There are different types of intakes for Indian students who want to study in UK – September Intake, January Intake, and May Intake. Out of these, the September Intake is the most popular, but many students are now choosing the May Intake in UK.

This is because it is comparatively less competitive, more opportunistic, and suitable for Indian Students.

In this blog, we will discuss in detail why students choose May Intake over September Intake, including important dates, university list, application process, and other information.

What is UK May Intake?

UK universities usually conduct admission processes multiple times a year. May Intake in UK is originally known as Summer Intake. The application process for UK May Intake 2026 will start from December 2025 to February 2026. Classes will start in May 2026.

Why is May Intake becoming popular?

Less competition: There is a lot of pressure for admission in September Intake. In May Intake, that pressure is less, so the chances of getting admitted are higher.

More preparation time: Those who missed the January or September Intake can apply for the May Intake.

Visa process benefits: There is comparatively less rush to get a UK Student Visa.

Scholarship opportunities: Many universities offer scholarships for May Intake MBA and Master’s programs.

May Intake vs September Intake

September Intake in UK 2026: The largest and most popular. Lots of courses, big competition.

May Intake in UK 2026: Relatively small, but offers demanding courses like MBA, MSc, IT, Business, Health Management.

Although the number of courses in September Intake is more, May Intake is best for those who want to save time and avoid competition.

Important Dates for UK May Intake 2026

  • Application Start Date: December 2025

  • Deadline: February – March 2026

  • Offer Letter Issue: January – April 2026

  • CAS & Visa Process: March – April 2026

  • Course Start Date: May 2026

Benefits for Indian Students

Less time wasted: Those who were not ready at the beginning of the year can start studying in May Intake without waiting.

Scholarships: Tuition fee waivers of around £2000 to £5000 are available.

Career Opportunities: Post Study Work Visa (PSW) is available in the UK for 2 years after completing an MBA or Masters.

Part-time work: Indian students can also work 20 hours a week while studying in May Intake.

Which universities accept admission in May Intake?

  • Coventry University

  • University of East London

  • Northumbria University

  • University of Greenwich

  • Roehampton University

  • Middlesex University London

  • Bangor University

These universities offer admission to courses in Business, MBA, IT, Engineering, Health, Data Science, etc.

Required Documents

  • Valid Passport

  • Bachelor's Degree Certificate

  • IELTS/TOEFL Score (usually 6.0–6.5 IELTS)

  • SOP (Statement of Purpose)

  • LOR (Letter of Recommendation)

  • Bank Fund Proof

Visa Process

  • UK Student Visa (Tier 4) application is required for May Intake.

  • CAS number will be issued after receiving the Offer Letter.

  • Visa form has to be filled online.

  • Funds and academic documents have to be submitted.

  • Interview (Credibility Interview) may be conducted.

Courses to study in May Intake

  • MBA (Master of Business Administration)

  • MSc Computer Science

  • MSc Data Analytics

  • MSc Project Management

  • MSc International Business

  • MSc Health and Social Care Management

These courses are especially popular with Indian Students, because through them, job opportunities in the UK increase significantly.

Why is May Intake better than September Intake?

  • Less competition → Higher chances of admission.

  • Can start early → No need to wait a year.

  • More opportunities in MBA and Masters courses.

  • Facilitation in the visa process.

Conclusion

Applying for UK May Intake 2026 is a big opportunity for Indian Students. Especially students who want to study MBA and Master's can easily enroll in May and start their studies without waiting until the September Intake in UK 2026.

So for those who are dreaming of studying in the UK, the best time is now. Apply for UK May Intake 2026 for Indian students, and apply for the September Intake in UK 2026 today without delay.