The process at a glance
- Get accepted by a BC school and receive your PAL if you need one.
- Prepare proof of funds — $23,448 for living costs plus first-year tuition and travel.
- Book your upfront medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
- Apply online, then give biometrics at a VFS Global centre in Lagos or Abuja when IRCC asks.
Nigeria Student Express has ended
IRCC ended Nigeria Student Express (along with the Student Direct Stream) in November 2024. All Nigerian students now apply through the regular study permit process.
Start early
Processing times for applications from Nigeria are often longer than average. Check IRCC’s processing times page for your country before you choose an intake, and aim to apply as soon as you have your acceptance letter and PAL. Our arrival checklist builds in extra lead time when you select Nigeria.
Documenting your funds
Financial documents get close attention. Strong applications usually include:
- several months of bank statements showing a steady balance, not a sudden deposit
- proof of the source of funds — employment letters, business records, property sale documents
- a letter from any sponsor (often a parent) with their own income and bank records
- a student GIC from a Canadian bank, which is optional but makes living-cost funds easy for IRCC to verify
Plan currency transfers well ahead, as moving large amounts can take time.
Medical exam
Nigeria is on IRCC’s list of countries requiring an immigration medical exam for stays longer than six months. Book with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
After you arrive
Read about working while you study and the PGWP if you hope to stay and work after graduating.