How to Get a Student Visa to the UK from Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Planning to Study in the UK from Nigeria? Here’s What You Need to Know

Getting a student visa to study in the UK is a dream for many Nigerian students. The UK offers world-class education, diverse culture, and post-study opportunities. However, the visa application process can be confusing if you don’t have the right guidance.

In this 2025 guide, we break down everything you need to know about getting a UK Student Visa from Nigeria — from requirements and costs to timelines and common mistakes to avoid.

📚 What is a UK Student Visa?

The UK Student Visa (previously known as Tier 4) allows international students to study at a licensed UK institution. The visa permits full-time study, some limited work rights, and access to UK public services like the NHS (with a surcharge).

✅ Eligibility Requirements for Nigerian Applicants

To qualify for a UK Student Visa from Nigeria, you must:

Have an unconditional offer from a licensed UK university or college.
Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school.
Meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).
Prove you can support yourself financially throughout your studies.
Have a valid international passport.
Have proof of parental consent (if under 18).

📄 Required Documents Checklist

Here are the documents you’ll need to prepare:

Valid Nigerian passport (at least 6 months valid beyond your stay)
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS UKVI, TOEFL, or WAEC with C6+ in English)
Financial documents showing you can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses (£1,334/month for London; £1,023/month outside London)
Tuberculosis test result from an approved clinic
Academic qualifications mentioned in your CAS
Parental consent letter (if under 18)
Payment receipt for visa application fee & health surcharge

💵 Student Visa Fees in Nigeria (2025)

Item	Amount (as of 2025)
Student Visa Application	£490 (~₦700,000)
Immigration Health Surcharge	£776/year (~₦1.1M/year)
IELTS (UKVI Academic)	₦110,000 – ₦130,000
TB Test	₦38,000 – ₦45,000

Note: Exchange rates may affect final Naira costs.

🕒 When to Apply

You can apply for a student visa up to 6 months before your course starts. Visa processing time is around 3 weeks, but may take longer during peak periods.

🛂 How to Apply from Nigeria – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Get Admission & CAS Letter

Apply to a UK university and receive a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). This letter is required before you can apply for your visa.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Collect all required documents listed above. Double-check names, spellings, dates, and financials.

Step 3: Apply Online

Visit the official UK government website:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply

Fill out the online application form.

Step 4: Pay Fees Online

Pay:

Visa fee (£490)
Immigration Health Surcharge (usually for the duration of your course)

Step 5: Book a Visa Appointment

Visit TLScontact (UK Visa Partner) to schedule your biometrics and document submission in Abuja, Lagos Ikeja, or Victoria Island.

👉 https://www.tlscontact.com/ng

Step 6: Attend Biometric Appointment

Go to the visa application center with all documents. You’ll provide fingerprints and photos.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

You’ll be notified by email/SMS when your decision is ready. Collect your passport or request courier delivery.

💡 Tips for a Successful UK Student Visa Application

Don’t apply with fake or inconsistent documents.
Make sure your bank statement covers 28 days before your application.
Show funds in your own name or that of a parent/legal sponsor.
Prepare for a credibility interview, especially if you’re using agents.
Explain gaps in your education history clearly.
Use official IELTS UKVI Academic test, not general training.

🏠 Can You Work with a UK Student Visa?

Yes! You’re allowed to:

Work 20 hours/week during term time
Work full-time during holidays
Intern as part of your course (if approved by your institution)

You cannot:

Claim public funds (benefits)
Work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer

🔄 Can You Switch to a Work Visa After Studying?

Yes. After your studies, you may qualify for:

Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa): 2 years (3 years for PhD grads)
Skilled Worker Visa: if you find a job with an approved employer

❌ Common Reasons for Rejection

Insufficient funds or wrong financial documents
Mismatched info between CAS and application
Using a non-approved TB test center
Unclear educational history or poor interview answers
Forged or unverifiable documents

🌍 Final Words

Getting a UK student visa from Nigeria is not impossible — thousands of Nigerians successfully do it each year. With the right preparation, documentation, and guidance, your dream to study in the UK can become a reality.

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