It is common knowledge that obtaining a UK study visa 2025 is one of the biggest travel plans for the majority of Nigerians. It is also no doubt that numerous Nigerian students apply to the UK every year to study because of the country’s world-class universities, post-study work opportunities, and global career prospects.
With these amazing offers comes the overwhelming process of applying for a study visa UK as a Nigerian. Documents, requirements, fees, deadlines, and new immigration rules that influences UK study visa can overwhelm applicants and jeopardize chances, hence, that is why Ile-Iwe, Nigeria’s trusted study abroad agency, comes to the rescue.
With years of experience, great networks with UK universities and colleges, and a great success record, Ile-Iwe Education makes applying for your UK student visa straightforward and effective.
In this guide, we walk you through:
- UK study visa requirements
- Application process for Nigerians
- Fees and cost of a UK student visa
- Processing time and timelines
- Post-study work visa opportunities in 2025
- How Ile-Iwe can help you obtain your UK study visa without stress
Why Nigerians should study in the UK in 2025?
- World-class universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, and University of Manchester attract international attention and good potential for UK study visa 2025 for Nigerians.
- Tailor-made programmes in business, STEM, humanities, and arts are good options.
- Post-study work visa (Graduate Route) allows students to stay back for 2 years after completing degree (3 years for PhD students).
- UK has the largest Nigerian student community for networking and support.
- Nigerians who obtain a UK study visa have access to international exposure and work opportunities in Europe, US, and elsewhere.
- In 2024 alone, more than 60,000 Nigerian students were issued UK study visas (UK Home Office) thereby indicating a high success rate.
Types of UK Study Visas for Nigerians
1. Student Visa (previously Tier 4)
It is the principal visa for Nigerians who wish to study undergraduate or postgraduate courses in the UK.
2. Short-Term Study Visa
For 6–11 months’ courses (such as English language courses).
3. Child Student Visa
For students aged 4–17 who attend a UK independent school.
4. Post-Study Work Visa (Graduate Route)
After completing your course, you’ll be entitled to apply for a 2-year post-study work visa (or 3 years if you’re a PhD).
UK Study Visa Requirements for Nigerians (2025)
In order to apply successfully for a UK student visa, you’ll be required:
- To have a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from a licensed UK institution.
- To produce proof of having enough funds to cover tuition fees + living costs. Outside London: £1,023/month (up to a maximum of 9 months). In London: £1,334/month (up to a maximum of 9 months).
- Pay UK visa application fee (£490, as of 2025).
- Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – £776/annum.
- Provide proof of English language ability (IELTS/TOEFL, if not exempt).
- Provide valid passport, TB test result, and biometrics.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a UK Study Visa from Nigeria
Step 1: Secure Admission
Get a conditional offer from a UK recognized university or college. Ile-Iwe helps you choose the best course and institution.
Step 2: Get Your CAS
The school gives a CAS after you’ve accepted the offer and made payments.
Step 3: Get Ready Financial Evidence
Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor documents.
Step 4: Apply Online
Fill out the UK study visa application form on the gov.uk website.
Step 5: Book Biometrics & Visa Interview
Submit fingerprints, pictures, and supporting documents at TLS Contact centers in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt.
Step 6: Wait for Decision
Standard processing time: 3–6 weeks. Priority services are available.
UK Study Visa Fees & Costs (2025)
Expense Cost
Study Visa Application Fee £524
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) £776/year or £1,035/year
Proof of Funds (outside London) £1,136 per month (up to 9 months) for living costs
Proof of Funds (in London) £1,483 per month
IELTS Exam (if required) ₦295,000 to ₦298,000
TB Test 130 USD
Tip: Ile-Iwe helps students obtain scholarships and scholarships, reducing costs by half.
UK Study Visa Processing Time: How Long Does It Take For Nigerians?
Standard Application: 3–6 weeks
Priority Visa Service: 5 working days
Super Priority Service: 24 hours
Ile-Iwe ensures your documents are correctly prepared to minimize delays and refusals.
ALSO READ: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO UK POST-STUDY WORK VISA
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
Insufficient proof of funds.
Wrong or incomplete documentation.
Unclear academic progression.
Failing credibility interviews.
With Ile-Iwe’s expert consultants, your chances of approval increase significantly.
What You Should Know About Post-Study Work Visa in the UK (Graduate Route)
UK Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa) allows international students to remain in the UK to work or look for work after graduation. The duration of stay ranges 2 years for Bachelor’s & Master’s graduates and 3 years for PhD graduates. There is no need for employer sponsorship and there is an option to switch to Skilled Worker visa later. Ile-Iwe walks you through from study visa to work visa, ensuring that you maximize your opportunities.
Why Nigerians Trust Ile-Iwe for UK Study Visa Support
98% visa success rate.
Direct university collaborations with the UK.
Scholarships available to Nigerian students.
Personalized visa application support.
Transparent costs and requirements.
Real Success Story: In 2024, a lot of Nigerian students processed their UK student visas via Ile-Iwe. Some received up to £10,000 per student scholarship and successfully cleared post-study work visas.
FAQs on UK Study Visa
1. What is the UK study visa from Nigeria?
£490 and health surcharge.
2. Can my dependents accompany me on a student visa?
Yes, if you’re pursuing a postgraduate course of 9 months and above.
3. Can I work during studies?
Yes, 20 hours/week during term time and full-time during holidays.
4. How do I study cheapest in the UK?
Use Ile-Iwe for financial aid schemes and scholarship.
5. How long is the visa valid for?
Covers the duration of your program + 1–4 months extra.
Start Your UK Study Life with Ile-Iwe Education
Studying in the UK is life-changing but getting your UK study visa approved is a specialist task. With more applications and stringent requirements, Nigerians need an expert ally to get approved and stay away from refusals and delays.
Ile-Iwe is Nigeria’s number 1 education consultation agency, getting admissions, scholarships, and successful UK student visa approvals for students year after year. From application to arrival in the UK, we’re here with you every step of the way.
Are you ready to start your UK study journey? Contact Ile-Iwe Education today and let’s make your UK Study Visa dream a reality.
