Choosing a course in university is one of the most important decisions a student makes, but it doesn’t always go as planned.
If you’re thinking about a change of course, don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many students switch courses because of passion or better opportunities, and this guide will show you how.
In this article, we’ll explain everything about the change of course process in Nigerian universities, including the requirements, how to apply, and what to expect.
Guide for Change of Course in Nigerian Universities (2025)
Here’s what you need to do if you want to change your course in a Nigerian university:
1. Know When You Can Apply for a Course Change
Timing is everything! Most Nigerian universities let you apply for a course change after your first year or at the beginning of your second year.
This allows you to see if your current course is the right fit. Some schools have deadlines, so check with your university’s academic office early.
Tip: Get your application ready as soon as possible so you don’t miss the chance.
2. Check the CGPA Requirement
Your CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) is key. To change courses, you’ll need a good academic record.
Most universities require a CGPA between 3.0 to 4.5 (on a 5-point scale). The more competitive the course, the higher the CGPA needed. For highly sought-after programs like Medicine, Engineering, or Law, the bar is often higher.
If you’re moving to a less competitive course, the minimum CGPA can be as low as 1.5 to 2.0.
Advice: If you’re aiming for competitive courses, try to have at least a 3.5 CGPA.
3. Ensure You Meet the Subject Requirements
Changing courses isn’t just about your CGPA. You also need the right O’Level and UTME subjects. For example:
- If you’re moving from Arts to Science, you’ll need subjects like Mathematics, Physics, or Chemistry.
- If you’re switching to Economics or Accounting, you’ll need Mathematics and Economics at the secondary level.
Quick Check: Before applying, make sure your subjects match the new course’s requirements.
4. Prepare for Limited Slots
Even if you meet all the requirements, there’s one more challenge: limited slots. For popular courses like Medicine, Law, and Pharmacy, spots are few, so competition is tough.
Heads up: Always have a backup plan. If your first-choice course isn’t available, think of alternatives that still interest you.
5. Understand the Approval Process
Changing your course involves several steps, and you’ll need approval from:
- Your current department (to release you).
- The new department (to accept you).
- Finally, the University Senate or a similar committee for final approval.
Tip: Build a good relationship with your academic advisor – they can help you through the process.
6. Be Aware of Fees and Costs
Most Nigerian universities charge an administrative fee for course transfers. The fee ranges from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000, depending on the school.
You may also need to budget for extra materials or courses if your new program requires them.
Tip: Always check with your school to know the exact fee.
7. Alternatives if Your Course Change Isn’t Approved
What if your application isn’t successful? Here are some options:
- Take another UTME: You can sit for another JAMB exam and select the course you want as a new student.
- Inter-University Transfer: If your school doesn’t offer the course you want, consider transferring to another university.
- Direct Entry: After finishing your current program, apply for Direct Entry into your preferred course.
Bonus: Many students use Direct Entry after completing a diploma to switch courses.
Steps to Change Your Course in Nigerian Universities
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Before you start, make sure you’re eligible for a course change:
- Be in your second year or at the start of the second semester of the first year.
- Have completed at least one academic session.
- Meet the required CGPA (usually between 2.0 to 4.5).
Step 2: Confirm Subject Requirements
Check that your O’Level and UTME subjects align with the new course. If not, you may need to take additional exams or rethink your course choice.
Step 3: Obtain the Change of Course Form
Go to your registrar’s office or academic unit and collect the form. Some universities allow you to do this online.
Step 4: Pay the Processing Fee
Pay the required fee (usually between ₦5,000 and ₦20,000), either at the bank or online.
Step 5: Submit the Completed Form
Fill out the form with your details (current course, new course, CGPA), and submit it with your O’Level and UTME results.
Step 6: Obtain Departmental and Faculty Approval
Your current department must release you, and the new department must accept you.
Step 7: Await Faculty Board and Senate Review
The Faculty Board and University Senate will review your application. This can take a few weeks.
Step 8: Check for Approval
Once approved, you’ll receive a notification (usually through the school portal or registrar’s office).
Step 9: Adjust Your Academic Schedule
You may need to retake some courses or sit for new exams if your previous coursework doesn’t fully transfer.
Step 10: Re-register for Courses
Finally, re-register for courses in your new department.
Change of Course Through JAMB
You can also change your course through the JAMB portal. Here’s how:
- Visit the JAMB Portal: Go to www.jamb.gov.ng and log in with your email and password.
- Select ‘Correction of Data’: On your dashboard, choose Change of Course.
- Pay the Fee: The non-refundable fee for course change is ₦2,500.
- Choose Your New Course: Make sure your new course matches your O’Level and UTME subjects.
- Submit: After making the change, print the acknowledgment slip.
- Wait for Approval: The JAMB portal will update your new course details once approved.
Things to Note
- 1. Number of Changes Allowed:
You can only perform the change of course a limited number of times (usually once or twice, depending on JAMB’s current policies).
- 2. O’Level Requirements:
Ensure that the O’Level subjects required for your new course are correctly uploaded and match the requirements for your new program.
- 3. Timing:
The change of course process should be completed before admission lists are finalized. Be sure to act promptly when JAMB opens the correction window.
This process is applicable for students who either want to change their course before admission or those who have already gained admission but wish to change their course after considering various factors.
Case Study
- Bola’s Journey: From Confusion to Clarity
Bola started her journey studying Chemistry, but halfway through her first year, she realized her true passion was medicine.
After achieving a 3.8 CGPA and ensuring she had the right O’Level and UTME subjects, she successfully applied for a course transfer.
The process took a few months, but Bola is now in her third year of Medical School, pursuing her dream career.
Conclusion
Changing your course in a Nigerian university may seem tough, but with the right steps and preparation, it can be a smooth process.
Always check if you meet the requirements, get your documents in order, and stay informed of deadlines. Trust the process, and soon, you’ll be on the path that feels right for you!
Whether you’re driven by passion, a change in career goals, or the desire to find a course that challenges and excites you, remember that this decision is part of your academic growth.
Students should carefully assess their eligibility, prepare all necessary documents, and apply within the specified time frames.
Though the process may seem challenging, it can be a valuable step toward aligning one’s academic journey with long-term career goals.
Stay informed, meet the requirements, and trust the process, soon, you’ll be on the path that feels right for you.
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FAQs: Change of Course in Nigerian Universities
Can I change my course after my first year?
Yes, most Nigerian universities allow students to change courses after the first academic session or at the start of the second year.
What’s the minimum CGPA required to change my course?
The required CGPA is usually between 3.0 to 4.5 for competitive courses, but it could be as low as 1.5 for less competitive ones.
Do I need to pay a fee to change my course?
Yes, there is usually a non-refundable fee between ₦5,000 to ₦20,000.
Can I change my course through JAMB?
Yes, the JAMB portal allows you to change your course before or after admission, with a fee of ₦2,500.
What if my course change request is denied?
If denied, you can take another UTME, use Direct Entry, or consider an Inter-University Transfer.
