We understand that sometimes you may want to change programmes. If you are thinking about changing your programme of study, you need to be sure that this won't affect your visa. Whether you are able to or not will depend on whether you have already started your programme and what programme you wish to change to, as there are a few factors that we would need to look at under UKVI regulations.
If you wish to change your programme of study, any change of programme must meet the following conditions from the UKVI Guidance:
- The new programme is not at a lower level than the existing programme.
- Any new programme at degree level can be completed with the current period of permission; and
- The university confirms to UKVI that the new programme is related to the existing programme, or supports the student's genuine career aspirations.
If your change of programme request does not meet the above conditions, your request will be not be authorised and it may mean that you need to apply for a new visa from outside the UK before you can change your programme.
Our webpages include lots of useful information on when you may be able to change programme and how to do this.
For any requests, a programme change form will need to be signed by your current and new programme leader. This will then be sent to the Visa Compliance Team for approval. The Visa Compliance Team will consider the request and inform your programme leaders whether this can be approved or not.