Studying abroad is a life-changing opportunity—but it’s not just about picking a course or buying a plane ticket. Before you make the leap, there are some serious decisions to make and boxes to tick. From budgeting to career planning, your choices before departure will shape your entire international education experience.
Whether you’re aiming for the UK, Canada, Australia, or anywhere in between, here are five essential things every Nigerian student should know—and act on—before studying abroad.
1. Understand Your Budget and Plan Around It
Studying abroad comes with significant financial demands. It’s not just about tuition—you also have to factor in living expenses, accommodation, visa fees, health insurance, flights, and day-to-day costs. That’s why your first move should be setting a realistic budget.
Here’s how to make your budget work for you:
- Choose destinations with affordable tuition and living costs. Countries like Germany, Poland, or Malaysia may offer cheaper options than the UK or USA.
- Explore scholarships early. Many governments, universities, and private foundations offer full or partial scholarships—especially for international students from developing countries.
- Check student work rights. Some countries allow part-time jobs for international students. For example, Canada lets you work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks.
Tip: Create a monthly financial plan including tuition, rent, feeding, transport, and leisure. It helps avoid financial surprises later.
2. Choose the Right Country—and the Right University
Your study destination should align with more than just rankings. Think about lifestyle, weather, safety, career prospects, visa policies, and long-term goals.
Key things to consider when choosing a country:
- Spoken language and cultural environment
- Post-study work and immigration opportunities
- Cost of living and ease of settling in
- Quality and global recognition of education
- Distance from Nigeria and availability of direct flights
Popular destinations for Nigerian students include:
- Canada – known for its immigration-friendly policies
- UK – home to prestigious universities and diverse communities
- Australia – offers work rights and skilled migration options
- USA – rich in academic excellence but expensive
- Germany & France – cheaper tuition, especially at public universities
- Ireland & New Zealand – smaller countries with solid education systems
When selecting a university, prioritize your program’s quality, course content, available specializations, student support services, and links to industry.
3. Prepare for Required Exams in Advance
Admission to an international university often requires more than just your WAEC or NECO results. Depending on your destination, course, and university, you may need to sit for one or more standardized exams.
Here are common tests you should prepare for:
- IELTS or TOEFL – Required for most English-speaking countries to prove language proficiency.
- SAT – Common for undergraduate studies in the USA.
- GMAT/GRE – Required for master’s programs like MBA, Engineering, or Data Science (especially in the USA and UK).
- LSAT – For students pursuing law in the USA or Canada.
- MCAT – A must for medical programs in countries like the USA and Canada.
Each test has its format, validity period, and minimum score requirement. Check the university’s official website to confirm what you need—and prepare early.
4. Research Student Work Opportunities in Your Destination
Working while studying can ease financial pressure and help you gain valuable experience. But don’t assume every country offers the same rights—rules vary.
Here’s a quick look at student work options:
- UK: 20 hours per week during term, full-time during holidays
- Canada: Same as above, with off-campus options
- Australia: Recently increased work hours for students
- Germany: Part-time jobs allowed, but limited hours per year
- USA: Mostly on-campus jobs in the first year; off-campus work comes later with specific permits
Typical jobs for international students include:
- Retail or supermarket assistant
- Waitstaff or barista
- Call centre agent
- Babysitter or caregiver
- Freelancing (graphic design, content writing, etc.)
Pro tip: Some universities offer career services to help students find part-time jobs or internships—use them.
5. Think Beyond Graduation—Plan Your Career Path Now
Studying abroad should be a stepping stone—not a stopgap. Start mapping out your post-study life before you even board the plane. Where do you want to work after graduation? What kind of job do you want? Do you plan to return home or settle abroad?
Steps to get ahead:
- Choose a course aligned with in-demand global careers (e.g., tech, healthcare, business analytics).
- Find out if the country offers post-study work visas. For instance, Canada offers up to 3 years; the UK offers 2 years (or 3 for PhDs).
- Join student organizations, attend networking events, and build your LinkedIn profile while studying.
- Seek internships during your program—they often lead to job offers.
- Understand permanent residency (PR) routes if staying back is part of your long-term plan.
Studying abroad is one of the best investments you can make in your future—but success doesn’t happen by accident. Plan every detail, ask questions, and gather the right information before you apply. The more prepared you are now, the smoother your international journey will be.
FAQs: Studying Abroad for Nigerian Students
1. How much does it cost to study abroad from Nigeria?
Costs vary by country and university. You’ll typically need ₦3 million to ₦15 million annually, depending on tuition, cost of living, and currency rates.
2. What is the easiest country for Nigerians to study and work?
Canada and the UK are often considered the most accessible due to friendly visa policies, clear work rights, and large Nigerian communities.
3. Can I study abroad without writing IELTS?
Yes, some universities accept alternatives like WAEC English results, or offer waivers, especially if your previous education was in English. Always confirm with the school.
4. Is it possible to get a full scholarship to study abroad?
Yes. Scholarships like Chevening (UK), DAAD (Germany), and Commonwealth Scholarships offer full funding. These are highly competitive and require strong academic records.
5. What’s the best way to choose a country or university?
Start by evaluating your budget, preferred course, long-term goals, and the visa/work policies of each country. Talking to a study abroad advisor helps you narrow things down.
Need help with your study abroad plans? Kampus Group is here to guide you from start to finish. Book a free consultation with our experts today and take the first step toward your global future.
