How do I plan for a May intake in the UK so I do not miss any deadlines?
Plan a UK May intake by confirming your course lists a May start, keeping one deadline sheet for application, deposit and CAS dates, booking English tests early, asking about fees, planning funds and looking for funding and housing early. Only selected universities run May intakes, so check each one.
Most May plans do not fail on marks, they fail on dates. Only selected universities in the UK run a May intake and each sets its own dates, so you should start in autumn and track every deadline.
Your May Intake Checklist
| Action | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Check the start date first | Confirm that your course actually lists May |
| Compare carefully | Some universities run only a handful of May courses (Bangor runs just four) |
| Keep one deadline sheet | Note the May deadline, deposit date and CAS date for each university |
| Get your scores early | A strong TOEFL or IELTS result keeps options open; allow time for GRE or GMAT if your course asks |
| Ask about fees | Fees at some May intake universities differ from September |
| Plan your funds | Higher living cost amounts apply to visa applications from 30 November 2026 |
| Look for funding early | Fewer awards run for May starts |
| Book housing quickly | Start as soon as you accept your offer |
Timing and Trade-offs
The degree and course length stay the same, but choice is the trade-off. Coventry University, for one, usually closes May applications at the start of March, though dates differ by university. The 30 November 2026 change to living cost amounts is scheduled, so check the official visa page for the figure that applies to you.
My Advice
Start in autumn, confirm the May start, note the deadline for every course on your list and arrange your funds early. Dates and visa amounts change, so check each official page before you apply.
UK Jan or May 2027: Which Intake Can You Still Apply For?
Get a personalised timeline before deadlines close.
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