Nigerian nationals looking to study abroad opt to do so in certain countries, of which the U.S. and Canada are among the tops. However, other universities and colleges in other countries make international education simpler for Nigerians.
12 Best Universities for International Students from Nigeria
This article examines such schools, including what it takes to be a student.
1. University of East Anglia
This university is located in Norfolk, UK. The United Kingdom is one of the top spots for Nigerians so having a school that allows nationals to study there is commendable.
The following are some of the reasons why you should embark on international studies at the University of East Anglia:
INTO Pathway Programs
Nigerian students who are unable to get direct entry can still have a shot at entering a university abroad, especially through the INTO Pathway Program by the University of East Anglia (UEA).
This pathway program offers the following benefits:
- The INTO UEA Graduate Diploma is a preparatory program for Nigerian students to get admitted into any of the university’s Master’s degree programs.
- You can scale the INTO Foundation to progress into any of the university’s undergraduate degree programs.
The aforementioned pathway programs are ideal for Nigerian applicants who are using the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to seek admission.
2. Cranfield University
This is a UK-based university and is a popular choice for Nigerian students for reasons ranging from the collaboration with government agencies and the availability of courses that notable Nigerian government agencies (NDDC, TET Fund, PTDF, Federal Ministry of Education) fund for qualified students.
With over 131 Nigerians studying here, there is no doubt that Cranfield University has what it takes to make studying abroad exciting for Nigerian students.
To get admitted, you need to have a Bachelor’s degree with Honours, and applications are considered on an individual basis.
3. Newcastle University
This is yet another university in the United Kingdom. Newcastle University accepts Nigerian nationals and offers tailor-made courses. As a student, you’re assured of ease of studies and the lowest cost of living, thanks to the strategic location in a safe and famously friendly location.
To help you further, the university guides you every step of the way, starting from the application process to visa applications. Nigerian applicants also receive help in the areas of career guidance, guaranteed accommodation for a year (subject to certain conditions) and English language support throughout their studies.
4. University of Sheffield
This university is located in Western Bank, Sheffield. As a Nigerian applicant, the odds are in your favour, owing to the existing dedication of the school to provide an array of study options.
A wide range of qualifications are accepted from Nigerian applicants and range from undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The qualifications include but are not limited to:
- International Baccalaureate
- NCUK International Foundation Year
- Master’s
Applying to this university with the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is possible. In addition, it serves as a waiver to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), on the condition that you scored at least a grade “C” in the English language.
5. Swansea University
This is another top destination for Nigerians looking to study in the UK. Swansea University runs a dual campus and both are strategically located close to the city centre where there’s a good balance of study environment and student life.
Three different programmes are offered at Swansea University for Nigerian students. You can choose from the Foundation, Undergraduate and Postgraduate programmes.
Prior education and academic qualifications are considered as a part of the entry requirements. The WASSCE can gain you admission into the Foundation programmes, while a combination of WASSCE and National Diploma (ND) is needed for admission into the undergraduate programmes. Applicants to the postgraduate degrees need a Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent from a recognized college or university.
6. Loughborough University
You can apply for undergraduate, Foundation and postgraduate programmes at Loughborough University in the UK. As a way of introducing flexibility and helping students stay for a longer period; the school introduced The Turing Scheme. Through this, you can spend the entirety of your study duration in the UK.
With hundreds of Nigerian students in the school; the university is also continually looking to welcome more. From Nigeria, you can find out detailed information about the study programs, by visiting or reaching out to any of the approved educational advisors in different cities.
Studying at Loughborough University is also affordable. International Foundation and Undergraduate programmes start at £22,000 per academic year. You can expect to pay £22,500 for postgraduate studies.
7. University of York
Located in York in the United Kingdom; this university is one destination for Nigerian nationals who wish to study in the UK. With a long-standing history of welcoming international students; the University of York currently has 52 students from Nigeria.
Undergraduate and postgraduate programs are available with over ten (10) scholarship opportunities available.
To secure admission with NECO or WASSCE, you need to either take an additional course (such as a recognized Foundation course or A level). Applicants with a National Diploma (ND) need to achieve any of the following:
- Upper Credit and Distinction or;
- Credit and Distinction
8. University of Leicester
Located in Leicester in the United Kingdom; the University of Leicester offers admission to Nigerians who want to study abroad.
Different programs are offered here, including Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhDs & other research degrees.
If you’re seeking admission, it is imperative to meet the entry requirements. Applicants to the Postgraduate (Masters) degree need to have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized educational institution in Nigeria, with at least a second-class honours degree.
Other individual course entry requirements apply.
9. University of Stirling
This university is located in the heart of Scotland. International applicants from Nigeria are accepted into the undergraduate and postgraduate degrees offered at the University of Stirling.
Entry requirements include the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC). A minimum of 5 grades at “B” or above and no grade below “C” can help you gain admission to study an undergraduate program at the institution. You’d need a minimum of second-class, lower division Bachelor’s degree for admission to most of the university’s Masters-level courses.
10. Oxford Brookes University
This school has a diverse student community, with Nigeria leading one of the largest cohorts. At Oxford Brookes University, admissions are granted to Nigerian applicants who meet the qualifications equivalent to the UK A-levels. Both the WAEC/NECO are accepted, plus a recognized Foundation course.
Funding is also available through the International Student Scholarship. You can receive up to ￡2,000 worth of discounts on your tuition fees. There’s also a chance that you could be eligible for the ￡10,000 GREAT Scholarship kicking off in September 2024 for postgraduate courses.
11. University of Alberta
One of the popular educational institutions in Canada, the University of Alberta in Edmonton, offers admission to Nigerians.
Applications are welcome from both applicants expecting their WAEC results and those who have completed the examination. Meeting the university’s requirements is prioritized when evaluating the scores.
Students from Nigeria get to benefit from the range of international scholarships and awards, including:
- International Admission Scholarship: worth $5,000
- Gold Standard Scholarship: worth $6,000 and made available to the top 5% of students in each faculty, and all are based on the admission average.
- Regional Excellence Scholarship: worth $5,000
12. Keele University
This university is located on a 600-acre campus in the heart of England. Established in 1949, it has over the years, become “home” for Nigerians who want to study abroad, especially in the U.K.
Entry requirements vary by the degree course you wish to study but keep in mind that you’ll also need to meet the English language proficiency qualifications. Applicants may also apply for a place in the university’s Foundation Year program, only if they didn’t meet the requirements for direct entry into the undergraduate courses.
How to Choose the Best Universities for International Students from Nigeria
Nigerians looking to study abroad in any of the universities mentioned in this list should keep a couple of things in mind.
Student Demographic
You need to check the number of Nigerians already studying there. If a university or college says it accepts Nigerians, then it should have admitted some in times past.
Find out the Available Programs
What programs of study do the schools offer? While some offer undergraduate and postgraduate studies; others offer PhD and Foundation Year programs too.
What’s the Tuition?
How much does it cost to school there? Studying abroad, especially in choice countries like the U.K. and Canada costs money. Make sure to have an idea of what it costs to study per academic year, including the ancillary and textbook fees.
Concluding Thoughts
Universities in the United Kingdom and Canada offer admissions to Nigerians who want to come over and study. Keep in mind that while you may be able to apply with your WASSCE and NECO results; certain grades must be maintained as well as on specific subjects.
To conclude, applying to an international university that especially welcomes Nigerians makes admission easier, as other countrymen and women have been accepted before to study there.