What intakes do US universities have and when do they start for me?
US universities typically offer up to three admission intakes: Fall starting around August, Spring around January, and Summer around May, though terms and start dates vary by university. The Summer intake is offered only by particular universities for particular courses, so check availability for your chosen programme.
Unlike Indian universities, which typically offer a single intake, American universities and colleges typically offer up to three admission intakes in an academic year, though terms, start dates and terminology vary by university. These are also known as semesters.
US intakes at a glance
| Intake | Starts from | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (commonly the August intake) | August | August to December |
| Spring (also known as the January intake) | January | January to April |
| Summer (particular universities and courses) | May | May to August |
What to keep in mind
- The Summer intake is not available everywhere, so confirm it with your university.
- Exact start dates and application deadlines vary by university.
- Check which intakes your chosen course accepts before planning.
My Advice
Pick your intake based on when you can have your tests, documents and funds ready. Then check your shortlisted universities' pages for the exact dates and deadlines for that intake.
USA Jan, May or Sep 2027: Which Intake Can You Still Apply For?
Get a personalised timeline before deadlines close.
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