. The May intake gives you a valuable window to prepare thoroughly without rushing.
- Less Competition: Because fewer students apply for the May intake, competition is generally lower. This means your application can stand out more, even if your academic profile is average.
- Quicker Entry into the Job Market: Graduating in March aligns well with the UK job market's hiring cycles, as many companies begin recruiting around this time. This timing can provide an advantage when seeking employment after graduation.
- More Scholarship Options: With fewer applicants applying in May, you often face less competition for scholarships such as the Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships. This can open up more opportunities to secure financial aid based on merit, need, or specific programmes, easing your financial burden.
- Better Placement Opportunities: May intake batches tend to be smaller, which means more focused attention from faculty and better access to placement resources. If you value personalised guidance and want to stand out during placements, starting your course in May could help you achieve that.
Top Universities for May Intake in UK 2025-2026
Several reputed UK universities offering May 2026 intake provide flexible admission timelines, strong industry connections, and globally recognised degrees.
Now, let’s look at the May intake in the UK Universities 2026 list.
| UK May Intake Universities | QS World University Rankings 2025 | UK May Intake 2026 Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Mary University of London | #120 | Late November 2025 |
| Brunel University London | #342 | 31 January 2026 |
| University of Kent | #380 | Late November 2025 |
| Coventry University | #526 | 7 January 2026 |
| Northumbria University | #535 | 1 December 2025 |
| Ulster University | #559 | 31 January 2026 |
| University of Greenwich | #691-700 | 31 January 2026 |
| University of East London | #901-950 | 27 November 2025 |
Popular Programs Available for May Intake in the UK 2026
UK universities for May intake 2026 offer abundant opportunities for you to explore a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across numerous fields. This section gives you a breakdown based on the level of study.
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May Intake Universities in the UK for Bachelors
Undergraduate programs in the May intake include practical, career-focused degrees in business, science, and humanities. If you’re planning to start your bachelor’s mid-year, the UK May intake universities offer excellent pathways.
| University | Programs Offered | Average tuition fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of South Wales | BSc (Hons) Nursing BSc (Hons) Computer Science BA (Hons) Computer Animation | INR 17.3L |
| University of Sunderland, London | BA (Hons) Business and Management BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance BA (Hons) Events Management | INR 15L |
| Regent College London | BSc (Hons) Business Management BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care BEng (Hons) Software Engineering | INR 14.3L |
| Coventry University | BSc (Hons) in Accounting and Finance BSc (Hons) in Adult Nursing BE (Hons) in Aerospace Systems Engineering | INR 17.9L |
| University of Chester | BE (Hons) in Chemical Engineering BE (Hons) in Chemical Engineering with Foundation Year | INR 16.3L |
| University of Dundee | BSc in Oral Health Science BDes (Hons) in Animation | INR 10.6L |
| Buckinghamshire New University | BSc (Hons) International Business Management BSc (Hons) Health and Social Science BSc (Hons) Psychology | INR 16L |
| University of Kent | BSc(Hons) in Applied Chemical Science BSc(Hons) in Chartered Manager BSc(Hons) in Applied Bioscience | INR 16L - INR 22.4L |
May Intake Universities in the UK for Masters
Postgraduate programs dominate the May intake, with many universities offering specialised degrees in AI, logistics, English literature, and more. It’s ideal for students looking for quicker entry into the job market or research roles. Master’s courses during this intake are popular among Indian students.
| University | Programs Offered | Average tuition fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Greenwich | MSc General Pharmacy Practice MBA MA International Business | INR 19.4L - INR 21.3L |
| University of Law | MSc Corporate Financial Management MSc Cyber Security Management MSc Investment and Trading | INR 17L - INR 18.2L |
| Brunel University London | MSc/ PG Diploma/ PG in Advanced Clinical Practice(Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation) MSc/ PG Diploma/ PG in Advanced Clinical Practice (Neurological Rehabilitation) MSc/ PG Diploma/ PG in Advanced Clinical Practice (Cardiovascular Health) | INR 19L - INR 22L |
| Ulster University | Extended MS in Global Business MSc in Marketing MSc in International Business with Data Analytics | INR 15.7L - INR 26L |
| Northumbria University | MSc in Artificial Intelligence Technology MSc in Big Data and Data Science MSc Business with Hospitality and Tourism Management | INR 21.1L - INR 24.3L |
| University of East London | MSc in International Business Management MBA MSc in Cloud Computing | INR 16.3L - INR 21.1L |
| Solent University | MSc Applied AI and Data Science MBA Global MSc Strategic Management | INR 16.3L - INR 19.4L |
| University of Bedfordshire | MBA MSc in Computer Networking with Project Management MS in International Business with Data Analytics | INR 16.7L - INR 18.2L |
| University of Hertfordshire | MSc in Cardiology and Stroke MSc in Data Science with placement year | INR 17.6L - INR 19.2L |
Application Timeline for May Intake in the UK 2026
The May Intake in the UK might not be as commonly chosen as other options. The application deadline depends on the course and the university you decide to apply to. However, you must be aware of the application process timeline.
The key is to check with the universities directly and apply before applications close.
