Changing your undergraduate degree course - a Q & A guide
If you wish to move from one bachelor degree course to another, you will almost certainly need to apply online through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) in August or September for entry in the following year.
Q. Why UAC ?
When you move from one degree course to another, you are considered a 'new student' in the new degree, even though you may be able to enrol (with credit) in second year or later. The University needs to closely control the intake of 'new students' and UAC provides the service to enable the University to manage its 'new student' intake.
Q. What about 'internal transfers' ?
Other than some 'stream'-based transfers in Engineering and Science, and a very small number of combined degree students wishing to revert to a single degree, all domestic students wishing to move to a new degree course must apply through UAC. If you are in any doubt about the avenue of application, you should consult the Faculty that manages the course you hope to enter.
Q. What about International students ?
All International students, including those who entered the University through UAC, need to contact the International Office for information about changing courses.
Q. What about Domestic fee-paying students ?
Domestic fee-paying (DFEE) students may apply through UAC for admission to a Commonwealth-supported place (CSP) in the same course in which they are currently enrolled.
Q. What is the basis on which I compete for admission ?
If you entered the University from school in NSW, you will know that your UAI score was most likely the major determinant in gaining a place in your course. Once you commence tertiary study, your performance at university also becomes a factor in determining your eligibility. Many university students applying to change courses are doing so because they were unable to enter their first choice course directly from school. If you undertake a full-time year (or more) of study in a bachelor degree course, your unit-of-study results will largely determine your chances of gaining admission into other bachelor degree courses at the University of Sydney.
Q. What is the definition of a full-time year of study ?
For admissions purposes, 48 credit points at the University of Sydney. If you have attempted less than 48 credit points in your course, your university results from that course do not contribute to your potential admission at the University of Sydney.
Q. Will I go into second year of my new degree course if I am successful ?
This depends on the amount of credit you are given from your previous studies. You will need to consult the revelant Faculty concerning questions of credit. You should note that it is the quality of your university results, not the field of study of the units themselves, that contributes to your potential selection.
Q. I haven't performed as well as I expected at university because of circumstances beyond my control. Can I have these taken into account with my UAC application ?
Go to the Special consideration for admission section of the Future Students site for this information.
Q. I was approved for admission under the Broadway Scheme earlier this year. Does that advantage continue if I now apply to change courses ?
Once you commence university studies, the benefit you possibly gained from being approved under the Broadway Scheme is exhausted.
Q. Should I pre-enrol for 2009 with my current course, or wait until UAC offers are released in January ?
You should always pre-enrol. More information is contained in the faq section.
Q. Can I get more specific information and advice, now that I have my Semester 1 university results ?
You can find course-specific admissions information in the 2009 UAC Guide, available at newsagents in early August, and on the UAC webite from early August. You can also call into the Student Centre and ask to see a staff member of the Admissions Office, you can or phone Admissions on +61 2 9351 4117 or +61 2 9351 4118 with your admissions questions.