Ultimate guide for January intake in UK universities in 2025

Did you know that the application for the September 2025 intake is closed? If you haven’t confirmed your place in the UK yet, let us share an opportunity. You will have another intake to get admission. 

So, do you consider the UK your ideal study-abroad destination? Is information regarding upcoming admissions sessions for the January intake at UK universities important to you? Yes, then you’ve found the right place!

Our goal is to give you a proper overview of the top UK universities that accept students in January, as well as information on the best degree options they offer.

Why study in the UK?

Top universities: In terms of teaching quality, research, high student happiness, and graduate employability, UK top institutions, including Oxford, Cambridge, Kings College, QMUL, and UEA, are continuously listed among the most renowned universities in the world.

Easy work permit: The UK’s new post-study work visa, which is available to international master’s and PhD students for 2 and 3 years, respectively, is advantageous for international students who intend to study there for the next intakes.

Opportunities abound: The UK is home to some of the top businesses, like Barclays, NatWest Group, PwC UK, Deloitte, and Sainsbury’s, which provide graduates with a fantastic lifestyle and chances to advance in the nation.

Variety of courses: Students in the UK study a wide range of specialisations and seek a profession in a diverse range of subjects, from zoology to culinary arts.

Cultural diversity: The UK is home to thousands of ethnicities and is situated in the centre of Europe. International students have the chance to travel to some of the most popular destinations in the world while living in the UK, including France, Austria, Germany, and more!

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January intake at UK universities in 2025

January intake in UK universities is the secondary intake. Although there are fewer courses offered in the January intake than in the September intake, this intake provides a chance for students who were not admitted in the main intake. 

Students are given more time to work on their applications as a result. The application deadlines, which vary from course to course and university to university, will take place between June and September.

Why study in the UK for the January intake?

The January intake of 2025 in the UK is also known as the spring intake. Though the September intake is more popular than the January intake, students who have deferred their studies to improve their IELTS scores or apply for a specific programme prefer the January intake.

In addition, the January intake is less competitive, allowing overseas students to catch up on the September classes. This intake serves as an incentive for candidates who missed out on the UK’s main intake.  

Once students complete high school, they are quite confused about whether they should start their university education right away or take a break. Hence, the January intake in the UK in 2025 needs special consideration.

Usually, the decision is taken based on the plans that they have. The financial aspect has an important impact. Depending on their financial situation, some of the students want to start their studies and get prepared for job hunting.

On the other hand, others might want to take a break and rethink their plans before they start their bachelor’s degree. 

This opportunity is quite interesting for those who want to have a little break after high school or for those who don’t want to miss an all-academic year!

How do I apply for the January intake of 2025?

If you have any enquiries regarding how to apply, you can seek help from AHZ, one of the top educational consultants in the world. You must register and submit an application on the UCAS website.

• Apply for up to five degrees in the UK to increase your chances of being accepted.
• You will then be prompted for personal information about yourself.
• Your academic achievements should be highlighted in your CV.
• Don’t forget to offer any supporting documentation for your financial stability.
• Describe yourself.
• Certain universities require additional tests, such as the LNAT if you intend to practice law or the UCAT or BMAT for medical degrees.

You should be aware that English is used to teach every course. As a result, you will need to prove that you have advanced English skills. 

If you are not coming from an English-speaking country, you must pass one of these recognised English exams to demonstrate your language proficiency. If you need help developing your English skills, you can get help from the MIE English Academy.

• The IELTS Academic version of the test (International English Language Testing System)
• TOEFL (Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• C1 Intermediate (Cambridge)
• The Academic PTE (Pearson Test of English)

Top universities for the January 2025 intake

For the January 2025 intake in the UK, many universities are open. Many prestigious universities in the UK have a regular quantity of scholarships available to them. You can submit an application through AHZ-

