Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many Nigerian students, and one of the most important steps to achieve this dream is securing a UK student visa. If you’re wondering about the UK student visa process for Nigerians, you’re in the right place! This guide will help you apply to and travel to the UK for school.
What is the UK Student Visa (Formerly Tier 4 Visa)?
The UK Student Visa allows international students, including Nigerians, to live and study in the UK for the duration of their course. If you are over 16 years old and have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor (a UK university or college), you are eligible to apply for a UK student visa.
UK Student Visa Requirements for Nigerians
Before you begin the application, make sure you have the following:
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): A unique reference number issued by your university.
Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay.
Proof of Funds: You must show you have enough money to pay for your tuition and living costs.
Proof of English Proficiency: IELTS, PTE, or other accepted tests unless you are exempt.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate: Required for Nigerians studying in the UK.
Academic Qualifications: Certificates and transcripts from your previous studies.
Visa Application Fee: Payment of the visa fee (currently about £490).
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Payment for health insurance (around £776 per year).
How to Apply for a UK Student Visa in Nigeria
Here’s the simple step-by-step UK student visa process for Nigerians:
1. Secure Your Offer and CAS Letter
First, apply to a UK university. Once you accept the offer (and meet the conditions), your university will issue you a CAS Letter.
2. Prepare Your Financial Documents
You must show you can pay:
- The tuition fees are applicable for the first year or the entire course if the duration is less than one year.
- The living expenses will be £1,334 per month for London and £1,023 per month outside London for a period of up to 9 months.
Funds must be in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before you apply.
3. Complete the Online Visa Application
Apply online at the official UK government website: UK Student Visa Application Portal
Fill in the visa application form, upload your documents, and pay the visa fee and health surcharge.
4. Book Your Biometric Appointment
Book an appointment at the TLScontact Visa Application Centre in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
5. Attend Credibility Interview (if required)
We may invite some students to a credibility interview to evaluate their intentions and English proficiency.
6. Submit Your Documents
Attend your appointment with all your documents, including:
- Passport
- CAS letter
- Bank statements
- TB certificate
- Academic documents
- Proof of English language proficiency
7. Wait for a Decision
After submission, visa decisions typically take around 3–6 weeks. You can also pay for Priority Service to get a faster decision (within 5 working days).
How Much is UK Student Visa Fee for Nigerians?
- Visa Application Fee: ~ £490 (₦750,000 approx.)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): ~ £776 per year of study (₦1,200,000 approx.)
- Priority Visa Service (Optional): ~ £500 extra if you want a faster decision.
UK Student Visa Processing Time for Nigerians
- Standard Visa: 15 to 30 working days (about 3–6 weeks).
- Priority Visa (Optional): 5 working days after your biometric appointment.
Pro tip: Apply at least 3 months before your course start date to avoid any last-minute stress.
Tips to Ensure a Successful UK Student Visa Application
Submit accurate documents – No mistakes, no missing papers.
Maintain the required bank balance – Avoid last-minute deposits.
Prepare for the Credibility Interview – Be ready to answer questions about your course, university, and future plans.
Stay organised – Follow up on emails and appointment schedules.
Seek professional help; if confused, get guidance from an expert.
The UK student visa process for Nigerians may seem detailed, but with the right preparation, it is straightforward. By following the steps outlined above, maintaining a strong financial profile, and presenting yourself honestly, you can boost your chances of success.
At NWC Education Nigeria, we help hundreds of Nigerian students to secure their UK student visas easily every year. From university applications to visa counseling and flight booking, we support you every step of the way. Ready to start your UK study journey? Please reach out to our admissions team at your earliest convenience.
