Your first week in the UK: an arrival checklist for new students
You have landed. Here is what to sort out in your first seven days so the rest of the term goes smoothly.
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Admissions
How to study in the UK from Nigeria: a step-by-step guide
From picking the right course to getting your CAS, here is the order things happen in when you apply to a UK university from Nigeria.
The UK is the most popular destination for the students we guide from across Nigeria, and for good reason: world-ranked universities, one-year master’s degrees and a post-study work route. The process has a clear order to it. Here is how it usually runs.
1. Choose your course and university
Start with the subject, not the university name. Look at course modules, how you’ll be assessed, the city, and the total cost (tuition plus living costs). Build a shortlist of five or six universities with a mix of ambitious and realistic choices.
2. Check the entry requirements
- Undergraduate: many UK universities don’t accept WAEC or NECO results alone for direct entry to a bachelor’s degree. Students often take a foundation year, A-levels, or a year of university study in Nigeria first.
- Postgraduate: most master’s courses ask for a bachelor’s degree with a minimum class (often a second class upper or lower, depending on the course).
- English: most students need an approved English test such as IELTS, although some universities accept a strong WAEC English result. Always check each course page.
3. Apply through UCAS or directly
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS, which lets you apply to up to five courses with one personal statement. Most courses have a January deadline for equal consideration; medicine, dentistry, veterinary courses, Oxford and Cambridge close earlier, in October. Postgraduate applications usually go directly to each university, and many courses review applications on a rolling basis, so applying early helps.
4. Write a strong personal statement
Explain why this subject, why now, and what you’ve done that shows it. Specific examples beat big claims. Ask a teacher or lecturer who knows your work for your reference in good time.
5. Accept an offer and get your CAS
Offers are either conditional (you still need to meet something, like a final grade or English score) or unconditional. Once you accept and meet the conditions, and usually after paying a tuition deposit, the university issues your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). You need it for your visa.
6. Apply for your Student visa
With your CAS, funds and documents ready, you can apply for the UK Student visa from Nigeria. Our UK Student visa checklist walks through every document.
7. Plan accommodation and travel
Book university halls or private accommodation early, arrange flights for a few days before your course starts, and read our first-week arrival checklist.
When to start
For a September start, begin researching 9 to 12 months ahead. January intakes exist for some postgraduate courses, but choice is narrower. If you’d like a counsellor to build your shortlist and check your documents, book a free consultation.
