<p>Hi everyone,
I just got accepted to St Andrews (I’m from the US) and I’m wondering if it’s possible to change my major within my faculty once I get there? The admissions counselor who visited my school said something along those lines but what I’ve read online seems to contradict that somewhat. I was accepted for English but I think I might like to do Intl Relations instead (I listed that as my second choice on the Common App). Is that possible? Thank you!</p>
<p>It’s not as common at UK universities to change degree subjects. Normally you will either have to change very early on in the year, when there is still time to catch up, or you will have to restart first year in the next academic year.</p>
<p>But can I just switch to Intl Relations upon arrival? Will that be a problem?</p>
<p>It depends. I would suggest contacting the university now though - they won’t withdraw your offer if there’s a problem, and it’s a lot easier for them to deal with these things now as opposed to in Sept / Oct.</p>
<p>You can usually only swap if there is space on the other course and you meet the entry requirements.</p>
<p>Great, thank you both!</p>
<p>hey! I was accepted for the international relations program at St. Andrews and I heard the school wasn’t that strong in international relations. what is it that made you want to pursue international relations at St. Andrews?</p>
<p>Hi! I actually heard that St Andrews is one of the top schools in the world for intl relations. My main reason for wanting to study int. rels. there is that reputation for strong international relations and that studying such a topic abroad will help aid in my understanding of the world and international relations.</p>
<p>I know nothing about transferring courses at St Andrews. However, it is very well known for IR, as noted above. Therefore I would strongly advise you to ask them before enrolling whether this will be possible. They may not like the technique of gaining admittance to a more competitive entry course, by applying for an easier one then switching…</p>
<p>Right, I see what you’re saying. I did list it as my second choice though so hopefully they’ll understand that I’m actually interested.</p>
<p>It may be difficult to transfer into IR, as that is their most popular program and is often full. The entrance requirements are higher than other subjects. I would definitely contact them now about this. I also believe that you may not be able to take it as an elective because the 1st year lectures are so full with majors.</p>
<p>You might try to change to a joint degree “English and IR” and then drop the English later.</p>
<p>I contacted them and they revised my offer to IR. Thanks everyone for the advice!</p>
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