Did you know, over 130,000 Indian students enrolled in UK universities, making India the second-largest source of international students?
With the demand for UK education rising, many international students are now exploring alternative intakes beyond the traditional September start.
Although most students apply for September intake, not everyone can meet the deadlines or secure a seat in their preferred programme. This is where the April/May intake becomes important. Some universities in the UK offer this alternative entry point, giving students more flexibility and another chance to begin their studies without waiting for the next academic year.
Key Highlights:
- Top Universities for May Intake include Coventry University, University of Liverpool, Ulster University, and University of Hertfordshire.
- Application Deadlines for May 2025 intake universities typically close by January or February 2025.
- Tuition Fees for May intake universities in the UK range between INR 10 lakhs - 18 lakhs (GBP 10,000 - GBP 18,000) per year for master’s and INR 8 lakhs - 15 lakhs (GBP 8,000 - GBP 15,000) per year for bachelor’s programmes.
- Cost of Living in the UK for international students is around INR 9 lakhs - 12 lakhs (GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000) per year, depending on the city.
- Scholarships such as the Commonwealth Scholarship, GREAT Scholarships, and university-specific bursaries are available for May intake students.
- Visa Requirements include showing proof of funds of at least INR 12 lakhs (GBP 12,000) per year for a UK student visa (Tier 4).
So, in this guide we will check the universities offering the April/May 2025 intake, application deadlines, top courses, and key details to help you plan your application.
What is the May Intake in the UK 2025?
The May intake in the UK is an alternative admission period where select universities offer courses to international students who missed the September and January intakes. While it is less common than the main intakes, it still provides a great opportunity to start studying without waiting for a full academic year.
May intake is particularly useful for students who:
- Need more time to prepare for applications and tests.
- Want to start their studies sooner rather than waiting for the next intake.
- Prefer less competition, as the number of applicants is lower compared to September.
- Aim for a quicker route to graduation and early entry into the job market.
Though fewer universities participate, the May intake is ideal for specific courses in business, IT, engineering, and health sciences.
May 2025 Intake in UK: Key Highlights
Unlike the more common September and January intakes, the May intake is less competitive and offers a faster route to starting university without waiting another year. However, the number of universities and programmes available in this intake is limited.
Many students don’t consider the April/May intake because they assume most UK universities only offer a September start. While it’s true that the main application season is in autumn, several universities still open admissions in May for select programmes in business, engineering, health sciences, and social sciences.
Category |
Details |
---|---|
Application Deadlines |
End of January to early February 2025 |
Course Start Date |
May 2025 |
Competition Level |
Lower than September intake, increasing chances of admission |
Benefits |
More time for preparation, quicker entry into the UK job market, less competition for seats |
Challenges |
Fewer university options compared to the September intake |
Ideal For |
Students who missed earlier deadlines, need more time for English proficiency tests, or prefer a smaller class size |
Plan Your UK May 2025 Intake: Timeline & Key Steps
A successful admittance to UK institutions depends on your application procedure being well planned. This thorough chronology will help you stay on target:
Month |
Step |
Details/Actions |
---|---|---|
October-November 2024 |
Research & Planning |
|
November-DDecember 2024 |
Standardized Testing |
|
December 2024 |
Prepare Application Materials |
|
January-February 2025 |
Submit Applications |
|
February-March 2025 |
Follow-up |
Monitor application status & Prepare for potential interviews |
March-April 2025 |
Receive Decisions |
|
April-May 2025 |
Pre-departure Preparations |
|
List of May Intake Universities in the UK with Application Timeline
Several universities in the UK open admissions for May (Spring) intake, primarily in fields like business, management, IT, and health sciences. If you’re looking for a flexible entry point with less competition and a quicker pathway to employment, the May intake might be a perfect fit.
While the May intake is less common, several UK universities offer this option for specific programs. Here's a list of some institutions that have historically offered May/Spring intakes:
University Name |
QS World University Ranking 2025 |
May 2025 Application Deadline |
---|---|---|
165 |
March 2025 (varies by programme) |
|
531 |
January 2025 |
|
1001-1200 |
January 2025 |
|
510-550 |
March 2025 |
|
851-900 |
March 2025 |
|
1001-1200 |
January 2025 |
|
901-850 |
November 2024 |
|
559 |
January 2025 |
|
1501+ |
March 2025 |
|
631-640 |
March 2025 |
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Popular Programs for May Intake in the UK
Usually, the May intake centers on specific kinds of programs. Popular fields and programs are broken out here:
Field of Study |
Popular Programs |
Top Universities |
---|---|---|
Business & Management |
MBA, MSc International Business, MSc Marketing |
University of Liverpool, Coventry University |
Computer Science & IT |
MSc Computer Science, MSc Data Science |
University of Hertfordshire, University of Portsmouth |
Engineering |
MSc Mechanical Engineering, MSc Electrical Engineering |
University of Bedfordshire, Anglia Ruskin University |
Health Sciences |
MSc Nursing, MSc Public Health |
University of East London, Ulster University |
Social Sciences |
MA International Relations, MSc Psychology |
London Metropolitan University, University of Chester |
May Intake Universities in UK for Bachelors
If you are looking for bachelor’s programmes in the UK but missed the September or January intake, the May 2025 intake gives you another opportunity to start your studies. While not all UK universities offer undergraduate courses in May, several institutions provide options in business, management, engineering, health sciences, and computing.
