Student visa: Nigerian citizen → United Kingdom
You need a Student visa
For courses with a licensed student sponsor — degrees, foundation and other full-time study at 16+.
The bottom line
- This visa is required from every nationality — it's about why you're coming, not which passport you hold. Only British and Irish citizens are exempt.
- First step: a licensed sponsor (your UK employer or school) — you can't apply without one.
- How long you can stay: Length of course (up to 5 years for degree-level).
When to start
Start 45 days–3 months before your travel date.
Getting an appointment in Nigeria
- Lagos (Victoria Island & Ikeja) handles the highest volume — slots get tight in peak periods.
- Abuja (Churchgate Plaza) applicants often find slots more readily than Lagos.
Accept an unconditional offer from a licensed sponsor and receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). You can apply up to 6 months before the course starts.
Money for fees and living costs usually must sit in your account for 28 consecutive days before you apply. Gather qualifications, English test results, and TB test certificate if your country requires one.
Complete the application on gov.uk and pay the fee and the immigration health surcharge if it applies. Your appointment booking happens as part of this application.
Book a visa application centre appointment in Nigeria and attend with your documents to give fingerprints and a photo. You can choose ANY centre in the country — pick whichever city is convenient. Find your nearest on the official centre finder.
Standard processing is around 3 weeks after your appointment. Priority services are often available at extra cost if you're short on time. Don't book non-refundable travel until you have the decision.
When granted, check every detail (dates, conditions, spelling) immediately and report errors before travelling.
What you'll need
- Passport — Valid, with a blank page for the vignette; previous passports help show travel history.
- Financial evidence — Bank statements or payslips showing you can support yourself (and pay for the trip or course).
- CAS / course confirmation — Reference number from your education provider.
- English language evidence — Approved test or exempt qualification, as your course requires. · If required for your course level
- TB test certificate — From an approved clinic. · If staying over 6 months and applying from a listed country
Good to know
- UK visas are now digital (eVisa) — apply and upload online, give biometrics at a centre, and your status is an online record, not a sticker or card.
Where you'll apply
Apply online on gov.uk, then prove your identity — usually biometrics at a visa application centre (VFS Global or TLScontact) in Nigeria.
You can book any centre in Nigeria — we don't assume which city you live in. Find your nearest visa application centre on the official list →
Continue on the official site →