Below is the detailed timeline for universities in the UK for May intake 2026.
| Stage | Recommended Period | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Research & Shortlisting | August – October 2025 | Identify universities and courses offering May intake. |
| Prepare Application Materials | October – November 2025 | Gather academic transcripts, references, and draft personal statements. |
| Submit Applications | November – December 2025 | Apply directly to universities or through UCAS(Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), depending on the program. |
| Await Decisions | January – February 2026 | Monitor application portals and respond to any additional information requests. |
| Accept Offers & Arrange Finances | February – March 2026 | Confirm your place, pay deposits, and secure funding or scholarships. |
| Apply for a Student Visa | March – April 2026 | Prepare and submit your visa application with all necessary documentation. |
| Travel & Commence Studies | April – May 2026 | Finalise accommodation and travel plans to arrive before the course start dates. |
Note: If you're beginning your application journey a little later than the suggested timeline, don't be discouraged. Many universities continue to accept applications until their courses are full. It’s crucial to act promptly, reach out to admissions offices for guidance, and ensure all your application materials are in order.
Documents Required for May Intake in the UK
You must prepare a comprehensive set of documents to apply for the May intake in the UK universities.
Below is a detailed list of the required documents for the April Intake in the UK.
- Completed Application Form
- Academic transcripts
- Original university certificates
- Scorecards for Standardised tests like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE or GMAT.
- 2-3 Letter of recommendation(LORs) from previous work experiences.
- A well-written Statement of Purpose(SOP)
- CV/Resume
- Copy of passport
- UK student visa
Visa Process for May Intake UK 2026
To study in the UK, you’ll need a student visa (previously Tier 4). You can apply for it up to 6 months before your course starts, but most May intake students apply between March and April 2026. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university
- Proof of funds to support your stay (typically £1,023(INR 12K) per month for 9 months outside London)
- English language proficiency proof (like IELTS)
- Passport and other identity documents
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable
- Visa fee: £490(INR 57K)
Apply online via the official UK Government visa portal and book a biometric appointment at your nearest visa centre.
How to Prepare for May Intake in the UK 2025-2026?
Preparing for the May 2025 intake in the UK requires careful planning and timely action, from understanding admission requirements to securing a visa. It’s important to stay ahead of deadlines, gather necessary documents, and ensure that finances are in place.
It is advisable to start the application process for the May Intake in the UK around 8-9 months in advance, typically in the previous year.
Tips for May Intake in the UK
Here are a few quick tips to help you sail through the April intake in the UK 2026 smoothly.
- Start early with research: Shortlist courses and universities early. For example, the University of Greenwich offers Business and Engineering courses in May.
- Apply to multiple universities: Don't limit yourself. Apply to at least 4–6 universities in the UK for the May intake 2026 to increase your chances. Look for both high-ranked and mid-tier universities.
- Join Forums or Groups: Many students miss important updates. Platforms like Facebook groups or Reddit threads will keep you posted about deadlines, accommodation options, and even scholarships for the May intake courses in the UK.
- Track the visa timeline: Apply for a UK student visa (Tier 4) at least 3 months before the course start date. Keep documents like CAS( Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) letter, proof of funds, and test scores ready.
- Always have a Plan B: Prepare for other intakes like January or September in case your preferred course isn’t available in May. This way, your study abroad journey stays on track.
Ready to apply for the UK May Intake 2025-2026 admissions? Get help by contacting Leap Scholar’s professional counsellors!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Which universities in London offer the best courses for the May intake?
Ans. The top choices for May intake universities in London, including the highly esteemed Queen Mary University of London and Brunel University London, offer unique opportunities for students. Queen Mary provides a limited number of postgraduate programs starting in May or June, while Brunel University, located in West London, offers a wider range of May intake courses in the UK. Both institutions promise an enriching academic experience outside central London. For more options, you can explore other universities in London that also offer May intakes.
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Q. When should I apply for the May intake in the UK for 2025?
Ans. For the UK May intake 2025, it's recommended to submit applications between November 2024 and February 2025. Starting early allows ample time for preparation, including gathering necessary documents and meeting any specific course requirements.
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Q. Is there any May intake in the UK?
Ans. Yes, several UK universities offer a May intake, also known as the Summer intake, for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. However, the range of available programs is typically more limited compared to the primary September intake. It's advisable to check with individual universities for specific course offerings during this period.
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Q. Which universities has May Intake in the UK in 2025?
Ans. Several UK universities offer a May 2025 intake, including the University of East London, the University of Hull, Coventry University, Northumbria University, and the University of Greenwich. These universities provide a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses starting in May.
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Q. Is May intake good in the UK?
Ans. Yes, the May intake in the UK offers benefits such as smaller class sizes, less competition for admission, and more personalised attention from faculty. It also provides flexibility for students who missed the September or January intakes.
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Q. What courses have a May intake at the University of East London?
Ans. The University of East London offers several courses for the May 2025 intake, including MSc Artificial Intelligence, MSc Big Data Technologies, MSc Civil Engineering, MBA (with placement), and PG Certificate in Independent and Supplementary Prescribing.
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Q. Does the University of Hull have May intake?
Ans. Yes, the University of Hull offers a May 2025 intake for various programs, including MSc Advanced Computer Science, MSc Digital Transformation (online), and research degrees across disciplines like languages, chemistry, and economics.
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Q. What is the deadline for the May intake in the UK 2025?
Ans. Application deadlines for the May 2025 intake vary by university. For instance, the University of East London's deadline is 27 November 2025, while Coventry University has a deadline of 7 January 2026. It's essential to check specific university deadlines as they can differ.
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