Career Tips: Looking to study in the US in 2026? Learn how to prepare and also check the deadlines..

US Admission Process: Interest in the 2026 Fall Intake in the US is steadily increasing among students. Application deadlines require special attention. This is because, for most US universities, if one wishes to enroll in August or September 2026, one must apply in 2025. Applications begin a year in advance. August or September intake is also known as the Fall Intake.

Fall intake is the most popular admission period for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students. Most top universities offer admission during this time. According to the EducationUSA Network, a network under the US Department of State, students seeking admission in the 2026 Fall Intake should begin preparing for their applications now, as the application submission period typically falls between November 2025 and March 2026.

Application Timing for Fall 2026 Intake
If you wish to pursue undergraduate courses in the United States, most universities open applications for Regular Decision as early as November 2025. The deadline for Regular Decision is January 2026. Some universities extend the Regular Decision deadline to February 2026. Applications for postgraduate courses are open from November 2025 to March 2026, depending on the course and department.

When will classes begin?
At most American universities, classes for the 2026 Fall Intake will begin in August or the first week of September. The University of Maryland's Office of Undergraduate Admissions schedules orientation and the first week of classes for new students beginning in the last week of August. The first semester will conclude in December with the end of Fall Intake. This is followed by the spring semester, or second semester, which will resume in January 2027.

Admission Deadlines
Select a university and course as early as possible.

Complete tests such as the TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, or GMAT by the end of this month.

Also, gather necessary documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and financial evidence.

With all the required documents and test results, you can apply for admission to undergraduate courses between November 2025 and January 2026. Similarly, you can apply for postgraduate courses until March 2026. Once you have secured admission to a university, apply for an F-1 student visa. Visa processing usually takes a few months. During this time, prepare thoroughly for the visa interview to minimize the possibility of rejection.

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