Switching courses/uni after second year but considering taking a year out first...

3

I have decided to leave a course I've been studying on until the recent end of my second year, I know I want to finish my studies and get my degree at a another university (and potentially on a different course) but I am considering taking a year out first. If I were to do this, would I be better off applying for a suspension of studies from my original university or simply withdrawing from the course altogether, and would either of these options at all affect my application to continue my studies at another university? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Reply 1

normaw

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

20

Original post

by Dan8876

I have decided to leave a course I've been studying on until the recent end of my second year, I know I want to finish my studies and get my degree at a another university (and potentially on a different course) but I am considering taking a year out first. If I were to do this, would I be better off applying for a suspension of studies from my original university or simply withdrawing from the course altogether, and would either of these options at all affect my application to continue my studies at another university? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

A new course will mean that you will likely have to start from year 1. Have you considered funding? SFE calculates funding eligibility for a new course as:

length of new course + 1 - previous study

So, for a new three-year course: 3 + 1 - 2 = 2 years of funding (i.e. you would have to pay the tuition fee for the first year of the course out of your own pocket).

Reply 2

Admit-One

Universities Forum Helper

21

From an admissions POV, suspending or withdrawing wouldn't make a difference to applying elsewhere. You have to list all incomplete study on your application regardless - the end date can just be a provisional one on the assumption that you are successful applying elsewhere.

If you took a gap and were applying for year 2 entry, then some unis might get iffy about it. But it's something to ask each uni about directly.

Reply 3

Dan8876

OP

3

Original post

by Admit-One

From an admissions POV, suspending or withdrawing wouldn't make a difference to applying elsewhere. You have to list all incomplete study on your application regardless - the end date can just be a provisional one on the assumption that you are successful applying elsewhere.
If you took a gap and were applying for year 2 entry, then some unis might get iffy about it. But it's something to ask each uni about directly.

That's really helpful thank you!

Reply 4

Royal Holloway, University of London

Official Rep

13

Original post

by Dan8876

I have decided to leave a course I've been studying on until the recent end of my second year, I know I want to finish my studies and get my degree at a another university (and potentially on a different course) but I am considering taking a year out first. If I were to do this, would I be better off applying for a suspension of studies from my original university or simply withdrawing from the course altogether, and would either of these options at all affect my application to continue my studies at another university? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Hi @Dan8876

We understand this might be a big decision, so it’s great that you’re thinking it through carefully. Here’s a breakdown of your options and some advice to help you decide:

If you’re fairly certain you don’t want to return to your current university or course, withdrawing is usually a safe option. If you’re unsure, or want to keep your options open, suspending your studies gives you more flexibility. Either way, taking a year out is common and shouldn’t negatively affect your future applications, as long as you can explain your reasons and what you gained from the experience.

👉️ Before making a final decision, talk to your current university’s student support or academic advisor. They can explain the process and any implications for your record or finances.

I hope that helps - if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us!

Best wishes,
Royal Holloway, University of London Official Rep

Switching courses/uni after second year but considering taking a year out first...

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