September Intake in UK 2024: Top Universities & Deadlines

Now, you must be thinking about what is remarkable in the country and what the UK can offer you more or different in comparison to other study-abroad destinations. Take a look at some compelling reasons to pick the United Kingdom for your studies:

• Academic Excellence: The United Kingdom boasts renowned universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London, known for their exceptional education quality and facilities. These esteemed universities hold a global reputation for excellence that enhances your employability worldwide.

• Vibrant Campus Life: The UK's top universities, Oxford, Cambridge, King’s College London, and more, offer cutting-edge learning guided by expert researchers. In addition, they also provide well-maintained student accommodations, practical knowledge, and strong student support networks.

• Cultural Diversity: The United Kingdom welcomes you to foster a diverse and inclusive environment embracing a multicultural ethos. Studying here connects you with various cultures, offering exposure to different languages and diverse fashion styles.

• Enriching Student Life: The UK presents an exciting student life with myriad social and cultural activities where you can engage in clubs and cultural events and explore the nation's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, from London's urban pulse to Scotland's scenic beauty.

• Manageable Living Costs: Average monthly expenditures range between £1,023 and £1,334, contingent on the city of residence, and help students balance academic and leisure pursuits more effectively.

• Festive Joy: The UK is renowned for lively festivals encompassing music, arts, food, and drinks. Engaging in these events unveils local culture and enriches your experience.

• Urban Exploration: With captivating cities like London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Liverpool, the UK offers historic charm and dynamic vibrancy. You can discover museums, art galleries, and historic sites and relish local cuisine, all while exploring picturesque streets while studying in the UK. 

• Engage in Student Societies: Universities host diverse societies, from sports to drama and music to debate. Joining such societies can help you connect with like-minded peers and enrich your journey.

• Wanderlust Adventures: The UK offers diverse travel destinations wherein you can take weekend trips to the countryside, seaside, or neighbouring countries like Ireland, France, and Spain with affordable transportation options.

• Lively Nightlife: The UK pulsates with nightlife options – bars, clubs, live music venues – catering to various tastes. Enjoy dancing and traditional pub experiences, savouring fish and chips or ale.​​

However, these highlights merely scratch the surface of what the UK offers. Whether you cherish history, art, music, sports, or gastronomy, the UK caters to all interests. Embrace this enriching opportunity to the fullest, creating unforgettable memories during your academic journey.

Now that you are well aware of stellar reasons to study here, let’s explore the top universities in UK. The United Kingdom stands as a global hub for prestigious universities, consistently achieving high rankings on various platforms. Dive deeper into some of the top universities in UK, along with their notable offerings.

Renowned as one of the world's finest universities, the University of Cambridge secures the second spot globally. Founded in 1209 and granted a Royal Charter in 1231, it holds the distinction of being the third oldest continuously operating institution.

Offering around 35 undergraduate programs and 126 postgraduate programs to both domestic and international students, the university boasts over 150 academic departments, multiple faculties, and six schools.

Cambridge not only provides cutting-edge facilities but also extends various scholarship opportunities to international students, details of which can be found on their official website.

QS World University Ranking 2024: 2nd

Key Courses: Architecture and Urban Design, Finance and Economics, Biotechnology, Computational Biology, Environmental Policy, and more.

Requirements: IELTS/TOEFL, SAT, Strong GPA.

Average Fees: £25,000 - £60,000

Established in 1096, the University of Oxford is the oldest English-speaking university globally. Comprising 39 semi-autonomous constituent colleges, Oxford excels in research, teaching, and resources within its stunning city backdrop.

Boasting a highly competitive environment, the university has an acceptance rate of 13 - 17%, motivating prospective students to discover their ideal courses and apply promptly.

QS World University Ranking 2024: 3rd

Key Courses: Philosophy, English Studies, Computer Science, Energy Systems, Clinical Neuroscience, and more.

Requirements: GRE, SAT, IELTS/TOEFL, Strong GPA.

Average Fees: £27,000 - £40,000

Founded by Royal Charter in 1907, Imperial College London holds a prominent position in business, engineering, and medicine. Offering over 109 undergraduate programs and 168 postgraduate programs, the institution's independence since 2007 has further elevated its global standing.

Imperial College fosters a diverse academic atmosphere with 59% international student representation from 140 countries. It has an academic reputation of 98.3 and is noted for its exceptional educational outcomes.

QS World University Ranking 2024: 6th

Key Courses: Aeronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, and more.

