September / Fall intake in USA 2025 for Indian Students

Planning to study in USA? The USA welcomes more Indian students like you! However, you should note that universities in USA accept students in three intakes: September / Fall intake, January / Spring intake and May / Summer intake.

Among the three intakes, the fall intake in USA is the primary option. It is also considered the largest intake, as it marks the beginning of the academic year. According to educationdata.org, U.S. undergraduate college enrollment was 19.28 million students in Fall 2024. This enrollment is projected to increase to 19.57 million students in Fall 2025.

The fall semester offers maximum UG & PG programmes, scholarships and internship prospects, compared to other USA intakes. Moreover, the campus life in the fall intake is in full swing, with a highly diversified student community and the majority of teaching staff actively working throughout.

This article includes a timeline, universities, programs, and financial aspects for students planning their application for the Fall intake 2025 in USA, distinguishing the Fall intake from the Spring intake and Summer intake.

What is Fall Intake in USA?

The Fall intake in USA is the primary intake among prospective students. Fall intake is also known as the September intake. The application process for the September intake typically begins in late November / early December of the preceding year . During this period, universities receive the most applications in a short span. Moreover, a variety of full-time courses such as diplomas, bachelor's and master's are available in this intake. 

The Fall intake admission offers a smooth transition for many international students, including those from India. It provides the best financial aid and accommodation options. The Fall semester season in the USA allows students to experience a stunning display of colorful foliage. Therefore, 99% Indian students target Fall intake in USA.

USA Fall Intake Application Timeline 2025

Many foreign students prefer the September intake as 90% of courses remain available. Early birds would ideally start their application process one year in advance to avoid any unforeseen delays in their journey. The detailed Fall intake application timeline in USA for cohorts for the year 2025 is given below. Check it out before you start with your application process.

May 2024 – July 2024: Research Universities and Courses

• This is the first and foremost step students take when planning for studying abroad. Students must explore top-tier universities and courses that guarantee good return on investment (ROI).
• Shortlist 8-12 colleges to make strategic application decisions. Make sure the universities align with your interests and have high acceptance rates.
• Familiarize yourself with various bank loan options and college scholarships (public and private) based on affordability and low interest rates.
• Download the admission brochures and go through their offerings and facilities. It will be available more than a year earlier.
• If you're confident with the university you've selected, consider applying through Early Decision. If you're still unsure, you should consider applying through the Regular Decision.

August 2024 – October 2024: Prepare for Standardized Tests and English Language Proficiency Exams

• Register for the GMAT/GRE exam (as per university requirements) by June or three months prior to the test date as it provides sufficient time for preparation.
• Register for TOEFL/IELTS/PTE at least a month before the test date to select your desired test date and time.
• Register for LSAT and MCAT a month in advance for law and medicine courses respectively.
• Check the test-taking process, before taking the test. Have a cushion period in case you need to retake the test. Ensure you check the re-exam process and guidelines.
• Prepare for the basics of the GMAT and GRE beforehand.

November 2024 – January 2025: Submission of Application Forms and Documents

• Fill out the respective application forms of the universities you’re applying for well before the deadline.
• Contact your professors and direct managers for 2 – 3 reference letters.
• Draft your statement of purpose (SOP) and essays, highlighting your strengths and uniqueness. Take a month for structuring and proofreading these documents.
• Submit your updated resume, SOP, letter of recommendations (LOR) and other documents before the deadline.

February 2025 – March 2025: Reply to College Emails and Responses

• By mid-December or January, you will receive emails from universities you've applied for.
• Check your inbox daily.
• Reply to college e-mails as soon as possible to create a positive impression. Do not wait till the last minute.
• Appear for personal (one-on-one) or video interviews. These are scheduled for around January to March 2025. It generally takes 4 to 12 weeks to receive a response regarding admission or acceptance from universities.
• Acknowledge the acceptance letter sent by the university to help them gauge engagement.
• Pay a non-refundable deposit to confirm your admission.

