How to Apply for UK Student Visa in Nigeria
If you’re a student over 16 and you have been offered a place on a course at a UK institution, you can apply for a UK Student Visa. The Student Visa will allow you to study in the UK for up to five years, depending on your course.
For more information about the UK Student Visa, including accurate dates and personalised advice from a team of professionals, get in touch with one of our legal advisors today. You can call Immigration Advice Service (IAS) on +23413438882 or +44 (0) 3316300929. You can also contact us online.
Need Help with your UK Student Visa application?
We have a proven track record of assisting numerous Nigerians in obtaining UK Student Visas. If you require guidance on how to get started with your application, contact us for expert assistance. We can handle all the complexities and provide you with comprehensive support.
Contact Us
Nigerian Emigration
For Nigerian emigration matters, please call +44 (0) 3316300929 or +23413438882
Other Immigration and Emigration Matters
For immigration/emigration to/from other countries, please call:
US – +1 844 290 6312
Ireland – (+353) 061 518 025
UK – (+44) 333 4149244
"I had spoken with several people with this company, and I am extremely satisfied with how kind and patient they are. I doubt I would choose anyone else to help me through my immigration to the UK.
"
Jazzmin
Posted 2 years ago
"I booked an advice appointment and my experience with Niamh Fegan was fantastic. After discussing the circumstances for my partner and me we worked through the visa requirements and I was provided with clear guidance on how to confidently apply for my partner's migration."
Oliver
Posted 2 years ago
"I am happy with the service from IAS. The process of booking for consultation is fast and easy. The consultant is very professional and Especially with Dina Modi she’s so helpful and explains everything you need."
Wael
Posted 2 years ago
Overview
Nigerian students legally require a UK Student Visa in order to study at a UK institution. These visas are available in two forms:
- Student Visitor Visa (for courses up to six months)
- Student Route Visa (for courses longer than six months)
When you are given a place on a UK course, you receive a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) which contains a unique reference number. This document is extremely important and must be kept safe for use while applying for your visa.
Once your CAS is issued, you will need to follow the application procedure, which is as follows:
- Completion of the online application form
- Fee payment
- An interview at a UK Visa Application Centre where your biometric data will be taken
- Collection of supporting evidence
Completing the Online Application Form
When applying for either of the two versions of the UK Student Visa, you will be required to fill out an online form and submit your personal information for registration. You will need to use a valid email address to create an account for the management of your application.
You will need several documents on hand to support your application, including:
- Your passport details
- Your CAS reference number
- The original academic documents listed in your CAS letter
- Test scores for English language examinations
- Financial information regarding your chosen course (tuition fees etc.)
- Translated versions of documents (if applicable)
- ATAS certificate (if applicable)
You will need to have access to a payment card in order to pay for the application to be submitted.
Paying for the Application
In order for your application to be processed, you will need to pay the visa fee immediately after the online form is completed. Both versions of the UK Student Visa cost £363 when applying from outside the UK. However, if you are applying to extend or switch to either of the two options from inside the UK, it costs £490.
You will also need to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of the application process, the cost of which varies depending on the length of your visa. As these costs have changed in recent years, it is important to check with the official website to see exactly how much you owe.
In some cases, you may be able to bring dependants with you. You will need to pay the standard fee for each person that accompanies you.
The Visa Credibility Interview
Overview
Once you have completed the application form and paid all the necessary fees, you will need to attend an interview at the closest UK Visa Application Centre to you (TLScontact in Nigeria). Here, you will have your biometric information taken (fingerprints and photo ID) for reference.
Giving a Good Impression
When attending your credibility interview, it is very important to give a good impression. You should arrive at least ten minutes before your allotted appointment and dress appropriately for your formal photographs. Ensure that any tattoos are covered up and that your clothing, face and hands are clean and free from cuts and damage.
Questions to Expect
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) use credibility interviews to determine which applicants are ‘genuine’ students, which helps to protect those working towards study in the UK. During an interview, you will be asked to discuss specific points in relation to your application. These include, but are not limited to:
- Your reasons for coming to the UK
- Your general immigration history
- Your educational history and track record, including plans you may have while studying and after studying in the UK
- Your personal circumstances (including your financial situation, issues regarding family and your personal well-being)
- If you have dependents travelling with you, they will also be considered using the above topics
Once your interview is completed, you will be handed a document that needs to be posted alongside the completed application form and any additional documentation that you are asked to provide.
Sending Supporting Evidence
Your application will need to be accompanied by several documents to support the confirmation of your identity and the answers you provided during your interview. Alongside your form, you will need to submit:
- All the information you have concerning your sponsor
- Proof that you can fund your stay in the UK, including a bank statement
- Two passport-size photographs and your biometric information.
Once this has been posted and processing has begun, it usually takes around three weeks for your visa to be either approved or rejected. In some cases, you can pay for this process to be sped up, but generally, it is important to factor this waiting time in when making travel plans.
How Can IAS Help?
We know how stressful applying for a UK visa can be, and since the UK Student Visa is one of the most highly sought-after visas offered by the UK government, there is a sense of urgency to get it right the first time.
We are a team of experienced, empathetic and accessible experts with decades of experience in supporting applicants from all over the world. If you want extra information or just a little friendly guidance throughout the application process, IAS is here to help.
For more information concerning our services, reach out to one of our legal experts today on +23413438882 or +44 (0) 3316300929.
Last modified on October 25th, 2023 at 8:44 am
Advice Package
Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.
Application Package
We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.
Fast Track Package
Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.
Appeal Package
Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.
The Advice Package
With our Advice Package, you can book a one-to-one session with one of our legal team and receive bespoke advice tailored for your situation. We will review your case and give you expert advice on how best to proceed with your immigration matter. Reach out to a member of our team and book your session today.
The Application Package
Our Application Package is designed to help relieve the stress of immigration applications. One of our legal caseworkers will help you throughout the entire process, including establishing your eligibility for your chosen route, completing your application form to the highest standards and organising your documents. We will then submit it and monitor its status on your behalf.
The Fast Track Package
Our premium Fast Track Package is ideal if you need to submit an application quickly, such as if you need to meet a tight deadline. Our lawyers will work closely with you to see that your application is completed to the highest standards and ensure you get your application in on time, helping to take the stress and pressure off you.
The Appeal Package
Visa appeals can be a stressful process, especially if you’re relying on a specific visa to be approved. Our legal team can help you navigate the whole process and maximise your chances of a successful appeal, working alongside you to reach a favourable result. We can also represent you in immigration-related hearings and tribunals.