Male student studying from home starting their degree in january

LIBF blog Starting a degree in January: what you need to know

13 December 2023

5 minute read

Is January the perfect time to start your degree?

Woman excited to start a degree in January

Starting a degree in January offers flexibility and personalised progress – without being tied down to a September start date. If you’re interested in starting an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in January, there’s no better time than the new year to embrace a degree to pursue your personal and professional growth.


Whether you're searching for a degree course that fits around your family or work commitments or looking for the flexibility to take a break between undergraduate and postgraduate study, get ready to explore the exciting possibilities of starting your degree in January.

Do degree providers accept students in January?

Man starting a degree in January from home

There are many UK courses that accept student enrolment in January. So if you’re hoping to begin your degree at a time of the year that better suits your needs or you don’t want to wait to next September to take the next step towards progress – there are options available to you now.


From business and management to data and computer science, many undergraduate and postgraduate courses are specifically tailored for students looking to start in January.

Can I still apply for January intake in the UK?

If you're planning to start a degree in January, it's important to research your preferred courses. Not all courses accept students applying to start in January, so you should check the specific application requirements and deadline for the course you’re interested in. This will help you to ensure a smooth application process and increase your chances of getting admission to your desired course.

Application process for starting a degree in January

To apply to start a degree in January, the application process depends on the course provider you’re interested in studying with.


For some courses, you’ll need to apply directly by completing an online application form. At LIBF, for example, you can apply online at any time, to start on any date that suits you. Other degree providers might require you to apply through UCAS.

Application deadline

Each degree provider may have its own deadlines for January applications so make sure to check with them either through their website or by getting in touch with them. Other providers (like LIBF) may have an open admissions process, which means you can apply anytime throughout the year.


If you’re required to apply for an undergraduate course through UCAS as part of the standard application cycle, there is usually an application deadline for the academic year at the end of January. The application deadline should be stated on the UCAS course page.

Benefits of starting your degree in January

Starting a degree in January offers several benefits. Whether you’re returning from a gap year, are exploring a career change, or simply seeking greater flexibility, January start dates give you a unique opportunity to begin your degree at a more suitable time.

Woman starting a degree in January working in lunch break

Starting fresh in the new year

Starting your degree in January is a great way to kick off your new year – especially if you’ve set personal or professional resolutions to achieve a degree. Imagine starting the new year with a truly fresh start and a unique perspective on your future progress. What more motivation do you need to approach your studies?

Woman getting a head start in employment after starting a degree in January

Less job competition with September graduates

Depending on whether you choose to study full or part-time, starting a degree in January could give you the advantage of graduating from your course and starting your job hunt at a different time than most graduates who start their degree in September. This could potentially mean you’ll face less competition from other graduates in the job market – making it easier to get that dream job or promotion.

Woman travelling in a city before starting a degree in January

Flexibility to delay postgraduate studies

Imagine this: you’ve just completed your undergraduate degree, and you’re excited to continue your studies and specialise further by getting a postgraduate degree. But the thought of starting your postgraduate degree without a gap in your studies is putting you off and distracting you from your goals.


By starting your postgraduate degree in January, you’ll get a well-earned break from studying – as well as the opportunity to recharge, gain valuable work experience, save money, or explore personal interests and hobbies that might have had to take a backseat during your undergraduate degree. Embrace this chance to reset and prepare yourself for the exciting journey that awaits you in your postgraduate degree.

Apply today to start in January

January could be the perfect time to start your journey towards academic and personal success.

At LIBF, you can start your journey to success whenever it suits you on any day of the year through one of our 100% online degree courses:

Embrace the flexibility, convenience, and personal progress of starting a degree in January – or whenever it suits you – by applying today.

FAQs about starting a degree in January

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