Study in UK from Nigeria
2026–2027
Ultimate Guide to Universities, Fees, Visas, Scholarships & Student Life
By: StudyAbroadly
Last updated: December 2025 for 2026–2027 admissions.
Are you a Nigerian student dreaming of pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom? Look no further. This guide is tailored just for you. Studying in UK offers unparalleled academic opportunities, diverse cultural experiences, and promising career prospects.
This guide was prepared by StudyAbroadly advisors who support Nigerian students with admissions, scholarships, and student visa guidance 2026-2027.
Best Courses to Study in UK for Nigerian Students in 2026
Whether you’re planning to stay and work in UK after graduation or return to Nigeria with a competitive edge. Here are the best courses to study in the UK for Nigerian students in 2026.
| No. | Best Courses to Study in UK (Field) | Best Courses to Study in the UK (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Medicine & Healthcare | Medicine (MBBS), Nursing, Public Health, Physiotherapy |
| 2 | Engineering | Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering |
| 3 | Computer Science & IT | Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity |
| 4 | Business & Finance | Business Management, Finance, Accounting, International Business, MBA |
| 5 | Law | LLB, LLM (International Law, Commercial Law) |
| 6 | Arts & Humanities | English Literature, History, Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Media Studies |
| 7 | Hospitality & Tourism | International Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Event Management |
| 8 | Social Sciences | Sociology, International Relations, Politics, Development Studies, Psychology |
Best Universities in UK for Nigerian Students 2026
When considering studying in the United Kingdom as a Nigerian student, choosing the right university is an important factor. Here are the best universities in the UK for Nigerian students in 2026 based on QS World University rankings
| No. | University | Location | QS Global Rank 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Imperial College London | London, England | 2 |
| 2 | University of Oxford | Oxford, England | 4 |
| 3 | University of Cambridge | Cambridge, England | 5 |
| 4 | University College London (UCL) | London, England | 9 |
| 5 | King's College London | London, England | 31 |
| 6 | The University of Edinburgh | Edinburgh, Scotland | 34 |
| 7 | The University of Manchester | Manchester, England | 35 |
| 8 | University of Bristol | Bristol, England | 50–55 |
| 9 | The London School of Economics (LSE) | London, England | 50 |
| 10 | The University of Warwick | Coventry, England | 70 |
Intakes to Study in UK for Nigerian Students 2026
UK universities offer three main intakes for Nigerian applicants. Applying earlier can improve chances of getting university offers and a greater shot at scholarships.
The three main intakes include:
- Fall Intake (September/October 2026)
- Summer Intake (April/May 2026)
- Winter Intake (January/February 2026)
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Requirements of Studying in UK for Nigerian Students 2026
What you require depends on your level of study:
For undergraduate applicants:
- O’Level results (WAEC or NECO).
- A-Levels, IB, Foundation, or a diploma equivalent.
- Academic transcripts.
For postgraduate applicants:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Academic transcripts from your university.
- CV/Resume
For all applicants:
- A valid international passport.
- Statement of Purpose / Personal statement.
- Reference letters (Academic/Professional reference)
Documents Needed to Study in UK from Nigeria
These are the main documents you’ll need to provide when applying to study in the UK from Nigeria below:
- Valid international passport.
- CV/Resume.
- Statement of Purpose.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Two reference letters.
Do UK universities accept WAEC Results for Nigerian students?
Many UK universities accept Nigerian students who have completed their secondary education in English, recognizing the strength of the Nigerian educational system. The WAEC or NECO results are used as proof of English language proficiency. This allows Nigerian students to meet the language requirements without taking IELTS, streamlining the application process
Applying for Your UK Student Visa from Nigeria
UK Tuberculosis Test Centres in Nigeria
If you’re applying for a UK students visa from Nigeria, you’ll need a tuberculosis test. This must be done at one of the official clinics approved by UK Visas and Immigration listed below:
- Abuja – International Organization For Migration (IOM)
- Lagos – International Organization For Migration (IOM)
- Lagos – Q-Life Family Clinic
UK Student Visa Requirements for Nigerians in 2026
To apply for a successful student visa, prepare the following checklist:
- A valid international passport.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number.
- Proof of funds and tuition held for a minimum of 28 days.
- Tuberculosis test certificate from UKVI approved clinic in Nigeria
- Academic documents like WAEC, NECO, BSc and transcripts.
- Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge payment.
How Long Does It Take To Get a UK Student Visa in 2026
The standard processing time is three weeks from the date of your biometrics appointment at the Visa application center. Priority service provides a UK student visa decision in 5 working days while Super Priority service offers a decision by the end of the next working day available only at select centres in Abuja and Lagos. ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in UK from Nigeria in 2026?
