Changing Course: Why some students switched course and uni

It’s more common than you think to change your mind after applying to university — even after you’ve accepted an offer.

From switching subjects to rethinking location, thousands of students every year decide to take a different path. Whether it’s a shift in priorities, personal circumstances or just a gut feeling, Clearing gives you the flexibility to make a change.

TL;DR

• Students change course or uni to align with passions, career goals, or for a better fit.
• Common motivators include course content, campus vibe, support levels, or flexibility.
• Understanding personal needs, researching options, and early reflection are key.

Why do students rethink their course or uni?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but these are 5 of the most common reasons:

• The course content doesn’t match what they expected
• Their interests have changed since applying
• They want to study closer to home — or try somewhere new
• They didn’t get a good vibe when visiting the uni
• Their financial or personal situation has changed

“I was planning to apply next year, but after speaking to the team at Brighton I decided to go through Clearing. It felt right, and I didn’t want to wait.” — Arjieam, Business Management with Economics

Can you change your mind after accepting an offer?

Yes, you can — and many do.

If you’ve already accepted a firm offer but decide you want to go elsewhere, from 5 July, UCAS allows you to decline your place (self-release) once your offer becomes unconditional firm. This removes you from your confirmed place and puts you into Clearing.

It’s a big step, but it gives you the freedom to explore other options through Clearing.

You might even find your insurance choice feels like a better fit — but remember:

• Your insurance choice only becomes available if you are rejected by your firm choice university once you have your exam grades.
• If your firm choice university makes your offer unconditional, your insurance choice disappears.

IMPORTANT: If you use the ‘decline my place’ button from 5 July to decline your firm choice, you will also be declining your insurance choice at the same time.

If you want to go to your insurance choice, you will need to contact them to ask if they can offer you a place via Clearing.

Real students, real changes!

“I applied for Pharmacy but quickly realised it wasn’t for me. I switched to Law through Clearing and it was the best decision I made.”

— Alla, Law LLB(Hons)

“Clearing gave me a chance to study something I actually enjoy. It was scary, but I’m glad I trusted my instincts.”

— Kat, Civil Engineering with Construction

“I knew I didn’t want to stay at my original university — I needed a change of pace. Brighton gave me that fresh start.”

— Elianne, Architecture

What should you do if you’re unsure?

You don’t need to make a snap decision — but if you are thinking of changing your mind, start doing your research early:

• Check available courses in Clearing
• Look into student stories, visit days, and course content
• Talk to the admissions team before making any big moves

Brighton’s Clearing team is friendly, helpful and experienced — they’re here to answer your questions and talk you through what’s possible.

🔗 Find out how to self-release and apply through Clearing

It’s okay to rethink

Changing your course or university doesn’t mean you failed — it means you’re choosing what’s right for you.

Trust your gut, explore your options, and don’t be afraid to make a change. You’re not alone — and there’s support to help you take the next step.