April 2025 – June 2025: Settle Your Finances and Apply for a USA Student Visa

• Apply for education loans to cover your tuition, travel and accommodation expenses.
• Complete the paperwork for your US student visa. Check visa requirements well before March 2025.
• Visa slots are expected to open sometime in June or July 2025 for Fall 2025 admissions.
• Apply for the student visa in time. Be aware of the visa processing time.

July 2025 – August 2025: Book Tickets and Prepare for Pre-Departure

• Book airline tickets.
• Arrange for an International Debit/Credit card.
• Look for student housing and accommodation options in the USA.
• Utilize social media and university housing portals to connect with potential roommates. Also, identify various on-campus and off-campus housing options.
• Collect all the documents and their photocopies.
  Check out your Pre-Departure checklist!

This timeline aligns with Indian academic schedules and global opportunities.

It's time to check the top universities in the USA, including popular courses, acceptance rates, application deadlines, and more. You’ll find all this essential information in the next section.

Top Universities & Popular Programs for Fall intake in USA 2025

In Fall intake in USA, almost all top universities fill their seats. Thereby, many Indian students develop a strong preference for this intake. Check out the universities, acceptance rates, popular programs offered and deadlines below to get admitted to this Fall intake.

Popular USA Universities Offering Fall Intake 2025
University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025	Popular Programs	Early Action Deadlines	Regular Action Deadlines	Acceptance rate
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	1	Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering Chemical Engineering Computer Science Mechanical Engineering	November 1	January 6	5%
Harvard University	4	Social Sciences Biology/Biological Sciences Business Administration & Management Economics	November 1	January 1	3%
Stanford University	6	Computer Science  Economics  Engineering MBA  MS in Computer Science  PhD programs	November 1	January 5	4%
University of Pennsylvania	11	Accounting, BS Architecture: Intensive Design, BA Artificial Intelligence, BSE Accounting, MBA Accounting, PhD	November 1	January 5	6%
University of California Berkeley	12	Computer Science  Electrical Engineering  Civil Engineering Social Sciences  Humanities	Berkeley does not offer applications for early admission or early decision.	October 1 – December 2	12%
Cornell University	16	Computer science  Electrical and computer engineering   Mechanical engineering Master of Laws in Law  Technology  Entrepreneurship	November 1	January 2	8%
University of Chicago	21	Economics  Mathematics Political Science Business (MBA)  Law	November 1	January 6	5%
Princeton University	22	Social Sciences  Engineering  Computer Science Public Administration  Biological Sciences	November 1	January 1	4%
Yale University	23	Biomedical Engineering  English Environmental Studies MBA  MS in CS   MS in Statistics & Data Science	November 1	January 2	5%
Columbia University	=34	Political Science  Economics  Mechanical Engineering  Neuroscience Actuarial Science  Applied Analytics	November 1	January 1	4%

Got a solid academic track record? Give yourself a head start—consider Restrictive Early Action to boost your chances for the fall intake 2025!

Note: Students thinking about deferring entry should be aware that deferral is not always possible. So, we recommend you check with your course department first.

To apply for the above mentioned universities, check the necessary documents required in the following section.

What are the documents required for Fall Intake in USA 2025? 

Check out the documents required for fall (main intake) intake admission 2025 mentioned below:

1. English Language Proficiency Test Score: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores are required if English is not your first language.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Submit SAT/ACT test scores for freshman and GRE/GMAT test scores for PG and Doctoral programs.
3. Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written SOP is required to showcase your goals and academic interests.
4. Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Request 2–3 LORs from professors or managers, at least a month early.
5. Admission Essays: Answer university-specific essays clearly and directly.
6. Updated Resume or CV: Highlight academic background, work experience, and achievements.
7. Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Include Class 10, 12, and graduation transcripts and certificates.
8. Valid Passport: A valid passport is required as proof of identity.
9. Passport-Sized Photographs: You'll need to provide two identical photographs that should be recent and passport-sized.
10. Application Fee Receipt: Proof of fee payment may be required for your application to be processed.
    Proof of Funds / Bank Statements: Financial proof is required to show your ability to afford tuition and living expenses.
11. Work Experience Certificates (if applicable): You’ll need work experience certificates, especially for MBA or master’s programs that require professional experience.
12. Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI): A letter is required from your school or college stating that your entire education was in English; accepted by some universities in place of IELTS/TOEFL.

