Receiving your CAO offers can be a moment of excitement, or sometimes disappointment. If your first-choice course didn’t work out, the Change of Mind facility can be a game-changer. It allows students to reorder, add, or remove course preferences after submitting their original CAO application, giving you a chance to improve your chances of receiving an offer.
Here’s how to use Change of Mind strategically to make the most of your CAO options.
Before making any adjustments, it’s essential to know how Change of Mind works:
Students can reorder up to 10 course preferences during the Change of Mind period.
You can add new courses that weren’t included in your original application.
Deadlines are strict - late submissions are not accepted, so mark your calendar.
Any change you make replaces your previous choices, so think carefully before saving.
Knowing the rules ensures your changes are valid and gives you the best chance of success.
While it’s tempting to move all your “dream courses” to the top, it’s important to balance ambition with realism:
Check minimum entry requirements for each course and match them with your results.
Include courses where your points meet or slightly exceed the typical entry threshold.
Avoid leaving all top-preference spots to reach unattainable courses - this could reduce your chances of getting an offer.
By combining aspirational choices with realistic ones, you create a higher likelihood of receiving a placement.
If your preferred course didn’t work out, look for alternatives in the same field or industry:
A related programme may offer similar career opportunities
Some courses provide transfer or progression options to your original field after one year
Consider Level 7 options as a stepping stone to Level 8 honours degrees
Being flexible can open doors you may not have initially considered.
Do your homework before changing your course preferences:
Review course content, career outcomes, and progression opportunities
Check college websites, prospectuses, and open days
Speak with guidance counselors or admissions advisors for advice
Informed decisions increase the likelihood that you’ll end up in a course that matches your goals.
Timing matters when making a Change of Mind:
Avoid waiting until the last minute - mistakes or technical issues can happen
Take the time to carefully review your list and reorder priorities thoughtfully
Submit your final choices well before the deadline to avoid stress
Planning ahead ensures you maximise your options without unnecessary pressure.
Every change you make should reflect both your academic interests and your long-term career goals:
Will this course lead to the opportunities you want?
Does it align with your preferred field of study or industry?
Could it provide transferable skills or pathways for further study?
Keeping your career objectives in focus ensures that the Change of Mind process is a step forward, not just a reaction to disappointment.
The Change of Mind facility is a valuable tool for CAO applicants. By understanding the rules, balancing aspirational and realistic choices, exploring related courses, researching thoroughly, and keeping deadlines and career goals in mind, you can maximise your chances of securing a place in a programme that suits you.
Remember, flexibility and strategy are key and sometimes the alternative paths can lead to equally exciting opportunities.
