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Want To Study Abroad? Here Are 7 Smart Tips To Help You Get Started And Succeed

Published

3 months ago

July 5, 2025

Editor

Studying abroad is one of the best decisions any Nigerian student can make. It opens doors to world-class education, international exposure, and better career opportunities.

Contents
1. Set clear goals
2. Choose the right country and school
3. Start your application process early
4. Search for scholarships and funding opportunities
5. Prepare for visa application and travel documents
6. Join a community or connect with alumni
7. Learn basic survival skills

But the process can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What should you prepare? How can you get funding? To make things easier, we’ve put together these 7 simple but powerful tips to study abroad

1. Set clear goals

Before you even pick a country, take time to think about why you want to study abroad. Is it for better quality education, a specific course, or job opportunities after graduation?

Your goals will determine the best destination, school, and course for you. Don’t choose a country just because your friend is there or it sounds fancy. Think long-term.

2. Choose the right country and school

Some countries are better for certain courses. For example, Canada is popular for tech and healthcare courses, Germany is known for engineering, while the UK is great for business and social sciences.

Examine tuition fees, living expenses, work options, and visa rules. Choose what fits your career dreams and financial strength.

3. Start your application process early

One of the biggest mistakes Nigerian students make is waiting too long to apply. Most schools abroad open applications 6–12 months in advance.

You’ll need to prepare transcripts, write a personal statement, get recommendation letters, and sometimes write exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT. Starting early gives you enough time to prepare well and avoid rushed mistakes.

4. Search for scholarships and funding opportunities

Studying abroad is expensive, but many Nigerian students don’t know that there are scholarships. Some are fully funded, while others cover part of your tuition or living costs. Scholarships are competitive, so apply early and make your documents strong.

5. Prepare for visa application and travel documents

After getting admission, your next big step is getting your visa. This part can be stressful if you’re not well-prepared. You’ll need to show proof of admission, financial capability, a passport, and sometimes health checks or police reports.

Always check the specific requirements on the embassy website of your destination country. For example, the UK visa process is different from that of Canada or Australia. Be truthful in your documents, as visa officers can easily spot fraud.

6. Join a community or connect with alumni

It helps a lot to speak with Nigerians who have studied or are studying in your country of choice. You can find these communities on LinkedIn, Twitter (now X), or even WhatsApp groups.

They can guide you on what to expect, what to pack, how to settle down, and how to avoid common mistakes. This real-life advice is often more helpful than what you read online.

7. Learn basic survival skills

Living abroad can shock you if you’re not financially prepared. Learn how to budget, cook your own food, and manage time. Don’t assume you’ll find a job immediately after arriving.

Go with enough funds to cover at least 3 months of expenses. Also, avoid the temptation to live like a big boy or big girl. Focus on your goals.

The journey won’t always be easy, but with the right mindset, proper planning, and useful resources, you’ll be well on your way to building a better future through international education.
(Tribune)

Related Topics:Nigerians stranded abroad Study Abroad

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