University name	Location
Arts University Bournemouth	Poole, England
Aston University	Birmingham, England
Birmingham City University	Birmingham, England
Bangor University	Bangor, UK
BPP University	London, United Kingdom
Buckinghamshire New University	Wycombe, England
Cardiff Metropolitan University	Cardiff, Wales
Brunel University, London	Kingston, London, England
Coventry University	Coventry, England
Coventry University, London	London, England
De Montfort University	Leicester, England
Glasgow Caledonian University	Glasgow, Scotland
Canterbury Christ Church University	Canterbury, England
Heriot-Watt University	Edinburgh, Scotland
Keele University	Keele, England
Kingston University	London, England
Leeds Trinity University	Leeds, England
Liverpool John Moores University	Liverpool, England
London South Bank University	London, England
Loughborough University	Loughborough, England
Middlesex University	London, England
Northumbria University	Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Nottingham Trent University	Nottingham, England
Solent University	Southampton, England
Queen’s University Belfast	Belfast, Northern Ireland
Regent College, London	London, England
Robert Gordon University	Aberdeen, Scotland
Staffordshire University	Stoke-on-Trent, England
Swansea University	Swansea, Wales
Teesside University	Middlesbrough, England
Ulster University	Belfast, United Kingdom
QA Ulster University	London and Birmingham
UA92 Global: University Academy 92	Old Trafford,Manchester
University College, Birmingham	Birmingham, England
University for the Creative Arts	Farnham, England
University of Aberdeen	Aberdeen, Scotland
University of Bedfordshire	Luton, England
University of Bradford	Bradford, England
University of Central Lancashire	Preston, England
University of Chester	Chester, England
University of Derby	Derby, England
University of Dundee	Dundee, Scotland
University of East Anglia	Norwich, England
University of East London	London, England
University of Essex	Colchester, England
University of Gloucestershire	Cheltenham, England
University of Greenwich	London, England
University of Hertfordshire	Hatfield, England
University of Hull	Hull, England
The University of Law	Guildford, England
The University of Lincoln	Lincoln, England
The University of Northampton	Northampton, England
University of Portsmouth	Portsmouth, England
University of Roehampton	London, England
The University of Salford	Salford, England
University of South Wales	South Wales, UK
The University of Strathclyde	Glasgow, Scotland
University of Suffolk	Ipswich, the county town of Suffolk
The University of Sunderland	Sunderland, England
University of Surrey	Guildford, England
University of Sussex	Brighton, UK
The University of Wolverhampton	Wolverhampton, England
University of York	York, England
Birkbeck, University of London	London, England

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CAS Deadline

The process of applying is still the same, but the deadlines differ. Keep an eye on the programme that you would like to apply for. If it is a concrete one, you should make sure it is provided in both academic semesters.  

2025 entry application deadline: 

15 October 2024 for January 2025 entry at 18.00 (UK time)

Any course at Oxford and Cambridge universities, as well as most medical, veterinary medicine/science, and dental programmes. You can add more choices with various deadlines later, but keep in mind that you can only have five total choices, and remember that with the decision of the UK government, dates can be changed at any time. 

Entry deadline 

January 2025 for 2025 entry at 18.00 (UK time)

To conclude, the January intake in UK universities is quite helpful for potential students to better schedule their study and life plans.

(Dates can be changed.)

Class start time

There is no set day or hour when all January intake classes in the UK start at once. However, the majority of classes start either the first week of January or by mid-January. For a January intake, sessions may occasionally start in February at UK universities and colleges.

Steps to study in January 2025 in the UK 

The step-by-step approach for UK institutions with January entry for postgraduate and undergraduate courses is outlined here:

Step 1: Now is the time to start:

• The first step to studying in the United Kingdom for the January 2025  intake is to select a course and begin shortlisting universities that best suit your needs.
  
• Everyone’s decision-making process is unique, and it will vary from person to person depending on your academic background and future plans.
  
• Investigate the courses you want to take as well as the courses and colleges for which you are eligible.
  
• The best place to start is to look at the official websites of UK universities to discover what courses they offer and to extensively investigate them before shortlisting.
  
• To fund your studies, become familiar with bank loan and scholarship choices.
  
• Remember to check the January intake and application deadlines for the course you’re interested in.

Step 2: Appear for the exams: 

• The admissions tests will be the most significant eligibility requirements for the courses and universities you choose.
  
• General aptitude tests, such as the GRE and GMAT, will be required for admission to institutions in the United Kingdom. Prepare for it and go for it.
  
• Language proficiency assessments, such as the IELTS and TOEFL, are also important.
  
• Keep in mind that these tests will take some time to prepare, and the results will not be available for many weeks.
  
• If the results are unsatisfactory, you may want to retake the tests. All of this time should be factored into the timeframe for the January intake in the United Kingdom.

Step 3: Beginning of university applications: 

Keep an eye on the deadlines for applications. Different dates will apply to different colleges and programmes-

• Start the documentation process for all essential paperwork a month before the deadline.
• Prepare your Statement of Purpose/Application Essay. You will write a “Statement of Purpose” outlining your academic background and why you have selected this university.
• You should also begin contacting instructors and bosses to request that they write letters of recommendation for you in the event that they are required.
• Apply to universities in the United Kingdom before the deadline. The deadline for the January 2025 UK university intake will be in the months of June through September.

Step 4: Acceptance letter and interviews: 

• You will receive an email from the university if there is any progress with your application. If you are interested in attending the course, you must respond with a confirmation.
  
• If you intend to take the course, please notify the university as soon as possible by sending a confirmation email. Don’t wait for the deadlines to be pushed back.
  
• It’s also possible that you’ll be asked to pay a non-refundable confirmation fee. That, too, has deadlines, and the sum must be paid before the deadline.

Step 5: Apply for a visa: 

• As soon as you receive the university’s acceptance letter, you should begin the application procedure for a student loan and a UK student visa.
  
• You should apply for a student visa to study in the United Kingdom at least three months before the January intake begins. 
  
• The visa and loan application processes are both time-consuming and important.
  
• You can also apply for study abroad scholarships if you want to. During the visa application process, you will be required to present proof of financial resources, and any scholarships or grants should be revealed at that time.

