Planning to study in the UK from Nigeria? There is no shortcut. You need to have knowledge about the UK visa requirements in Nigeria and complete the full process. This step-by-step guide walks you through the UK study visa application process, explains the UK visa requirements in Nigeria and gives practical tips to maximize your chance of success.
Quick overview: which visa do you need?
Most international students apply for the Student visa (the UK route that replaced Tier 4). You can apply if you’re 16+ and have a confirmed offer from a licensed UK sponsor (you need a CAS — Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
Step 1: Get your offer & CAS
Apply to your chosen university → receive an unconditional or conditional offer.
Once you meet conditions, the university issues a CAS number and CAS statement (you must include this in your visa application).
Tip: Don’t start your visa application until you have your CAS.
Step 2: Check the money you must show
You must show enough funds to cover outstanding course fees for one academic year (as shown on your CAS).
Maintenance (living) funds: from 2 Jan 2025 the maintenance requirement is £1,483 per month for London or £1,136 per month outside London, for up to 9 months (so approx £13,347 London / £10,224 outside London). Funds must usually be held for at least 28 consecutive days before you apply.
You’ll also pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of the process. The student visa application fee for Nigerian students is currently £524.
Step 3: Prepare documents (checklist)
Here’s a checklist of every document you will need. Prepare them properly and in time for a study visa in the UK.
✅ Valid passport (or travel document)
✅ CAS number + CAS statement from your university
✅ Proof of funds (bank statements showing required amount for 28 days)
✅ Evidence of tuition fee payment (if required)
✅ Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate
✅ Academic transcripts, degree certificates, English language test
✅ ATAS certificate (for some postgraduate research/technical courses)
✅ Any sponsorship letters (if a sponsor is paying)
✅ Passport photographs
✅ A strong Genuine Student (GTE) statement explaining study plans and ties to Nigeria
Step 4: Complete the online application
Visit the official UK visa site and complete the Student visa form. Fill in your CAS, course details, and personal information. After that, pay the visa fee and IHS online. Finally, book your bio-metric appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre in Nigeria (applications in Nigeria are handled through TLScontact centres in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt).
Step 5: Biometrics & appointment
Attend your appointment at TLScontact – Submit your documents, provide fingerprints and a photo, and upload additional documents where required. Keep polite, organised and provide clear originals and certified translations where necessary for a smooth UK study visa process.
Step 6: Decision & timelines
Decision times vary but typically you should expect a decision within three weeks. Processing times can be longer during peak seasons. Monitor your case and respond promptly to requests for extra information.
Important context for Nigerian applicants
The UK Home Office has increased scrutiny on applications from certain countries, including Nigeria, due to broader immigration enforcement measures. That means visa officers may more closely assess financial evidence, credibility and the GTE statement. Prepare strong, well-documented evidence and consider professional coaching for the interview/credibility assessment. We at AGP provide expert guidance and consultation for free. Contact Us!
Common reasons for refusal and how to avoid them
Let’s look at some of the common reasons for UK student visa refusal and how to avoid them.
🚫 Weak or inconsistent financial evidence
✅ Keep funds in the required account for 28+ days and match amounts to CAS.
🚫 Poor GTE/credibility
✅ Write a clear personal statement explaining why the course fits your career plans.
🚫 Incomplete documentation
✅ Use a pre-checklist and submit certified translations where needed.
🚫 Timing errors
✅ Apply early for a better chance of securing your UK student visa. You can apply up to 6 months before your course begins.
Practical tips to strengthen your UK student visa application
Here are some practical tips so that your study visa in UK don’t get rejected:
- Use bank statements that clearly show your name or your sponsor’s name and relationship. Provide sponsorship letters where applicable.
- Keep all evidence well-organised and labelled (helps TLScontact and the Home Office).
- Run mock credibility interviews with an advisor—many refusals come from poor interview performance.
- Apply early (within the 6-month window).
- Keep digital and printed copies of everything.
After approval: next steps
Once approved you’ll either receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport or a digital status to collect your BRP (biometric residence permit) once you arrive. Check the validity dates carefully and follow your university’s pre-arrival guidance.
Final checklist (before you submit)
Before you submit your UK study visa application make sure these are all ready.
- CAS in hand ✔
- Funds held 28+ days ✔
- Visa fee & IHS paid ✔
- TLScontact appointment booked ✔
- Strong GTE & supporting documents ✔
Need help?
If you’re unsure about any part of your UK student visa application—from proof of funds to mock interviews, consider taking expert help. Aspire Global Pathways provides document checks, mock credibility interview sessions and step-by-step visa support tailored for Nigerian applicants. Moreover, we give free consultation and guidance to students looking to study abroad from Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
How can I start my UK study visa application from Nigeria?
You must first receive a CAS from a licensed UK university, then complete your UK study visa application online, pay the required fees, and book your biometric appointment in Nigeria.
What are the UK visa requirements in Nigeria for students?
Key UK visa requirements in Nigeria include proof of tuition fees, maintenance funds held for 28 days, CAS number, TB test certificate, and valid academic documents.
How long does it take to get a UK student visa from Nigeria?
The UK student visa usually takes around three weeks to process in Nigeria, though times may vary during busy intake periods.
Can I work in the UK with a study visa in UK?
Yes, students with a valid study visa in the UK can work part-time during term (up to 20 hours a week) and full-time during holidays, depending on their course and visa conditions.