Studying abroad is an opportunity that offers personal growth, academic enrichment, and amazing cultural experience. If you want to broaden their perspective, the world has exciting places or destinations for you to choose from. You will encounter different academic communities and new cultures that will shape your educational journey and future career.
In this article, we have compiled top destinations for Nigerian students who want to study abroad. This list is based on factors such as quality of education, affordability, cultural ease, and post-graduation opportunities for international students. Read everything and pick the destination you feel comfortable with.
Top 10 Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians
UNITED STATES
With many world-renowned universities and diverse academic programs, the United States remains one of the best choices for Nigerian students who plan to study abroad. Universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford offer amazing opportunities for academic excellence in various fields. In addition, the US has a functional Nigerian community, which can provide support for international students. While there could be high tuition fees at some universities, you can find available scholarships, grants, and work-study options to make things easier for you. Also, the US offers opportunities known as Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows graduates to gain work experience after they graduate.
UNITED KINGDOM
The rich academic heritage and cultural diversity of the United Kingdom make it a good destination for Nigerians who want to travel abroad for study. Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London are universities globally recognized for their academic greatness and research excellence. As a Nigerian student, you can benefit from various UK scholarships, including the Chevening Scholarship and Commonwealth Scholarship. Furthermore, since the UK is not too far from Nigeria, it is a good way to still keep close contact with your family and friends while still running your academic program. The UK has a fertile job market and post-study work options that can make your dreams come true.
CANADA
Canada has a welcoming atmosphere, high-quality education system, and cultural diversity that have become attractive to thousands of Nigerian students. Institutions such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are among the world’s best universities currently. The higher institutions in Canada place importance on diversity and inclusion, and offer support services for international students to enable them to have a smooth academic experience. Canada rolled out some amazing immigration policies such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP), to allow graduates to gain the needed work experience and obtain permanent residency. Tuition fees are affordable and the cost of living is low when you compare it with what is found in other English-speaking countries.
AUSTRALIA
Beautiful natural landscapes, lively cities and world-class universities are some of the attractions that pull thousands of international students to Australia every year. Institutions such as the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and the University of Sydney have a variety of academic programs and research opportunities for students from all over the world. Nigerian students can benefit from Australia’s multicultural environment and strong support services purposely created for international students. These services include language assistance and career guidance. The country’s Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) gives graduates the opportunity to temporarily work in Australia after graduation. This is a great way to acquire valuable work experience and opportunities to network at the end of your program.
GERMANY
Germany has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and tuition-free education that make it an enticing destination for international students who are looking for affordable higher education. Universities such as the Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and RWTH Aachen University offer students top-notch education in various relevant disciplines. Most of the programs in German universities are taught in English, which makes things easy for international students. Luckily, living expenses in Germany are relatively low when you compare them to other European countries. Students can benefit from part-time work opportunities to help themselves financially. Germany’s post-study work visa allows graduates to stay for a while after graduation to seek employment in the country.
NETHERLANDS
The Netherlands is known for its special approach to education, multicultural society, and high English proficiency. Dutch universities such as Delft University of Technology and University of Amsterdam have programs that are taught in English. These quality institutions place priority on practical learning and academic research. They also have scholarships and internship opportunities that Nigerian students can also benefit from. These juicy opportunities make the Netherlands a good study abroad destination.
FRANCE
France is a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and prestigious institutions, France offers amazing study abroad experience for Nigerian students. This country boasts of universities like Sorbonne University and École Polytechnique. These institutions of learning provide high-quality education in numerous fields. Nigeria as a country has a historical relationship with France, and this has contributed to cultural exchange and collaboration in the field of education.
JAPAN
Japan’s growth in technological advancements, its rich cultural heritage and globally recognized universities make it a popular destination for Nigerian students. Institutions like the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University run programs in English in different areas of disciplines. Nigerian students can also apply for scholarships and exchange programs provided by the Japanese government and various academic institutions.
