Lana Oconnell
Nigeria's higher education system is facing challenges due to a low admission ratio and high unemployment among graduates. However, Nigerian students are increasingly pursuing international academic experiences, with the country ranking 7th globally for sending students to US colleges and universities. To graduate from a Nigerian university, students must meet the requirements of their degree classification system, which ranks overall performance in bachelor's degree programs and affects graduate admissions and employment prospects. Nigerian universities offer a range of diplomas and degrees, including Bachelor of Technology (BTech) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs. The country's largest university, the National Open University of Nigeria, had over half a million students as of 2019.
What You'll Learn
Entry requirements for Nigerian students at international universities
English Language Proficiency
One key requirement for Nigerian students applying to international universities is demonstrating English language proficiency. While Nigeria is recognised as an English-speaking country, universities in the UK, for example, may require students to take an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL iBT. A high score in English in WAEC exams (taken within the last seven years) may also be accepted as proof of English language proficiency.
Academic Qualifications
In addition to English language proficiency, international universities will typically require Nigerian students to have certain academic qualifications. For undergraduate programmes, this may include a Higher National Diploma, a Bachelor's degree from a recognised university, or completion of a foundation year programme. For postgraduate programmes, a Master's degree from a recognised Nigerian institution is often required, along with relevant work experience or written work.
Personal Statement and References
Some universities may also consider a student's personal statement and references in addition to their academic qualifications. This provides an opportunity for students to highlight their unique strengths and experiences that may not be reflected in their grades or test scores.
Additional Requirements
It's important to note that there may be additional requirements for Nigerian students studying abroad, such as obtaining a student visa, providing proof of vaccination or immunity to certain diseases, and demonstrating financial capability.
Overall, the entry requirements for Nigerian students at international universities can be quite competitive, and it is important for students to carefully research the specific requirements of their chosen university and course.
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English language qualifications
To study at a university in the UK, Nigerian students need to provide proof of their English language proficiency. This is a standard requirement for all international students who want to study in an English-speaking country. While there are occasional exceptions, most universities require students to take a recognised English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
The University of Manchester, for instance, requires applicants to have completed the West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), including Mathematics and Physics, to be considered for the University's Science and Engineering with an integrated foundation year programme. Similarly, the University of Sheffield accepts the WAEC West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) English Grade C or above in place of IELTS or equivalent.
Some universities may waive the English language requirement if the student has already studied in the English language at a particular level. For example, the University of Stirling requires a WAEC English grade of C6 or higher for its postgraduate courses, while the University of Manchester only needs to see that your Nigerian undergraduate degree was taught in English. Less commonly, some universities waive the language requirement for Nigerians entirely, as Illinois State University in the USA does, on the basis that English is a commonly spoken language in Nigeria.
It is important to note that each university and course has its own specific entry requirements. Therefore, it is recommended to check with the admissions office of the university and the relevant admissions team or the International Office of the school for detailed information on English language qualifications.
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Bachelor's and Master's degrees
Bachelors and Masters Degrees
Bachelors Degrees
To gain a bachelor's degree in Nigeria, students typically need to have completed their secondary education and then take the Nigerian entrance exam, the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This exam is arranged by JAMB and consists of four subjects: Use of English and three electives. Students choose subjects that are relevant to the study programme they wish to be admitted to.
After gaining entry, bachelor's degree programmes in Nigeria usually last four years, although some may be five years, and medical programmes last six years. These degrees are usually focused on research or professional practice, and sometimes include an internship or thesis.
Masters Degrees
For entry into a master's degree programme, students usually need to have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university in a relevant subject. Some courses may also require a certain amount of work experience, and some may accept a bachelor's degree combined with relevant research experience.
International students wishing to study a master's degree abroad may need to take an English language test, such as IELTS, and some universities may also require additional tests such as GMAT or GRE.
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Nigerian entrance exams
To gain entry to a UK university, Nigerian students must meet certain academic requirements. These requirements vary depending on the university and course in question, but there are some general exams that Nigerian students can take to improve their chances of acceptance.
One such exam is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which is an internationally recognised English language qualification. IELTS is accepted by many UK universities, including the University of Sheffield, which requires a minimum overall score of 4.0, with no section below 4.0. An alternative to IELTS is the WAEC West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE), which can be accepted with an English grade of C or above.
Another option for Nigerian students is to take the WAEC/NECO High School Diploma Exam. This exam is offered by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO), and a score of C6 or higher in at least five courses is required for admission to UK universities.
In addition to these exams, Nigerian students may also need to provide other qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from a recognised university in a relevant subject. Some courses may accept a bachelor's degree on its own if it is combined with relevant research or work experience.
It is important for Nigerian students to research the specific requirements of the UK university and course they are interested in, as the admissions process can be precise and sequential.
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Studying abroad
Choosing a Destination:
The first step is to decide where you want to study. Popular destinations for Nigerian students include Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, China, Finland, Norway, New Zealand, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Australia. Consider factors such as the quality of education, living costs, scholarship opportunities, language requirements, and job prospects when making your decision.
Research and Preparation:
Start by researching the universities in your chosen country that offer your desired program or course of study. Prepare your academic credentials, including transcripts, diplomas, and language proficiency certifications (such as TOEFL, IELTS, or the target country's language exam). Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and begin preparing your application well in advance.
Scholarships and Finances:
Application Process:
Once you have selected your desired universities, submit your application documents. This process may vary depending on the country and university, but it typically involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of language proficiency. You may also need to apply for a student visa, so ensure you are familiar with the visa requirements for your chosen country.
Cultural Experience:
By following these steps and staying organized, you can successfully navigate the process of studying abroad as a Nigerian student, setting yourself up for a rewarding academic and cultural journey.
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements for university graduation in Nigeria vary depending on the institution and programme. However, some common requirements include:
- Successful completion of a programme, which typically lasts four years for a bachelor's degree and may include research, internships, or a thesis.
- Meeting the required subjects and grades, which may include the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and previous education grades.
- Submission of necessary documentation, such as officially issued certificates, transcripts, and identification documents.
Nigerian students are typically required to demonstrate a sufficient level of English proficiency to graduate from university. This can be done through internationally recognised qualifications such as IELTS or the West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) with a grade of C or above in English. Some universities may also accept other English language tests or equivalent qualifications.
Yes, international students may have additional requirements for graduating from Nigerian universities. For example, the University of Sheffield requires international students to complete an International Foundation Year or a Pre-Masters programme before progressing to a degree programme. Other universities may have similar foundation programmes or require specific qualifications and work experience for entry.
Direct admission to higher education in Nigeria can be obtained through certain qualifications, such as a National Diploma (ND) or a Higher National Diploma (HND). These qualifications can provide direct entry to specific study programmes without the need to take the UTME. However, specific requirements may vary depending on the institution and programme.
