How to Study your Dream Course Abroad

Studying abroad can be a valuable and rewarding experience for Nigerian students, providing them with the opportunity to gain international exposure and experience, and to access higher education opportunities that may not be available in Nigeria. However, studying abroad can also be a significant financial burden, and requires careful planning and research. In this post, we will explore the various ways Nigerian students can study abroad, including applying for scholarships, student loans, study abroad programs, self-funding, and private organizations. We will also discuss the pros and cons of each option, and provide tips on how to navigate the application process. Whether you’re a high school student considering undergraduate studies abroad, or a working professional looking to pursue a graduate degree, this post will help you understand your options and plan your path to studying abroad in 2023.

Six ways to Study your Dream Course Abroad

Applying for scholarships

There are many organizations and government agencies that offer scholarships to Nigerian students to study abroad. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. Some examples include:

The Nigerian government’s Federal Government Scholarship Awards, which are offered to undergraduate and postgraduate students in a variety of fields, such as medicine, engineering, and agriculture.
The Nigerian-American Leadership Council, which offers scholarships to Nigerian students who wish to pursue graduate studies in the United States.
The Chevron Scholarship Awards, which are offered to Nigerian students who are pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

When applying for scholarships, it’s important to research the various options available, understand the application requirements and procedures, and submit your application well before the deadline.

Applying for student loans

Many universities and financial institutions offer student loans to international students to help cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. Nigerian students can apply for student loans from local banks or international financial institutions. However, it’s important to note that student loans may have to be repaid with interest and may have an impact on the credit score of the student.

Applying for study abroad programs

Some universities and organizations offer study abroad programs specifically for Nigerian students. These programs often provide full or partial funding, and can be a great way for Nigerian students to gain international experience and exposure. Some examples include:

The British Council offers the Future Leaders Connect program, which provides young leaders from Nigeria with the opportunity to study in the UK.
The United States Educational Foundation in Nigeria (USEF) offers the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program, which provides mid-career professionals from Nigeria with the opportunity to study in the United States.

Applying as a self-funded student

Applying as a self-funded student is another option for Nigerian students who want to study abroad. Self-funded students are responsible for covering all their own expenses, including tuition, room and board, transportation, and other living expenses. This option is becoming increasingly popular for students who are unable to secure funding from other sources, such as scholarships, grants or loans.

One advantage of applying as a self-funded student is that it gives students greater control over their educational experience. Self-funded students are not beholden to the terms and conditions of scholarships or grants, and have more flexibility in terms of choosing the course of study, institution, and location of their choice. Additionally, self-funded students may have more opportunities for internships and work experience, as they are not limited by the terms of scholarships or grants.

Another advantage of self-funding is that it can help students build a good credit score, which can be helpful for future financial needs. Paying for education with personal savings or credit can increase the student’s credit score, as long as they are able to repay the loan on time. This can be useful for getting approved for loans or credit cards in the future.

However, it’s important to note that applying as a self-funded student can be a significant financial burden, and students should carefully consider their financial situation before applying. The cost of studying abroad can be high, and students should have a plan in place to cover all expenses, including tuition, room and board, transportation, and other living expenses. Additionally, students should be prepared for the added stress and responsibility that comes with being self-funded, such as finding part-time work or internships to cover expenses. It is important for students to have a realistic understanding of their financial situation and budget before applying.

Applying through private organizations

Applying through private organizations is another way for Nigerian students to study abroad. These organizations offer study abroad programs, and provide the necessary guidance and support to students, helping them with the application process, obtaining visas, and other logistics. They may also help with finding accommodation and other logistics.

One advantage of applying through private organizations is that they can provide personalized support and guidance to students throughout the application process. They are experienced in the process of studying abroad and can help students navigate the complexities of applying to universities and obtaining visas. Additionally, they may have established relationships with universities and other organizations that can make the application process smoother and more efficient.

Another advantage is that these organizations can offer a variety of options for students, such as language classes and cultural exchange programs, which can help students better prepare for their time abroad. They may also offer counseling and support services to help students adapt to their new environment and make the most of their time abroad.

However, it’s important for students to thoroughly research the reputation and accreditation of the private organization, as well as the cost of their services, before applying. Some private organizations may charge high fees for their services, and there may be hidden costs involved. Students should also be aware that private organizations may not have the same level of credibility as universities or government-funded organizations. It is important to verify the authenticity of the organization, before committing.

Applying through online education

Applying through online education is another way for Nigerian students to study abroad. Online education refers to the process of taking classes and completing coursework entirely through the internet. This option is becoming increasingly popular for students who want to study abroad but are unable to relocate or attend traditional on-campus classes.

One advantage of applying through online education is that it allows students to study from anywhere in the world, as long as they have internet access. This makes it a suitable option for students who want to study abroad but have other obligations, such as work or family, that prevent them from relocating. Additionally, online education can be more flexible in terms of scheduling and can offer greater access to a wider range of courses, as students are not limited to the course offerings of a single institution.

Another advantage of online education is that it can be more cost-effective than traditional on-campus education. Online courses may not have the same expenses as traditional on-campus courses, such as room and board, transportation, and other living expenses. Additionally, online education can provide access to universities and programs that might not be available in Nigeria or other countries.

However, it’s important to note that online education may not be the best fit for all students. Online classes may require more self-motivation, discipline, and time management skills than traditional on-campus classes. Additionally, students may not have the same level of support or opportunities for networking and hands-on learning as they would with traditional on-campus classes. It is important for students to carefully research and understand the requirements, format, and accreditation of the online program before applying.