11 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerian Students

Are you interested in knowing the cheapest countries to study abroad for Nigerian students?

If YES, then this article is only what you need to read today.

Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerian students, but the high tuition and living expenses can make it seem like an impossible goal.

However, there are several countries that offer affordable education options for international students, including those from Nigeria.

In addition, these countries are budget-friendly and have rich cultures and histories to explore.

Studying abroad does not only gives you a chance to learn and grow academically but also allows you to immerse in a different culture, meet new people and gain a new perspective on the world.

It’s a life-changing experience that can open many doors for your future career.

Therefore, if you are a Nigerian student looking to study abroad, don’t let the cost discourage you.

There are many affordable options available that can make your dream a reality.

In this article, we will discuss eleven countries that offer affordable education for Nigerian students.

Getting started…

11 Cheapest Countries for Nigerian Students to Study Abroad in 2024

Here are the cheapest study abroad countries for Nigerian students.

1. The United Kingdom

Despite increasingly expensive living costs and tuition fees, the United Kingdom remains the No. 1 country for Nigerians to study abroad.

• Presently, there are approximately 23,000 Nigerian students at universities in the United Kingdom.
• Living costs in the UK typically range between $750- $2,500 per month.
• Tuition fees for Nigerian students in the UK vary between $3000 – $41,500 per year.
• The University of Portsmouth, University of Leeds and Aston University are some of the popular choices for Nigerians studying abroad in the United Kingdom.

2. Canada

Canada has overtaken the USA as the second-favourite destination for Nigerians to study abroad.

• Presently, there are approximately 16,000 Nigerian students at Canadian universities.
• Canada offers guaranteed 1-year work visas post-graduation for Nigerian students, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to secure ideal jobs at world-leading companies in the country.
• Living costs in Canada typically range between $750- $1,200 per month.
• Tuition fees for Nigerian students in Canada vary between $15,000 – $30,000 per year, depending on whether the university of your choice is a public or private institute.
• The University of British Columbia, McGill University and York University are some of the most popular top-ranked universities in Canada for Nigerian students.

3. United States of America

The US is a popular choice for most Nigerian students.

• Presently, there are approximately 13,000 Nigerian students at American universities.
• Living costs in America typically range between $1,750- $2,500 per month.
• Tuition fees for Nigerian students in America can vary between $10000 – $60,500 per year, depending on whether the university of your choice is a public or private institute.
• New York University, Boston University and UCLA are some of the popular choices for Nigerians studying abroad in the United States.

4. China

China is quickly becoming a favourite destination for Nigerian students.

• Presently, there are approximately 9,000 Nigerian students at China’s universities.
• Living costs in China typically range between $750- $1,500 per month.
• Tuition fees for Nigerian students in China can vary between $3000 – $31,000 per year.
• Tsinghua University, Peking University and Zhejiang University are a few of the top-ranked universities where large numbers of Nigerians study in China.

5. Germany

As of today, Germany is one of the cheapest options for Nigerian students looking to study abroad.

Not only is the country known for its excellent education system, but many universities in Germany also don’t charge tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

This makes it a very affordable option for international students.

In addition, many universities in Germany are state-funded, so tuition is free-for-all students, regardless of their country of origin.

However, students may be required to pay a small semester fee for administrative costs, usually between €150 and €300 per semester.

With a wide range of universities to choose from, you will find one that fits your interests and career goals.

Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, or medicine, you’ll find a program perfect for you in Germany.

However, it’s important to note that some universities and programs may have additional fees, such as laboratory and material fees, but they are usually not very high.

Living in Germany is also a great experience.

With its rich culture and history, you’ll have plenty to explore and experience outside the classroom.

From famous landmarks to delicious food, Germany has so much to offer.

It’s also a great way to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn a new language.

With a low cost of living and a high standard of living, you’ll be able to make the most of your time studying abroad in Germany.

6. Norway

Norway is another attractive option for Nigerian students looking to study abroad.

