An intake is the time of year a program starts. Most countries have one main intake and one or two smaller ones. Application deadlines usually fall 6 to 12 months before the start date.
This guide explains how intakes work, the different types of deadlines you need to track, and the main intakes in ApplyBoard's 11 study destinations, so you can plan your applications for 2027.
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What Is an Intake?
An intake is the point in the academic year when new students start a program. Some countries call it a semester start, a term, or an entry point. The main intake usually has the most programs, the most scholarships, and the most students. Smaller intakes may offer fewer programs, but they can give you more time to prepare or a second chance if you miss the main one.
The Deadlines You Need to Track
An application deadline is not the only date that matters. Keep track of all of these:
- Scholarship deadlines: Often earlier than application deadlines, sometimes by several months.
- Application deadlines: The last date the school will accept your application.
- English test dates: Book early, because results can take days or weeks.
- Offer acceptance and deposit deadlines: The date by which you must accept your offer and pay a deposit to secure your place.
- Visa deadlines: Visa processing can take from a few weeks to several months. Some countries require extra documents first, such as a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) in Canada or a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) in the UK.
- Housing deadlines: Student residences often fill up quickly.
Note: Many schools use rolling admissions. This means they review applications as they arrive and may close a program early once it is full. Even if the official deadline is months away, applying early gives you the best chance.
Main Intakes by Country
Disclaimer: Intakes and deadlines are set by each school and can differ between programs at the same school. Always check the exact dates on the program page or with your ApplyBoard expert.
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How to Choose Your Intake
- Choose the main intake if you want the widest choice of programs and scholarships, and you can meet the deadlines.
- Choose a later intake if you need more time to take an English test, gather documents, save money, or get your visa.
- Check program availability. Some programs only start once a year.
- Think about the weather and timing. Arriving in mid-winter, or just before exams, can make settling in harder.
For more detail on intakes in specific countries, see Choosing Your Canadian Study Intake and Choosing Your U.S. Study Intake.
Plan Backward From Your Start Date
Frequently Asked Questions
Some schools accept late applications if places are still available, but many do not. If you miss a deadline, check whether the program has a later intake, or look for similar programs that are still open. Your ApplyBoard expert can help you find alternatives.
Many schools allow you to defer your start by one intake, but policies vary. Some programs do not allow deferrals, and scholarships may not carry over. Ask the school before you accept your offer.
Sometimes there is less competition, but there are also fewer programs and scholarships. The best intake is the one that gives you enough time to prepare a strong application and get your visa.
Share our Application Deadlines Explained for Families guide. It explains deadlines in six countries in plain language for parents and guardians.
Knowing your intake and deadlines is one of the simplest ways to reduce stress. Pick your intake, plan backward from your start date, and apply early. That way, you give yourself the best chance of getting your offer, your visa, and your housing on time.
Plan your 2027 intake today
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