Canada to Nigeria Study Abroad Guide: Admission Requirements, Visa Process, and Success Tips

Created: Jun 25, 2025 | Updated: Jul 29, 2025

Interested in studying in Nigeria as a Canadian citizen? Whether you’re seeking a culturally immersive academic experience, affordable education, or research collaboration with African institutions, Nigeria offers a unique and growing study destination for Canadians. This guide outlines everything you need to know about studying in Nigeria.


Table of Contents

Why Study in Nigeria?

  • Affordable Education: Public university tuition ranges from ₦20,000 to ₦100,000/year (~CAD 35–175).
  • English Instruction: Most Nigerian universities teach in English, so no language barrier for Canadian students.
  • Rich Culture and Diverse Society: Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic groups, offering a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.
  • Hands-On Training: Many Nigerian institutions include internships and industry placements in their curricula.
  • Strategic Networks: Studying in Nigeria can build valuable networks in Africa’s largest economy, which is particularly beneficial for careers in development, diplomacy, health, and entrepreneurship.

Top Universities in Nigeria

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, the top Nigerian universities include:

These universities offer strong programmes in health sciences, engineering, social sciences, agriculture, and business.

Popular Courses for Canadian Students

  • Public Health and Nursing
  • Business and Entrepreneurship in Africa
  • Political Science and International Relations
  • Development Studies
  • Agriculture and Environmental Science
  • Media and Communications

Admission Requirements for Canadians

Undergraduate

  • High school diploma (or equivalent)
  • Official transcripts
  • At least five credits in relevant subjects (if using WAEC, NECO, or equivalent)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Proof of English proficiency (waived if schooling was in English)

Postgraduate

  • Bachelor's degree with a 2:1 or 2:2 equivalent
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • English proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent, if required)
  • SOP and two recommendation letters

Some public universities may also require registration with JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board), especially for undergraduate entry.

Visa Requirements for Studying in Nigeria

Canadian citizens require a Student Visa (STR Visa – Subject to Regularisation). You’ll need to:

  • Apply for admission and receive an official offer letter
  • Submit the following for the visa:
    • Valid Canadian passport (6+ months validity)
    • Admission letter from a Nigerian institution
    • Proof of payment of tuition
    • Proof of financial support (bank statements or sponsor letter)
    • Letter of immigration responsibility from the institution
    • Medical and police clearance certificates
    • Yellow fever vaccination
  • Apply through the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa or a Nigerian consulate in Canada

Once in Nigeria, you’ll be required to regularise your stay through the Nigerian Immigration Service and apply for a CERPAC (residency permit).

Application Process: Step-by-Step

  1. Research Nigerian universities and programmes: Visit institutional websites for programme details and deadlines.
  2. Check requirements: Confirm prerequisites for undergraduate or postgraduate study.
  3. Apply online: Submit application through the university’s portal. Some public universities may also require JAMB registration.
  4. Submit required documents: Include transcripts, SOP, references, passport copies, and certified translations where necessary.
  5. Receive admission letter: Accept your offer and pay the required deposit or acceptance fee.
  6. Apply for your Nigerian student visa: Gather the required documents and submit them to the Nigerian High Commission in Canada.
  7. Travel and complete registration in Nigeria: Upon arrival, complete your student registration and apply for your CERPAC.

Required Documents

  • Valid Canadian passport
  • Admission letter from a Nigerian university
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • WAEC/NECO results (if applicable)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Bank statements or proof of financial support
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Yellow fever card
  • Medical report and police clearance
  • Certified translations of any non-English documents

Certified Translation Services

Some documents, like transcripts, police certificates, or medical reports if not in English, may need to be translated or certified for acceptance by Nigerian institutions and immigration authorities.

Translayte offers:

  • Certified English translations of French-language or bilingual Canadian documents
  • Fast delivery, competitive pricing (from $31.75 per page), and acceptance by Nigerian universities
  • Signed statement of accuracy for every translation

Cost of Studying in Nigeria

CategoryEstimated Cost (₦)Equivalent in CAD
Tuition (Public)₦100,000 – ₦300,000$90 – $270 / year
Tuition (Private)₦800,000 – ₦4,000,000$720 – $3,600 / year
Accommodation₦50,000 – ₦150,000/month$45 – $135 / month
Living Expenses₦150,000 – ₦500,000/month$135 – $450 / month
Visa Fee₦40,000–₦80,000$36 – $72
Health/TB Test₦35,000–₦50,000$31.50 – $45

Tips for Canadian Students Living in Nigeria

  • Accommodation: On-campus hostels are cheaper (₦80,000–₦100,000/month). Private housing in cities like Lagos and Abuja can be more expensive.
     
  • Local Banking: Open a Nigerian bank account (GTBank, Zenith) for easy transactions.
     
  • SIM and Mobile Data: Get a local SIM (MTN, Airtel, Glo); starter packs cost less than ₦2,000.
     
  • Health and Safety: Get vaccinated (Yellow Fever is mandatory). Carry basic medications and follow university safety protocols.
     
  • Cultural Adaptation: Nigerians are friendly and welcoming. Respect local customs and remain open-minded.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing deadlines: Nigerian universities rarely extend application deadlines
  • Incomplete documents: Always check university and visa checklists
  • Untranslated paperwork: Immigration and universities may reject French or bilingual Canadian documents unless officially translated
  • Financial proof errors: Provide up-to-date, verifiable bank statements or sponsor letters
  • Weak SOP or references: Generic documents reduce your chance of success

Alternatives to Studying in Nigeria

  • Ghana: English-speaking, stable, and close in structure to Nigeria
  • Kenya: Excellent for development, public health, and environmental studies
  • South Africa: More globalised and research-oriented, but slightly costlier
  • India: Offers similar tuition costs with wider international exposure
  • Malaysia: English instruction, low tuition, and vibrant student life

     

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