Why You May Not Be Able to Change Course After 100 Level at UNN (Change of Degree Guide): Are you a 100-level student at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) planning to switch to another course? If yes, you’re not alone. Many students hope to change their course after the first year through what UNN calls a Change of Degree (CD).
However, it’s important to understand that not all applications for change of course are successful. In this post, we’ll highlight the major reasons why you may not be able to change your course after 100 level at UNN, so you can better prepare and avoid disappointment.
1. Limited Departmental Quota
First and foremost, every department in UNN operates with a fixed admission quota. Once that quota is filled, there’s little to no room for additional students even through Change of Degree.
For example, if the department of Medical Laboratory Science already has 100 students in 100 level, it might not accept more applicants from other departments, regardless of CGPA.
2. Low CGPA
Another key reason is your Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). Most departments have a minimum CGPA requirement typically around 3.5 and above before considering Change of Degree requests.
Note: Although the general CGPA requirement for Change of Degree may be lower, some departments set their own specific CGPA benchmarks for transfer applicants.
It is advisable to stay focused and actively participate in your current department’s activities this will help boost your performance and increase your chances of meeting the required CGPA. However, once you start treating your current department as unimportant, your performance may begin to drop, which could affect your eligibility for a change of course.
If your CGPA is lower than the benchmark set by your desired department, your application will likely be automatically rejected.
3. Wrong UTME Subject Combination
Even when applying for a change of course, your original JAMB subject combination still matters. Some departments in UNN will only accept students who met the correct UTME subject requirements for that course.
For instance, if you want to move into Law, but didn’t write Literature in English in your UTME, your application may be disqualified regardless of your performance in 100 level. Tip: Always check that your core UTME and O’level subject combinations align with the course you intend to switch to. Don’t assume make proper inquiries from the department or academic advisers to ensure you meet all subject requirements before applying for a Change of Degree.
4. Switching to an Unrelated Field
We generally encourages students to apply for courses closely related to their current course. If you’re trying to jump from one faculty to another with no academic link say, from Agriculture to Engineering might be difficult because the UTME subject combination differs at least for a course that still revolves around your current department. This might increase your chances.
To stand a better chance, try switching within your faculty or to a course that shares similar 100-level courses with your current one, the difference shouldn’t be much.
5. Strict Departmental Policies
Some departments at UNN simply do not accept transfer students. This is common in high-demand and professional programs, so make sure you read the UNN Change of Degree form whenever it’s out to note the departments that are accepting students and those that are not, or have a limit on the number of students they accept.
6. Missed Application Deadline
Timing is also important. UNN usually opens the Change of Degree application window shortly after the release of 100 level results. If you miss the official window or delay in applying, you may lose your chance for that session.
Always keep an eye on official UNN circulars or departmental memos to avoid missing deadlines.
7. Poor Grades in Key Courses
Aside from your overall CGPA, some departments will look specifically at grades in relevant 100-level courses.
For example:
To change into Pharmacy, you must have high grades in Chemistry and Biology.
To move to Mass Communication, you need a good grade in Use of English.l and literature in English.
If you didn’t perform well in these key courses, the department may deny your request, even if your overall CGPA meets the minimum.
8. O’Level Result Deficiencies
Some students are not aware that their O’level results still play a role in the Change of Degree process. If your WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB result does not include the required subjects for the new course, your application won’t be approved.
For example, you cannot change to Engineering without having at least a credit in Physics and Mathematics in your O’level.
10. Policy Changes by the University
Lastly, university policies are subject to change. UNN may suspend the Change of Degree process for a session (it can happen in some department may not be all) due to administrative decisions, regulatory requirements (e.g., NUC), or internal restructuring.
If this happens, it won’t matter how qualified you are you’ll have to remain in your current course for that session. Then might apply in another session if the form becomes available.
Final Thoughts
Changing your course at UNN after 100 level is possible but not guaranteed. You must meet all academic and administrative requirements and still get lucky with timing and departmental availability.
So, before banking on the Change of Degree option, make sure you:
- Study hard and maintain a high CGPA,
- Monitor announcements from your department and the university,
- Confirm that your O’level and UTME subjects align with the target course.
Also read
- How to Calculate CGPA and Achieve first Class Degree in Nigerian Universities
- UNN Catchment Area and ELDS 2025: What You Need to Know
- UNN & UNEC Departmental Uniform Dress Code 2025 (Updated)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change from one faculty to another at UNN?
Yes, but only if the departments involved allow it and you meet the required CGPA, UTME subjects, and course relevance.
What is the minimum CGPA for Change of Degree at UNN?
The minimum requirement is at least 1.00 CGPA, but it can vary depending on the competitiveness of the course and the department fixed CGPA.
Is Change of Degree at UNN free?
No, it usually comes with a non-refundable fee, which is announced during the application period.
When is the UNN Change of Degree form out?
It is typically released at times a month after the second semester begins. Always check the official UNN website or your department noticeboard.
Conclusion
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Thank for this.
Uhm, after changing my course, am I starting from 100 level or 200?
200 level,