find your perfect postgrad program
Search our Database of 30,000 Courses
Benefits of a January Start Date
Weiyi Li is a Student Ambassador at Swansea University – she is studying a PhD in Media and Communication.
Question:
What were the benefits of starting your postgraduate program in January?
Answer:
When I applied for my postgraduate program at Swansea University, I wasn’t sure whether joining in January would offer the same experience as the traditional September start. But looking back now, I can confidently say that beginning my studies in January was one of the best choices I’ve ever made – both academically and personally.
One of the greatest benefits of the January intake is the flexibility it offers. It gave me extra time to refine my research plan, secure funding, and settle into life in the UK before starting my course. Without the rush of autumn deadlines, I began my postgraduate studies feeling calm, focused and fully ready to learn.
Academically, joining in January meant becoming part of a smaller, close-knit community of students. This created a more personal and supportive learning environment, where I could build meaningful relationships with my classmates and lecturers. I also appreciated how Swansea University organised events like a special 'Welcome, Registration and Orientation’ week for January starters – it made the transition smooth and helped me quickly feel at home on campus.
Beyond my studies, Swansea’s campus life is vibrant and full of opportunities. During my first semester, I joined a few clubs through the Students’ Union – from media production groups to outdoor adventure societies – which helped me make friends, try new things and balance academic life with fun and wellbeing. These activities made me feel part of the wider Swansea community from the very first month.
I also took part in the Student Ambassador recruitment scheme for the January intake and was delighted to be selected. I later joined the Digital Media and Communications team where I’ve gained many unexpected opportunities and valuable experiences – from helping create content that promotes campus life to sharing my own postgraduate journey with prospective students. These experiences have been truly rewarding and have given me new skills, confidence and lifelong friendships.
What impressed me most was the Centre for Academic Success run by Swansea’s Academic Support Centre. The workshops on academic writing, research skills, time management, and presentations are beneficial and open to both September and January entrants. I also joined the English Language Support classes, which helped me strengthen my academic writing and gain confidence in presenting my research. The tutors are friendly, patient, and always ready to help – it really makes a difference.
Another unexpected advantage of starting in January is how well it fits with plans. The timeline aligns perfectly with summer internships, conferences and fieldwork opportunities, creating a balanced academic year and plenty of time to plan.
If you’re thinking about postgraduate study but aren’t sure when to begin, I would wholeheartedly recommend the January entry at Swansea University. It allows you to start your studies at your own pace, benefit from excellent academic and personal support, and fully enjoy everything university life has to offer.
Starting in January didn’t just give me a new academic beginning – it gave me the time, space and confidence to start strong.
Find your PERFECT POSTGRAD PROGRAMRelated articles
Should I Start A Masters Degree In January?
Starting A Postgraduate Program In January
Benefits Of Studying In The UK As An International Student
Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries
