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USA intakes and deadlines

When US programmes start and how far ahead to plan applications, funding and the F-1 interview.

Plan my intake
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Last updated 29 September 2026Figures checked against official sources, listed at the end

US intakes

Main intake

Fall (August / September)

The most programmes, scholarships and assistantships. Many deadlines fall between December and February.

Second intake

Spring (January)

Offered for selected programmes, with fewer funding places.

Build your preparation timeline

Your preparation timeline

  1. 18 to 12 months before: Research courses, eligibility, funding and scholarship deadlines.
  2. 12 to 9 months before: Prepare language tests, transcripts, references and your shortlist.
  3. 9 to 6 months before: Submit applications by each programme’s actual deadline.
  4. 6 to 3 months before: Meet offer conditions, arrange funding and prepare visa documents.
  5. 3 to 1 months before: Apply for the visa and plan accommodation and arrival.

Keep these dates separate

EducationUSA recommends starting research 12 to 18 months ahead. Many fall deadlines fall between December and February, and funding deadlines can be earlier.

Official sources

These are dated editorial checks, not a live data feed. Recheck the original page before applying or paying.

About this guide. Researched by the Student Visa From Bangladesh editorial team from the official sources listed above and last checked on 29 September 2026. We are not a university or a government agency, and admission and visa outcomes are never guaranteed. Read our editorial policy.