Find Out Why 76% of Nigerians Prefer To Study In The UK

Nigerians have emerged as the top nationality transitioning from study-related visas to non-study visas in the last three years. This is according to the November 2024 report by the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The data highlights a significant trend of Nigerian migrants leveraging the UK’s visa system for long-term residency or employment opportunities.

But why is the UK the top choice over other countries? Is it the world-class education, post-study opportunities, or something else? Keep reading to find out the real reasons behind this growing trend!”

What UK Office of National Statistics Has To Say
Why Do Nigerians Choose To Study In The UK?
Conclusion
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What UK Office of National Statistics Has To Say

The UK Office of National Statistics (ONS) stated in its publication that the latest estimate of net migration to the UK for the year to June 2024 had risen to a whopping 906,000.

This is a revision from the previous estimate of 728,000, shocking the government. In response, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated in a press conference that his government will imminently publish a white paper that will set out plans for reducing the number of immigrants entering the UK.
He called the incident a “failure” and said that it happened by “design” and not by “accident,” stating that his government would turn the page.

The ONS report went on to highlight that, among the top five nationalities entering the UK on study-related visas, Nigerian nationals were most likely to transition to non-study visas within three years.

The report reveals that for the cohort of year-ending (YE) June 2019, 24% of Nigerian nationals on study-related visas transitioned to a different visa type after three years.
This figure surged to 76% for the YE June 2021 cohort, representing a remarkable 52 percentage point increase.
In other words, 76% of Nigerians who applied for study visas changed from study visas to other visas to enable them to remain in the country.

The data from BusinessDay shows that Nigerian students have been a key driver of the growth in UK international student numbers.

Why Do Nigerians Choose To Study In The UK?

Here are the main benefits of studying in the UK as a Nigerian:

1. Flexibility

Many colleges and universities in the UK allow students to select modules and courses. You can get tailor-made courses depending on your major, allowing you to pick between academic learning and vocational training to improve your creative and job-related abilities.

Flexibility is an important consideration for all students because it allows them to mix things they are enthusiastic about. For example, if you are a computer science major, you can choose music as a non-graded minor, allowing you to develop both intellectual and creative talents.

2. Post-Study Work Opportunities

With the presence of multinational corporations, established businesses, and a rising start-up sector, the United Kingdom is a hotbed for innovation and career opportunities for students and graduates. There are infinite prospects in every sector, and the work-life balance is excellent.

The new graduate path now permits students to stay in the UK for up to two years after completing their degrees to find work in their area. This flexibility is significant and unusual when compared to other countries and their employment rules, as the UK permits immigrants to study and advance in their jobs.

Students can find high-paying jobs by getting a work visa, as well as on-campus employment options such as teaching assistantships or administrative roles.

3. Student-Friendly Campuses

Colleges in the United Kingdom are well-planned and geared to make international students feel at ease when they arrive to begin their studies. Colleges and student housing facilities are designed to foster creativity and vibrant social life while maintaining a strong academic focus.

Student housing is conveniently located near grocery stores, restaurants, pubs, libraries, and the university itself, making it ideal for students to use during their study abroad experience.

4. Recognition and Quality

In the United Kingdom, the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) examines educational standards as well as the quality of teaching and learning in all UK universities. Regular modifications and feedback are taken into account to ensure that all instructions meet certain requirements.

The requirements are also determined by the UK’s higher education financing authorities, which emphasize utility and practical learning. This yearly test distinguishes UK universities from other universities, which is why all of them are highly ranked.

Are you a Jambite? Check out What Is The Difference Between JAMB and Post UTME?

5. Scholarships and Funding

Each UK university has a scholarship program for academic achievement, being a merit student, or just extra support that you may need. Universities also have scholarships for students from minorities or underrepresented backgrounds, promoting inclusion and diversity in the university.

With the best prospects available to students, studying in the UK remains the most accessible, given the diversity of universities and post-study employment opportunities. Regardless of location, every university has student housing alternatives nearby.

6. Ability to move with dependents

The UK government announced on 1st January 2024 that international students studying in the UK will no longer be able to bring dependents with them on their UK student visa, aside from those in research postgraduate programs, PhD.

By YE June 2023, dependents accounted for 55% of Nigerian study-related visas, surpassing students, who represented 45%. This marks a significant shift from YE June 2019, when students made up 79% of the total, and dependents were just 21%.

Conclusion

In the first quarter of 2024, the United Kingdom witnessed a decline in the number of Nigerians applying for study visas. The decline can be attributed to recent changes in visa rules aimed at reducing immigration numbers.

Data from the UK Home Office reveals a sharp downturn, with only 40,700 applications for study visas between January and March 2024, marking a 79 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2023, when the UK received 72,800 study visa applications.

Find Out Why 76% of Nigerians Prefer To Study In The UK

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What UK Office of National Statistics Has To Say