How to Apply for Fall Intake in USA? – Timeline, Deadlines & Checklist
The fall intake in USA is a golden opportunity for any Indian student who is seeking studies abroad in the USA. The reason is that the Fall Intake in USA commences around August–September, which is when most courses are available, maximum funding options are offered, and it is one of the easiest ways of integrating into campus life compared to other intakes. It is the most common and competitive intake, thereby increasing the importance of timing and preparation when it comes to submitting applications.
In this guide, you will learn what the Fall Intake is in the USA, key advantages of choosing Fall Intake, details of the ideal timeline and deadlines, an entire checklist of application requirements, a list of top universities, and how to choose the best one.
What is Fall Intake in the USA, and When Does it Start?
Fall Intake in the USA refers to the major admissions intake across most American universities. The most popular of all fall intakes is the August and September, which signifies the end of one’s academic year.
- Duration: August/September – December/January
- Popular among: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Ph.D. students
- Application timeline: Starts 10-12 months in advance
What Are The Advantages of Fall Intake? – Why Go for It?
- The widest range of courses and specializations
- More options of scholarship and funding options
- Higher acceptance rates at top universities
- On-campus job and internship opportunities
- Better networking with orientation events
- Better adjustment to the academic calendar
When Should I Apply for Fall Intake?
Preparation in concert for admission to the Fall Intake should begin early, ideally from the month of September. Following is the month-by-month breakdown:
Fall Intake Timeline (Month-wise)
Timeline Task
Sep -Nov Research universities, shortlist programs.
Oct –Dec Prepare for and take standardized tests (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, and IELTS).
Nov – Jan Draft and finalize SOPs, LORs, and CVs.
Dec -Feb Initiate as an application to institutions.
Feb - Apr Keep track of applications and attend interviews.
Apr - May Receive approvals and analyze them.
May - Jun
Apply for a visa and book a flight and accommodation.
Jul - Aug Attend pre-departure sessions preceding travel to the USA.
What Is The Deadlines For the Fall Intake in the USA?
All universities have their own deadlines; however, most fall between December and March.
- Prior to the early deadlines (for Priority/Scholarship): December – January.
- Regular deadlines: February and March.
- Rolling Admissions: Some of them accept applications until May or June, but seats may be limited.
Fall vs. Spring intake: Which One to Choose?
Here is a quick comparison between the fall intake and the spring intake
Feature Fall Intake Spring Intake
Start August–September January
Course availability
Full options available Limited options available
Scholarships More options available Fewer options available
Competition Higher Lower
Campus life Easier integration Fewer orientation events
Internships Early access Late access
Decision: Fall Intake is a better option over Spring Intake for people who want ultimate programs and a complete campus experience.
Can I Get Scholarships in the Fall Intake USA?
Yes, it does! Fall intake offers international students the widest range of scholarships. Types of scholarships available are as follows:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based aid
- Departmental funding
- Graduate assistantships
- Research and teaching assistantships
Tip: Apply early (by priority deadlines) to maximize your chances of landing a scholarship.
When to Start Preparing for Fall Intake?
Start preparing at least 12-14 months prior. Start with tests, researching universities, and building resumes by September for the Fall intake.
Some of the Top US Universities Accepting Fall Intake
Almost every major university offers a Fall Intake. Here are some top examples:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- University of California, Berkeley
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- New York University
- University of Southern California (USC)
How to Choose the Best University for Fall Intake?
The following factors will make for a better choice when choosing the best universities:
- Location & Climate: Jobs are better in urban areas, but don’t forget to check if you are comfortable with the local weather.
- Program Rankings & Accreditation: Always look at the rankings of your chosen program and ensure that the university is properly accredited.
- Cost of Living & Tuition: Compare tuition fees, housing, transport, and daily expenses before finalizing.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Check what types of financial aid or scholarships are available to international students.
- Job Placement Rates: Strong career services, internship opportunities, and alumni networks indicate better post-study outcomes.
Complete Document Checklist for Fall Intake Applications
Here is what you need to prepare for the application:
- Academic Transcripts (10th, 12th, UG/PG)
- Degree Certificates
- Standardized Test Scores (GRE/GMAT/SAT, TOEFL/IELTS)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Updated Resume or CV
- Valid Passport
- Financial documents (bank statements, sponsor affidavit)
- Application Fee Receipts
Standardized Testing for Fall Intake Applications
Depending on your course and university, you may need to appear for some standardized tests. Here’s a quick overview,
- GRE: College Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for many STEM and business graduate programs
- GMAT: Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is required for MBAs
- TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) / IELTS: International English Language Testing System (IELTS) / Duolingo – mandatory for all international students
- SAT: Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) / ACT: American College Test (ACT) for undergraduate programs.
Tip: Early registration keeps at least 3 months of preparation time.
What Are The Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to the Fall Intake?
- Applying near the deadline reduces your chances of admission and scholarships.
- Forgetting the scholarship deadline as most funding options have earlier cut-offs.
- Generic SOP submissions, as universities look for personalized statements that reflect your goals.
- Researching universities that are unworthy.
- Forgetting to prepare for the interview.
- Obtaining weak LORs from unwilling referees.
- Not revisiting the document requirement as missing or incomplete documents may lead to rejection.
Expert Tips to Ensure Your Success During Fall Intake
- Start early – Keep yourself free for 12 months at least
- Personalize SOPs – Match with goals and fit of each program
- Apply to a good mix of dream, moderate, and safe universities
- Keep maintaining communication with admissions managers
- Seek advice from experts or alumni to fill in your blind spots
How Education Street Will Assist You to Apply for Fall Intake in the USA
At Education Street, we facilitate the US dream of Indian students with tailored support, such as:
- Profile Evaluation & University Shortlisting
- SOP, LOR & Resume Editing
- Test Preps for GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, and IELTS
- Scholarship/ Financial Aid Guidance
- Visa Interview Prep
- Pre-Departure Orientation
Want to get into your dream university for Fall? Education Street will help you at every step along the way.
FAQs Related to Fall Intake in the USA
- When does the academic session for the autumn intake commence in the USA?
Every year it opens in either August or September.
- Can I send applications to more than one university?
Yes, most students do this about 6-10 universities.
- Are GRE and GMAT mandatory this Fall?
Depends on the programme, but quite a few top universities still require it.
- What would be the ideal CGPA for the Fall intake?
Should be above 7.5 CGPA or more than 65% but varies from university to university.
- Will I be allowed part-time work during the Fall intake?
Yes, able to work on the campus up to 20 hours a week while attending classes.
- What is Fall Intake in the USA, and when does it start?
The intake offered by USA Universities that starts in late August or from September with wide range of course options, is known as Fall Intake.
- When should I apply for Fall Intake?
One should start the process 10 to 12 months prior to the course start.
- What are the deadlines for Fall Intake in the USA?
The September intake deadlines commonly occur between December and March each year.
- Is Fall Intake better than Spring Intake in the USA?
Yes, Fall intake is the major intake with a number of benefits like a wide range of institutions and courses availability, strong internship opportunities, access to on-campus jobs, and a smooth application and visa process.
- Can I get scholarships in the Fall Intake in the USA?
Yes, there are many merit-based university scholarships available to international students.
Author Name: Ankita Thakker
Designation: Founder & CEO of Education Street
