How Much is the UK Student Visa Fee in Nigeria?

For students in Nigeria aspiring to study in the United Kingdom, one of the most crucial steps is applying for a student visa. The cost of the UK student visa is a significant consideration when planning your education abroad. In this article, we will provide an in-depth breakdown of the current UK student visa fee in Nigeria, including all relevant costs, steps for applying, and tips to navigate the application process successfully.

Understanding the UK Student Visa for Nigerian Students

The UK student visa is required for international students who wish to study in the United Kingdom for more than six months. There are two primary types of student visas:

• Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: This visa is for students aged 16 or over who have been offered a place on a course in the UK.
• Short-Term Study Visa: This visa is for students who plan to study a short course in the UK for up to six months.

For Nigerian students, the most common visa is the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, which allows students to stay for a duration of more than six months to pursue a degree program, diploma, or other educational qualifications.

Current UK Student Visa Fees in Nigeria (2025)

As of 2024, the cost of the UK student visa in Nigeria depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Below is a detailed breakdown of the student visa fees:

1. Tier 4 (General) Student Visa Fee

For Nigerian students applying for the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, the fee is £363. In Nigerian naira, this is approximately ₦250,000 – ₦300,000, depending on the exchange rate at the time of application.

• Application Fee: £363 (₦250,000 – ₦300,000).
• Duration of Stay: Typically, this visa is valid for the length of your course plus an additional four months after completion.

2. Short-Term Study Visa Fee

If you are planning to study a short course (less than six months) in the UK, the fee for the Short-Term Study Visa is:

• Short-Term Study Visa (6 months): £97 (approximately ₦70,000 – ₦85,000).
• Short-Term Study Visa (11 months for English language courses): £186 (approximately ₦130,000 – ₦155,000).

3. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

In addition to the visa application fee, Nigerian students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The IHS grants students access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK. The cost of the IHS depends on the length of your course:

• For students staying for 6 months to 1 year: The IHS fee is £470 per year (approximately ₦350,000 – ₦400,000).
• For students staying for over 1 year: The fee is £470 per year for each year of your stay. For example, if your course is 2 years long, you would need to pay £940 (approximately ₦700,000 – ₦800,000).

The IHS is paid directly during the visa application process.

Steps to Apply for the UK Student Visa in Nigeria

Applying for a UK student visa can seem daunting, but understanding the process makes it more manageable. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying for your student visa from Nigeria:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before applying for a student visa, ensure that you meet the following requirements:

• Offer from a licensed sponsor: You must have an offer from a UK institution that is on the Tier 4 sponsor list.
• Proof of funds: You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during your studies in the UK. This generally means having enough funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel.

2. Gather Required Documents

When applying for a UK student visa, ensure that you have all the required documents ready. The basic documents include:

• Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your intended date of arrival in the UK.
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): This is a unique reference number provided by your UK institution.
• Proof of Funds: Evidence that you have enough money to support your stay in the UK. This can be shown through bank statements, sponsorship letters, or affidavits.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency: Depending on your course, you may need to submit IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized English language test scores.

3. Pay the Visa Fee

After gathering all necessary documents, you will need to pay the visa application fee. You can make the payment online using a debit or credit card. As mentioned earlier, the fee for the Tier 4 student visa is £363, and for short-term study visas, the fee is lower.

4. Biometrics Appointment

Once you submit your application and pay the fee, you will need to attend a biometrics appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken for security purposes.

There are VACs in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. You can schedule an appointment through the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) website.

5. Wait for Your Visa Decision

After submitting your application, biometric data, and supporting documents, the UKVI will process your visa application. It typically takes about 3 weeks to receive a decision on your visa. However, it is recommended to apply at least 3 months before your course begins to account for any delays in processing.

6. Receive Your Visa and Travel to the UK

Once your visa is approved, you will receive a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport, which allows you to enter the UK. You will also receive instructions on how to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) after you arrive in the UK.

Additional Costs Associated with the UK Student Visa

In addition to the visa application fee and IHS payment, there may be other costs related to your UK student visa application:

• Translation of Documents: If your documents are not in English, you will need to provide a certified translation, which can incur additional costs.
• Visa Application Centre Fees: There may be additional fees associated with using the Visa Application Centre (VAC) services.
• Courier Charges: If you need to send or receive documents, you may incur courier fees, depending on your location and requirements.

Conclusion

The UK student visa fee in Nigeria is an essential aspect of planning your studies in the United Kingdom. The costs range from ₦70,000 for short-term study visas to ₦250,000 – ₦300,000 for the Tier 4 student visa, excluding additional expenses like the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). By following the outlined application steps, gathering all required documentation, and ensuring you meet the financial requirements, Nigerian students can successfully navigate the process of applying for a UK student visa.

We recommend applying as early as possible to avoid delays and ensure your visa is processed in time for your studies in the UK. Remember that fees may fluctuate, so always check the UK government website or consult an official visa agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information.