Moving from Nigeria to the UK on a study visa!

Are you thinking of moving from Nigeria to the UK to further your studies? There are long-term advantages to the procedure, even though the processes can occasionally be difficult, particularly if this is your first time attending a university in a foreign nation.

For many Nigerian students, the UK is their top choice for a place to study because of its strong economy, plentiful job opportunities, and positive social climate. As an international student, there is a lot you need to understand about studying in the UK from Nigeria, from choosing the best degree and university to applying to colleges and organizing your finances.

Procedures to take while moving from Nigeria to the UK

The following seven procedures should be followed when moving from Nigeria to the UK on a study visa:

Step 1: Learn more about your course and university

When moving from Nigeria to the UK, the first and most crucial step is to do extensive research on the many UK universities and courses. Take into account the following factors to ensure that the course and university you select are a good fit for you:

1. The standing of the university

Find out the overall prominence of the university. Choose a university that is well-known in your field of study, accredited, and ranked highly internationally. Examine student endorsements and evaluations from both current and former students to confirm the university’s advantages and disadvantages.

2. The curriculum

Examine the course outline for the particular course you wish to enroll in. Verify whether the coursework aligns with your academic objectives. Be aware of the university’s necessary courses, electives, and available specializations.

3. Academic staff and research possibilities

Learn about the credentials and areas of expertise of the instructors in your division. Examine the available research possibilities within the department. Check to see whether there are study areas, labs, or projects that suit your interests and would facilitate and enjoy your learning.

4. Materials and infrastructure

Examine the university’s facilities and learn about its resources to determine whether they can significantly impact the caliber of your education. This includes libraries, computer laboratories, and any other locations that provide specialized tools or equipment required for the course you want to take.

5. Procedures and requirements for enrollment

Check the requirements for admission and the application procedure, including any mandatory standardised examinations (IELTS or TOEFL), deadlines, and required papers.

6. Extracurricular pursuits and resources for students

Learn about the extracurricular activities and student support services offered by the university. Study groups for students, career counseling, internships, and other enjoyable university experiences could fall under this category.

Step 2: Submit applications to universities

After deciding on a degree and university, the next crucial step is to apply to universities. At this point, you must carefully adhere to the university’s criteria, so compile and submit accurate and complete documentation. It’s important to be aware of the application start and deadline dates because failing to do so may reduce your chances of being admitted to the university.

This is your official introduction to the institution; at this point, you will give a detailed account of your academic and personal background. You should take your time and apply to the university and degree of your choosing with consideration if you want to improve your chances of being admitted.

Step 3: File for a student visa to the UK

Start the application procedure for a student visa as soon as you receive your acceptance letter from the university by visiting the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) official website. Learn all about the UK student visa fees and requirements in Nigeria, including the costs and procedures, and make sure you provide true information. This includes evidence of your ability to pay for your studies at the UK university of your choice, evidence that you were accepted, and any other paperwork needed. According to GOV.UK, the cost of applying for a UK student visa from Nigeria is roughly £490.

The Immigration Healthcare Surcharge, which is a fee you pay when you apply for your visa and which enables you to access health services in the UK, register with a doctor, and acquire prescriptions, is also required to be paid with your application. The amount you pay depends on how long your visa is valid for. Learn how much you’ll need to pay before you apply.

It’s important to follow the visa application procedures to make sure your time studying in the UK from Nigeria is lawful and runs well. You won’t have to worry about your immigration status, so you can concentrate on your education.

Step 4: Reserve lodging

A crucial component of moving from Nigeria to the UK is finding housing. When determining whether to live on campus or off, it’s critical to conduct extensive research and planning. While some UK universities assist students in locating the finest private housing option in the region, many offer a range of on-campus housing options that make living on campus simple and comfortable. The Complete University Guide estimates that the average weekly cost of student housing in the UK is approximately £166, whereas the average cost of private sector housing is £228.

The average weekly cost of university housing in London is about £212, while it is £259 in the private sector.

There are other places to find cheap student housing, including Uniplace and Casita, which offer a variety of options in reputable locations. You have the option to search by cost, kind of lodging, features of lodging, and regulations. When you come to the UK, you can arrange lodging from them that is suited.

It’s crucial to arrange your lodging in advance of your arrival because this gives you enough time to find acceptable lodging options that meet both your demands and your budget. Early attention to your housing needs will help you become more comfortable and improve your overall health as well as your ability to blend in with the new surroundings and culture of your university.

Step 5: Make a financial plan

As part of your dream to move from Nigeria to the UK, financial planning is essential. This includes figuring out how much money you’ll need for daily expenses like rent, lodging, and tuition. Determining additional expenditures, such as health insurance or administrative expenses, is also crucial. You can receive grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance for your tuition. Nigerian students are among the foreign students that UK universities accept. Financial aid for overseas students studying in the UK is available up to £10,000. You can find out about different scholarships and the requirements for applying with the right help.

Doing this as soon as possible during the application process is crucial. You may create a sound financial plan that will support you in staying focused and safe during your academic journey in the UK by learning about all the financial assistance options available to you and being aware of all the associated costs.

Step 6: Get ready to go

Now more than ever, it’s critical to make sure you’re all set to go. To ensure a successful landing, confirm your travel schedule and the route to your lodging. Make sure you have all the required paperwork, including your passport, visa, and university acceptance letter, and make sure you pack everything you’ll need.

As a result of the 2020 COVID-19 epidemic, it’s critical to stay informed about any travel limitations related to the virus to ensure you abide by all health and safety regulations. You can travel prepared if you give careful consideration to these factors. This will increase your self-assurance and lessen the possibility that your move from Nigeria to the UK will encounter any difficulties.

Step 7: Configure critical services

To ensure a seamless relocation, you must promptly arrange for the services you require as soon as you arrive in the UK. Establishing a bank account is crucial for handling your money, and having a local phone and internet connection guarantees that you can connect and interact with ease. It will be simpler for you to go around every day if you know how to use the local transportation system, and touring the area will give you a better understanding of how things operate around you. Not only does setting up these essential services simplify your everyday life, but it also facilitates and eases your move from Nigeria to the UK.

In summary

In conclusion, moving from Nigeria to the UK for studies is a significant move that will pay off much in the long run. The aforementioned seven phases offer a straightforward method for a seamless transition into the UK school system. It’s critical to plan ahead, arrive prepared, and maintain an open mind in order to take full advantage of the prospects in the UK. You may effectively handle every facet of your migration from Nigeria to the UK by adhering to these processes, which will also establish a solid basis for a happy and satisfying time spent studying in the UK.