Requirements: GRE, IELTS/TOEFL, GMAT, International Baccalaureate, Strong GPA.

Average Fees: £25,000 - £40,000

Ranked 9th in the QS World University Ranking, UCL champions innovative thinking and houses a vibrant community of students. Hosting over 400 undergraduate programs and 500 postgraduate programs, UCL boasts 30 Nobel Laureates among its alums and is a leader in Research Excellence.

Situated in the heart of London, the university's international outlook is enriched by its 18,000 international students from over 150 countries.

QS World University Ranking 2024: 9th

Key Courses: Linguistics, Digital Media, Psychology, Business Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and more.

Requirements: Academics, SAT, IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Academic, GMAT.

Average Fees: £24,000

Consistently within the top 50 globally, the University of Edinburgh ranks 22nd in the 2024 QS World University Rankings. Known for its interdisciplinary culture and entrepreneurial spirit, the university attracts students and scholars from around the world.

With a diverse student body of over 45,000 from 156 countries, Edinburgh has produced 19 Nobel Prize winners and nurtured excellence across various fields.

QS World University Ranking 2024: 22nd

Key Courses: Finance, Business Analytics, Architecture, Life Sciences, Engineering, Law, and more.

Requirements: IELTS/TOEFL, Strong Academics, Portfolio (if required), Recommendation letters.

Average Fees: £25,000 - £40,000

Aside from the above-mentioned top-ranked universities, there are more institutions for September Intake, such as the University of Manchester, King's College London, The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), the University of Bristol, and The University of Warwick.

Thus, top universities in UK offer not only unparalleled academic environments but also a chance to immerse oneself in a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences.

Now you know why and where to apply in the United Kingdom, let’s get to know when to apply in this section.

There are three main intakes for university admissions: the September intake (Autumn) and the January intake (Winter) in the United Kingdom. Some universities also offer a third intake, the May intake (Summer). Here's a detailed breakdown of these intakes:

Session Begins: August/September 2024

Application Deadline: June to July 2024

Duration: Typically from September to December or early January

The September intake in UK, often referred to as the Autumn intake, is one of the most popular intakes for UK universities. It offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines.

When considering applying for this intake, you must prepare beforehand and submit your applications between February and May of the preceding year.

Session Starts: January 2024

Application Deadline: September to October 2023

Duration: From January to April

The January intake, also known as the Winter intake, allows you to start your academic journey in the new year. The application window for this intake generally falls between June and September of the previous year.

Session Begins: May 2024

Application Deadline: January to February 2024

Duration: Usually from May to August

While less common, the May intake in UK, often referred to as the Summer intake, is offered by some top universities in UK. This intake is commonly associated with short-term programs, English language courses, and pre-university preparatory programs. Well, if you are interested in this intake, you must apply between January and February.

So, each intake has its own pros and cons. The September intake in UK aligns with the traditional academic calendar and offers a wide range of courses. The January intake provides a chance to start fresh in the new year, and the May intake is suitable for shorter programs. Overall, it's important to note that specific dates and deadlines can vary depending on the university and the course of study.

When planning to study in UK, understanding these intakes and their associated application deadlines can help you make informed decisions about when to apply and begin your academic journey in the UK.

You might find it surprising, but September Intake is more famous here than other intakes. Various compelling reasons for September Intake in UK exist. Have a look at the below points explaining why this popular intake is often the preferred choice:

Wide University Acceptance: The September Intake in UK is widely recognised and accepted by most of the universities over here. This means you can apply to diverse educational institutions, opening up numerous academic paths for your higher education journey.

Access to Scholarships and Financial Aid: Many scholarships, financial aid programs, and bursaries are readily available during the September Intake in UK. Applying during this period increases your chances of securing financial assistance to support your studies over here.

Diverse Study Programs: Universities offer a comprehensive selection of study programs at the beginning of the September Intake in UK. This ensures you have a broad spectrum of courses to choose from, aligning with your academic and career aspirations.

Ample Preparation Time: Opting for the September Intake in UK provides you with substantial time to meticulously research courses, plan your relocation, and complete all necessary steps for a seamless transition to studying in UK.

Smooth Transition from Previous Education: Students who conclude their high school or bachelor's degree in the spring often prefer the September intake as it allows them to maintain academic momentum without a prolonged gap. This continuity ensures a smooth transition from their previous education.

Favourable Weather Conditions: Getting admission in September Intake in UK means that you will be going to experience relatively pleasant weather over here. This can be especially appealing for those coming from regions where cold winters are unfamiliar. Choosing this intake helps avoid the potential shock of adapting to extreme climate differences.

