Embodiments are provided for a scheme of link adaptation (LA) in uplink grant-less random access (RA) communications. The scheme includes changing a modulation and coding (MCS) of a user, instead of using a fixed MCS over time, as the user link, channel, or non-link conditions vary during the RA communications. In an embodiment, a transmission point (TP) receives from a UE a packet encoded using a MCS, and detects a condition associated with uplink measurements or other non-link based condition of the UE. The TP then initiates an upgrade or a downgrade of the MCS in accordance with the condition, and signals the UE indicating a second MCS as a result. The UE thus sends a second packet encoded using the second MCS. In another embodiment, the UE initiates the MCS change in accordance to detecting a link or non-link based condition, such as change of mobility.