Studying in Canada remains one of the top international education dreams for many Nigerian students — and for good reason. Canada is known for its world-class universities, multicultural environment, and post-study work opportunities. However, getting admission and securing a study visa requires meeting specific criteria.
If you’re considering pursuing your academic goals in Canada from Nigeria, this guide outlines everything you’ll need to successfully apply and relocate.
1 Academic Admission Requirements
Before applying for a study permit, you must secure admission into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Here’s what you typically need:
- O’Level Certificate (WAEC/NECO) with required credits (usually 5 subjects including English and Mathematics).
- Proof of English Language Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic (Minimum scores depend on the institution, generally IELTS 6.0+ for undergraduate, 6.5+ for postgraduate).
- Post-Secondary Academic Credentials: ND, HND, Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent for graduate programs.
- Transcript of Academic Records
- Valid International Passport
2. Canadian Study Permit (Student Visa) Requirements
After receiving your admission letter, you’ll apply for a Canadian study permit via the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal. You’ll need:
- Valid Passport
- Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Proof of Funds to show you can cover tuition and living expenses (minimum CAD $20,635 for a year outside Quebec)
- Passport Photographs
- Immigration Medical Examination (IME)
- Police Clearance Certificate (if required)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study plan and reasons for choosing Canada
- Receipt of Visa Application Fee Payment (CAD $150)
3. Proof of Funds — What’s Required?
You must prove you can financially sustain yourself while studying in Canada. Documents include:
- Bank Statements (past 4-6 months)
- Bank Draft
- Proof of Scholarship (if any)
- Financial support letter (from sponsor, if applicable)
- Property or business ownership documents (optional)
4. Biometric Enrolment
You’ll be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at an official Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria, currently located in:
- Lagos
- Abuja
- Port Harcourt
5. Additional Requirements:
- Travel Itinerary
- Proof of Accommodation
- COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (if required by Canadian government at the time of travel)
6. Study Permit Processing Time from Nigeria
As of 2025, processing a Canadian study permit from Nigeria takes 8–14 weeks, depending on application completeness and seasonal demand.
7. Popular Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada:
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- Centennial College
- Humber College
- Conestoga College
- University of Manitoba
Ensure all your documents are accurate, authentic, and submitted early, especially for September and January intakes. Always confirm the latest visa updates via the official IRCC website.
