Some UK universities will accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your Nigerian university instead of an IELTS score, but it is the university’s decision, not a right. Many ask for it only when your degree was taught and assessed in English, and some still require an approved English test for visa reasons. Always confirm in writing before you skip IELTS.
What is a MOI letter?
A Medium of Instruction letter is an official letter from your Nigerian university that confirms your degree was taught and examined in English. It is usually issued by the registry or the faculty, signed and stamped, and shows your name, course, dates of study and the language of instruction.
Can a MOI letter replace IELTS for a UK Master’s?
Sometimes. English is a requirement for admission and also for the Student visa. For many Student route applications, the university sponsor can assess your English itself, which may include a MOI letter, a previous degree taught in English, or an approved test. Whether a university does this depends on its own policy and on its Home Office licence conditions. Some programmes, such as law, nursing or health courses, may insist on a test even when others accept a MOI.
| Question | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Will every UK university accept MOI? | No. Each university sets its own English policy. |
| Does a MOI cover all courses? | No. Some courses have stricter English rules. |
| Does a MOI affect my visa? | The university confirms your English level when it issues the CAS. Ask admissions how they will record it. |
| Is the decision final at offer stage? | An offer may be conditional on you providing the MOI letter or a test. |
How to get a MOI letter in Nigeria
- Ask your university’s registry or department. Many have a standard template. Tell them it is for a UK application.
- Request the right details. It should include your full name, matriculation number, course, years of study, a statement that teaching and examinations were in English, plus a signature, stamp and date.
- Allow time. Processing times vary, and some offices ask for a fee or a formal request letter.
- Check what the UK university wants. Some want the letter sent directly from your university, others accept a scanned copy at application stage.
Check these things before you rely on a MOI
- The university’s English requirements page for your exact course.
- Whether the MOI must come from a country the university lists, and from which kind of institution.
- Whether a minimum grade or study period is required.
- Whether you will be asked for a test later, for example at interview or before the CAS.
What if the university rejects a MOI?
You still have options. Read our guides on IELTS alternatives for Nigerian students, IELTS validity in Nigeria and how to take IELTS in Nigeria. You could also consider a pre-sessional English course if the university offers one.
Mistakes that delay offers
- Sending an unsigned or unstamped letter.
- Assuming a MOI works because a friend’s university accepted it.
- Skipping the English test and finding out at CAS stage that one is required.
Frequently asked questions
Which UK universities accept a MOI letter from Nigeria?
Policies change, so check the English-language page for your chosen course or ask admissions. An adviser can confirm current policies for universities you are considering.
Do I still need IELTS for a UK student visa if I have a MOI?
It depends on how the university assesses your English as your visa sponsor. Ask the admissions team in writing.
Is a WAEC English grade the same as MOI?
No. WAEC English results are not a MOI letter. Some universities accept them for certain levels, so check the course requirements.
How long does a MOI letter take?
It depends on your university’s registry. Ask early and allow extra time before application deadlines.
Check your English route with NWC Education
Our advisers can check which of your target universities accept MOI for your course. Start an application or visit your nearest NWC Education office.