Requirements to Study Abroad from Nigeria 2024

A lot of secondary school graduates and university graduates often think about the next step for their education. From a bachelor’s degree to a post-graduate degree, most have considered leaving the country to further their education.

In this article, a lot is going to be discussed, especially what to consider before pursuing a degree abroad.

Studying abroad can be one of the best experiences a student could have. With their chance to study in a distant country, they end up experiencing the attraction and customs of a new area.

Studying abroad also allows one to fully immerse themselves in a different language, and there is no better place to start than to plunge right in. Many students fall in love with their host nation and opt to stay and work there.

While attending school and residing among students from your host nation, allows them to get to know their classmates and form long-lasting relationships with them.

Being alone in a new area may be intimidating at times, and it puts your flexibility to cope with varied conditions while problem-solving to the test.

International students studying abroad become adventurers of their new country, discovering their curiosity and passion. Graduate schools seek applicants who will contribute a distinct perspective to their institution.

Studying Abroad

Nigerian student

Here are the things that you must consider before studying abroad.

Anyone who wishes to cultivate friendships, explore a range of cultures, and explore the country might benefit greatly from studying abroad.

It’s jam-packed with real-life experiences that you won’t get in a classroom. It has the potential to be a life-changing opportunity.

However, there are a few things you should know before you can go.

Living overseas entails more than just seeing a new place and having a good time. It’s also about discovering what it’s like to be a grownup for the very first time.

For the majority of students studying abroad, this implies being entirely self-sufficient for the first time, without the support of friends or family.

That might be intimidating, but it’s also a learning opportunity that will make you develop into an adult.

It necessitates extensive study, such as determining which college is the finest.

You’ll have to do some homework, but it’ll be extremely rewarding.

Anyone may study abroad if they understand what to do or not to do.           

Choose A Study Destination

Not all countries are suitable for studying abroad.

When it comes to living expenditures, European nations are far less expensive than the United States or Australia. Colleges in Asia are less expensive than those in Europe.

Before you travel to your favourite destination, do some research on the education fees and living costs. With permits and immigration processes, some nations are simpler than others.

College Resources

If you’re studying in Europe, many institutions will provide you with everything you need, including Wi-Fi and laptops in every room.

Some Asian colleges do not have access to any of these resources. And if there isn’t free dorm space available, you’ll have to live off-campus.

Cost of Tuition

The most common source of anxiety among students and their parents is the cost of tuition.

Always think about whether studying abroad will fit into your budget. In Europe, public institutions are substantially less expensive than private colleges.

Language Barrier

If one does not speak as a first language, it may be hard to communicate in a country where English isn’t as prevalent as it is in their home country.

Housing

It’s not easy to find an apartment abroad so be sure to know about different options before going.

Transportation

If the college has a certain bus system that makes it easy for students to go around, then you’re lucky!

Look into the private and public transportation system of that country and accessibility.

Cultural Difference

Remember to look into cultural differences because what’s normal for others may not be so for you.

Here’s a list of suitable nations for international students and great living conditions.

Requirements for Nigerians to Study Abroad

African Student

The most important thing you need to fulfil your dream to study abroad is information.

You must be familiar with all of the procedures involved and understand precisely what you must perform at any given time.

The following are the requirements for Nigerians to study abroad;

  • International Passport
  • Language Proficiency Certificate
  • Birth Certificate
  • Secondary School Transcript or University Transcript
  • WAEC/SSCE Result
  • Recommendation Letter
  • Bank Statements
  • Study Visa
  • Health Documents

International Passport

If not in possession of one, apply as soon as possible.

This is critical since it would be needed for the rest of the procedure, which includes functioning as an identification card for the foreign embassies.

It may be obtained from any of Nigeria’s National Immigration Service offices. 2 by 2-inch duplicate passport copies are also necessary.

Language Proficiency Certificate

Language proficiency is the measure of one’s competency to communicate in a foreign language.

