How to Have an Incredible Study Abroad Experience from Nigeria

Studying abroad can be one of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences for a student. As a Nigerian student, you have the amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, language, and way of life by studying overseas. However, planning and preparing for study abroad requires time and effort to make sure you have an incredible experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know as a Nigerian student to have the best study abroad journey, from choosing the right program and destination to packing tips and cultural advice. Read on for tips and insights from real Nigerian study abroad students and experts!

Choosing the Right Study Abroad Program and Location

The first big step is selecting the right study abroad program and destination for you. With so many options out there, this can feel overwhelming. Here are some things to consider:

Types of Programs

• Semester/Year Abroad – Spend one semester or a full academic year immersed in university study overseas. This allows you to take normal course loads and really settle in to the culture.
• Summer/Short-Term – Spend a summer or term (typically 2-8 weeks) taking intensive courses or engaging in an internship abroad. A short-term program allows you to get a taste of studying overseas.
• Exchange Student – Enroll directly in a partner university abroad through an exchange program. This is great for customizing your curriculum.
• Faculty-Led – Study abroad with a group of students from your home university and a faculty guide. Provides built-in support.

Consider your academic needs and goals when deciding which type of program suits you best. If you want to make deeper cultural immersion a priority, a semester or year-long program is likely the best fit.

Destinations

Think about both academic fit and cultural interest when researching study abroad destinations. Popular destinations for Nigerian students include:

• United Kingdom – England in particular provides outstanding university options with numerous partnerships and scholarships for Nigerians. Immerse yourself in the English language.
• United States – A top choice for Nigerian students seeking academic rigor. Opportunities for merit scholarships at US colleges. Experience the diversity of American culture.
• Canada – Canadian universities provide high-quality education, safe cities, and a welcoming multicultural environment. Low tuition fees compared to the UK.
• Australia – From cosmopolitan Melbourne to the Outback, Australia offers adventure alongside great academics. Consider applying for the Australia Awards Scholarship.
• Asia – Studying in places like Singapore, China, and Malaysia provides an enriching Asian experience.hubb often offer affordable tuition.

Look for destinations with established Nigerian immigrant communities for built-in cultural familiarity and support. Reach out to alumni from your university who have studied abroad in locations you are considering.

Finding the Right Program

Once you’ve narrowed down your destination(s), dive deeper into researching specific study abroad programs. Here are tips for finding one that’s an ideal match:

• Talk to your academic advisor – Let them know your plans to study abroad and enlist their help finding programs that work with your major and curriculum.
• Prioritize accredited universities – Ensure the overseas universities you are considering are accredited to guarantee your courses will be recognized by Nigerian institutions.
• Consider rankings – Higher global and national university rankings often equal more prestige. But don’t make rankings your only factor.
• Research academics – Look into the courses and professors in your potential department abroad to find strong academic matches to your interests.
• Compare costs – Tuition, housing, airfare, and other costs vary greatly. Make sure you look into scholarships and have a budget.
• Review student reviews – Look at testimonials and reviews from past students in the program to get insight into academics, cultural activities, housing, etc.

By taking the time to thoroughly research your options, you’ll find a study abroad program that is the perfect fit for you academically and culturally.

Arranging Travel Logistics

Studying abroad involves a good deal of travel before, during, and after your program. Organizing all the logistics in advance is key to ensuring a smooth transition:

Passport & Visa

• Apply for/renew your passport – Be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return travel date.
• Research visa requirements – Find out if you need a student visa and how early you must apply. Many destinations have specific visa rules for Nigerians.
• Schedule your visa interview – Interviews are required for student visas to places like the US, UK and Canada. Prepare thoroughly and request an early interview time to avoid delays.
• Request supporting documents – You will likely need an acceptance letter, proof of funds, transcripts, and potentially other documents that require time to obtain.

Flights

• Book early – Buy international flights 3-6 months in advance for the best deals. Consider flying through a major hub like Dubai to get affordable fares.
• Comparison shop – Use flight search engines like Skyscanner to find the cheapest route. But also call Nigerian travel agencies to compare.
• Fly direct when possible – Direct flights minimize layovers and reduce chances of delays/missed connections.
• Consider baggage allowances – Baggage fees and size/weight limits vary between airlines. Pack strategically.
• Arrange transport from airport – Book airport pickup if available through your program. Otherwise, plan the train/bus route.

Housing

• Explore options – Student dorms, homestays, shared apartments all have pros and cons. Pick what suits you best.
• Book early – Popular housing fills up fast. Reserve a place 3-6 months before departure if possible.
• Read the fine print – Know what amenities are included, rules, deposit info, contract length, etc.
• Ask about support – Some university housing offers special international student programming and staff help.
• Connect with flatmates – Reach out and get to know your new roommates before arrival.