Once your documents are ready, the next step is to plan your finances smartly for fall intake in USA. Learn about budgeting, funding options, and managing expenses in the upcoming section.

How to Plan Financially for Fall Intake in USA 2025?

Worried about expenses for studying in the US this Fall 2025? Plan your finances early with the below simple checklist. So, you can focus on your studies without the financial stress.

1. Estimate Costs & Create Your Budget (Do This Immediately!)

• Calculate all expenses: List tuition, housing (compare on/off-campus), living, food, books, travel, fees and personal spending to estimate your total cost of studying in USA.
• Research Location Costs: Compare cost of living across cities—choosing a budget-friendly location helps cut expenses. Use student budget calculators for estimates.
• Create Budget: Prioritize essentials (tuition, housing); track your spending; know needs vs. wants.
• Budget for Currency: Keep a buffer for potential INR to US Dollar fluctuations.

2. Secure Funding

• Apply for Scholarships: Research & apply for university-specific (merit-based included), organizational, and government scholarships/grants in the USA. Check deadlines.
• Explore Loans: Compare government and private bank education loan options (interest rates, terms). Apply early as processing takes time.
• Check Employer Sponsorship: If working, see if your employer offers tuition sponsorship or reimbursement.
• Research Assistantships (Grads): For graduate students, research Teaching or Research Assistantships (TA/RA) which offer stipends/tuition waivers.

3. Plan Earning & Saving in USA

• On-Campus Jobs: Look for part-time job opportunities available at your university upon arrival.
• Off-Campus Work Opportunities: International students in USA can work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions. Make sure to understand IRCC rules and get the right permit before starting any job.
• Arrange Health Insurance: Ensure you have mandatory provincial or university health insurance arranged for your entire stay.
• Save Money Daily: Buy used books, cook at home, use public transport & avail student discounts.

4. Manage Money Effectively in USA

• Open Canadian Bank Account: Do this after arrival to manage your finances, pay bills and to avoid foreign transaction fees.
• Use Uni Financial Workshops: Attend university workshops on budgeting and financial management.
• Build Credit Carefully: Pay bills on time. Consider a student credit card later if needed and manageable.

Plan early, be prepared, and manage your money smartly to make your USA Fall 2025 journey stress-free and successful.

2025 Updates on US University Admissions

Casual social media posts are no longer overlooked. Below are the key updates affecting international students planning to study in USA for Fall Intake 2025:

• Keep Social Media Clean: The US Department of State and Immigration has issued authorities to review applicants' social media accounts as part of the visa application process. Posts perceived as politically sensitive, controversial or in violation of US laws can lead to visa denials, revocations or deportation.
• F-1 Visa Interview Waiver Policy Update: As of February 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has revised the eligibility criteria for nonimmigrant visa interview waivers. Only those renewing a visa within 12 months in the same category may qualify without an in-person interview. 
• STEM OPT Extension Eligibility: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains a list of STEM designated degree programs eligible for the 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. International students pursuing degrees in these fields may qualify for extended work opportunities in the U.S. after graduation.

Want to study abroad at a US University? Connect with our Kanan Study Abroad Counsellors and get personalized guidance. We’ll help you with university admissions, test preparation, and everything in between. Start your application today and take the next big step in your academic journey!

Frequently Asked Questions for Fall Intake in USA 2025 

1. What are the application deadlines for Fall intake in USA?

The application deadlines for the Fall intake in USA usually fall between November and January. However, deadlines may vary depending on the university and program. It’s advisable for students to check the official university websites and apply early to increase their chances of admission and scholarship consideration.

2. Do US universities accept gap year students in fall intakes?

Yes, most US universities do accept gap year students in all intakes, provided they can justify the gap with valid reasons and supporting documents such as work experience, internships, or skill-building activities. In general, a one year gap is acceptable for undergraduate, diploma and postgraduate programs.

