UK Student visa checklist for Nigerian applicants

Most UK visa refusals we see are about paperwork, not people. This checklist covers what Nigerian students usually need for the UK Student visa. Rules and amounts change, so always confirm the current requirements on GOV.UK before you apply.

Documents you’ll need

• CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your university, which must be a licensed student sponsor.
• A valid passport, with a blank page for your visa if you’re issued one.
• Proof of funds covering your first year’s unpaid tuition plus living costs for up to nine months. The money must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and the bank statement must be dated within 31 days of your application. The required living-cost amount is higher for London than for the rest of the UK.
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from an approved clinic. Applicants from Nigeria need this for stays of more than six months.
• Proof of English, if your university hasn’t already assessed it for your CAS.
• Parental consent if you’re under 18, and a letter from your sponsor if a government or organisation is funding you.
• ATAS certificate if your course is in certain sensitive science or technology subjects. Your CAS will say if you need one.

Common mistakes that cause refusals

• Funds dipping below the required amount on any day during the 28-day period.
• Using a bank statement older than 31 days, or from an account the rules don’t accept.
• Money held by a relative who isn’t a parent or legal guardian, without the right supporting documents.
• Details that don’t match across your CAS, passport and application form.

Costs to plan for

Alongside the visa application fee, you’ll pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives you access to the NHS during your stay. Check both amounts on GOV.UK when you apply, as they’re reviewed regularly.

Timing

You can apply up to six months before your course starts. After applying online you’ll book an appointment at a visa application centre to give your fingerprints and photo. Decisions usually take around three weeks, so don’t leave it late. Successful applicants now receive an eVisa, a digital record of their immigration status, instead of a physical card.

Bringing family

Since January 2024, most students on taught courses such as master’s degrees can no longer bring dependants. There are exceptions, for example for postgraduate research courses, so check your own situation carefully.

Want a second pair of eyes before you submit? Our counsellors check every document and run mock visa interviews. Book a free consultation or see our visa support service.