Study in USA from Nigeria 2026 - 2027
Ultimate Guide to Universities, Fees, Visas, Scholarships & Student Life
By: StudyAbroadly
Last updated: December 2025 for 2026–2027 admissions.
Deciding to study in the US fills many Nigerians with a blend of thrill and uncertainty. It involves stepping away from the familiar rhythm of home, bustling streets, family gatherings, and everyday comforts to embrace a new chapter that can feel both exhilarating and daunting. Moving to the US is all about chasing bigger dreams, exploring new cultures, and building a brighter future. The initial adjustment can be challenging when surroundings and routines feel entirely different.
This comprehensive guide is designed to simplify the journey for you. Whether you’re just starting to research universities or celebrating a new admission offer, you’ll find straightforward, actionable guidance here covering everything from selecting the right university and navigating applications to managing finances abroad and thriving in student life.
This guide was prepared by StudyAbroadly advisors who support Nigerian students with admissions, scholarships, and student visa guidance.
Why Study in USA from Nigeria 2026: Quality Education, Scholarships & Career Opportunities
Studying in the US remains a top dream for Nigerian students in 2026, imagine unlocking world-class education, building global networks, and kickstarting a career that changes everything. The US offers world-class education at top-ranked universities like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and affordable public options such as University of Houston and Texas A&M, where Nigerian communities thrive.
Quality education stands out with innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, flexible curricula, and STEM focus—over 55% of Nigerians pursue graduate programs here.
Degrees are globally recognized, opening doors to high-paying jobs and networks.
Scholarships make it achievable: Fully funded options like Fulbright Foreign Student Program cover tuition, living, travel, and insurance. University merit awards and need-based aid further reduce costs.
Career opportunities shine with OPT (up to 3 years post-study work, extendable for STEM) and strong industry ties. Despite high costs, scholarships, part-time work, and long-term ROI make the USA a smart investment for Nigerian students aiming for global success in 2026–2027.
Top 15 Best Universities in USA for Nigerian Students 2026-2027: Fully Funded Scholarships & Low Tuition
This ranking is subjective and based on factors like Nigerian student enrollment, community support, academic reputation, and financial aid availability as of December 2025
When it comes to pursuing education in the United States, Nigerian students have several top-notch universities to choose from. With their strong global reputation, these universities offer an enriching and supportive environment for Nigerian students to thrive academically.
Tuition figures vary depending on program; engineering and business may cost more. Compared to Texas universities, Boston schools are more expensive but offer elite STEM programs
| Rank | University | Location | Approx. Annual Tuition (₦, International) | Scholarships for Nigerians/Internationals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Houston | Texas | ₦42M–₦68M | Merit aid up to $10K/year; international scholarships; Fulbright eligible |
| 2 | Howard University | Washington DC | ₦51M–₦85M | African/Nigerian-focused awards; need-based aid; HBCU grants |
| 3 | University of Texas at Austin | Texas | ₦68M–₦85M | Merit scholarships; international excellence awards; Fulbright common |
| 4 | Texas Southern University | Texas | ₦34M–₦51M | International student scholarships; merit/need-based aid |
| 5 | University of Maryland | Maryland | ₦51M–₦85M | Merit-based international awards; graduate fellowships |
| 6 | University of North Texas | Texas | ₦34M–₦59M | Emerald Eagle Scholars; international merit aid |
| 7 | University of Texas at Arlington | Texas | ₦42M–₦68M | International education fee scholarships; merit awards |
| 8 | Houston Community College | Texas | ₦17M–₦34M | Pathway scholarships; affordable transfers with aid |
| 9 | New York University (NYU) | New York | ₦85M–₦119M+ | Merit scholarships for internationals; need-based options |
| 10 | Harvard University | Massachusetts | ₦85M–₦102M+ | Fulbright common; full need-based aid for admitted internationals |
| 11 | Stanford University | California | ₦85M–₦119M+ | Fulbright; generous need-based financial aid |
| 12 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Illinois | ₦51M–₦85M | Merit scholarships; international achievement awards |
| 13 | Arizona State University (ASU) | Arizona | ₦51M–₦76M | Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Africans); merit scholarships |
