What Does Changing Course During Admission Mean?
Changing course during admission means officially switching from your first chosen course to another course within the same university or through the JAMB portal.
For example:
- If you applied for Medicine but scored below the cut-off, you may be asked to change to Biological Sciences.
- Or, if you applied for Law but later prefer Mass Communication, you can also change before admission is finalized.
It is an official process, and you must follow the right steps to ensure your admission remains valid.
Reasons Students Change Their Course of Study
Many factors lead to changing courses during admission. Some include:
- Low JAMB Score: If your score doesn’t meet the cutoff for your first course.
- Post-UTME Performance: Poor post-UTME score may push you to a lower course.
- Parental Advice: Some parents suggest alternative courses for quicker admission.
- Career Realization: Some students discover new interests.
- High Competition: Medicine, Law, and Engineering are very competitive.
- Health Reasons: Some courses require physical strength (e.g., Nursing).
- Financial Consideration: Some courses are more expensive than others.
When Can You Change Your Course During Admission?
You can change your course at two major stages:
- Before Admission is Offered:
- Done through JAMB Change of Course/Institution portal.
- Usually between June and November (depending on JAMB’s calendar).
- After Admission is Offered (Internal Change):
- Done inside the university.
- Example: After 100 level, you may apply to transfer to another course within the school.
Key Things to Consider Before Changing Course
Before making the move, think about:
- Cut-Off Marks: Does your new course match your score?
- Future Career: Will this course help you achieve your goals?
- Course Availability: Not all schools offer every course.
- Parental Support: Does your family support your new choice?
- Personal Interest: Will you enjoy studying it?
Step by Step Guide to Changing Course Through JAMB CAPS
If you want to change before admission is finalized:
- Visit JAMB Portal – Go to www.jamb.gov.ng.
- Login with Your Details – Enter your email and password.
- Select ‘Correction of Data’ – Under services.
- Choose Change of Course/Institution.
- Make Payment – Usually ₦3,500 for the change.
- Fill New Course Information – Select your new course and institution.
- Submit and Print Slip – Keep for reference.
- Wait for School Screening – The university must approve it.
Step by Step Guide to Changing Course Within the University (Internal Change)
This happens after you are already admitted but want to switch internally.
- Check University Guidelines – Each school has its policy.
- Meet Faculty Officer – They will guide you.
- Write an Application Letter – State reasons for changing.
- Meet Academic Requirements – Good CGPA is usually needed.
- Approval by Senate/Department.
- Pay Change of Course Fee (if applicable).
- Get New Admission Letter (Internal).
Example: At UNILAG, you need at least a 3.5 CGPA in 100 level to switch to competitive courses like Law or Medicine.
Pros of Changing Course During Admission
- Increases your chance of admission.
- Helps you choose a course that matches your strengths.
- Prevents wasted years of reapplying.
- Opens new career opportunities.
Cons of Changing Course During Admission
- You may lose your first-choice dream course.
- Some new courses may be less respected in society.
- The process can be stressful.
- Mistakes can delay admission.
Common Mistakes Students Make When Changing Courses
- Choosing a new course without checking accreditation.
- Rushing without guidance from parents or counselors.
- Selecting a course still too competitive.
- Missing deadlines for change of course.
- Not checking school cut-off marks.
Examples of Courses Students Commonly Change To
Some courses are less competitive, making them easier alternatives:
- Biological Sciences instead of Medicine.
- Industrial Relations instead of Law.
- Education Courses instead of Social Sciences.
- Statistics/Mathematics instead of Engineering.
- Agricultural Sciences instead of Pharmacy.
How to Decide on the Right Course When Changing
To choose wisely:
- Think about your career interest.
- Look at the job opportunities.
- Talk to mentors and lecturers.
- Research the course curriculum.
- Compare schools that offer it at low cut-off marks.
Comparison Between Sticking to Original Course and Changing
| Factor | Staying with Original Course | Changing Course |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Chances | May be low if score is below cutoff | Increases with less competitive course |
| Career Path | Matches initial dream | May open new paths |
| Stress Level | May require waiting another year | Saves time, but process can be stressful |
| Family Influence | Often high | Parents may push for change |
| Cost | May be higher (Medicine, Engineering) | Some courses cheaper |
Effect of Changing Course on Future Career Opportunities
Many fear that changing course will reduce their career success. The truth is: your hard work matters more than the course name.
For instance:
- A student who changes from Medicine to Nursing can still have a successful medical career.
- Someone who changes from Law to Political Science can work in government or NGOs.
Your career depends on skills, networking, and determination.
Step by Step Guide for Parents Supporting Their Children in Change of Course
Parents play a big role. Here’s how they can help:
- Discuss with Your Child – Listen to their reasons.
- Check the Options Together.
- Provide Financial Support – Pay change of course fee early.
- Encourage the Child – Don’t make them feel like a failure.
- Research Future Opportunities Together.
Tips to Increase Your Admission Chances After Changing Course
- Apply for less competitive but accredited courses.
- Always meet the O’Level subject requirements.
- Keep monitoring JAMB CAPS for updates.
- Avoid last-minute rush—apply early.
- Keep backup schools in mind.
Summary Table of Steps to Change Course
| Step | Action | Platform/Office |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Login to JAMB portal | www.jamb.gov.ng |
| 2 | Select Change of Course | JAMB CAPS |
| 3 | Pay ₦3,500 fee | Online |
| 4 | Fill new course details | JAMB portal |
| 5 | Submit and print slip | JAMB |
| 6 | Wait for school approval | University portal |
| 7 | If internal change | Faculty/School Senate |
| 8 | Meet CGPA requirement | University level |
Conclusion
Changing course during the admission process is not the end of your dreams. It is a smart move to increase your admission chances and still build a strong future. Whether you do it through JAMB CAPS before admission or internally within the university after 100 level, what matters most is your commitment to succeed.
Remember: A course does not define your success, but your hard work and dedication do.
FAQs
1. Can I change my course after writing JAMB?
Yes, you can use the JAMB Change of Course portal.
2. How much is the JAMB change of course fee?
₦3,500 only.
3. Can I change course after getting admission?
Yes, but it must be done within the university as an internal change.
4. Will changing course reduce my admission chances?
No, it can increase your chances if you choose wisely.
5. Can I change from a science course to an art course?
Yes, but only if your O’Level subjects match.
6. Can I do change of course twice?
Yes, JAMB allows multiple changes, but you must pay each time.
7. Can I change my course after accepting admission on CAPS?
Not directly. You will need to process it internally with your university.
8. Do all universities accept change of course?
Yes, but procedures vary.
9. Is there a deadline for change of course?
Yes, JAMB sets a closing date each year, usually before admission lists close.
10. Will my admission letter show my new course?
Yes, once approved, your JAMB admission letter will reflect the updated course.