Upcoming intakes in the USA

The U.S. continues its reign as the most popular study destination for Indian students, no matter the challenges and changing global circumstances. In fact, 29% of international students in the USA for the year 2023/24 were Indian students (Open Doors Report). Knowing when best to apply to U.S. universities will help you plan your studies better.

Did you know that between March and May of 2025, over 9,900 F1 visas were issued to Indian students? A dynamic, culturally diverse student population, exposure to global market players, top-notch colleges and great employment prospects make the USA a dream destination for Indian students.

Why Indian students should understand intakes in the USA

The intake in the USA is relevant for Indian students as it influences the chances of admission, scholarship opportunities and more.

• Better chances of admission: Top universities enrol students into popular courses, especially during the Fall intake. Knowing the right intake for your course helps you prepare in advance and increase your chances of admission.
• Scholarship opportunities: Most scholarship opportunities are open during the Fall intake. If you are not aware of the Fall intake period, chances are you will miss out on the scholarship opportunities, too.
• Planning your studies: The September intake aligns perfectly with the Indian academic calendar. Indian students can complete their studies by April and prepare their applications for the Fall intake in September. If you miss the Fall semester, awareness about the Spring and Summer intakes will put you at ease, as they offer backup choices.
• Visa preparation: Knowing the intake and application period will help you prepare your application timeline effectively.

Overview of U.S. intakes

Three major application periods are open at colleges in the USA: fall, summer, and spring. You can apply during any of these intakes. If you fail to get into your dream college during one intake, you can apply for the next intake.

Fall intake in the USA

Also known as the September intake, this is the main intake in the USA when all the colleges and universities open all the major courses for applicants. If you are going to the USA to do your MS, this is the intake for you, as it is preferred by most applicants, especially international students.

When is the Fall intake in the USA?

The Fall or September intake starts in late August or early September and ends in December or early January. It is the USA is the first and primary intake.

2026 Fall Intake dates and deadlines

• Classes begin in late August or early September 2026. 
• The application deadline is in November 2025 for Early Decision and January/February 2026 for Regular Decision.

What are the advantages of opting for the Fall intake in the USA?

• More course availability.
• Better and more comprehensive scholarship/funding options.
• Access to colleges/courses that may not be available in other intakes.
• Aligns with the Indian academic cycle and is in sync with your course completion in India.
• Best for MS, UG and MBA courses

Which institutions offer Fall intake in the USA?

Most U.S. universities, including the top-ranking ones such as Harvard University and Yale University, offer Fall intakes. A few examples include:

• Harvard University
• Yale University
• Georgia Tech
• University of Pittsburgh
• North Carolina State University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• University of Minnesota
• Cornell University
• University of Colorado Boulder
• Texas A&M University

Spring intake in the USA

The Spring intake in the USA is also called the January intake, and it is the second most preferred among the intakes in the USA.  Many colleges and universities take applications for the Spring intake, but there are fewer options than for the Fall intake. The number of courses open for admission may also be fewer when compared to the fall intake. Check if your preferred college and course are open for the spring intake before skipping the Fall intake to wait for it.

When does Spring intake start?

If you plan to apply during the Spring intake in the USA for 2026, everything you need should be ready by December of the previous year. This intake is open from January to May.

2026 Spring Intake dates and deadlines

• Spring intake classes begin in January 2026.
• Applications can be submitted from August 2025 through December 2025.
• For Early Decisions, application deadlines fall in November 2025.

What are the advantages of opting for the Spring intake in the USA?

• Less rush and more time: You get ample time to finish your exams and have your scores ready before applying.
• Easier transition: A smaller number of students enrol for this intake, which may make the settling down and transition process easier.
• Favourable climate: The weather during the Spring intake is often more comfortable for Indian students.
• Another opportunity for Master’s aspirants: If you missed the Fall intake, the Spring intake gives you a second chance to apply for your preferred courses.
• Smaller class sizes: This means better faculty-student interaction and more personalised attention.