Language abilities are measured based on speech and communication skills, grammar, vocab, linguistic, and other areas.

Asides from the English proficiency exams such as Toefl and IELTS, other countries have proficiency exams like Def/Dalf required by France.

Here’s a link to everything one needs to know about language proficiency exams.

Birth Certificate

This is to clarify citizenship by the embassy and validate the data given on the international passport.

Birth certificates are issued by the National Census Commission of Nigeria. It could also be gotten from the hospital one was given birth at.

Secondary School Transcript or University Transcript

This is to clarify one’s educational eligibility for running a program at the institute.

WAEC/SSCE Result

Often recognized by West African countries, other foreign countries also accept the result to stand as proof of a high school degree.

It is issued by the exam body and can be retrieved online with a scratch card.

Recommendation Letter

Usually written to attest for one’s good behaviour it can be written by any person in a position of authority.

It serves as a testimonial of great conduct from a member of a community.

Bank Statements

Necessary to show one’s capability to sustain a lifestyle while overseas. It can be a personal bank statement or that from your sponsors.

Study Visa

This is to show you have been granted permission to travel to the desired country.

It contains how long you are going to stay and the benefits attached to the type of visa.

Health Documents

Most countries require one to be tested for certain illnesses such as yellow fever, covid or hepatitis among many others.

It should also show a historical record of one’s health to determine whether to provide certain benefits.

There are so many reasons to travel abroad to further your education. Whether it is for the short term or long term, discovering new countries to live and study in can be very beneficial and fruitful.

With all this information gathered, I wish you the best in your studies.

Have a wonderful trip!


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54 thoughts on “Requirements to Study Abroad from Nigeria 2024”

  1. Can one continue master program that has been started in nigeria in other universities in Europe? If yes, what are the procedures?

    Reply
    • Yes, it is possible to continue a master’s program that has been started in Nigeria in other universities in Europe. However, the procedures will vary depending on the specific universities and programs involved.

      In general, you will need to contact the university in Europe that you want to transfer to and ask about their transfer policies. They will need to assess your academic record and transcripts to determine if you are eligible to transfer. You may also need to take additional exams or coursework to meet the requirements of the program.

      Here are some of the things you need to consider when transferring a master’s program from Nigeria to Europe:

      1. The equivalence of your Nigerian degree: The university in Europe will need to determine if your Nigerian degree is equivalent to their own master’s degree program. This may involve a review of your transcripts and other documentation.

      2. The transfer credits: The university in Europe will also need to determine how many credits from your Nigerian program will transfer to their program. This will depend on the similarities between the two programs.

      3. The language requirements: If the program you are transferring to is taught in a language other than English, you may need to take language proficiency exams.

      4. The cost of tuition and living expenses: The cost of tuition and living expenses in Europe can be high. You will need to factor this into your decision when choosing a program.

      Reply
  2. Hello Mr Olarewaju,

    What are my chances of gaining admission for a masters degree program in foreign countries using my Neco result as an o level..
    I had 8 credit including English and maths and 1 pass… Or do you suggest i re-sit for waec
    I’m a graduate and i intend applying for scholarships

    Reply
    • Different universities and countries have specific admission requirements.

      Some institutions may accept NECO results as an equivalent to O level qualifications, while others may prioritize WAEC results.

      It is important to research the admission criteria of the universities you are interested in to determine their specific requirements.

      Generally, you should not have any challenge with applying for masters with your NECO result.

      Let me know if you need any further clarifications.

      Reply
  3. Please I am chioma , can I study medicine with my neco result in Canada,I just finished my O level of education

    Reply
    • In most cases, studying medicine in Canada requires completion of a bachelor’s degree as a prerequisite. Typically, this involves completing specific prerequisite courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

      Additionally, most medical schools in Canada require applicants to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized exam that assesses knowledge and skills necessary for success in medical school.

      Reply
  4. Hello, Mr olanrewaju.
    I want to ask, is WAEC result compulsory to be part of the requirements needed to do master’s programs in the US or any foreign country after having B.sc in nursing in Nigeria?

