Requirements For Studying Abroad From Nigeria
In recent years, the desire to study abroad has grown significantly among Nigerian students. This is largely due to the appeal of quality education, exposure to new cultures, access to advanced research facilities, and the possibility of better career opportunities.
However, for many aspiring students, the process of studying abroad can seem daunting, with numerous requirements that must be met.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the academic, financial, visa, language, and health requirements needed for Nigerian students to study abroad.
With this information, students can better prepare themselves for a successful application process and transition to studying in a foreign country.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDYING ABROAD FROM NIGERIA?
The following are the requirements for studying abroad from Nigeria:
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
One of the most important aspects of studying abroad is meeting the academic requirements of the institution you wish to attend. While different countries and universities have their specific criteria, there are some general academic prerequisites Nigerian students must fulfill and they are listed and discussed below:
SECONDARY SCHOOL CERTIFICATE (SSCE)
For undergraduate programmes, Nigerian students are generally required to present their Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) results. Institutions usually request a minimum number of credits, including compulsory subjects like English and Mathematics.
Depending on the chosen course, additional subject credits may be required. It is important for students to ensure their results meet the entry standards of their desired institution before applying.
JAMB UTME RESULTS
In addition to the SSCE, some universities, particularly those in Africa or within the Commonwealth, may require Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) UTME results. Even when applying to foreign institutions, JAMB scores might be an added advantage, showcasing your competitiveness as a candidate. It’s worth confirming whether this applies to your institution of choice.
BACHELOR’S DEGREE (FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDIES)
For postgraduate programmes such as Master’s and Ph.D. degrees, Nigerian students must have obtained a recognized Bachelor’s degree. Most universities require a minimum of a Second-Class Upper division, though some may accept a Second-Class Lower with a strong academic or professional background. In some cases, postgraduate diploma (PGD) holders may be eligible, but this varies depending on the institution.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Since English is the official language in Nigeria, students might assume this requirement is unnecessary. However, many institutions abroad, especially in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada, still require proof of English proficiency. The most common tests include the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). These tests measure the student’s ability to understand, speak, read, and write in English.
STANDARDISED TEST SCORES (SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc)
Depending on the country and institution, standardized test scores might be required. For undergraduate programmes in the US, students often need to take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), while for postgraduate programmes, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) might be necessary. These tests assess the student’s readiness for higher education, and adequate preparation is key to obtaining a competitive score.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Once the academic hurdles are cleared, the next significant step for Nigerian students is securing a visa. Each country has specific visa requirements that must be met and they are as follows:
TYPES OF VISAS (STUDENT VISA, STUDY PERMIT, etc.)
Countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia offer different visa categories for international students. Typically, students apply for a student visa (e.g., the F-1 visa for the US) or a study permit (e.g., Canada). It’s important to research the type of visa applicable to your study destination.
VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
The visa application process varies depending on the country. Generally, the process begins with securing an admission offer from a recognized institution. Once the offer is confirmed, students must prepare their visa application, which involves filling out forms and paying visa fees. Most countries also require an interview at their respective embassies.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Students will need to provide several documents during the visa application process, including:
- A valid passport
- Admission letter from the institution
- Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
- Completed visa application form.
FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS
Studying abroad is a significant financial commitment. Nigerian students must consider various financial aspects, including tuition fees, living expenses, and available funding options.
TUITION FEES
Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the country, institution, and programne of study. For example, studying in the US and UK is generally more expensive than studying in Germany or Norway, where tuition is free for certain programnes. It is important to research and budget for these costs well in advance.
LIVING EXPENSES
Apart from tuition, students must also account for living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs. The cost of living can vary depending on the city or country. For instance, cities like London and New York have higher living costs compared to smaller cities in countries like Poland or Hungary.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Several scholarships are available to Nigerian students seeking to study abroad. Some are merit-based, while others are need-based. Notable scholarships include the Chevening Scholarship for the UK, the Fulbright Program for the USA, and the Commonwealth Scholarship for Commonwealth countries. Students should research and apply for these scholarships as early as possible, as competition is stiff.
FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS
In addition to scholarships, students can explore financial aid options such as student loans, grants, and work-study programs. Some countries, like the US and Canada, allow students to work part-time while studying to help cover living expenses. However, students must ensure their visa permits them to work.
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
Language proficiency is another important factor for Nigerian students studying abroad, especially in non-English speaking countries.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TESTS (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
For institutions in English-speaking countries, students must prove English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. A minimum score is required, and this varies depending on the university and program.
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-ENGLISH SPEAKING COUNTRIES
If you are studying in a country where English is not the primary language, you may need to learn the local language. For instance, studying in Germany may require proficiency in German (through tests like TestDaF), while studying in France may require French proficiency (through tests like DELF or DALF). Some institutions offer programmes in English, but understanding the local language can enhance your experience.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Health requirements are an essential part of the application process, as most countries prioritize the well-being of international students.
MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
Some countries require students to submit a medical certificate indicating they are in good health. This may involve undergoing a medical examination by an approved physician.
VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS
Many countries have specific vaccination requirements, especially post-COVID-19. Common vaccinations include yellow fever, tuberculosis (TB), and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). It is important to check with your study destination to ensure you meet their health requirements.
HEALTH INSURANCE
Most countries mandate that international students have health insurance. This ensures students have access to medical care in case of illness or accidents. Some institutions offer health insurance plans for international students, while others require you to purchase insurance independently.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the academic, visa, language, and health requirements, Nigerian students must also fulfill several other important conditions when applying to study abroad. These additional requirements are essential for a smooth visa process and successful admission into a foreign institution and they are as follows:
POLICE CERTIFICATE
Many countries require international students to submit a police clearance certificate. This document proves that the applicant has no criminal record in their home country. It is usually issued by the Nigeria Police Force and can be obtained by applying in person or online. This certificate is important as it ensures the safety and security of the host country by verifying the background of incoming students.
BIRTH CERTIFICATE
A birth certificate is often required to confirm personal details such as your full name and date of birth. It serves as a primary document of identification. When submitting an application for a visa or university admission, students are usually asked to include a copy of their birth certificate. In Nigeria, birth certificates can be obtained from the National Population Commission.
PROOF OF ACCOMMODATION
Before traveling abroad, students must provide evidence of where they will be staying during their studies. This could be on-campus housing, a rented apartment, or even staying with a family member. Many countries require proof of accommodation for visa approval to ensure the student has a safe place to live upon arrival. Common forms of proof include a rental agreement, a letter of accommodation from the university, or a notarized letter from a host.
PROOF OF FUNDS
One of the most important requirements for Nigerian students studying abroad is demonstrating that they have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs for the duration of their studies. This is commonly known as “proof of funds”.
Countries require proof of funds to ensure that international students can support themselves financially without becoming a burden on the country’s economy. It also prevents students from resorting to illegal work or facing financial difficulties while studying abroad. Visa officers assess these financial documents to verify that the student has adequate resources.
CONCLUSION
Studying abroad offers immense opportunities for Nigerian students, but it requires careful planning and preparation. For those planning to study abroad, the key is to start early, stay organized, and seek out all available resources, including scholarships and financial aid. With the right approach, the dream of studying abroad can become a reality, paving the way for a brighter future.
