Studying in the UK from Nigeria: The Ultimate Guide You Need

The UK is home to a large number of highly regarded academic institutions. Many students from other countries have their sights set on earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a British university. Many international students are interested in learning more about studying in the UK from Nigeria.

Why Choose the UK for Higher Education?

When compared to any other country, the UK offers the most to its international students. A degree from a British university guarantees a bright future for the applicant. In addition, it opens doors for students to make friends, learn about other cultures, and have a great time at college.

What are the advantages of British education for a student from Nigeria?

  • ● A globally recognized/respected degree.
  • ● Capacity development for hands-on experience
  • ● An opportunity to study at some of the top-ranking in the world.
  • ● Student-focused & industry-based course delivery
  • ● Shorter course duration
  • ● Opportunities for part-time employment.
  • ● The opportunity to work after finishing a degree programme.
  • ● Access to explore/tour the country
  • ● Seamless admission process due to easier conditions
  • ● Diverse choices in academic paths and career focus.

Studying abroad holds great appeal for Nigerian students due to the exciting opportunities it offers. By choosing to study in the UK, Nigerian students can open doors to international exposure, expand their network, and enhance their career prospects. It provides a platform for both personal and professional growth, allowing international students to shape their future with diverse experiences.

Get an overview of the comprehensive guide that will take Nigerian students step-by-step through the process of studying in the UK. From selecting the right university and applying for admissions to managing finances, acclimating to a new culture, and exploring the UK’s vibrant destinations, this guide covers it all.

Preparing for Your Journey
In order to apply to a foreign university outside Nigeria, an applicant must go through an admissions process. The methods must be precise and sequential. This is how the foreign universities admission procedure works:

Researching Universities and Courses
Choosing the right university and course is a crucial step in the study abroad journey. Learn about accredited universities in the UK and popular courses that appeal to Nigerian students. Understand the admission requirements and how to meet them successfully.

Applying to UK Universities
UCAS is only one of the ways through which applications can be made to UK universities. It is arguably one of the least popular methods, as universities have their custom-made portals for a wide variety of courses. More importantly, since we want the students to come to us, we need to include “contacting the university representatives” as one of the application methods as well.

Securing Scholarships and Financial Aid

Explore available scholarships for Nigerian students and learn about financial planning to cover tuition and living expenses. Discover part-time work opportunities to support your studies while in the UK.

Prepare Documents
Get your transcripts, bank statements, and other paperwork in order before submitting your applications to UK Universities.

Entry Requirements to Studying in the UK from Nigeria
To study in the UK as a Nigerian student, your credentials will need to be on par with those typically required there. The British and English requirements have Nigerian equivalents that are met by various Nigerian and West African examination bodies. Examples are WAEC, NECO. When students do not meet up, IELTS is an option to run with. There are varying prerequisites for various classes.

Foundation Courses:
Earn a C6 or higher in at least five courses on the WAEC/NECO High School Diploma Exam (including math if interested in a STEM career).

Complete the UKVI IELTS with a minimum overall score of 4.0 and no less than a 4.0 in any section. Some universities may accept you for a foundation year programme even if you do not have the IELTS requirement.

Undergraduate Courses:
The academic standards for each course will vary slightly. There are classes that expect more of you academically. Ulster University typically accepts students from Nigeria with these requirements.

● A National Diploma, Either Basic or Advanced Credit reduction.

● Graduate of Federal University, albeit with a failing grade.

● Completion of the first year (Level 100) of a Nigerian degree programme with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 50%.

● A minimum of one credit on the National Certificate of Education.

● Westerfield College’s International Foundation programme, with a passing grade in every course. (Global Average of 55%)

Postgraduate Courses:

If you already have a degree that is roughly comparable in the appropriate field, you may be eligible to apply to the taught programme. However, specific course prerequisites may vary. The following are the standard prerequisites for Nigerian students to enter a UK postgraduate programme.

Bachelor’s Degree: 2:50 or better (often a CGPA of 3.0/5.0 or 2.0/4.0)
Grade Point Average of 3.5 or higher (often 60%)

English Requirements:
The United Kingdom Visa and Immigration Service (UKVI) recognises a variety of English language credentials, including those issued in Nigeria.

For instance, a Senior School Certificate from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or a National Examinations Council (NECO) with a “Credit Level Pass (C) in English.

To study in the United Kingdom from Nigeria, you can also take the following English Language Tests:

● IELTS PTE

● Cambridge Academic Evaluation of English Proficiency.

● The Oxford English Examination.

● IBT, TOEFL, and many others.