Packing Tips

• Research climate – Check weather patterns and pack suitable clothes for the seasons you’ll be abroad.
• Bring versatile staples – Pack lightweight layers and neutral basics that mix and match easily.
• Limit shoes – Just bring 2-3 versatile pairs suitable for walking, exercising, and going out.
• Bring formal clothes – Include one nice outfit and shoes for events, presentations, etc.
• Pack minimally – You can buy necessities abroad if needed. Only bring essentials.
• Bring from home – Pack your favourite Nigerian seasoning, hair products, prescription meds, etc. that may be hard to find abroad.
• Photocopy important documents – Copy your passport, visa, prescriptions, health records, etc. to keep as a backup.

Thorough planning and early preparation means you can minimize stress once you arrive overseas and focus fully on adjusting to student life in a new country.

Managing Finances Abroad

Figuring out your budget and having a plan to access money abroad is hugely important. Here are some strategies to make managing finances overseas smooth sailing:

Understand Your Costs

Do lots of research in advance to estimate your costs:

• Tuition and fees
• Accommodation and utilities
• Food and groceries
• Books, supplies, and photocopying
• Local transportation
• Health insurance, medical costs, and medications
• Phone plan
• Travel/sightseeing
• Entertainment

Build in a cushion for unexpected costs and fluctuations in exchange rates. Be realistic about what you can afford. Applying for scholarships well in advance can help offset costs.

Arrange Access to Funds

Work out how you will access money abroad early on:

• Open a bank account with a global Nigerian bank – Ensure your debit card will function overseas and withdrawal fees are low. Notify your bank about upcoming international travel.
• Consider a travel money card – Load funds to a prepaid card like TravellWallet to exchange to local currency abroad with low fees.
• Have a mix of payment methods – Bring a credit card, debit card, and some cash in local currency.
• Setup international online banking – Arrange to transfer or wire funds easily through your Nigerian accounts to access more money if needed.
• Research money exchange options – Know where to access Forex locally for emergencies. Compare exchange rates and fees first.
• Use student discounts – Sign up for an International Student Identity Card to get special discounted rates on food, transportation, and activities.

Following a budget carefully and having backup funds gives you financial security and less stress as you transition to academic life abroad.

Adapting to a New Culture

One of the most exciting elements of studying abroad is immersing yourself in a new culture and way of life. But it also comes with culture shock. Here are some tips for adapting smoothly:

Learn Before You Go

• Study basics of the language – At minimum, learn polite phrases, how to order at restaurants, give directions, etc.
• Read about etiquette – Ensure you understand cultural norms and taboos to avoid embarrassment.
• Follow local news/pop culture – Get familiar with current events, celebrities, and pop culture in your new home.
• Join pre-departure groups – Connect online with fellow students heading to your program or destination.

Communicate Openly

• Ask lots of questions – There is no such thing as a stupid question. Seeking to understand is smart.
• Get a local buddy – Make friends with students from your host country who can explain the nuances.
• Clarify confusion quickly – Don’t let misunderstandings linger. Politely ask for help interpreting situations.
• Practice the language daily – Use every chance to improve your language skills.

Embrace Discomfort

• Step outside your comfort zone – Try new foods, make conversation with strangers, go where locals go. This is where growth happens.
• Accept you’ll make mistakes – You’ll say awkward things or accidentally breach etiquette. Laugh, apologize, and move on.
• Focus on similarities – Despite cultural differences, look for shared hopes and values that unite us as humans.
• Keep an open mind – Approach differences with curiosity, not judgement.
• Avoid constantly comparing – Don’t just focus on how Nigeria and your host country do things differently. Appreciate both.

Immerse yourself fully and approach cultural adaptation as an adventure. The rewards of understanding a new way of life far outweigh the challenges.

Staying Healthy and Safe

Studying abroad comes with new health and safety considerations. With some preparation, you can ensure you stay happy and healthy while overseas:

Health Precautions

• Schedule checkups/fill prescriptions – Get medical exams, fill your prescriptions, pack first aid supplies, etc. before departing Nigeria.
• Understand health insurance – Know what your policy covers internationally. Consider supplemental travel insurance.
• Locate nearby hospitals/clinics – Save emergency medical contacts in your phone. Know how to access care on campus/near your housing.
• Research risks – Be aware of any health advisories, vaccination requirements, or prevalence of diseases like malaria in your destination.
• Bring medications – Pack enough of any prescriptions and basic medications to last your whole time abroad.