3. What if I miss the deadline for September intake 2025 in USA?

If you miss the deadline for September intake 2025 in USA, you can apply for the next intakes, such as Spring intake and Summer intake. Some universities may allow late applications with additional fees or limited program options. Contact the university's admissions office for further guidance on your options.

4. Can I switch my intake after receiving an admission offer? 

Yes, many universities allow students to switch their intake after receiving an admission offer, but it depends on the university's policy. If you change your intake or program, you may need a new letter of acceptance. If you've already received your I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) and visa, transferring to a different intake may involve updating your I-20 and visa. Always inform the university and immigration authorities promptly to avoid visa issues.

5. Can I re-apply to the same college for Spring 2025 if I get rejected in Fall Intake?

Yes, you can re-apply to the same college for Spring 2025 if you get rejected in the Fall intake. However, it’s important to review the reasons for rejection and address any weaknesses in your application, such as improving your documents or preparing better for interviews.

6. Is it harder to find part-time jobs if I arrive in the fall intake in USA?

Finding part-time jobs in the USA during the fall intake is generally not harder than in the spring. In fact, many on-campus jobs are filled during the fall due to student turnover in the summer, creating new opportunities. Strong hiring prospects are expected in Healthcare, Technology, Finance, and Sustainable Energy in Fall 2025. Employers hire year-round, and international students can work off-campus for up to 24 hours weekly during study periods.  It’s important to start looking early and network with fellow students.

7. Can I get admission to US universities with a GPA below 3.0?

Getting admission to US universities with a GPA below 3.0 can be challenging, but it is possible. Some universities may have flexible admission policies or consider other factors like work experience, extracurricular activities, personal statements, or strong recommendation letters. You can also explore pathway programs or conditional offers that allow you to improve your GPA during initial semesters.

8. What is the CGPA requirement for Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

Although the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) does not specify a minimum GPA for admission, successful candidates generally possess a GPA of 3.5 or higher, with significant emphasis on mathematics and science coursework.

9. Is the University of Pennsylvania a good option for international students?

The University of Pennsylvania is recognized for its strong academic programs and high rankings. Penn welcomes students from around the world and values the unique perspectives international students bring. Our undergraduate community includes students from over 100 countries, and about 20% come from outside the United States.

10. What US universities accept fall 2025 applications for freshman (first-year) students?

Several US universities like MIT, University of Pennsylvania, Harvard University and  Stanford University are accepting applications for fall 2025 for freshman students. Deadlines typically range from November and January 2025. Always check official university websites for updated intake and program details.

11. Which is better, September or January intake?

The September intake is generally considered better due to its wider course availability, more scholarship opportunities, and alignment with the Indian academic calendar. However, the January intake can be ideal for students needing more preparation time or aiming for less competitive admissions. The best choice depends on your academic goals and readiness.

12. How to acquaint yourself with students?

If you're an introvert or nervous talking to others, well, many are in the same boat as you. Some of the best ways to acquaint yourself with students are:

• Strike up a conversation with small talk like, what’s your name, where you’re from, what your major is, etc.
• Join uni’s sporting teams or clubs. You will make friends there for life.
• Do group assignments, labs, chat casually, grab a coffee and debrief on a lecture.
• Try street food and new cuisines with new friends. Don’t hesitate to ask native students for recommendations.
• Be intentional. Don’t waste time on people who aren’t putting in the same effort.

13. How to plan financially for fall intake in USA 2025 as a middle class student?

If you're a middle-class student planning to study in the USA for the Fall 2025 intake, here’s how you can prepare financially:

1. Estimate your total expenses. Include tuition fees, accommodation, food, travel, and emergency funds.
2. Apply for scholarships and bursaries. Check those offered by U.S. universities and Indian government programs.
3. Explore education loans. Consider taking a loan from a trusted bank or financial institution to cover upfront costs.
4. Choose budget-friendly housing. Look for shared or affordable accommodation near your campus to lower living expenses.
5. Work part-time. Use the work options allowed under your student visa to earn extra income and gain local experience.