Key takeaways
- Fall intake is the most recommended and popular intake to start your studies in the US.
- The Fall intake begins in September and offers the widest variety of programs, scholarships, and job opportunities.
- The application deadlines for Fall intake are usually between November (of the previous year) and March (of the current year).
- It's important to apply early (6-12 months in advance) to secure your admission, housing, and scholarships.
- Some of the top universities for the Fall intake include Sacred Heart, Kent State University, University of Colorado Denver, Wichita State University, Miami University, Westcliff, Southern Illinois University Edward, and Arizona University, among others.
- Eligibility requirements vary depending on the program but generally include academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
If you’re thinking of studying abroad, the US is an excellent choice. The Fall intake, which starts in September, is the most popular and recommended option among the different academic sessions.
Right from admission deadlines, eligibility criteria and popular universities to the application process, you can find all the details you need about the Fall intake in the US below. Whether you’re just starting your research or already working on your application, this article will help you.
Table of Contents
- Why is the Fall intake the most popular choice for international students?
- Types of application deadlines
- What are the admission timelines for Fall intake in the US?
- What are the eligibility requirements for the Fall intake in the US?
- Recommended universities for Fall intake
- What is the application process for Fall intake in the US?
- Tips for applying to Fall intakes in the US
- Frequently asked questions
Why is the Fall intake the most popular choice for international students?
US universities offer three intakes: fall, spring, and summer. The fall intake is the most popular of these three, and many universities admit the largest number of students. From program selection to better job prospects, the Fall intake is a great time to study in the US. Here's why:
- With the largest selection of programs, most universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses during the Fall intake.
- Most countries follow an academic calendar that ends in May/June, making Fall intake a natural progression for students.
- Many institutions provide scholarships and financial aid for students starting in the Fall.
- The academic cycle aligns well with US hiring trends, increasing chances of securing internships and jobs.
- Since it’s the main intake, more campus activities, networking events, and orientation programs exist.
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Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!
Types of application deadlines
Early decision
Early decision deadlines are usually on November 1 or November 15. It allows you to apply early, but it’s a bit binding. If you apply in the early decision round, then you must attend the selected university if your application is accepted. Further, if you apply in the early decision round, then you can apply only to one school and will have to decline other offers.
Early action
Early action deadlines are usually in November or December. Similar to the early decision deadline, this gives the chance to apply ahead of the regular applicants. But there is no binding commitment in early action, allowing you to apply to multiple schools and make a choice.
Regular decision
The deadline for regular decision is January or February. This is the traditional method of applying with standard timelines. The agreements are non-binding. However, it also brings with it a larger applicant pool and higher competition.
Rolling admission
In this type of admission, the colleges evaluate the applications as they come rather than setting a specific deadline. The rolling admissions are usually open from early September.
Here is a table that explains what the US universities' deadlines for fall 2025 mean:
| Application Types | Application deadline | Admission decision |
|---|---|---|
| Early action | November 2024 | December 2024 |
| Early decision | November 2024 | December 2024 |
| Regular decision | January/February 2025 | March/April 2025 |
| Rolling admission | Varies by institution | Within 4-6 weeks from the start date |
What are the admission timelines for Fall intake in the US?
Submitting your application on time is crucial for securing admission. Here’s a general timeline to guide you.
Key deadlines for applications
- November – March: Most universities start accepting applications for Fall intake in November of the previous year, with final deadlines extending until March of the current year.
- Some universities have early decision deadlines from November to December, while regular decision deadlines Fall between January and March.
Document submission
Missing documents or errors in submissions can delay your application. So make sure you plan and submit your documents in advance. Here's what you'll need to submit along with your application:
- Academic transcripts
- Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT for undergraduate, GRE/GMAT for postgraduate, as required)
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose (SOP)
- Resume (for certain postgraduate programs)
Visa application and processing
After receiving your letter of acceptance, begin your US student visa process as soon as possible. The processing time for an F-1 visa can range from 4–8 weeks, so apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!
What are the eligibility requirements for the Fall intake in the US?
Before applying for the Fall intake, you need to meet certain academic qualifications and language requirements. These may vary depending on your program and level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate).
Academic qualifications
- For undergraduate programs, you’ll need a high school diploma (or equivalent) with a good academic record.
- For postgraduate programs, you must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university. Some programs may also ask for work experience or a portfolio (for fields like design or art).
