Before You Make a Decision
Changing course is a big step, so it's worth taking some time to think it through first.
Ask yourself:
- Is it the subject that's not right for you, or are you still settling into university life?
- Have you looked at the content of the course you're considering?
- Have you thought about changing a module rather than the whole course? Some courses have optional modules that can be changed in the first few weeks of term.
- Have you spoken to your Student Advisor or the tutors on that course?
- If you're struggling academically, could extra academic support help before making a change? Check out the University's 'Skills for Success' support.
Before finalising your decision, it's recommended to discuss your thoughts with someone in your current department and, if you're considering a course in a different department, speaking to staff there too.
Top tip: Make sure you're changing course because the new course is a better fit, rather than because you're still adjusting to university life. Give yourself time to settle before making a big decision.
Important Deadlines
If you've just started university and want to switch to a different course immediately, you'll need to act quickly.
For students who started in October 2025, the deadline to request a change within the current academic year was Week 3 (17 October 2025). The University sets similar early deadlines each year because they need to make sure students haven't missed too much teaching on their new course. Requests made after the deadline are usually refused unless there are exceptional circumstances.
If you're thinking about changing for the following academic year instead, there is more flexibility, although additional requirements may apply depending on the courses involved. Speak to one of our SU Advice team if you have questions about this option.
Top tip: If you've only just started university and are considering a course change, don't leave it until the last minute. Early deadlines mean there may be a short window in which you can make the change.
Don't Forget About Funding
Changing course can sometimes affect your student finance, sponsorship arrangements or tuition fees, particularly if:
- Your new course is longer or shorter
- You need to repeat a year
- You're changing institution
- You've already used previous student finance entitlement
- You're an overseas student moving onto a course with higher tuition fees, such as some laboratory-based programmes
It's your responsibility to check how a course change could affect your funding before submitting a request.
Top tip: Check the financial impact of changing course before submitting your request. A course change could affect your student finance, sponsorship or tuition fees.