Thinking of switching unis? read this first

Maybe your course isn’t what you expected. Maybe your new city doesn’t feel like home. Or maybe something just doesn’t feel right.

Here’s the thing: you’re not stuck. Thousands of students change universities each year. And yes, you can transfer. But you need to know how to do it right.

This guide gives you 10 practical tips on how to transfer universities in the UK. From timing to paperwork, we’ll break it all down.

1. Know why you want to transfer

Before anything else, be clear on your reason. Write it down if you have to. Some common reasons:

• Course content isn’t what you thought
• You want to move closer to home
• You want a better-ranked university
• Mental health or personal issues
• You didn’t get your first-choice uni the first time

Knowing your reason will help you explain your case when applying. It will also help you pick the right new course or university this time. Remember, transferring isn’t just about escaping. When it comes to how to transfer universities in the UK, it’s about choosing better.

2. Check the new university’s transfer policy

Not every university in the UK accepts transfers. And those that do may have rules about when and how. You need to check:

• Do they accept transfer students?
• Which year can you enter? (First, second, etc.)
• What qualifications or grades do they require?
• Is your current course similar to theirs?

Every university is different. Start by visiting their website or calling the admissions team. Here’s one place to start: UCAS – Changing universities or course.

3. Timing matters

In the UK, most students transfer after Year 1. Transferring in Year 2 or 3 is possible, but harder. Because in Year 1, you’re still early in the course, course content is more flexible and you might not lose credits. That’s why early action is key.

4. Talk to your current university

Don’t skip this step even if you’re sure about leaving. Speak to your academic advisor, your department head, and the student support or wellbeing team. They might help you understand how to transfer universities in the UK and give you documents you’ll need later (transcripts, references, etc.)

And in some cases, they might even help fix what’s bothering you. It’s worth the conversation.

5. Apply through the right route

There are two main ways when it comes to transfer universities in the UK.

Option 1: Apply directly to the new university

If you’re moving into Year 2 or 3, this is usually how it’s done. You send them:

• Your transcript
• A reference letter
• A personal statement explaining why you’re transferring

Option 2: Apply through UCAS again

If you’re starting from Year 1, this is your path. Just like when you first applied. Use your UCAS login or make a new one. Make sure you highlight your reason for leaving in your personal statement.

6. Match your modules and credits

Let’s say you’re moving from one psychology course to another. You’ll need to show that what you’ve already studied lines up with what the new course covers. So, make a list of:

• All the modules you’ve completed
• The credits you’ve earned
• Your grades so far

Ask your current uni for a transcript. Send it to the new uni and ask if they’ll accept your credits. If they don’t match, they might ask you to restart from Year 1. Not ideal, but at least you’ll know before making the move.

7. Don’t forget about student finance

This one is big. When you transfer, you must let Student Finance know.  They need to update your new course details, new university, and new course length. Sometimes, switching courses can affect how many years of funding you get. For example, if you repeat a year, you might lose a year of tuition support.

Best move? Call Student Finance and explain your situation before you transfer. More info here: Student Finance England – Gov.uk

8. Prepare for freshers, Again

Even if you’re joining in Year 2, it’ll feel like starting over. New course. New city. New classmates. So, get ready to go to welcome events, introduce yourself again, and learn new systems or styles of teaching.

It can feel strange, but you’re not the only one. Loads of students transfer every year. You’ll find your feet quickly. And this time, you’ve chosen a course that’s right for you.

9. Get emotional support if needed

Let’s be honest: transferring is a big deal. It can be stressful, lonely, and overwhelming. So don’t ignore your mental health. Talk to someone if you’re feeling anxious about the move, guilty about leaving your old course, or unsure about whether it’s the right choice.

Your new university will likely have free mental health and wellbeing support.  Use it. You’re allowed to ask for help, even if things look fine from the outside.

10. Have a backup plan

Not every transfer works out. Maybe:

• The new uni rejects your transfer
• Your credits don’t match
• You change your mind (again—and that’s okay)

So always have a Plan B. That could mean staying at your current uni and switching courses internally, taking a gap year and reapplying, or starting a different course altogether.

What matters is that you make a thoughtful choice, not a rushed one.

Final thoughts

Changing universities isn’t failure. It’s a decision. One that could set you up for a much better future. Yes, it takes effort. Yes, you’ll deal with paperwork and emotions.

Transferring unis comes with lots of questions. Enrollmate is built for students like you. We can guide you through:

• Finding the right new course
• Understanding how to transfer universities in the UK
• Application help and paperwork
• Student finance updates

So if you’re feeling stuck or lost, reach out. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.