| 14 | University of Alabama | Alabama | ₦51M–₦68M | Generous international scholarships (up to $32K/year merit) |
| 15 | Michigan State University | Michigan | ₦68M–₦85M | African/Nigerian-specific awards; international merit scholarships |
Standardized Test Requirements
| Level | Test | Status for 2026 Admissions | Typical Minimum Requirement | Competitive/Recommended Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | SAT/ACT | Mostly test-optional (over 1,800 schools); some top schools (e.g., Harvard, Yale, Stanford) require or strongly consider | No strict minimum at most schools | SAT: 1400–1550+ ACT: 30–34+ (for top/mid-tier schools) |
| Undergraduate | SAT/ACT | - | SAT: 1200+ recommended ACT: 25+ recommended |
Reasonable for mid-tier schools; viable if other profile strengths |
| Postgraduate | GRE | Optional at many programs; required at some | No universal minimum | 318–330+ total (Verbal + Quantitative) |
| Postgraduate | GRE | - | 300+ total | Below average for competitive programs |
| MBA | GMAT/GRE | Required or recommended at most top programs; some accept GRE instead | Varies; often no strict cutoff | GMAT: 680–740+ GRE equivalent: 320+ |
| MBA | GMAT | - | 600+ | Below average for top programs |
| English Proficiency (All Levels) |
TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo | Required for non-native speakers (Nigerians usually need it); waivers possible if prior education in English | TOEFL: 80–100+ IELTS: 6.5–7.0+ Duolingo: 115–120+ |
Higher for top schools (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL/IELTS | - | TOEFL: 80+ IELTS: 6.5+ |
Accurate as common minimums |
Scholarships in USA for Nigerian Students
For a full breakdown of fully and partially funded scholarships, visit our detailed guide on Scholarships in the USA for Nigerian Students.
Application Process for Nigerian Students
To study in the United States as a Nigerian student, there are several requirements you need to fulfill. Here are the general requirements:
Researching and Selecting Universities/Programs
Choose SEVP-certified institutions using the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s school search tool. Nigerians often target prestigious options like Harvard, Stanford, NYU, or more affordable public universities and community colleges for transfer pathways. Evaluate programs based on rankings, location, total costs (ranging $30,000–$70,000 annually for tuition and living), available scholarships such as Fulbright or Mastercard Foundation, and current test policies. Undergraduate applications frequently use the Common App, while postgraduate ones go through individual university portals.
Meeting Academic and Standardized Test Requirements
Undergraduate applicants need WAEC/NECO results with at least 5–6 credits, including English and Mathematics. SAT/ACT submission is often optional but beneficial for competitive edges or scholarships. Postgraduate candidates require a bachelor’s degree, preferably with a strong GPA (2:1 or higher). English proficiency proof is nearly always mandatory for Nigerians via TOEFL (80–100+ iBT), IELTS (6.5–7.0+), or Duolingo (110–120+), with limited waivers for fully English-medium prior education. GRE or GMAT may apply for graduate programs but are increasingly optional.
Submitting University Applications
Use the Common App for most undergraduate programs or direct portals for graduate ones. Required materials include evaluated transcripts (WES if necessary), personal essays or statements of purpose, recommendation letters, CV/resume, and proof of financial capacity. Key deadlines for the 2025–2026 cycle include Early Decision/Action around November 1, 2025, and Regular Decision from January 1–15, 2026, with some rolling admissions. Application fees range $50–$100 per school, though waivers are available. Successful applications yield acceptance letters and the crucial Form I-20
Handling the SEVIS Fee
Upon receiving your I-20, pay the $350 I-901 SEVIS fee online at fmjfee.com. Nigerians facing card restrictions can use Western Union or money order options. Keep the printed receipt, as it is essential for the visa stage.
Applying for the F-1 Student Visa
Complete the DS-160 online form at ceac.state.gov and pay the $185 MRV fee through designated channels in Nigeria. Book an interview slot in the US Embassy in Abuja or Consulate in Lagos via ustraveldocs.com/ng. Bring a valid passport (valid 6+ months beyond your stay), DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS receipt, I-20, financial documents proving coverage of expenses, academic records, and evidence of ties to Nigeria (family, property, or future plans) to demonstrate intent to return. Prepare clear, honest responses focusing on your study goals.
Visa fees and SEVIS fees are subject to change; always confirm on official US government websites.