These are the UK universities that accept students for bachelor’s degrees in the May intake:
University Name |
QS World University Ranking 2025 |
May 2025 Application Deadline |
---|---|---|
Coventry University |
531 |
January 2025 |
University of Bedfordshire |
1001-1200 |
January 2025 |
Anglia Ruskin University |
501-550 |
March 2025 |
University of Hertfordshire |
851-900 |
March 2025 |
London Metropolitan University |
1001-1200 |
January 2025 |
University of East London |
901-850 |
November 2024 |
Ulster University |
559 |
January 2025 |
University of Chester |
1501+ |
March 2025 |
University of Portsmouth |
631-640 |
March 2025 |
May Intake Universities in UK for Masters
The May intake for master’s programmes in the UK is a lesser-known but strategic option for international students. According to HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency UK, 2024), postgraduate enrolments in non-traditional intakes like May have increased by 12% over the past three years. This is largely due to universities expanding their programme offerings and students seeking flexible admission timelines.
While the September intake dominates admissions, the May intake allows students to avoid intense competition, start their degree sooner, and enter the job market faster. Some universities have also introduced rolling admissions for select master’s courses, making this intake a viable option for those who missed earlier deadlines.
Here’s a list of UK universities offering May intake for master's programmes:
University Name |
QS World Ranking 2025 |
May 2025 Application Deadline |
---|---|---|
University of Liverpool |
165 |
March 2025 (varies by programme) |
Coventry University |
531 |
January 2025 |
University of Bedfordshire |
1001-1200 |
January 2025 |
Anglia Ruskin University |
510-550 |
March 2025 |
University of Hertfordshire |
851-900 |
March 2025 |
London Metropolitan University |
1001-1200 |
November 2024 |
University of East London |
901-850 |
January 2025 |
Ulster University |
559 |
March 2025 |
University of Chester |
1501+ |
March 2025 |
Documents Required for Application in May Intake
Your documents play a big role when you apply to UK universities for the May intake. If something’s missing or incorrect, it could delay or cancel your application.
Keep these documents ready to avoid that stress,
-
Academic Transcripts: You will need your mark sheets and certificates from school and your bachelor’s degree.
-
English Language Proficiency Test Scores: You must show your IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores if English is not your first language.
-
Statement of Purpose (SOP): This is a personal essay explaining why you want to study the course, how it connects to your career goals, and why you picked this university.
-
Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Most universities ask for two LORs. You can get them from your teachers, professors, or past employers who know your work well.
-
Updated CV/Resume: You’ll need a clear resume that shows your education, work experience, and any key achievements if you’re applying for a master’s programme or an MBA.
-
Valid Passport: A passport with at least six months validity from the date of travel is mandatory for visa processing and admission formalities.
-
Proof of Fund: UK student visa regulations require you to show that you have enough financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
How to Apply for April/May 2025 Intake in the UK
Spots fill up fast as fewer universities offer this intake compared to September or January. If you miss the deadlines, you might have to wait for the next intake.
According to UKCISA (2024), more international students are now choosing the April and May intakes. In the last two years, there has been an 18 percent rise in applications. Many students want quicker enrolment and less competition.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to apply for the May 2025 intake in the UK:
-
Step 1: Look for UK universities that match your academic background, budget, and future goals.
-
Step 2: Each university have different requirements. Most master’s programs want a GPA between 2.75 and 3.0 and an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher.
-
Step 3: Take the test well in advance if the course needs IELTS, TOEFL, or GMAT.
-
Step 4: Most universities need a CAS letter before you can apply for a visa. Keep your transcripts, SOP, LORs, work letters, and financial proof ready.
-
Step 5: Apply through the university’s website or UCAS and try to finish this step at least 3 to 4 months before classes start.
-
Step 6: Check the university website before paying as most UK universities charge between INR 2,500 and INR 7,500..
-
Step 7: Check for Commonwealth, GREAT, or university scholarships.
-
Step 8: Log in to the university portal often and respond quickly if they ask for documents or an interview.
-
Step 9: Confirm your seat by paying the deposit once you get your offer that usually ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 2.5 lakhs.
-
Step 10: Use your CAS letter to apply for a UK Student Visa. Show proof of funds (around INR 12 lakhs per year) and your English test scores. The visa usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Tips for Students Applying for May Intake in the UK
-
Start Early: Start your study and plan well ahead to satisfy all requirements.
-
Check Program Availability: Make sure your selected program runs during the May intake; there might be fewer possibilities compared to September.
-
Improve Your English: Work on improving your English language competency and target competitive IELTS/TOEFL marks.
-
Tailor Your Application: Tailor your statement and application for every university and program.
-
Seek Guidance: For professional guidance on UK university applications, use Yocket.
-
Think about your finances: Find out living expenses in various UK cities and adjust your budget.
-
Prepare for Visa Application: Learn about UK student visa regulations and begin assembling the required paperwork early.
-
Network: For guidance and insights, get in touch with recent graduates or current students from your intended colleges.
-
Plan a backup: Apply to several colleges and weigh other programs in case your first pick falls short.
-
Stay Organized: Methodically keep track of all deadlines, records, and letters.
From the Desk of Yocket
Starting your path of study abroad for the May 2025 admissions calls for early planning and preparation. With the correct tools and direction, the application process, which may appear intimidating, can be effectively navigated, and your academic goals will be reached.
Yocket Premium provides first access to professional information and application techniques meant to simplify your path of foreign learning. Our customized consulting calls offer customized strategies, program recommendations, deadline management, scholarship maximization, and interview preparation. Putting money into Yocket's offerings sets a good basis for your success going forward. Our help will enable you to negotiate the difficult UK admissions scene boldly. Start your preparations with Yocket today to travel towards a transforming educational experience that will define your future.