    Reply
      • Yes, you can study fashion and clothing technology in the UK with your WAEC result, even if you are a science student.

        In fact, many fashion schools in the UK do not require any specific subjects for admission, as they are more interested in your portfolio and your passion for fashion.

        Reply
  5. I am a law graduate who intend to further his education (masters) in UK. Pls can I use my neco results to process it or it’s a must it must be my wace result?

    Reply
  6. Hello Mr olarewaju, is it possible for me to study abroad (USA) without waec or neco results but I have results like sat, TOEFL and ACT

    Reply
    • Michael,

      You will need some certification aside from the SAT, TOEFL and ACT.

      For example, you will need to sit for the GED (General Education Diploma or General Education Developmental) exams.

      What school are you applying to study in the United States (USA)?

      Reply
      • Please can you recommend a public university with low tuition fee in England to study with HND in Environmental health technology

        Reply
        • In England, public universities typically charge the same tuition fees for undergraduate degrees, regardless of the specific program of study. However, there are some universities that are known for their lower tuition fees compared to others.

          It’s important to note that tuition fees can vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the official websites of the universities for the most up-to-date information.

          Here are a few public universities in England that are generally considered to have lower tuition fees:

          1. University of Cumbria: The University of Cumbria is known for its affordable tuition fees compared to many other universities in England. They offer a variety of health-related programs, including environmental health.

          2. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan): UCLan is another institution that offers programs in environmental health and generally has relatively lower tuition fees compared to some other universities in England.

          3. University of Wolverhampton: The University of Wolverhampton is known for its competitive tuition fees and offers courses in environmental health.

          4. University of Sunderland: The University of Sunderland is often recognized for its affordable tuition fees and offers programs in environmental health and related fields.

          Reply
  7. Good day ?

    Please am currently running a national dimploma on software engineering. Once I finish my ND can I go and study for BSC abroad??

    Reply
  8. Hi Mr olanrewaju,I’m studying Biology Education but i don’t know if can able to study Medicine and surgery with my results in Either Canada or London

    Reply
  9. Good day ,
    Please can you explain the steps I need to take to get a scholarship in any Canadian University or one in the United Kingdom which doesn’t require exams like IELTS and accepts NECO .
    Also please can you list a few of those University that offer ECONOMICS

    Reply
    • Hello Steflora,

      The Nursing program in Canada is an advanced entry program, which means that you must complete at least one year of university-level study, including several required and recommended courses, before being considered for admission, even if you already have a degree.

      Reply
    • Hello Steflora,

      The Nursing program in Canada is an advanced entry program, which means that you must complete at least one year of university-level study, including several required and recommended courses, before being considered for admission, even if you already have a degree.

      Reply
    • Hello Steflora,

      The Nursing program in Canada is an advanced entry program, which means that you must complete at least one year of university-level study, including several required and recommended courses, before being considered for admission, even if you already have a degree.

      Reply
  10. Hello Mr Olanrewaju
    I want to study computer engineering in either Canada /London in a school that is very cheap.
    And please enlighten me on the degree that I should choose while filling the form, I am an OND graduate in the polytechnic of ibadan. We are yet to get our results tho but I have my ssce results with me. And I am hoping to apply for a long term schooling there.

    Reply
  11. Hello Mr. Olanrewaju, I am adedayo lateef keen to do my masters program in Australia. Preferably masters in public health in an Australian University with ielts exemption. I will be grateful if you can equip me with such information.
    Thank you

    Reply
    • Hello Mr Lateef,

      I hope you are having a great day!

      Here is the list of Universities you can study at in Australia without IELTS as a Nigerian student;

      1, UNSW
      2. University of Adelaide
      3. University of Queensland
      4. University of Southern Queensland
      5. Macquarie University
      6. University of South Australia
      7. Swinburne University of Technology
      8. Bond University

      Let me if you have further questions.

      Reply

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