Ready to start your US study journey?
Chat with our StudyAbroadly advisors for free guidance tailored to Nigerian students
Popular US Cities for Nigerian Students: Universities & Estimated Living Costs
Nigerian students increasingly choose US cities with strong Nigerian communities, affordable living relative to prestige, top universities , and vibrant international student support
| City | Popular Universities | Estimated Monthly Living Cost (USD, excl. tuition) |
|---|---|---|
| Houston, TX | University of Houston, Texas Southern University, Rice University | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Dallas–Fort Worth, TX | University of Texas at Arlington, University of North Texas, UT Dallas | $1,300 – $1,900 |
| New York City, NY | Columbia University, NYU, CUNY System | $2,500 – $4,000+ |
| Boston, MA | Harvard University, MIT, Boston University, Northeastern University | $2,200 – $3,500 |
| Washington, D.C. | Howard University, University of Maryland, George Washington University | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Chicago, IL | University of Illinois Chicago, Northwestern University | $1,800 – $2,800 |
| Atlanta, GA | Georgia Tech, Emory University, Georgia State University | $1,400 – $2,200 |
| Los Angeles, CA | UCLA, USC, California State University System | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Champaign–Urbana, IL | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | $1,200 – $1,800 |
FAQs for Nigerian Students Studying in the USA (2026–2027)
Below are the most common questions Nigerian students ask when planning to study in the USA.
1. Can Nigerian students study in the USA?
Yes! Nigerian students can study in the USA, but make sure you have your admission and F-1 visa sorted before you travel
2. What are the best intakes for Nigerian students in the USA?
The Fall intake (August–September) is the most popular, with Spring (January) and Summer (May) also available for select programs.
3. What are the basic requirements to study in the USA?
Requirements include academic transcripts, WAEC/NECO or degree certificates, English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS), passport, statement of purpose (SOP), CV, and proof of funds.
4. Do Nigerian students need TOEFL or IELTS?
Most universities require English proficiency tests. Some schools waive it if your prior education was in English.
5. Is SAT or ACT compulsory for Nigerian students?
Many universities are test-optional, though submitting SAT/ACT scores may improve scholarship eligibility and admission chances at top-tier schools.
6. How much does it cost to study in the USA from Nigeria?
Costs vary by program type and location.
7. Are scholarships available for Nigerian students in the USA?
Most scholarships are competitive and require strong academic records
8. Can Nigerian students get fully funded scholarships in the USA?
Yes. Programs like Fulbright and some PhD or STEM funding packages can cover tuition, living expenses, insurance, and travel.
9. Can Nigerian students work while studying in the USA?
Yes. F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week on campus and full-time during breaks.
10. What is OPT and can Nigerian students apply?
OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows students to work in the USA after graduation for 12 months, extendable to 36 months for STEM degrees.
11. How long does the US student visa process take in Nigeria?
Processing typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on embassy appointment availability, document preparation, and interview scheduling.
12. Is it difficult for Nigerians to get a US student visa?
Approval depends on strong documents, clear study intentions, proof of funds, and proper interview preparation. Using StudyAbroadly guidance improves chances.
13. What proof of funds is required for a US student visa?
Applicants must show sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year, typically via bank statements or sponsor letters.
14. Can I study in the USA with WAEC only?
Yes, for undergraduate programs, though some universities may require additional foundation or bridging courses.
15. Which courses are popular among Nigerian students in the USA?
Popular programs include Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Nursing, Public Health, and Data Science.
16. Are US degrees recognized in Nigeria?
Yes. US degrees are internationally recognized and accepted by employers, professional bodies, and academic institutions in Nigeria.
17. Which US universities are affordable for Nigerian students?
Affordable options include University of Houston, University of North Texas, Texas Southern University, and Houston Community College.
18. Do US universities have Nigerian communities?
Yes. Many universities have strong Nigerian and African student associations, providing networking, mentorship, and cultural support.
19. Do I need an agent to study in the USA from Nigeria?
No, but using a trusted platform like StudyAbroadly simplifies applications, scholarships, and visa guidance.
The information provided in this guide (including standardized test requirements, application processes, costs, scholarships, city recommendations, and timelines) is for general informational purposes only and is based on data available as of December 2025.