If you have decided to fund all your expenses yourself, then you need to budget carefully to avoid surprises. Costs vary depending on location (study and living) but having a clear idea of the main expenses will help you plan better. Here is an estimated yearly expense you can expect when studying in the UK from Nigeria.
| No. | Category | Estimated Cost (2026, GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tuition Fees |
Undergraduate (UG): £12,000–£40,000 / year Postgraduate (PG): £15,000–£35,000 / year |
| 2 | Living Expenses | £12,000–£20,000 / year |
| 3 | Visa Application | £524 |
| 4 | Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776 / year |
| 5 | Return Flights | £500–£900 |
| 6 | TB Test (Nigeria) | ₦50,000–₦100,000 |
| 7 | Initial Setup (accommodation deposit, essentials) | £1,000–£2,000 |
| — | Total Estimated First-Year Cost | £30,000–£60,000+ |
Scholarships To Study in UK for Nigerian Student
Scholarships can make a huge difference in making your studies more affordable. Applying early and preparing well can improve your chances. These are the main scholarships to study in the UK from Nigeria below
Chevening Scholarships: Fully funded UK government scholarships that enable outstanding Nigerian students to pursue one-year Master’s degrees in the UK. It covers tuition, a living allowance, travel costs, and visa fees.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). Fully funded for Master’s/PhD from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria. Covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. Priority for development-related fields.
Rhodes Scholarships: Fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Nigerian students are eligible for Rhodes Scholarships via the West Africa constituency
GREAT Scholarships: Launched by the British Council and UK government. £10,000 tuition award for one-year postgraduate courses. Nigerians are eligible for 2026-2027 at participating UK universities for GREAT scholarships.
Clarendon Scholarships: Offered by the University of Oxford. Fully funded for graduate (Master’s/PhD) students. Nigerians are eligible for 2026-2027 for Clarendon Scholarships
Which UK cities are best for Nigerian students in 2026?
Making the right city choice is essential for Nigerian students studying in the UK. Whichever city you choose, know the kind of lifestyle that suits you best.
London stands out with the largest Nigerian community, top universities, endless jobs, and direct flights from Nigeria, though it’s the most expensive (£1,200–£1,800/month living costs).
Manchester offers a vibrant Nigerian scene, affordability (£900–£1,200/month), a lively creative vibe, and a strong university.
Birmingham is diverse, centrally located, welcoming, with good career opportunities and lower costs (£800–£1,100/month).
Leeds boasts excellent student life, great transport links, and budget-friendly living (£800–£1,100/month).
Coventry is smaller, highly affordable (£700–£1,000/month), and student-friendly with access to Warwick University.
Sheffield provides safety, green spaces, low costs (£700–£950/month), and a growing community.
FAQs: Studying in UK from Nigeria (2026-2027)
1. How much money do I need to show for a UK student visa from Nigeria?
You need to show enough money to cover your tuition (as stated on your CAS) plus living costs. For London, that’s around £1,483 per month (up to £13,347). Outside London, it’s about £1,136 per month (up to £10,224). The funds must have been in your account for at least 28 days.
2. Which UK universities are the best for Nigerian students in 2026?
According to QS 2026 rankings, top choices include Imperial College London (#2 globally), Oxford (#4), Cambridge (#5–6), UCL (#9), King’s College London (#31), Edinburgh (#34), and Manchester (#35).
3. How much will it cost to study in the UK from Nigeria?
Tuition for undergraduates is typically £12,000–£40,000 per year, and postgraduates pay £15,000–£35,000 per year. Add living costs of £12,000–£20,000 per year, and your first-year expenses could total £30,000–£60,000 or more.
4. What are the best courses for Nigerian students in the UK?
Popular choices include Computer Science/IT (AI, Data Science), Business and MBA programs, Engineering, Nursing and Healthcare, Law, Finance, and Public Health.
5. Can I use WAEC or NECO results for UK university applications?
Yes! Many universities accept strong WAEC or NECO results (C6 or higher in key subjects). Some programs may also require a Foundation Year.
6. What scholarships can Nigerian students apply for?
Top scholarships include Chevening (for full one-year Master’s), Commonwealth (Master’s/PhD), GREAT (£10k+ for select postgrad courses), and university-specific awards.
7. Where can I take a TB test in Nigeria for a UK student visa?
Approved clinics are IOM in Abuja and Lagos, and Q-Life Family Clinic in Lagos. Always check GOV.UK for the latest list.
8. How long does it take to get a UK student visa?
Standard processing usually takes about 3 weeks after your biometrics appointment. Priority service gives a decision in 5 working days, and Super Priority can provide a decision the next working day in select centres (Abuja/Lagos).
9. How much does a UK student visa cost, including IHS?
Visa fee: £524. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for students: £776 per year.
10. Can I work while studying in UK?
Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
11. When are the main UK university intakes for Nigerian students?
The main intake is September/October 2026, with secondary intakes in January/February 2027, and a limited intake in May 2026.
12. Do I need IELTS to study in UK?
Not always. If you have a strong WAEC English result (C6+), many universities will waive IELTS. Otherwise, you may need IELTS for UKVI.
13. What post-study work options are available for Nigerian graduates?
The Graduate Route lets you work in the UK for 2 years (3 years if you did a PhD) without needing a sponsor.
14. What documents do I need for a UK student visa?
You’ll need a valid passport, CAS, proof of funds, TB certificate, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency (if required).
15. Why should I study in UK from Nigeria?
The UK offers top-ranked degrees, short courses (3-year UG, 1-year Master’s), a post-study work visa, and multicultural campuses making it a great choice for Nigerian students.