SINGAPORE
The strategic location of Singapore, its multicultural society and high-quality universities make it a good study abroad choice for Nigerian students who desire academic excellence and cultural acceptance. Institutions like the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University offer programs and research opportunities to international students. Singapore has a strong tie with Nigeria, and this has encouraged collaboration and exchange in various fields such as education.
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand has beautiful landscapes, a friendly atmosphere, and high-quality education that many international students find irresistible. This has made the country one of the best places for study abroad programs. Universities like the University of Auckland and Victoria University of Wellington offer programs that target the needs of foreign students. Moreover, Nigerians have a strong presence in New Zealand, and this has promoted cultural exchange and collaboration in various sectors.
12 Essential Things to Do Before Traveling to Study Abroad
Moving abroad to study is a good idea as well as a great experience. However, before you take that step, you need to understand what you must do to have a hitch free travel experience. Here are twelve essential things to do before going to study abroad:
Do Your Own Research
Before you pack your bags, find time yourself to research about the country you are going to. Learn everything you need to know about the culture, customs, language, and local laws of your destination country. When you understand what to expect in the new place, it will help you adapt quickly and avoid the possibility of struggling to accept your new environment.
Get all Necessary Documents Ready
Start on time to get all the required documents complete and ready. These documents include a valid passport, student visa, and any other permits that you will need for your destination country. If you need to apply for any documents in your home country, begin the application process early enough to avoid stress or delay.
Plan your Finances
Make sure you create a budget where you calculate your expenses for tuition, accommodation, living costs, and travel. Find out if there are scholarship opportunities or financial aid available to international students studying in your destination country. Remember to open a bank account in the place where you are going to make it easy to access funds.
Get Health Insurance
Visit your doctor and go through a thorough medical check-up, and also update your vaccinations depending on the requirements of the country you are traveling to. Make sure to get comprehensive health insurance that covers every medical emergency, illness, and accident throughout your stay abroad.
Make Accommodation Arrangements
Do your research and secure accommodation options suitable for you before leaving your home country. You can choose options such as university dormitories, shared apartments, and homestays. Whatever your options, make reservations before arrival so that you won’t be stranded when you finally reach your destination country.
Learn the Language of your Destination
If the country where you are going to study speaks a different language, find time and take courses in that language. There are online websites that can help you learn languages in a few months. When you are fluent in the language of the people, it becomes easier to blend in with them and enjoy the academic environment better.
Prepare yourself Academically
Remember that you are going abroad to study, do you need to keep in mind the academic requirements and expectations of your study program. Always spend time on researching the curriculum, course schedules, and grading system to prepare adequately for your coursework. It will help you understand what to expect from you and the institution.
Embrace the Culture
As a student of the university, be willing to participate in cultural orientation programs that your university or study abroad organization offers you. These sessions will give you valuable insights into the culture, customs, and etiquette of the people. Knowing these things will help you manage your new environment with confidence.
Stay in Touch with Loved Ones
Avoid being too secretive about your travel plans. Make sure to inform family and friends about your plans to travel and study abroad. Also remember to maintain regular communication with loved ones so they know how you do in the new country. Don’t do anything that will get them worried over your silence and lack of communication.
Be Smart in your Packing
While arranging your bags or luggage, consider the climate and weather conditions of your destination country. Take essential items such as clothing suitable for the climate. Also carry with you important documents, electronics, medications, and any important personal belongings you think you will need. Keep in mind that there’s a limit to the luggage you are allowed to carry while boarding an airline.
Observe Safety Rules
Read up everything on safety tips and security precautions relevant to your destination country. Are there words you don’t use, places you shouldn’t go and habits you must not practice? Get yourself familiar with emergency behavior s, local emergency contact numbers, and embassy or consulate locations in case something unforeseen happens.
Prepare yourself Mentally
Don’t forget to prepare yourself mentally for the challenges and opportunities that are ahead. Keep your mind open to learn new things, and stay positive no matter how strange things may appear in the beginning. With the right attitude, you will begin to notice changes in you and a gradual ability to interact with the people around you and enjoy the time you spend there. One thing remains true: studying abroad will definitely broaden your perspective and enrich your life in ways you neve thought would happen.