Step 6: The last step before flying: 

You’re only a few steps away from starting your studies in the United Kingdom. Before you book your flights, double-check that you have all of the necessary paperwork.

• The next step is to find a place to stay. If you do not wish to reside on the university campus, you will be responsible for finding student housing on your own. Begin this step at least a month prior to your arrival.
  
• Make arrangements for a global credit or debit card.
  
• Make a pre-departure checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything important.

Timeline for January intake in UK universities

Timeline	Activity
List of universities April–June 2024	Find and shortlist the top universities that fit your needs.
Test preparation  June–September 2024	Prepare, apply, and attempt tests such as IELTS, TOFEL, GRE, and GMAT.
Application submission  September-November 2024	Complete and submit your application to the UK university with the required documents.
Reply to emails  October–December 2024	Connect and reply to the universities for further admission procedures.
Arrange your finances December–January 2025	Look for scholarships, loans, or other financial aid and apply.
Time to fly  January 2025	Finally, you have to book a ticket and be ready to fly.

Required documents 

1. For undergraduate students:

• Copy of passport
• Copy of the visa 
• Academic documents 
• Language proficiency certificate: IELTS, TOFEL, PTE
• Certificate of graduation 
• Personal statement 
• Offer letter
• Referral letter 

2. For postgraduate students

• Certificate of undergraduate degree

3. Research 

• Certificate of postgraduate degree
• Research proposal 

4. Previous UK education history

• Previous CAS letter
• Copy of previous visa 
• Confirmation of enrolment 

Pros and cons of the January 2025 intake in the UK

Here are some pros and cons of the January intake in the United Kingdom:

Pros of the January 2025 Intake:

• Flexible timing: The January intake offers flexibility, allowing you to start your studies at a convenient time and potentially avoiding the rush of the traditional September intake.
  
• Availability of courses: Many universities offer a wide range of courses for the January intake, ensuring you have ample options to choose from and find the programme that suits your academic and career goals.
  
• Smaller class sizes: With fewer students starting in January compared to September, you might benefit from smaller class sizes, leading to more personalised attention from professors and better interaction with peers.
  
• Employment opportunities: Graduating in the summer can align better with the UK’s job market cycle, increasing your chances of finding job opportunities after completing your degree.
  
• Accommodation options: You might have more options when it comes to finding accommodation since there could be less competition for housing compared to the September intake.

Cons of the January 2025 Intake:

• Limited programme availability: While many courses are offered in the January intake, some specialised programmes or disciplines may only be available in the September intake.
  
• Condensed schedule: Depending on the programme, the January intake might have a slightly compressed schedule, requiring you to cover the same coursework in a shorter period of time.
  
• Limited social integration: Starting in January could result in fewer opportunities to engage in campus activities and events, potentially impacting your social integration and networking opportunities.
  
• Internships and work placements: Some industries may have their peak recruitment period in the summer, which could affect your chances of securing internships or work placements during your studies.
  
• Weather and adjustment: If you’re not accustomed to the UK’s winter weather, adjusting to a new environment during the colder months might pose a challenge.

Before making a decision, carefully consider your academic goals, personal circumstances, and the specific offerings of the universities you’re interested in. 

What would happen if you forgot to apply to a UK university for the January intake?

• Only in the days immediately following the January application deadline should late candidates postpone submitting their applications. Holding out on making a choice can be in your best interests.
  
• Institutions may not know until a few weeks after the application deadline whether they can accept further applications. By the middle or end of February, universities will inform UCAS whether or not they plan to take part in UCAS Extra.
  
• That gives you a greater idea of what the universe still has to offer. To help you narrow down your options, use the course finder that AHZ provides. It contains details on all UK university programmes as well as the most recent data and statistics.
  
• To increase your chances of selection after February, you must submit your application as soon as you can. It would be beneficial if you kept in mind that course availability is continually shifting. Make sure to get in touch with the colleges you’re interested in before submitting an application. It is now appropriate to get in touch with the university’s admissions department.
  
• The January 2025 intake in the UK is referred to as the spring intake in the United Kingdom. The former is preferred by students who have postponed their education in order to raise their IELTS score or enrol in a particular programme, even if the latter is more frequent.
  
• Since January admission is less competitive, international students may be able to catch up with the September sessions. Candidates who weren’t selected for the primary UK intake now have the chance to reapply.
  

• To help students take advantage of the best educational possibilities offered by the nation, UK institutions are offering a wide variety of courses, scholarships, and awards for the January 2025 UK university intake.

Conclusion

The United Kingdom is the ideal place to receive a well-rounded education that will prepare you for a wide range of professions. Students from all over the world have been able to get the help they need from the admissions team so that they can study in the United Kingdom. 

The secondary intake is in January. Although the January 2025 intake offers fewer courses than the September intake, it provides an opportunity for students who did not receive admission in the main intake. It allows students to devote more attention to their application.We can help you narrow down your options for further education and gain entry to the institution that best suits you. If you’re interested in attending a university in the UK, an expert team at AHZ may offer advice tailored to your specific needs.

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