Required Documents for University Application

Applying to a university in the United Kingdom from Nigeria requires the submission of a number of supplementary materials. These include:

● Passport.

● All diplomas, transcripts, and other school records.

● Reports on how well one communicates in English.

● Reference Letter for Your Curriculum Vitae

● Financial statements
● Individual Proclamation.


(Documents that are not in English must be translated by an authorised translator.) a portfolio (for the art and design courses).

Visa and Immigration Process

A student can apply for a standard student visa once they have received their CAS. Obtaining a student visa involves a lengthy and complex set of procedures. Learn the necessary procedures for applying for a student visa to the United Kingdom.

  • ● Choose the appropriate visa. 
  • ● Prepare your visa applications promptly. 
  • ● Learn how much money you’ll need to apply for a visa. 
  • ● Select the visa appointment scheduling service that is geographically most convenient for you.
  • ● Attend the biometric appointment at the Visa Application Centre. 
  • ● You should track the progress of your application.
  • ● Retrieve your travel document.

Applying for a UK Student Visa

Understand the requirements and procedures for obtaining a Tier 4 student visa, which is essential for studying in the UK.

A staggering number of students seek student visas to the United Kingdom every year. Because of this, UKVI is seeing a high demand for visas. This could potentially extend the time it takes to obtain a visa. If a student needs their visa application processed quickly, they can pay extra for priority or super-priority processing. Let’s find out who they are-

  • ● Obtaining a Priority Visa

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) offers a Priority Visa Service for those who require their visas quickly. When your passport is ready, the UKVI will contact you within 5 business days of receiving your biometric information. 

However, there may be additional costs associated with using this service. Verify with the visa application centre that you want to visit whether or not they offer this sort of visa.

  • ● Rapid Processing Visa

Get your visa as fast as possible with the help of our super-priority visa service. After submitting your biometric data, UKVI will make a decision on your visa application within 24 hours and notify you when your passport is ready for pickup. However, there will be a fee for processing this visa.

Understanding UK Immigration Laws

Familiarise yourself with the rights and responsibilities of international students and the process of extending your student visa when needed.

Best Universities in the UK for Nigerian Students

Nigerian students seeking to pursue higher education in the UK have a plethora of world-class universities to choose from. Here are some of the best universities for Nigerian students:

(Remember that these tuition fees can be changed as per university’s decision)

University Name Tuition Fees
University of Manchester 21,000 GBP
University of Glasgow 16,350 GBP
University of Bristol 18,300 GBP
University of Birmingham 14,550 GBP
University of Sheffield 17,625 GBP
Lancaster University 18,168 GBP
University of Southampton 9,000 GBP
University of Leeds 9,250 GBP
University of Nottingham 9,250 GBP
University of Exeter 17,500 GBP
Newcastle University 9,000 GBP
University of Sussex 9,250 GBP
University of Aberdeen 13,000 GBP
Durham University 16,900 GBP
University of York 9,000 GBP
University of Liverpool 9,000 GBP
University of East Anglia 14,500 GBP
University of Leicester 15,290 GBP
Cardiff University 17,500 GBP
University of Bath 18,500 GBP
University of Dundee 9,000 GBP
Queen’s University Belfast 13,280 GBP
University of Reading 6,850 GBP
St George’s, University of London 13,000-31,690 GBP
University of St Andrews 20,770 GBP
University of Surrey 17,000 GBP
Swansea University 9,000 GBP
Anglia Ruskin University 9,250 GBP
University of Essex 12,950 GBP
Birkbeck, University of London 13,350 GBP
Bournemouth University 13,500 GBP
Brunel University London 17,500 GBP
City, University of London 9,250 GBP
Loughborough University 14,950 GBP
Royal Holloway, University of London 15,600 GBP
University of Stirling 18,200 GBP
Aston University 14,630 GBP
Bangor University 13,300 GBP
Goldsmiths, University of London 12,710 GBP
University of Kent 9,000 GBP

Preparing for Life in the UK

Accommodation Options

When you initially arrive in the UK to pursue further education, renting or buying a home may cause you some anxiety.

However, the United Kingdom’s accommodation system is quite adaptable. It guarantees first-year students a bed for the whole school year. Find out if and what kind of housing options are available through your school by inquiring about them. There are also numerous private rental establishments from which to choose.

AHZ is a student consultation service with qualified advisors who can help you get into any university in the United Kingdom. We have partnered with many organisations that provide students with housing options. If you have trouble finding suitable lodgings in the UK, please get in touch with us. You can choose:

● University Halls of Residence
● Private Accommodations
● Homestays and Shared Housing

Settling In: Cultural Adaptation
Learn valuable tips on adapting to the new culture, overcoming homesickness, and making the most of your experience by actively engaging in campus life. You can-


● Navigating Cultural Differences

● Overcoming Homesickness

● Engaging in Campus Life

Health Insurance and Healthcare

Get information about the National Health Service’s (NHS) coverage for international students and consider private health insurance options.

