What is the UK Student Visa?
The UK Student Visa (formerly known as Tier 4) allows Nigerians aged 16 and above to study full-time at a licensed UK educational institution — from language schools to universities offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes.
The UK remains one of the top destinations for Nigerian students, home to world-renowned universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and hundreds of other respected institutions. But getting your Student Visa approved requires careful preparation.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for a UK Student Visa, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor (university or college)
- Have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
- Prove you can speak, read, write, and understand English
- Show you have enough money to support yourself and pay your course fees
- Have parental consent if you are under 18
What is a CAS Number?
The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique reference number issued by your UK University once you accept your offer and pay any required deposit. It contains details about your course, fees, and the institution — and you cannot apply for your visa without it.
Your CAS is valid for 6 months from the date it is issued, so don’t delay your visa application once you receive it.
SEE ALSO: How to Apply for a UK Visit Visa from Nigeria (Step by Step 2025)
Financial Requirements
This is where most Nigerian applications get rejected — so pay close attention.
You must prove you have enough money to cover:
1. Tuition fees
The full first year’s tuition fees (or the remaining balance if you’ve already paid a deposit).
2. Living costs (Maintenance requirement)
- Inside London: £1,483 per month, for up to 9 months = £13,347
- Outside London: £1,136 per month, for up to 9 months = £10,224
3. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days
Your bank statement must show the required amount held continuously for at least 28 days before you apply, and the statement must not be older than 31 days when you submit your application.
4. Acceptable proof of funds
- Personal bank statements
- Parent or guardian bank statements (with proof of relationship)
- Official financial sponsorship letter (if sponsored by an organisation or government)
English Language Requirements
You must prove your English proficiency through one of these routes:
- SELT (Secure English Language Test) such as IELTS for UKVI at the required score for your course level
- A degree taught in English — if your previous qualification was taught in English, your university may accept this instead
- Being a national of a majority English-speaking country (Nigeria is often accepted under specific conditions — confirm with your university)
Each university sets its own required score, so check directly with your chosen institution.
How Much Does the UK Student Visa Cost?
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | £490 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (per year) | £776 |
| Priority service (optional) | £500 |
| IELTS/English test | £150 – £200 |
| TB test | ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 |
For a 3-year degree, total visa-related costs (excluding tuition) can reach £3,500 – £4,000.
Step by Step Application Process
Step 1 — Get your university offer and CAS
Apply to your chosen UK university, accept your offer, pay any deposit required, and receive your CAS number.
Step 2 — Prepare your finances
Ensure your required funds are sitting in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
Step 3 — Take your English test (if required)
Book and complete an approved English test such as IELTS for UKVI.
Step 4 — Apply online
Visit gov.uk and complete the Student Visa application form. You’ll need your CAS number, passport details, and financial information.
Step 5 — Pay your fees
Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge online.
Step 6 — Complete your TB test
Visit an approved clinic in Lagos or Abuja for your tuberculosis test — mandatory for all Nigerian applicants.
Step 7 — Book your biometric appointment
Book an appointment at the Visa Application Centre in Lagos or Abuja.
Step 8 — Attend your appointment
Submit your documents and biometrics at the VAC.
Step 9 — Wait for your decision
Standard processing takes up to 3 weeks from Nigeria.
Documents Checklist
- Valid Nigerian passport
- CAS reference number
- Bank statements showing required funds (28 days)
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- English test results (if required)
- TB test certificate
- Passport photographs
- Parental consent letter (if under 18)
- ATAS certificate (for certain sensitive courses like nuclear science, engineering)
Can You Work While Studying?
Yes, most Student Visa holders can work part-time:
| Course Level | Work Allowed |
|---|---|
| Degree level and above | Up to 20 hours/week during term |
| Below degree level | Up to 10 hours/week during term |
| Holidays | Full-time |
Working beyond your permitted hours is a serious visa violation that can lead to your visa being cancelled.
Can Your Family Join You?
Dependant visas for Student Visa holders have become much more restricted since January 2024. Currently, only postgraduate research students (like PhD candidates) can generally bring dependants. Most taught masters and undergraduate students cannot bring a spouse or children.
Always check the latest rules before making family relocation plans around your studies.
What Happens After You Graduate?
Many Nigerian students transition to the Graduate Route Visa after completing their degree, allowing them to stay in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD) to work or look for work — without needing employer sponsorship.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Insufficient funds or funds not held for the full 28 days
- Bank statement is outdated (older than 31 days)
- CAS details don’t match your application
- Missing or invalid TB test certificate
- Weak English language evidence
- Inconsistent personal details across documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a CAS before applying for my visa?
Yes, absolutely. You cannot submit a UK Student Visa application without a valid CAS reference number from your university.
Can I switch universities after getting my visa?
Yes, but you must inform your new institution and in some cases obtain a new CAS and update your visa.
How early should I apply for my Student Visa?
You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date. Aim to apply at least 2–3 months in advance.
Can I appeal if my Student Visa is refused?
There’s no formal appeal process for most refusals, but you can submit a fresh application addressing the reasons for refusal.
Is the TB test mandatory for everyone?
Yes, all Nigerian applicants over 11 years old must complete a TB test at an approved clinic before applying.