Can I Change My University Course?

Can I change my university course during my first year?

Let's say you've decided a month in that you'd rather sit in a lecture about quantum physics rather than Shakespeare. Yes, you can switch. Here's what you need to know.

Check your entry requirements

Switching to a similar course is straightforward. For example, moving from biomedical sciences in chemistry to biomedical sciences in human health? You'll likely have to retake a module or two, and you're sorted. Switching to something completely different takes more planning. If you want to swap computer systems engineering for film & television studies, you'll need the right entry requirements. Without them, your change won't be approved.

Timing matters

Universities welcome these requests early, ideally in your first term or the first few weeks. After that, it gets harder.

Space is limited

If the course is full, unfortunately you won't be admitted.

How do I change my course?

Firstly, you’ll need to speak with your Head of Department or course tutor. Let them know of your intentions to change courses.

You’ll need to fill in a form outlining everything, including;

• The course you’re currently studying

• Any modules already taken

• The course you intend to take

• A paragraph explaining why you want to change your course.

Every university handles this differently. You might need to write a new personal statement or attend an interview.

If you're accepted, you could switch within a few weeks - or you might have to wait until next term.

Can I change my course after the first year?

You can. But the longer you leave it, the more difficult it becomes.

Switching to a similar course? You might start your second year on the new programme without repeating anything. Switching to something completely different? You'll need to repeat your first year.

For a completely new course, you'll apply through UCAS again. That means:

• Meeting entry requirements

• Writing a new personal statement

• Attending an interview

So we recommend making a decision as soon as you can, even if that feels super hard.

Can I go to another university?

If your current university isn't working out, you can transfer.

These situations need careful handling, so speak to someone at your university - your course tutor, department head, careers advisor or admissions officer. While they'll be sad to see you go, their goal is to make sure you're comfortable and have the tools you need to succeed. Reach out. They're here to help.

Before anything else, contact the university you're interested in and confirm they accept transfers. Most importantly, check if they have the space to accept you.

If they do, you'll make a new UCAS application.

Most universities won't accept transfers mid-year. You'll likely finish your academic year before transferring, which works in your favour anyway. Your first-year grades can seriously boost your chances of being accepted.

Does changing your course affect your student loan?

It can, so check your entitlements before making any moves.

When you know you’ll be changing your course or university, you’ll need to let Student Finance know right away. Making changes to your circumstances is a pretty straightforward process and will require you to log into your student finance account to fill in an online form.

In most cases, there might not be much change to your entitlement unless there are any really big changes with the course, or if you’ve decided to transfer universities. This could mean having to repay some loan or receiving less. Check with your student finance provider for more information.

• Student Finance England

• Student Finance Scotland

• Student Finance Wales

• Student Finance Northern Ireland

Things to Remember

• Talk to someone. It’s a huge decision which requires some thought, so it’s best to speak to the very people who have heaps of experience. They’ll do their best to help you.

• Keep studying. While you’re waiting for a decision, keep on studying and attending classes. Any grades you do get can contribute to the final decision, and no one wants to take on someone who won’t do their work.

• You might not be able to change. There is a possibility that your request to transfer courses might not happen. Courses fill up. Entry requirements exist. It happens, and it's not personal.

• Do not leave your course until you have a decision. If you leave too soon, it could mean having no place to come back to or having to repeat the whole year.

Whatever you decide to do, make sure that it feels right. University is your chance to carve out a career and experience for yourself - so you have to make sure you’re doing something you know you’ll enjoy.