If you’re a Nigerian student planning to study in the United Kingdom, one of the most important things you’ll need is a Tier 4 UK visa, formally known as the UK Student Visa (Student Route). This visa allows international students to live and study in the UK legally for the duration of their academic program.
In this article, we’ll explain what a Tier 4 UK visa is, who needs it, the Tier 4 visa UK requirements, how to apply for a Tier 4 visa UK, the cost of UK Tier 4 visa, and more—including details about Tier 4 dependants, visa fees, and processing time.
What is a Tier 4 UK Visa?
The Tier 4 UK visa (now commonly called the UK Student Visa) is for international students aged 16 or above who have been offered a place on a course by a licensed UK educational institution. It allows students to study at a university, college, or foundation program in the UK.
This visa replaced the former Tier 4 (General) Student Visa under the UK’s new points-based immigration system in 2020, but the name “Tier 4 visa UK” is still widely used by students and schools.
UK Tier 4 Visa Requirements
To successfully apply for a UK Tier 4 visa, Nigerian students must meet these key requirements:
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK university or college
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses
- Valid passport
- English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, WAEC English may be accepted by some universities)
- Tuberculosis test certificate from an approved clinic in Nigeria
- Visa application payment and biometric information
These are the basic UK Tier 4 student visa requirements you must meet before submitting your application.
How to Apply for UK Tier 4 Visa from Nigeria
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for UK Tier 4 visa:
- Receive your CAS from a UK institution (your admission offer must be unconditional)
- Gather your documents: passport, financial proof, TB certificate, academic transcripts
- Take an IELTS test if required (some universities accept WAEC English)
- Go to the UK visa application website and apply for a Tier 4 visa UK
- Pay your visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Book and attend a biometric appointment at the TLS Contact Visa Centre in Nigeria
- Wait for a decision (check UK Tier 4 visa processing time below)
UK Tier 4 Student Visa Fees & Cost Breakdown
Understanding the cost of a UK Tier 4 visa is important before applying:
- UK Tier 4 visa application fee (Student Route): £490
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year of study
- Total cost of UK Tier 4 visa: approx. £1,200 – £2,500, depending on course duration
Always check the most recent fees at the UK Home Office website or contact NWC Education Nigeria for updates.
UK Tier 4 Visa Processing Time
The typical UK Tier 4 visa processing time for students in Nigeria is:
- Standard service: 15 working days (3 weeks)
- Priority service: 5 working days
- Super priority service: 1 working day (not always available in Nigeria)
Apply early—ideally 3 months before your course start date—to avoid delays.
Tier 4 Dependent Visa UK – Can Family Join You?
Yes, certain students can bring their family under the UK Tier 4 dependent visa:
Who qualifies for a dependant visa for the UK Tier 4?
- You’re studying a postgraduate course that lasts 9 months or more
- You’re a government-sponsored student on a course lasting 6 months or more
Your spouse or children under 18 can apply for a Tier 4 dependant visa UK to stay with you in the UK during your studies.
Documents Required for Tier 4 UK Visa Application
Make sure to prepare these documents before applying:
- Valid international passport
- CAS letter from your UK university
- Bank statement showing proof of funds (for tuition + living costs)
- IELTS or WAEC certificate (if required)
- TB test result
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Visa fee payment confirmation
- IHS surcharge receipt
FAQs – UK Tier 4 Visa for Nigerian Students
- What is a Tier 4 UK visa?
It’s a UK student visa (Student Route) for international students who wish to study full-time in the UK. - Can I work on a Tier 4 visa in the UK?
Yes. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. - How long does a Tier 4 visa last?
It covers the duration of your course plus a short period after (usually 4–6 months). - Can I extend my Tier 4 visa?
Yes, if you’re continuing to another eligible course or postgraduate program. - How much bank balance is needed for a UK student visa?
- Tuition balance + £1,334 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London
- £1,023 per month if studying outside London
At NWC Education Nigeria, we help Nigerian students apply for UK Tier 4 visa successfully—whether for undergraduate, postgraduate, or foundation programs. Contact NWC Education Nigeria today to get started!