Succeeding Academically
Grasp an understanding of the UK education system, including the grading system and different types of assessments. Discover the resources available, such as tutoring, study groups, academic support services, and university libraries, to excel academically. Find tips on improving your language skills and overcoming language barriers to thrive in your studies. You can get help from AHZ.

Exploring the UK
From vibrant cities to iconic landmarks, the UK has something to captivate every student’s heart. Let’s embark on a journey to discover some top destinations and travel tips for Nigerian students exploring this diverse and fascinating country.

Top Destinations and Travel Tips
  • ● London
  • ● Edinburgh
  • ● Oxford University 
  • ● Old Trafford
  • ● British Museum 
  • ● Manchester City
  • ● Bustling markets and so on

    International students can explore various options: 
  • ● Trains
  • ● Buses and Coaches
  • ● London Underground
  • ● Bicycles

Safety and Well-being

To enjoy this wonderful voyage, safety, and well-being must be prioritised. Understand UK legislation to avoid unintended infractions and legal issues. To avoid danger, keep alert on campus and in the city. Protect your belongings, especially in public. Secure cash, documents, and electronics.


UK universities provide counselling and mental health services for students. Ask for support if needed. Change is hard. Stay in touch with family and friends, and seek help from classmates and university resources. Studying for more than six months may qualify you for NHS healthcare. Register with a local GP for medical services. Make sure your campus or private residence is safe and fulfils safety regulations.


Employment Opportunities After Graduation

Post-Study Work Options

The United Kingdom is well-known for its high-quality education system and the many excellent options it offers overseas students. Graduate Route Visas allow students to remain in the country for up to two years after they finish their degrees in order to work. Let’s talk about your chances of obtaining a graduate-level visa. To apply for a visa through the “graduate route,” you must meet certain criteria. You need to be physically located in the UK. The standard student visa should match your current status. You must hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or other appropriate degree for a specified time period.
One of the following degrees is required to apply for a visa at the graduate level:


● A first-year college diploma in the UK.
● A graduate-level education in the UK.
● An academic doctorate from the United Kingdom.

Conclusion
You’ve reached the end of our ultimate guide to studying in the UK from Nigeria. As you prepare to embark on this life-changing journey, take a moment to embrace the exciting experiences that await you. Studying in the UK is not just about acquiring knowledge and qualifications; it’s about broadening your horizons, building lasting connections, and growing as an individual.


Before you set foot on British soil, take a moment to reflect on the path that led you here. Your decision to study is a testament to your ambition, determination, and passion for education.

AHZ wishes you all the best as you step into this exciting chapter of your life. Cherish the memories, seize the opportunities, and let your UK study experience be a defining chapter that shapes your future in the most remarkable ways. Safe travels, and enjoy the adventure that lies ahead!

-FAQs

Can I work in the UK?

Yes, as an international student in the UK, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours weekly while studying and for an additional 2 years after your programme.

How can I manage my finances as an international student?
Managing finances as an international student is essential to ensuring a comfortable and successful study experience. Here are some tips:

● Budgeting

● Scholarships and Grants

● Banking

● Saving

● Student Discounts

What are the popular courses among Nigerian students in the UK?

Nigerian students have demonstrated a keen interest in the range of academic fields available at UK universities. Some of the popular courses include:

Business and Management Studies

Engineering

Computer Science and Information Technology

Medicine and Healthcare

Law and Legal Studies


How do I apply for a student visa?

To study in the UK, follow these steps:

● Obtain a CAS letter from your chosen UK University.

● Collect the required documents, such as academic qualifications, financial proof, and a valid passport.

● Complete the online application for the Tier 4 student visa.

● Pay the visa application fee and, if applicable, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Are there scholarships available for Nigerian students in the UK?

Yes, there are various tuition fee discounts and financial aid options available for Nigerian students studying in the UK. Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, including those from Nigeria. High-achieving students also have the opportunity to apply for scholarships with external bodies such as Chevening, GREAT & Commonwealth.

Do I need to pass a visa interview to study in the UK from Nigeria?
Ideally, there are no interviews required when applying for a student visa from Nigeria. However, due to rare circumstances best known to the UKVI, you may be invited to attend an interview. This is known as a “credibility interview,” and it’s designed to help the UKVI figure out your true motives for applying to study in the UK.