May 2025 Intake in UK: Universities & Deadlines

Have you missed the January 2025 intake to study in UK? January is the second primary intake in the UK. But if you missed the January intake, you don’t have to wait a year for the September 2025 intake. Some UK universities also offer the May intake for international students. 

Applications for the May 2025 intake in the UK will be accepted from November 2024 to February 2025, and the application deadline is March 2025. 

May intake is the less common session to study abroad in UK. Only a few universities offer this intake with few course options mostly business related courses or Master’s programmes. 
In this blog, we will discuss the May 2025 intake in UK, universities, courses, entry requirements, costs, scholarships etc. for international students. So, if you want to apply for a UK student visa in 2025, this blog will help you a lot.

Overview of May 2025 Intake in UK

The UK’s May intake is a great option for students who want to start their studies later than the usual September or January intakes. While it’s a less common time to begin, it offers international students flexibility with course choices and is often less competitive.

For the 2025 May intake, application deadlines fall between October 2024 and February 2025. The deadlines can be extended till March if there are available seats at any university. The May 2025 intake in the UK includes a variety of Postgraduate Courses, particularly in business and tech fields. Make sure to apply for your UK Student Visa early. Ideally, you should begin preparing your application up to a year in advance.

When is the May Intake in the UK 2025?

May intake in UK is also known as the Summer intake in UK. Being a very small intake May intake provides international students a pathway to enter the UK in the mid of the year. If you want to study in UK for the May 2025 intake, you should apply between November 2024 and February 2025. Even though the May intake has a bit more flexible deadline than others, it’s important to check the exact dates with the universities you’re interested in, as these can vary by course.

It’s always smart to start your application as early as possible. This gives you plenty of time to make sure all your paperwork is correct. And if you’re unsure about anything, our friendly advisors are here to help!

Why Choose May 2025 Intake in UK?

The May intake is less popular with international students, and fewer universities offer courses because of spring break. Mostly the Master’s Programs are available in UK through the May intake. However, it comes with its benefits. Even though many institutions don’t have programs during this time, the May intake offers some unique advantages that are harder to find in the January and September intakes. Let’s explore the benefits of the May 2025 intake in UK.

Benefits of May 2025 Intake	Description
Less Competition	Because fewer students apply for the May intake, there’s less competition for spots at UK universities during this time.
Better Placement Opportunities	A big advantage of choosing the May intake in the UK is that, after graduation, students have less competition when looking for jobs.
More Scholarship Options	Universities in the UK often offer special scholarships for students starting in May, which helps reduce the cost of studying.
Opportunity to Avoid Missing an Academic Year	Students who missed the chance to apply for the January or September intake can still start their studies without losing a year by applying for the May intake in the UK.

Popular UK Universities for May 2025 Intake

Only a few universities offer May intake for international students. Let’s explore some popular UK universities for the May 2025 intake.

• Ulster University
• Northumbria University
• University of Hertfordshire
• Coventry University
• Birmingham City University
• Bangor University, etc.

May 2025 Intake Tuition Fees And Scholarships at UK Universities

Are you looking for the cost of studying in UK for the May 2025 intake? Different universities have different tuition fees but you can reduce the cost by getting scholarships. Let’s explore the May 2025 intake tuition fees and scholarships at UK universities. 

University	Tuition Fees	Scholarships
Ulster University	£17,010-£19,930	15% of overall tuition fees
Northumbria University	£10,460-£11,750	£1,334
University of Hertfordshire	£10,020- £15,965	Up to £4,000
Coventry University	£16,000-£19,000	Up to £5,000
Birmingham City University	£14,675-£28,690	Up to £2,000
Bangor University	£17,000-£21,000	Up to £4,000

Popular Courses for May Intake 2025 in UK

May isn’t a common month for university intakes, but some UK universities do offer courses then. These are usually for postgraduate programs, short courses, specialized courses, or programs with unique schedules. Here are some popular courses for the May 2025 intake in UK.

• Business Management
• Business Analytics
• Business studies
• Financial Management
• MBA
• Data Science
• Computer Science, etc.

Eligibility Criteria for the May 2025 Intake in the UK

Entry requirements for studying in the UK are the same for every intake in the UK. However, if you are not aware of it, here are the eligibility criteria for the May 2025 intake in the UK. To apply for the May 2025 intake at UK universities, prospective students must meet both academic and English language requirements.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must have completed their prior education qualifications. For undergraduate programs, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. On the other hand, postgraduate programs typically require a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Specific grade requirements may vary depending on the university and the chosen course. Some programs may also consider relevant work experience or additional qualifications as part of the eligibility criteria.

English Language Requirements

International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the language. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic, with a minimum score specified by the university and program. For instance, many undergraduate courses require an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no band less than 5.5, while postgraduate programs require a score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. 

Alternatively, some institutions may accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or internal language assessments for English proficiency. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements of the university and course you are applying to, as these can vary.

Timeline for the May 2025 Intake in UK

Since the May intake in the UK is less common, application deadlines can differ depending on the course and university. Students need to start the application process early to ensure they meet these deadlines. Here is a general timeline for the May intake:

Timeline	Activity
August – September	Start searching for the programs that best match your interests and the UK’s institutes that provide those programs.
September – October	Prepare and appear in the tests required by the institute, such as English language tests or other standardized tests for application.
October – November	Make a list of all necessary documents and compile them before applying.
November – February	Submit applications to your preferred institutes.
February – March	Wait for a response from the academic institute.
March – April	Submit a visa application.
April – May	Book tickets to reach the UK before the commencement of the May intake.

