Nigerian students in UK surge 59% as visa rules tighten
Nigerian nationals received 30,204 UK study visas in 2025, a 59% increase from 2024, making Nigeria the third-fastest-growing nationality for UK study visas. This follows Pakistan (30,781) and India (95,231). The UK government plans to cap student recruitment and introduce a £925 annual levy from 2028, while shifting to digital visas for Nigerians starting February 2026. The Home Office report shows 63% of international students pursue master's degrees, though master's grants fell 19% to 256,303. Nigerian students also secured 3,894 study extensions, accounting for over half of all extensions granted.