Enhanced Peer Interaction: The September Intake in UK sees a significant influx of new international students. This provides ample opportunities to meet and interact with peers from around the world, fostering a diverse and enriching academic environment.

Therefore, opting for the September Intake in UK provides numerous benefits, from a wide range of university options and financial aid opportunities to ample preparation time and favourable weather conditions.

Now that you are aware of the benefits of September Intake in UK, let's understand some crucial steps to ensure a smooth admission process to apply for the same. Here's a concise breakdown of the necessary actions to take:

Step 1: Research and Shortlist

Thorough research is key to finding the right course and university for your academic goals. Think about the factors like the program's curriculum, faculty, location, and overall reputation of the institution.

Step 2: Exam Preparation

Preparing for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT is crucial, especially for international students to get into their desired universities, as these scores often serve as prerequisites for admission. Hence, starting early preparation allows you to retake exams if required.

Step 3: Application Submission

Your application is your opportunity to showcase your qualifications and interests. Thus, make sure to provide accurate information and ensure all required documents are submitted.

Step 4: Apply to Chosen Universities

Several different universities might have varying application processes as some might use UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), while others might have their own application portals. You must carefully follow their instructions.

Step 5: Response to Offers

After following proper instructions, you can easily get offers from universities. But now you must evaluate each offer based on the conditions and your preferences. Conditional offers will require you to fulfil certain requirements before confirming your enrollment.

Step 6: Pre-CAS Interview

Some universities might conduct pre-CAS interviews to assess your suitability for the course. You must prepare for these interviews as they can influence your final offer.

Step 7: Initial Deposit/Tuition Fee Deposit

Once you've decided on a university, you'll likely need to pay an initial deposit to secure your place in the program. This deposit is often deducted from your total tuition fees.

Step 8: Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS)

Alongside the tuition fees, The CAS is a virtual document provided by the university that confirms your acceptance and course details. You'll need this to apply for your student visa.

Step 9: Visa Application

The student visa application process can be complex and time-consuming. Make sure to gather all necessary documents and follow the guidelines provided by the UK government's official visa application website.

Ultimately, you can navigate through the application process for September Intake in UK, positioning yourself for a successful academic career by diligently following above mentioned steps.

Now you are ready to apply for September Intake in UK, you must follow the tips below to do your best in the process.

1. Research Thoroughly: You should look into the universities and courses that interest you. Each program has its own requirements, and it's crucial to tailor your application accordingly.

2. Start Early: You must give yourself ample time to prepare your application, especially if it involves writing personal statements or gathering recommendation letters.

3. Check English Language Proficiency: If English isn't your first language, you might need to prove your proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

4. Financial Planning: Studying in UK comes with costs beyond tuition, such as living expenses and health insurance. You need to do proper research for scholarships or part-time job opportunities to support yourself.

5. Seek Guidance: If you're unsure about any aspect of the application process, don't hesitate to contact the universities' admissions teams or educational consultants.

Q. When to give IELTS for the September 2024 intake?

A. It's advisable to take the IELTS exam several months before the start of the September 2024 intake. Starting exam preparations around March or April of the prior year would provide ample time to achieve your desired score.

Q. When to apply for UK universities in 2024?

A. For the September 2024 intake, applications generally open around February to May of the previous year. It's recommended to begin the application process during this period to ensure you meet the deadline for September intake in UK.

Q. Which universities in UK are still open for September intake?

A. The availability of universities for the September intake can vary. However, many UK universities accept applications for this intake. It's advisable to regularly check the official websites of the universities of your choice for accurate information on available courses and the application deadline for September intake in UK.

Q. What are the benefits of September intake in the UK?

A. The September intake offers several benefits, including a wide range of available courses, access to scholarships and financial aid, and sufficient time for research and preparations. Additionally, starting in September aligns with the traditional academic calendar, providing a smooth transition for students. 

To sum up, studying in UK can be a life-changing experience for you. Well, the top universities in UK not only offer academic excellence but also a chance to immerse yourself in a diverse and vibrant culture.

Keep in mind to research thoroughly, start your application process early, and pay attention to deadlines. We are sure that through proper planning and guidance, you can embark on a successful academic journey in the UK with determination and adequate preparation.

We hope we have provided sufficient information about the September Intake in UK. If you are unsure or want more profound insight, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC).

If you cannot travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide the best guidance regarding your application to study in UK. Don't hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.