How to Apply for the UK Student Visa for May 2025 Intake?

To apply for the May intake, students should start planning about a year in advance. For the May 2025 intake, begin researching programs by September to avoid missing deadlines and ensure timely applications to UK universities. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to applying for a UK student visa for May 2025 intake:

• August to September: Start looking at different UK universities and programs that fit your profile and interests.
• September to October: Once you’ve chosen a course, prepare for any specific requirements, like language tests or other exams.
• September to November: Gather all the required documents.
• November to February: Apply to your chosen universities.
• February to March: Most universities will respond within a month, so you should expect to hear back during this time.
• After Receiving an Offer: Apply for a student visa and arrange travel to start your studies in the UK in May.

Application Process for the May 2025 Intake in UK

Applying for the May 2025 intake at UK universities involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful process. Below is a detailed guide to help you:

Research and Shortlist Courses and Universities

Begin by researching available courses and universities offering a May intake. Consider factors such as course content, tuition fees, location, and university rankings. Once you have a list of options, shortlist the programs that best match your academic and career aspirations.

Check Eligibility Criteria

Review the academic and English language requirements for your chosen course and ensure you meet them. Some programs may require additional documents like portfolios or work experience evidence.

Gather Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documents, including:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Updated CV/Resume (if applicable)
• Passport copy
• Financial documents for visa purposes

Submit Your Application

Apply online through the university’s official portal or via the UCAS system for undergraduate programs. Fill in the application form accurately and upload all the required documents. Pay the application fee if applicable.

Attend an Interview (if required)

Some courses may require an interview as part of the selection process. Be prepared to discuss your academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing the specific course and university.

Receive an Offer Letter

If your application is successful, you will receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter. A conditional offer means you need to fulfil specific criteria, such as submitting additional documents or achieving the required English proficiency score.

Accept the Offer and Pay CAS Deposit

Accept your offer by following the university’s instructions and pay the required Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) deposit. The CAS is essential for your visa application.

Prepare for Visa Application

Once you receive your CAS letter, prepare your UK student visa application. Gather necessary financial proof, such as bank statements showing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.

Apply for the UK Student Visa

Submit your visa application online, pay the visa fee, and schedule a biometric appointment. Attend the appointment and provide your biometrics and any additional documentation required.

Plan Your Arrival in the UK

Once your visa is approved, arrange your travel to the UK. Book your flights, find accommodation, and prepare for your arrival. Ensure you attend the university’s orientation program to get familiar with the campus and support services.

By following these steps carefully, you can enhance your chances of a successful application for the May 2025 intake. Start early to meet deadlines and avoid last-minute stress.

May 2025 Intake Deadline in UK

Very few universities in UK offer May intake for international students. Application for the May 2025 intake will start in November 2024. However, the May 2025 intake deadline in UK is between November to February in most of the universities. Some universities also extend the deadline till March. 

What are the Difficulties to Study in UK For the May Intake 2025?

While studying in the UK is an exciting opportunity, students applying for the May intake may face certain challenges. Below are some potential difficulties to study in UK for May intake 2025 with explanations to help you prepare and overcome them:

Limited Course Availability

Unlike the primary September and January intakes, the May intake offers fewer course options and university choices. Students may find it challenging to secure admission to their desired program or institution.

Tight Application Deadlines

The timeline for the May intake is often shorter, leaving less time for application preparation, document submission, and visa processing.

Visa Processing Delays

Applying close to the intake start date might result in visa processing delays, especially during peak application periods.

Accommodation Challenges

Finding suitable accommodation can be difficult for May intake students, as most university housing is allocated to September intake students, and private rentals may have limited availability.

Adjusting to the Academic Calendar

The May intake often has an accelerated academic schedule, which can be overwhelming for some students. Joining midway through the academic year may also result in fewer networking opportunities with peers.

Weather Adjustment

Students arriving in May will experience the spring-to-summer transition, which may differ significantly from the climate in their home country.

Fewer Scholarship Opportunities

Most scholarships and financial aid options are tailored for the September intake, making it harder for May intake students to secure funding.

Cultural and Social Adaptation

Adjusting to a new culture, education system, and lifestyle can be challenging, especially when arriving during a less common intake.

Being aware of these challenges can help you plan effectively and make your journey to studying in the UK for the May 2025 intake smoother.

Tips to Overcome the Challenges of May 2025 Intake in UK

Are you facing challenges in applying for the May intake 2025 in the UK? Here are some tips to overcome the challenges of the May 2025 intake in the UK.

• Start your research early to explore the available courses and shortlist those aligning with your academic goals.
• Plan and ensure all documents, including English proficiency test results, are ready well in advance.
• Submit your visa application as soon as you receive your CAS letter to allow sufficient time for processing.
• Start your accommodation search early and consider off-campus options, including shared housing.
• Stay organized and seek academic support services offered by your university to manage the workload effectively.
• Prepare for the UK weather by packing suitable clothing and researching the climate in your destination city.
• Explore university-specific scholarships and alternative funding options, and consider part-time work opportunities to support your finances.
• Participate in orientation programs, connect with student support groups, and actively engage in campus activities to integrate smoothly.

Final Words

Several factors affect students’ choice of intake, like their past academic performance, test scores, and application deadlines. That’s why it’s helpful to get advice from study abroad consultants who are experts and can guide you in making a complete and accurate application. To learn more about the May intake in the UK or universities that offer your preferred programs, visit our AIMS Education office today.

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