The United Kingdom remains one of the most attractive study destinations for Nigerian students. Each year, thousands of Nigerians enroll at universities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, drawn by academic reputation, global recognition of UK degrees and diverse career opportunities. Institutions such as the University of Manchester, Imperial College London, the University of Leeds and many others continue to admit large numbers of Nigerian students.

At the same time, the UK student visa process has become more demanding. Applications are reviewed closely, and mistakes that were once overlooked now lead to refusals. Understanding the current process, requirements, and realistic timelines helps you prepare properly and avoid costly mistakes. This guide explains the current UK Student Visa process for Nigerian students applying in 2026, including updated visa fees, financial requirements, eVisa changes, and application steps based on UKVI rules.

UK Student Visa New Rules

The UK government has implemented several significant changes to student visa policies that directly affect Nigerian applicants in 2026.

1. The Graduate Route remains available to students who complete eligible UK degree programmes. It allows graduates to stay in the UK for a limited period to work or look for work after completing their studies. Eligibility depends on the programme and institution, so students should confirm this with their university before applying.
2. Financial requirements have increased in response to rising living costs. Students must show enough funds to cover their first year tuition and maintenance costs. Maintenance funds are calculated for nine months. The amount is higher for students studying in London and lower for those studying outside London. The funds must be in the student’s account or an approved sponsor’s account and must not drop below the required amount at any point during the 28-day period.
3. The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies now plays a central role in visa decisions. Universities verify applicant information carefully before issuing a CAS. Any mismatch between the CAS and the visa application can lead to refusal.
4. Dependents are subject to stricter rules. Only students enrolled in certain postgraduate programmes may be eligible to bring dependents. Additional maintenance funds must be shown for each family member, depending on study location.
5. English language requirements remain in place. Applicants must meet the level required by their institution using approved tests such as IELTS for UKVI, unless a valid exemption applies.
6. Credibility interviews may be requested. These interviews help immigration officers confirm that an applicant is a genuine student. Not every applicant is interviewed, but those invited should prepare thoroughly.

Financial Requirements to Study in the UK

UK student visa applicants must show proof of funds covering full first year tuition, as stated on the CAS, plus living costs held for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.

Maintenance funds are calculated for up to nine months as follows:

• £1,529 per month for students studying in London
• £1,171 per month for students studying outside London

Official education loans, government sponsorships and recognised financial sponsors are accepted, provided documentation meets Home Office requirements.

UK Student Visa Documents Checklist

Preparing complete, accurate documentation plays a major role in UK student visa success.

1. You must hold a valid international passport covering your full period of study. At least one blank page is required.
2. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies issued by your UK university is mandatory. The CAS reference number links your academic offer to your visa application. Review all CAS details carefully before applying.
3. Academic documents include WAEC or NECO results, transcripts and certificates from any post secondary education. All documents must match the qualifications listed on your CAS. Certified translations are required for any document not in English.
4. English language test results must come from approved providers. IELTS for UKVI is commonly used. The test must be valid at the time of application.
5. Financial evidence must show the required funds held for at least twenty eight consecutive days. Bank statements should be clear, consistent and recent. If parents or sponsors are funding your education, their bank statements and sponsorship letters must be included.
6. Approved education loans can be used as proof of funds when issued by recognised financial institutions.
7. Tuberculosis test results from approved clinics in Nigeria are required before applying. The certificate is valid for six months.
8. Applicants under eighteen must provide a parental consent letter explaining living arrangements and approval for UK studies.
9. Any previous UK immigration history must be declared honestly.

UK Student Visa Processing Time

The standard processing time for UK student visas applied from Nigeria is around three weeks after biometrics. However, some applications take longer due to verification checks or interview requests.

During peak periods, processing may extend to four or eight weeks. Applying early gives you flexibility and avoid last minute stress. Priority processing is available for an additional fee and shortens the timeline. This option speeds up review but does not increase approval chances. Super priority service also offers even faster processing, sometimes within 24 hours, but availability is limited and costs are very high.

Once approved, applicants receive their visa. From 2025 onward, many Nigerian students receive a digital eVisa instead of a physical visa sticker. Your immigration status is accessed online through your UKVI account before travelling.

UK Student Visa Application Online

The UK student visa application is completed online through the official government portal. You create an account, complete the application form and enter your CAS number. All information must match your supporting documents exactly.

Supporting documents are uploaded electronically. Clear scans and correct file formats are essential. During the application, you pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Payment confirmation is generated immediately.

All UK visa applications in Nigeria are processed through VFS Global. Applicants must attend a VFS Visa Application Centre to submit fingerprints and photographs after completing the online application. Some applicants may be asked questions during or after biometrics. These questions relate to course choice, funding and future plans.

UK Student Visa Application Fee

The UK Student Visa application fee for Nigerians applying from outside the UK is £524. This fee is paid online during the application process and is non refundable, regardless of the outcome.

Nigerian students must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £776 per year of study. This fee is separate from the visa application fee and grants access to the UK’s NHS. Additional costs include tuberculosis testing, English language exams, document translation and travel to biometrics centres.

Applicants who choose priority processing pay extra fees. When all expenses are considered, the visa application process represents a significant financial commitment separate from tuition and accommodation costs.

Working While Studying in the UK & Graduate Route (Post Study Work)

Most students are allowed to work up to twenty hours per week during term time and full time during official holidays. Work is meant to support living expenses, not to fund tuition. Violating work conditions can result in visa cancellation.

Students who complete eligible programmes may apply for the Graduate Route. The Graduate Route allows international students to remain in the UK for a limited period after completing an eligible programme. Currently, the route permits two years for most graduates and three years for PhD holders.

Students who submit their UK student visa applications on or before 31 December 2026 will continue to qualify for the two year Graduate Route, or three years for PhD graduates, provided all other conditions are met. From 1 January 2027, the Graduate Route duration will change for most graduates. Non PhD graduates will be eligible for 18 months, while PhD graduates will continue to receive three years. Students planning long term work options should factor this timeline into their decisions.

StudyAbroadly: Simplifying UK Student Visa Applications for Nigerians

The UK student visa process leaves little room for error. One refusal can disrupt academic plans and create long term immigration challenges. StudyAbroadly supports Nigerian applicants by assessing eligibility, reviewing documents and guiding applicants through each stage of the process. We focus on accuracy, consistency and preparation. We help applicants understand financial requirements, prepare for possible interviews and submit applications that meet current Home Office standards. Our experience with hundreds of successful UK visa applications from Nigeria means we understand what works. We stay updated on policy changes affecting Nigerian applicants.

The United Kingdom continues to stand out as a leading study destination for Nigerian students. Its universities offer globally respected qualifications, shorter degree durations and learning environments that prepare students for real world careers. Beyond academics, students get international exposure, build valuable networks and experience diverse cultures that broaden their outlook.