Language proficiency requirements
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to prove your proficiency with IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities may also accept other tests like Duolingo or PTE Academic, so always check the specific requirements.
- IELTS: A score of 6.5–7.0 is considered good for undergraduate programs, and 7.0–7.5 for postgraduate programs.
- TOEFL: A score of 80–100 is good for undergraduate, and 100–110 for postgraduate courses.
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Recommended universities for Fall intake
The US has many prestigious universities for international students. It is known for its diverse academic opportunities, world-class faculty, and exciting campus life, making it an ideal destination for students from around the globe. Here are some of the best universities :
Sacred Heart University
Located in Connecticut, Sacred Heart University is known for its computer science and information technology, business analytics, health Informatics, MBA, public health, cybersecurity, finance and investment courses.
Kent State University
A leading public research university in Ohio, Kent State University offers affordable tuition and strong academic programs. Best programs include computer science, business analytics, data science, artificial intelligence, visual communication and design.
University of Colorado Denver
Located in the heart of Denver, the University of Colorado is known for STEM and healthcare programs. Best programs include computer science, information systems, business analytics, architecture, medical science and more.
Wichita State University
A popular choice in Kansas, Wichita State University provides strong research and practical learning opportunities. The best programs are aerospace engineering, business, psychology, and criminal justice.
Miami University
Situated in Ohio, Miami University is known for its high-quality education and student support services. The best programs are finance, education, public health, marketing, and environmental science.
Westcliff University
A private university in California, Westcliff University specialises in business, IT, and education programs. The university offers flexible online and mixed courses for students and working professionals.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Located in Illinois, SIUE offers affordable education with a focus on hands-on learning. Best programs include nursing, civil engineering, pharmacy, and psychology.
Arizona University
A top-ranked public university in Arizona, Arizona State University is known for research and innovation. Best programs include computer science, engineering, business, environmental science and law.
Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!
What is the application process for Fall intake in the US?
The application process can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes it manageable. Here’s how you can apply:
- Prepare for and attend standardised tests (SAT/ACT, GRE/GMAT, IELTS/TOEFL).
- Sign up via Edvoy and fill in your preferences.
- Research and shortlist universities based on your course preferences.
- Submit the required documents. Upload your transcripts, test scores (like IELTS/TOEFL), Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), and any other necessary documents.
- Complete the application form for your desired course.
- Pay the application fee (varies by university).
- Submit your application before the deadline and track your status.
Tips for applying to Fall intakes in the US
- Prepare early, at least 12 to 15 months in advance. List all the universities you are interested in, along with the course and admission details, so that you can avoid missing information or deadlines.
- Keep track of the deadlines and also ensure that you collect the required documents, like academic transcripts and test scores, well in advance.
- Prepare for the exams. Ensure that you register for all the standardised tests in advance. If you need to improve the scores, take retests as required.
- Create a strong SOP and request recommendation letters.
- Explore the visa requirements and visa application timelines.
- Check the available financial aid and scholarships.
Choosing the Fall intake in the US is a great decision for international students. With early planning and preparation, you’ll have a smoother admission process and better opportunities for scholarships, internships, and career growth.
Start preparing 6–12 months in advance to ensure a smooth process, including getting your study permit and finding accommodation. With good planning and preparation, you'll be able to make the most of your time studying in the US.
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Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!
Frequently asked questions
When should I apply for the Fall intake in the US?
Applications for the Fall intake typically open a year in advance, usually in November of the previous year. Deadlines vary by university but generally Fall between November and March. Early applications improve chances for scholarships and admission to competitive programs.
Which month is the Fall intake in the US?
The Fall intake in the US usually starts in September and runs till December. It is the most popular intake, with the widest range of courses, internships, and job opportunities. Most universities admit a majority of students during this period.
Which intake is better, Fall or Spring?
The Fall intake is considered better as it offers more courses, research opportunities, scholarships, and internships. It also aligns with major recruitment cycles, making job prospects stronger. The spring intake (January) is an alternative but may have fewer available programs and funding options.
When does the Fall semester start in the US?
The Fall semester typically begins in August or September and lasts until December. It is followed by a winter break before the spring semester starts in January. Academic schedules may vary slightly by university, but Fall remains the primary intake period.
What is the spring intake in the US?
The spring intake starts in January or February and is the secondary admission cycle for US universities. While fewer programs and scholarships are available compared to Fall, it is a good option for students who miss the Fall deadlines. Some universities may also have limited internship and job opportunities for spring admits.