Which Institutions offer Spring intake in the USA?

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT       
• The University of Massachusetts             
• The University of Illinois
• Pace University
• The University of Colorado
• The University of Central Florida
• California State University, Long Beach
• Washington State University

Summer intake in the USA

The last of the intakes in the USA that ends the admission cycle for the year is the Summer intake. Not all universities and colleges accept applications during this phase. Only a limited number of courses may be available during this intake since the most popular programmes are already filled by then.

When is the Summer intake in the USA?

The summer intake typically starts in May and lasts until August. This is not a very popular intake, so if you plan to apply during this time, make sure you are aware of all details well in advance. Discuss with your peers, parents and teachers before making a decision.

2026 Summer Intake dates and deadlines

• Summer intakes generally begin in May or June 2026.
• Applications should be in by February. The deadline for application submission is in November 2025 at some universities.

What are the advantages of opting for the summer intake in the USA?

• It is good for add-on courses like language certifications or similar skills that can boost your career prospects.
• Exotic courses may be open.
• If you are looking for short-term courses, explore options during this intake in advance. 
• There are also online courses on offer at this time.

Which institutions offer Summer intake in the USA?

• Purdue University
• Virginia State University
• North Central University
• The University of Arizona
• University of Central Florida
• Delaware Valley University
• Marietta College
• Georgia Southern University
• Regent University
• Jacksonville University

Things to consider before you decide which intake to apply to

• Is your preferred college open during the intake you want? Not all colleges are open during all three intakes.
• Is your preferred course open for that specific intake? The most popular courses get filled to capacity during the most popular intakes in the USA. Some exotic courses may be open only during specific intake slots.
• Will all your certificates be ready in time for the intake? For example, your English language proficiency scores, your entrance exam scores, etc.
• What are the opportunities you have with each intake? Will you get the right kind of internship or project opportunities with the intake?
• Are you prepared to join this particular intake batch, or do you need more time?

Consider all these factors and make an informed decision about which intake is best for you. Read on for more information about each intake to help you make your decision.

What is the application process for intakes in the USA?

Once you decide which intake you will be applying for, start your preparation a year in advance. These are all the steps you would take to get ready for an intake.

Step 1: Complete the required exams. This will vary depending on the course, college and the certificates and scores they ask for. For example, since you plan to study abroad, you will need to submit your English language proficiency scores, such as IELTS. Give yourself enough time to retake the test if you think you can achieve better scores, and also account for the time taken to release the scorecards.

Step 2: Prepare your Statement of Purpose and finalise it.

Step 3: Get your Letters of Recommendation (LORs) ready. Having recommendation letters from 3–4 mentors is ideal. Write to or visit your mentors, request LORs, follow up until you receive them, and don’t forget to thank them afterwards.

Step 4: Meticulously review the requirements once again, about a month before the intake opens, so that you have everything ready along with your application. Do not wait until the last phase of the intake to submit your application.

FAQ

Which intake is best for Indian students?

While Fall is the most popular, you should also look at your requirements when you choose an intake to apply for. Browse through the advantages of each listed above to help with decision-making.

Can Indian students opt for all intakes in the USA?

Yes, all three intakes in the USA mentioned above are open to international students.

When will I get the most funding opportunities?

The Fall intake in the USA is when the most funding options are available.

Can I apply for the Spring intake in the USA if I have not been selected in the fall?

Yes, try again during the spring intake so that you do not waste a year.

When should I start preparing to apply to any of these intakes?

Start about one year before the opening date so that you have enough time to take exams, get your letters of recommendation, prepare your SOPs, etc.

Indian students can apply for any of the three intakes in the USA - Fall, Spring or Summer. Fall is the most preferred because the major universities and colleges are open during that time, and so is the maximum number of courses. Plan ahead using this guide so that you don't miss your target intake when pursuing your higher studies in the USA. 

Editor's note: Originally published in September 2018, this article was updated by our content writer, Roshna Mohan, in August 2025 with the latest study abroad information.