Why Study in Nigeria?
Nigeria is an exciting study destination for UK students for several reasons:
- Affordable education and living costs: Tuition, especially at government-run universities, is very reasonably priced (approximately £1,000– £ 2,000 per year), and living expenses remain low compared to those in many countries.
- English-Language Instruction: All university courses are taught in English, enabling international students to avoid language barriers.
- Quality universities and research opportunities: Nigeria hosts internationally ranked universities, such as the University of Ibadan, Lagos State University, Obafemi Awolowo University, Covenant University, and Ahmadu Bello University, that offer strong programs and growing research, especially in fields like agriculture, science, and biomedical studies.
- Rich cultural experience: Nigeria is Africa’s most culturally diverse country and offers vibrant student life filled with festivals, clubs, music, and traditions, a real chance to immerse yourself in new cultures.
- Practical training & internships: Universities partner with local businesses to provide real-world internships and practical training opportunities that prepare you for your career.
- Strong local networks: Studying here helps you build connections in West Africa's fast-growing economy, useful whether you plan to work in the region or internationally
Popular Study Programs in Nigeria for United Kingdom Students
- Business Administration and Management
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Law (LLB, LLM)
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Finance and Accounting
- Public Health and Nursing
- International Relations and Politics
- Architecture
- Media and Communication
University Rankings in Nigeria
Here are the top universities in Nigeria, based on the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025
- Covenant University: (Nigeria =1, Global ranking 801–1000) – leading in teaching, research environment, research quality, industry collaboration, and international outlook.
- Ahmadu Bello University: (Zaria) (Nigeria =2, Global 1001–1200) – strong in research quality.
- Landmark University: (Kwara) (Nigeria =2, Global 1001–1200) – excelling in research quality.
- University of Ibadan: (Nigeria =2, Global 1001–1200) – high marks in teaching and research quality.
- University of Lagos: (Nigeria =2, Global 1001–1200) – top research quality and solid international outlook.
- Bayero University Kano: (Nigeria 6, Global 1201–1500) – notable international outlook and research scores.
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA): (Nigeria 6, Global 1201–1500) – impressive research environment and international outlook.
- Federal University of Technology, Minna: (Nigeria 6, Global 1201–1500) – strong research quality.
- University of Benin: (Nigeria 6, Global 1201–1500) – solid research output.
- University of Ilorin: (Nigeria 6, Global 1201–1500) – balanced performance across research and international engagement.
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka: (Nigeria 6, Global 1201–1500) – consistent in research performance.
Types of Educational Institutions in Nigeria
- Public Universities: Government-funded, broad program offerings, and lower tuition fees. Recognised worldwide and highly competitive for international students.
- Private Universities: Smaller in number, usually specialising in specific fields. Tend to have higher tuition fees but offer personalised experiences.
- Colleges of Further Education: Provide pre-university courses (A-Levels, Foundation) and vocational training. Ideal for bridging academic gaps, but may limit direct access to postgraduate studies.
- Technical Institutes: Specialised, career-focused programs, great for students pursuing STEM fields or industry certificates.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for UK Students in Nigeria
Here are some key scholarships and funding options available for UK students looking to study in Nigeria:
- Ingressive for Good (I4G) tech scholarships: A Nigerian non-profit offering partial scholarships and tech training to African students, including those studying in Nigeria. They also sometimes provide laptops and project funding.
Best for tech-focused short courses or research internships. - University and institutional partnerships: Some UK universities (e.g., the University of Manchester, UCL, SOAS) have exchange or development programmes with Nigerian universities. These typically cover tuition waivers, travel grants, or living stipends.
Tip: Contact your university’s study abroad or Africa liaison office to inquire about Nigeria-specific agreements. - Research & development grants: Organisations like the British Council, DFID, or UK Research and Innovation may fund research stays in Africa. These grants often support collaborative projects with Nigerian institutions.
- British Council & Commonwealth funding: Even though most grants support study in the UK, you can still apply for development-themed internships or Afri-UK exchange grants. These are usually short-term awards to support academic visits or joint projects.
- Private & corporate scholarships: Major international companies (e.g., Shell, Chevron, Guinness) in Nigeria sometimes offer scholarships or internships to UK students enrolling in STEM or business programmes at Nigerian universities. Reach out to corporate social responsibility (CSR) teams in sectors aligned with your study interests.
