Many Lagos students go abroad for a degree or a master’s. The academic application is the easy part; the documents, the money and the visa take longer, so start early.
Documents
- WAEC or NECO results: universities abroad verify them directly with the exam body. Buy the verification or scratch-card access they ask for.
- University transcripts: ordered from your university’s registry, often sent directly to the foreign university. This can take weeks.
- Certificates and other documents: some universities and embassies want them authenticated or notarised.
Getting documents accepted abroad
English tests
Many universities exempt Nigerian applicants from an English test, because English is the language of instruction here; others, and some visa authorities, still require one. Check each.
Paying fees and proof of funds
- Tuition can be paid to the institution through your bank, with the admission letter and invoice, under the Central Bank’s rules.
- Proof of funds for a visa usually means a bank statement showing money held for a set period. Plan it months ahead; recently deposited lump sums raise questions.
The visa
Each country has its own student visa, with its own fees, interview and processing time, often through a visa application centre in Lagos. Book as early as you can, and keep copies of everything you submit.
Beware agents
Study-abroad agents can help, and some are paid by universities to recruit. Others charge large fees for guaranteed admission or visas, which nobody can guarantee. Fake admission letters and fake visas are a known fraud. Apply through the university’s own portal, and pay universities directly.