Looking to change your course? Here’s what you need to know and how to apply.

Changing Course

Changing your course of study: what you need to know

Below, we outline the key steps, important considerations, and how SU Advice can support you.

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KEY STEPS OPTIONS AVAILABLE IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS HOW SU ADVICE CAN SUPPORT YOU

Key Steps to Changing Your Course

  1. Speak to your department – Discuss your options with your Personal Tutor or department staff. If switching to a different department, contact them as well.
  2. Research your new course – Review course details online, talk to current students, and check the Rules of Assessment for specific requirements.
  3. Check deadlines – Course change requests must be submitted within set timeframes. Check the University's published deadlines.
  4. Consider the impact – Think about student finance, immigration status (if applicable), and the length of your studies.
  5. Submit a formal request – Use the online course change request form in MyEssex. Your request will be reviewed by your current department, the new department (if applicable), and the relevant University Dean.

What course change options are available?

Your options depend on various factors, including the timing of your request and eligibility for the new course. Common course change options include:

  • Changing course within the current academic year – The University does not grant deadline extensions (except for Master’s dissertations).
  • Changing course for the next academic year – Your claim will not be reviewed before you submit your work.
  • Taking an intermission– If you fail due to a zero mark, the Exam Board may allow a capped reassessment.
  • Switching to/from an accredited course – The Late Submission form is the same as the EC form; you can submit under both categories if needed.
  • Adding or removing a study abroad or placement year.

If you are considering transferring to another university, you will need to withdraw from Essex. You may be able to transfer ratified credits (approved by an Exam Board) to another institution—check with the admissions team of the new university.

Important Considerations Before Changing Course

  • Approval is not guaranteed – Keep up with your current course until you receive confirmation of the change.
  • Financial implications – Check how this will affect your student finance or other funding and any fee liabilities you may incur by switching. New courses may have different fees associated with them.
  • Visa implications – If you're an international student, changing courses may impact your immigration status. Seek advice before making a final decision.
  • Deadlines matter – Ensure you submit your request before University deadlines.

Further guidance on visa implications can be found on the University’s website here.

How SU Advice can support you

Not sure if changing course is the right move? SU Advice can help by:

Talking through your options before you make a decision.

Explaining the process and what to expect.

Supporting you with your course change request.

Need help? Contact us at suadvice@essex.ac.uk with your query. You may attach relevant documents when booking an appointment via email or bring them to your session.

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