The country offers free tuition for undergraduate and graduate programs at many of its universities, making it an affordable option for international students.

However, students may be required to pay a small semester fee for administrative costs, usually between NOK 300 and NOK 600 per semester.

And, like Germany, some universities and programs may have additional fees, such as laboratory and material fees, but they are usually not very high.

Norway is known for its quality of education, high standard of living, and beautiful natural landscapes.

The country offers a variety of programs in fields such as engineering, business, medicine, and many more.

In addition, Norway is known for its social welfare system, providing high-quality health care and education for all citizens.

The cost of living in Norway can vary depending on the city and region.

7. Malaysia

Malaysia is a great option for Nigerian students looking for an affordable country to study abroad.

The country has a diverse range of universities and colleges, offering a lot of programs.

In addition, the tuition fees for international students in Malaysia are quite affordable, with many universities charging less than $1,000 per year for undergraduate programs.

And the cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive option for students on a budget.

8. Mexico

Mexico is one of the cheapest and great destinations for Nigerian students who are looking for an affordable study abroad country.

The country offers different programs that some Nigerian universities cannot offer.

In addition, many universities in Mexico offer programs in English, making it a convenient choice for students who are not fluent in Spanish.

The tuition fees for international students in Mexico are quite affordable, with many universities charging less than $1,000 per year for undergraduate programs.

Regarding entry requirements, most universities in Mexico require proof of English proficiency, usually through a standardized test such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Students may need proof of high school graduation, and some universities may also require students to take an entrance exam.

The cost of living can vary depending on the city and region, but overall it is low compared to other countries.

However, it’s still worth researching and comparing living costs before deciding, as prices can differ.

9. Italy

Italy is a great destination for Nigerian students looking for an affordable study abroad option, not just for its fascinating architecture and rich culture.

The country has a variety of universities that offer great education opportunities for students.

Though private universities are more expensive, state universities in Italy are more affordable, with tuition fees usually costing around $800 to $1000 per year.

The cost of living in Italy is also relatively low, and international students can work part time to earn extra money, with an approximate earning of $1000 per 20 hours of work per week.

Some universities you could consider studying in Italy are the University of Siena, the University of Florence, and the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano.

10. Belgium

Belgium is the tenth cheapest country for Nigerian students looking to study abroad.

The country boasts a high standard of education, with a vast array of courses to choose from.

In addition, the average cost of tuition fees for international students is about Seven Hundred Thousand in Nigerian currency, making it an affordable option for you.

International students may work and study simultaneously, but there is a restriction of 20 hours of work per week, and the work must not affect their education.

Some of Belgium’s cheapest institutions include the Ghent University (€900), the University of Namur (€830), Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (900), UC Leuven-Limburg (€900), and many more.

These institutions offer good quality education with relatively low tuition fees.

11. Turkey

Turkey is a fantastic destination for Nigerian students seeking an affordable study abroad option.

Some universities in Turkey offer programs in English, making it a brilliant choice for students who are not fluent in Turkish.

The cost of tuition for international students in Turkey is quite affordable, with many universities charging less than $1,500 per year for undergraduate programs.

Not only that, but just like in Belgium, international students are also allowed to work and study at the same time in Turkey.

However, students are restricted in the number of working hours, and the work must not interfere with their education.

Some of the most budget-friendly universities in Turkey include Middle East Technical University, Ankara University, and Istanbul Technical University, all of which offer good quality education and reasonable tuition fees.

Turkey is also known for its rich culture, beautiful cities, and delicious food, offering plenty of opportunities for students to explore and experience outside the classroom.

Conclusion

There are a variety of countries that offer affordable options for Nigerian students looking to study abroad.

Many of these countries offer free or low tuition fees, making them a great option for you as a student on a budget.

Many of these countries also have a high standard of living and a wide range of academic programs, allowing students to find the perfect program to match their interests and career goals.

It’s worth researching and comparing the cost of living, tuition fees, and entry requirements before planning.