Studying in the UK is a popular choice for international students, but not everyone is able to start their studies in the traditional September or January intakes. This is where the May intake becomes a valuable alternative.
The May intake allows students to begin their studies earlier in the year, especially if they missed previous deadlines or need additional time to prepare their application, finances, or visa. However, it is important to understand that May intake availability in the UK is course-specific, not university-wide.
In this guide, we share a verified list of UK universities offering May 2026 intake, based on official university and course pages, along with key things you should know before applying.
What Is the May Intake in the UK?
The May intake is an additional academic start date offered by selected UK universities, mainly for postgraduate courses and a limited number of undergraduate programmes.
Unlike the September intake, which offers the widest course selection, the May intake:
- Has fewer course options
- Is more common for postgraduate programmes
- Often includes business, computing, management, and selected specialist courses
Because of this, it is essential to check course-level availability, not just the university name.
Is May Intake Available for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Courses?
Based on verified university information:
- Postgraduate courses make up the majority of the May intake options
- Undergraduate May intake is limited and available only at selected universities and for specific courses
This means students applying for postgraduate study generally have more flexibility when choosing the May intake.
Why Do Students Choose the May Intake?
Students choose the May intake for several practical reasons, including:
- They missed September or January deadlines
- They want to start their studies sooner rather than wait another academic year
- They need extra time to prepare documents, finances, or English requirements
- They prefer smaller class sizes, often associated with non-September intakes
For many students, the May intake offers a balanced option between flexibility and faster entry into UK education.
UK Universities Offering May Intake 2026 (Verified)
Below is a verified list of UK universities and courses offering May 2026 intake, based on official university and course webpages. Availability is subject to change, so students should always confirm before applying.
| University | Undergraduate | Postgraduate | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coventry University | Available Courses | Available Courses | Coventry, London |
| University of Portsmouth | Available Courses | Available Courses | Portsmouth, London |
| University of Chester | Not Available | Available Courses | Chester |
| Anglia Ruskin University | Available Courses | Available Courses | Cambridge, London |
| University of Lancashire | Available Courses | Not Available | London |
| University of Bedfordshire | Not Available | Available Courses | Luton |
| University of Huddersfield | Not Available | Available Courses | Huddersfield |
| Teesside University | Available Courses | Available Courses | Middlesbrough, London |
| University of East London | Not Available | Available Courses | London |
| Ulster University | Not Available | Available Courses | London, Birmingham, Manchester |
| Bangor University | Not Available | Available Courses | Bangor |
Key Things to Know Before Applying for May Intake
Before choosing the May intake, students should keep the following points in mind:
- Course availability is limited compared to the September intake
- Not all subjects or specialisations are offered in May
- Scholarships may be limited or unavailable for some courses
- Application deadlines can be earlier due to visa processing timelines
Planning early is especially important for the May intake to avoid missing key deadlines.
Application Timeline for May Intake 2026
A general timeline for the May 2026 intake looks like this:
- September to November 2025: Course research and shortlisting
- November 2025 to February 2026: Submit applications
- February to March 2026: Receive offers and pay deposits
- March to April 2026: CAS preparation and visa application
- April to May 2026: Travel planning and arrival in the UK
Exact deadlines vary by university and course, so this timeline should be used as a general guide.
How Atava Helps You Apply for May Intake 2026
At Atava, we support students from all academic and professional backgrounds, whether you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate study.
For May intake applications, we help with:
- Confirming which courses offer the May intake
- Matching your profile with suitable universities
- Reviewing entry requirements and eligibility
- Supporting your application and next steps
- Guiding you through CAS and visa preparation
Our goal is to help you apply confidently, with accurate information and clear guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the May intake available at all UK universities?
No. May intake is offered only by selected universities and for specific courses.
Is the May intake better than the September intake?
Not necessarily. September intake offers more courses, while May intake offers flexibility and an earlier start.
Can international students apply for a UK student visa for the May intake?
Yes. As long as you meet academic, financial, and English requirements, you can apply for a UK student visa for the May intake.
Do all May intake courses include placements?
No. Placement availability depends on the course structure and university.
Planning for May Intake 2026?
If you are considering applying for the May 2026 intake, our advisors can help you confirm which courses are eligible and guide you through the application process.
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