Mental Health Coping Tips

• Manage expectations – Understand culture shock and homesickness are normal. Be patient with your adjustment.
• Keep healthy habits – Maintain exercise, sleep, and nutrition routines that keep you balanced. Don’t isolate.
• Set goals – Have academic and personal development goals to keep you motivated and focused.
• Stay in touch – Regularly call family and friends at home who provide emotional support.
• Seek on-site counselling – Take advantage of mental health resources provided by your university if you are struggling.

Safety Precautions

• Enroll in STEP – Register with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts.
• Obtain local SIM card – Get a local number you can be reached at in emergencies. Consider a cheap phone just for your trip.
• Share your plans – Leave your full itinerary and program details with loved ones at home. Check in regularly.
• Review laws and customs – Be aware of illegal drugs, appropriate clothing, demonstrations, and other cultural laws. Stay out of trouble.
• Use the buddy system – Avoid going places alone, especially at night. Look out for fellow students.
• Learn emergency numbers – Program the local equivalent of 911 into your phone. Have emergency contacts handy.
• Get insurance – Purchase a policy that includes emergency evacuation, theft coverage, and any adventure activities you plan to undertake.

Taking smart precautions means you can feel at ease focusing on your academics and discovering your new home abroad.

Making the Most of Your Time Abroad

Once you have the logistics covered, it’s time for the fun part – living life fully and gaining invaluable experiences overseas! Here are tips from Nigerian study abroad alumni on making the most of your international journey:

• “Say yes to every invitation and adventure, even if it’s outside your comfort zone. This is how you’ll meet amazing people from around the world and create lifelong memories.” – Janet, University of Nottingham, England
• “Learn to cook one traditional dish from your host country. You’ll wow your friends and expand your skills in the kitchen.” – Chidi, University of British Columbia, Canada
• “Travel on weekends and breaks – see as much as you can of your host country and region.” – Bimbo, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
• “Find and join cultural clubs on campus. It’s a fantastic way to meet locals who are eager to tell you about their country.” – Hassan, Korea University, South Korea
• “Practice your language skills whenever possible, even just small interactions at the store. Immersing yourself is key to fluency.” – Adesuwa, University of Bordeaux, France
• “Keep an open mind and remember people are more similar than we realize. Don’t just focus on the differences.” – Amaka, University of Sydney, Australia
• “Bond with other international students. No one understands what this experience is like quite as much as your peers.” – Chika, University of Pittsburgh, USA

Studying abroad in Nigeria is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make conscious efforts to learn as much as possible about your host country, culture, and yourself. The personal growth and lifelong bonds you’ll gain make all the effort worthwhile.

Life After Studying Abroad

As your study abroad experience winds down, you’ll be preparing to return to life in Nigeria. Here are some tips for making a smooth transition:

• Keep a journal – Record memories and reflect on how you’ve changed. This will help you articulate your experience.
• Complete course evaluations – Be sure to provide feedback to your host university before departing.
• Request transcripts – Follow the process to have your academic records sent to your Nigerian university.
• Take care of housing – Confirm move-out dates with your landlord and coordinate returning keys, etc.
• Plan senior year – Meet with your academic advisor to determine how study abroad credits will integrate into your program.
• Update résumé – Add your study abroad experience, language proficiency, international internships/research, cross-cultural skills, etc.
• Prepare for questions – Think about how you will describe your experience succinctly in job interviews. Reflect on highlights.
• Get involved – Join student organizations for returned study abroad students. Promote study abroad!
• Keep connections – Stay in touch with all the new friends and connections you made internationally.

Rather than just an interlude, study abroad is now an incredible part of your life story. Finding ways to apply your newfound global knowledge and skills will enrich your life, academics, and career back in Nigeria.

Final Tips for an Incredible Journey

Here are a few more pieces of wisdom from Nigerian study abroad experts and alumni on making the most of your experience overseas:

• “Be flexible. Not everything will go as expected, but staying adaptable means you’ll make the best of every situation.”
• “Don’t be afraid to lean into the challenging moments. That’s where you’ll learn the most.”
• “Stay open, curious, and respectful. You’re much more likely to connect with locals this way.”
• “Pack half as much as you think you need – you can buy necessities abroad!”
• “Take lots of photos! They will become priceless memories.”
• “Savor every second…the time flies by quicker than you expect!”

Studying abroad as a student from Nigeria gives you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to expand your worldview. Follow these tips to make sure you gain incredible personal, academic, and professional value from your experience overseas that will stay with you for life.