UK Universities that Have Intake in January 2026 for International Students

30 September 2025

For many potential students, the gap from September to starting higher studies is often found to be far too long. Thankfully, the January intake in the United Kingdom provides a favorable opportunity to start studies without further delay. This “secondary intake” has been increasingly popular among foreign students seeking to study undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in top-class institutions around the globe.

The UK is a most respected destination to pursue studies given its world-class universities, extensive range of courses offered, and a curriculum that is centered on work readiness. Selecting the UK intake of January 2026 allows students to have much more flexibility, small class sizes, and to finish school earlier than those joining through September.

We at BCES Admissions Abroad guide the students in choosing suitable universities, acquiring admission offers, and dealing efficiently with visa processes and travel advice. To all those planning to study in the United Kingdom in January, this is a comprehensive analysis of top options provided.

Why Pursue January 2026 Intake in the UK?

Admissions flexibility: You don’t have to wait an entire year should you miss September deadlines.

Breadth of courses: Business, computer science, engineering, health sciences, and international management are taught widely.

Enhanced educational experience: Numerous courses offered in January feature reduced enrollment, facilitating increased individual attention.

Global career opportunities: UK degrees are internationally respected, enhancing employability worldwide.

Rapid progression: Graduate earlier than those entering in September term.

Top UK Universities Offering January 2026 Intake

1. The University of East London (UEL)

UEL is professional-focused and renowned for good connections with employers. Popular January intake courses are MBA, MSc International Business, MSc Data Science, and business and computing undergraduate courses.

2. Coventry University

Consistently ranked for student satisfaction, Coventry provides a number of January intake programs such as MSc International Marketing, MSc Engineering Management, and business-related programs.

3. University of Chester

A warm international students’ community, Chester also provides business courses in January as well as strong academic support.

4. University of Greenwich

With campuses in London and Kent, Greenwich provides January entry options in business, technology, and management. Its teaching style is practical and industry-linked.

5. Birmingham City University

For its modern facilities and employability, Birmingham City offers courses involving a January intake in law, business, creative industry, and engineering.

6. University of Sunderland

Affordable tuition fees and student-centered facilities make Sunderland appealing. Among its offered programs are business management, computer science, and engineering.

7. Queen Mary University of London (Restricted Course Offerings)

Being a member of the Russell Group, Queen Mary offers selected January postgraduate courses. It is suitable for those who have aspirations of good research and academic proficiency.

8. University of Hertfordshire

With multiple intakes annually, Hertfordshire offers January options in healthcare, computing, engineering, and business programs, focusing on employability.

Application Advice for July 2026 intake

• Apply early: Closing dates for a majority of intake in January 2026 will be October to November 2025.
• Keep papers in readiness: SOP, transcripts, English test scores, and references should be made ready.
• Book a room fast: Student rooms fill up fast, particularly in cities such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
• Get expert help: Guidance from BCES Admissions Abroad allows easy admission and visa clearing.

Choosing the right university for the UK January intake 2026 can feel overwhelming. BCES Admissions Abroad provides complete support, including course selection, application matters, visa counseling, and pre-departure services. Utilize our expertise and step into your international learning phase without worries.