Admission Requirements for UK Nationals in Nigeria
Here are the admission requirements for UK nationals applying to UK universities from Nigeria, structured similarly to your template:
Academic Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO (including English & Maths). To start degree Year 1, you’ll typically need to complete a foundation programme (WASSCE + foundation; or A‑levels; or IB).
- A‑levels, IB, or international foundation year allow direct first-year entry.
- HND or OND with good grades (Upper Credit) may also allow direct entry or advancement.
- Bachelor’s degree (for postgrad): typically need a Second Class Upper (2:1 equivalent); some programmes accept a 2:2.
English Proficiency
- WAEC English Grade C6+ can often replace IELTS.
- Otherwise: IELTS 6.0–7.0 overall (no band below 5.5), TOEFL iBT 80–100, or PTE scores as required per programme. Prep available via British Council.
Letters of Recommendation
- At least two academic references, ideally on official letterhead and signed.
- Post-grad applications (especially taught master’s) commonly require academic and/or professional referees, depending on the course.
Personal Statement
- Should clearly explain your academic and professional goals, motivation, and why you chose studying in the UK.
- Follow UCAS personal statement guidelines (max 4,000 characters).
Entrance Exams
- While most undergraduate courses don’t need them, some programmes (MBA, Medicine, Law, etc.) may require:
- GMAT for many MBAs
- LNAT for Law
- BMAT for select Medicine courses
Institutions offering postgraduate research degrees and business schools often recommend or require these tests.
Visa Requirements for Nigeria
- Valid Passport (not less than 6 months validity)
- Passport size photo
- Admission letter from an accredited Nigerian educational institution
- Proof of payment of the required minimum tuition fee by the Applicant or Sponsor
- Letter of acceptance for immigration responsibility by the institution
- Evidence of funds to sustain the Family (6 months Statement) or proof of sponsorship
Find more details on the Nigeria immigration website.
Important Deadlines for Nigeria Study Programs
Undergraduate Admissions
- For public universities, most plans follow the Federal Government’s JAMB-UTME schedule, with application forms typically available as early as May or June, and deadlines usually between July and August. Exact dates vary by institution; check your chosen university's official website or portal for the most up-to-date information.
- Some private or international foundation or pathway programmes may offer rolling admissions, allowing year-round enrolment.
Postgraduate Admissions
Timelines vary significantly by university:
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) for 2025/2026 entry (suitable for international applicants):
- Application closing: May 23, 2025
- Document submission deadline: June 6, 2025
- Qualifying exams: held June 21, 2025
- Program start: October 2, 2025
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) postgrad applications for 2025 entry:
- Application open: October 9, 2024
- Closing date: August 29, 2025
- University of Lagos (UNILAG) postgraduate programmes begin accepting applications around early April to early July 2025; exact deadline details are published per programme each year.
Rolling Admissions & Pathway Programs: Private institutions or foundation courses (sometimes affiliated with UK universities) may allow year-round entries—check each school’s website for current availability.
Documents Required for University Applications and Visa
- Passport: Should be valid for at least six months after course completion.
- Academic Transcripts: Official academic transcripts in English (if in another language, you need a certified translation).
- Statement of Purpose: A well-written SOP tailored to each university.
- Recommendation Letters: Minimum of two, preferably from academic staff or employers.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE certificate.
- Medical Insurance: Proof of Immigration Health Surcharge payment for your student visa.
- Other documents: Admission letter, passport-sized photographs, evidence of work experience (if required), certified translations via Translayte.
Step-by-Step Application Process for UK Nationals
1. Check Entry Requirements
- Ensure you have five O’Level credits (WAEC/NECO), including English and Maths. For direct entry, you may need A-levels, OND, HND, or a bachelor’s degree.
- Verify course-specific requirements, such as subject prerequisites or foundation programmes, if you're missing qualifications.
2. Register for JAMB UTME (Undergraduates Only)
- Create a profile on the JAMB portal, purchase an e-PIN, select four subjects, and register early (May–June is a common registration period).
- Sit the computer-based UTME; English is mandatory, plus three course-related subjects.
