Most UK degrees start in September or October, but a growing number of universities run a second intake in January or February. For international students who missed a deadline, needed another test sitting, or had a visa refused, it can save a full year.
Who runs a January intake
January entry is far more common at postgraduate level than undergraduate. Typical patterns:
- Taught masters: widely available in business, management, computing, data science, engineering management and public health.
- Undergraduate: much rarer. Where it exists it is usually on business, computing or foundation and international year one programmes.
- Pre-sessional English and foundation courses: commonly offered on a rolling basis feeding into later starts.
Deadlines and realistic timing
Applications for a January start usually open in the spring of the previous year and close between late October and early December, though popular courses fill earlier. Work backwards from the start date:
- September to October: apply and secure an offer.
- October to November: meet conditions, pay the deposit, receive your CAS.
- November to December: submit the visa application, allowing for peak processing times.
What changes for undergraduates
UCAS is built around September entry. A January undergraduate start is normally arranged directly with the university rather than through the main UCAS cycle, so contact admissions before assuming a place exists.
The trade-offs
- Smaller choice. Fewer universities, fewer courses, and rarely the most competitive programmes.
- Different cohort rhythm. You may join a smaller group and finish your dissertation over the summer of the following year.
- Graduate recruitment timing. Some employer schemes are built around summer graduation, so plan applications early.
- Accommodation. University halls allocate in the autumn, so private housing is more likely.
When September is worth waiting for
If your target course, university or scholarship only runs in September, waiting usually beats compromising. Use the extra months to retake a test, gain relevant work experience, or strengthen your financial evidence.