Undergraduate Courses with January Starts in UK

Explore undergraduate courses with January starts in the UK for 2026.

Introduction

When people think of starting university in the UK, September is usually the first month that comes to mind. However, many UK universities now offer undergraduate courses with January starts, giving students an alternative opportunity to begin their academic journey. This flexibility benefits not just international students who may follow different academic calendars but also UK-based students seeking a fresh start after missing the main intake.

Whether you are reapplying after Clearing, changing your course, or simply taking more time to prepare, the January intake in UK 2026 allows you to begin your studies without waiting another year. Let’s explore why this intake could be the perfect option, which universities offer it, and how to prepare for your January start.

Why Start University in January?

Starting university in January may seem unusual, but it comes with several benefits. Many international education systems have academic calendars that begin early in the year, making the UK’s January intake ideal for students who want to align with their own timelines.

Benefits of a January Start:

1. No Waiting an Entire Year: If you missed the September intake or need more time to prepare, you can still begin your studies just a few months later.
2. Smaller Class Sizes: Fewer students enroll in January, allowing for more personalized attention and support from tutors.
3. Early Job Market Entry: Starting in January often means finishing your degree by December, giving you a head start in the job market before the next wave of graduates.
4. More Flexibility: Perfect for mature students or those balancing other commitments.
5. Global Alignment: Many international students find January start dates more compatible with their home country’s academic schedules.

Whether you’re beginning your academic career or seeking a change, the UK January intake offers the flexibility to start your studies when it suits you best.

Universities with January Intakes in the UK

A growing number of UK universities with January intakes now offer undergraduate degrees across various disciplines – from business and engineering to psychology and nursing. These courses are equivalent in quality and structure to September programs, offering the same number of modules, lectures, and assessments.

Popular Undergraduate Subjects with January Starts:

• Business and Management Studies

• Computer Science

• Nursing and Midwifery

• Law

• Accounting and Finance

• Psychology

• Biological Sciences

• Economics

While you won’t find January intakes at traditional universities like Oxford or Cambridge, many reputable institutions across the UK have expanded their offerings to include early-year starts.

Top UK Universities Offering January Undergraduate Degrees

Here are some well-known universities with January intake in the UK offering undergraduate programs across multiple fields:

1. Anglia Ruskin University

Courses: Business Management, Law, Accounting & Finance, Psychology, Biological Sciences
Location: Cambridge & Chelmsford
Highlights: Known for employability-focused programs and flexible intakes for international students.

2. University of East London

Courses: Business, Computing, Law, and Accounting
Highlights: Offers strong support for international students and a wide range of foundation and top-up degrees starting in January.

3. Coventry University

Courses: Engineering, Business, Nursing, Computer Science, and Psychology
Highlights: One of the most popular universities for January intake with multiple entry points and global recognition.

4. University of Wolverhampton

Courses: Computer Science, Psychology, Economics, Law, Nursing
Highlights: Provides foundation, undergraduate, and top-up options, ideal for both UK and international students.

5. University of Sunderland

Courses: Business, Law, Nursing, and Health Sciences
Highlights: Excellent student support services and hands-on learning opportunities through placements.

6. Middlesex University

Courses: Computer Science, Business, Psychology
Highlights: Known for practical programs and diverse student communities.

7. University of Buckingham

Courses: Law, Business, Economics, Accounting
Highlights: Offers two-year accelerated degrees with January start options.

8. University of Greenwich

Courses: Business, Nursing, and Hospitality
Highlights: Offers both undergraduate and foundation pathways with global student support.

How Does Student Finance Work for a January Start?

For UK-resident students, starting your degree in January doesn’t affect your eligibility for student finance. You can still apply for tuition and maintenance loans just as you would for a September start.

• Payment Timelines: Loan payments are scheduled according to your course start date. Typically, the first instalment is released four weeks before your course begins.
• Changing Course or Intake:
  • If you deferred from a September start, you can update your intake on your Student Finance account.
  • If you switched to a new university or course, you may need to reapply for funding.
• Loan Repayment: Repayments begin the April after you graduate – so January starters may begin repayment slightly earlier than September graduates.

Finding Student Accommodation

Accommodation is a major concern for many students beginning in January. While most university housing fills up during the September intake, many institutions reserve rooms specifically for January intake students.

Tips for Securing Accommodation:

• Start Early: Begin searching at least three months before your course starts.
• University Halls: Check if your university offers rooms for January entrants; some prioritize postgraduate students, so confirm availability early.
• Private Options: Many private housing providers and landlords offer flexible contracts beginning in January.
• Short-Term Leases: You may also find second-hand contracts from students completing their courses or studying abroad.
• Seek Help: Most universities have dedicated housing teams to support international and late-entry students.

Contracts for January intake accommodation usually run from January to December, aligning with your academic schedule.

Making Friends and Settling In

One of the biggest worries for students starting in January is fitting in. However, universities have become increasingly aware of this and provide numerous initiatives to help January intake students settle in smoothly.

• Welcome Weeks: Some universities, like the University of Dundee and University of East Anglia, organize a second Welcome Week in January with tours, events, and meetups.
• Societies & Clubs: Joining student clubs and societies helps you meet new people outside your course.
• Small Cohorts: January classes are often smaller, helping you bond more easily with classmates.
• Support Services: Academic advisors, career mentors, and counselling services are available year-round.

Remember – your university experience depends more on your engagement and participation than on your start date.

Applying to University for a January Intake

Applications for undergraduate January intake courses are usually made directly to the university rather than through UCAS.
However, a few institutions may accept UCAS applications with adjusted deadlines. Always check the university website for specific dates and requirements.

Application Tips:

1. Start Early: Begin researching at least 6–8 months before your intended start.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, proof of English proficiency (like IELTS), and recommendation letters.
3. Personal Statement: Clearly explain why you prefer the January start.
4. Apply Directly: Most universities have an online application portal for January intakes.
5. Follow Up: After submitting, monitor your email for updates, interview invitations, or additional requirements.

If you’re transferring from another course, consult your current institution about credit transfer and financial implications.

Conclusion

The UK January intake 2026 offers a valuable alternative for students who missed the September start or prefer a flexible timeline. With a wide selection of undergraduate courses with January starts, supportive universities, and ample career opportunities, you can begin your studies and achieve your academic goals without delay.

From business management to nursing and computer science, the January intake provides the same quality of education as the traditional September start – often with the added advantage of smaller classes and more individualized support.

If you’re ready to begin your degree, explore universities with January intake in the UK, apply early, and take your first step toward a rewarding academic and professional journey.