- Results usually follow a few days after the exam.
3. Apply via JAMB CAPS & Individual Universities
- Log in to JAMB CAPS to choose universities and courses; upload your O’Level and (if applicable) Direct Entry (DE) credentials.
- Simultaneously, apply to each university via its post-UTME portal (most public universities require this), uploading documents and paying a fee (usually ₦2,000–₦10,000).
4. Take Post‑UTME/Screening Exams
- Sit university-specific post‑UTME exams or interviews—prepare past-question papers and arrive early on test day.
5. Wait for Admission Offer
- Monitor the JAMB CAPS portal and university websites for admission lists.
- If offered admission, accept it via CAPS and the university’s system
6. Pay Acceptance & Register
- Pay the acceptance fee and proceed to full registration by submitting official transcripts, a birth certificate, passport photos, and school fees.
7. Apply for Student Visa (International Students)
- UK students need:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Admission letter
- Proof of finances
- Health clearance, including possible TB test
8. Prepare for Arrival in Nigeria
- Book your flight and accommodation.
- Get ready for orientation at your university.
Document Translation Services for Study Abroad in Nigeria
Applications and visa processes require that all non-English documents, like academic transcripts, degree certificates, and recommendation letters, be professionally translated and certified. Translayte provides certified document translations that are accepted by all Nigerian universities and the immigration authorities, speeding up your application and preventing costly delays or rejections.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Study Abroad
- Missing Deadlines: Nigerian universities strictly enforce their deadlines. Late applications are often not considered.
- Incomplete or Inaccurate Documents: Incomplete applications are a primary reason for rejections. Ensure all details match what’s on your official documents.
- Not Meeting Visa Requirements: Failing to show correct financial evidence or submitting unverifiable bank documents can lead to visa refusal under the Nigerian Immigration Rules.
- Poor SOP/Personal Statement: Weak or generic statements fail to demonstrate genuine motivation.
- Lack of Preparation for Language Tests: Insufficient scores delay or botch applications. Practice using official IELTS/TOEFL materials.
Tips for International Students Moving to Nigeria
- Accommodation Options: University halls (₦40,000–₦100,000/month), private flats (₦80,000–₦300,000/month). Use trusted university housing offices or local agents. On‑campus hostels are usually ₦40k–₦80k/month, while off‑campus private flats in cities like Lagos or Abuja range from ₦80k–₦300k/month.
- Cost of Living: Average monthly living costs ₦205,000–₦240,000/month depending on city. This includes rent, food, transportation, books, and data.
- Banking and Phone Plans: Open a local bank account (GTBank, Zenith); choose local SIMs (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile). SIM starter packs cost under ₦2,000; data varies. Opening a bank account makes everyday transactions easier.
- Culture and Etiquette: Nigerians are warm and hospitable—stay respectful, cautious, and open-minded. Approach interactions with respect and humility; learn basic local phrases; take sensible safety precautions
The Cost of Studying in Nigeria
- Tuition Fees: Public universities ₦20,000–₦100,000/year; private universities ₦200,000–₦2,000,000/year (undergraduate) and ₦1,000,000–₦5,000,000 (master’s) (£400 - 2000) depending on program and institution.
- Accommodation: University halls ₦40,000–₦150,000/month; private flats ₦50,000–₦300,000/month depending on city and housing type.
- Living Expenses: Approximate ₦150,000–₦500,000/month ( £100–300), including food, transport, utilities, books, health and personal needs.
- Visa and Health Insurance Fees: Nigerian student visa typically costs £20–50 (₦40,000–₦80,000); health insurance and medical clearance (TB test) roughly ₦35,000–₦50,000 (£10 - 20).
Alternatives to Studying in Nigeria
- Canada: Highly ranked universities, friendly immigration policy, similar education structure to Nigeria and easier post-study work permit.
- USA: Largest number of world top 100 universities; costlier but strong STEM programs and OPT work rights.
- Australia: Work rights for international students, warm climate, and competitive tuition fees.
- Germany: Low or no tuition, English-taught programs, strong engineering and business fields, affordable living.
- Ireland: Welcoming to Britons similar educational format to Nigeria, excellent research opportunities, and post-study work scheme.