Nigeria has emerged as the fourth-largest source of international students granted UK study visas, according to official UK immigration data for the year ending September 2025.
The ranking places Nigeria behind India, China, and Pakistan, and ahead of countries such as the United States, Bangladesh, and Ghana, highlighting the country’s growing role in the UK’s international education pipeline.
UK Study Visas by Nationality (Year Ending September 2025)
Based on UK Home Office immigration statistics covering sponsored study visas issued to main applicants, the top nationalities are as follows:
- India – 101,229
- China – 89,656
- Pakistan – 39,497
- Nigeria – 36,839
- Nepal – 21,681
- United States – 16,702
- Bangladesh – 12,708
- Saudi Arabia – 6,256
- Turkey – 5,893
- Kuwait – 5,149
While exact figures may vary slightly across reporting summaries, the ranking order is consistent in official UK government data, confirming Nigeria’s fourth-place position globally for study visas issued during the period.
The figures refer specifically to sponsored study visas granted to main applicants. This means:
- Students must have received a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK institution
- The data excludes most dependants, following UK policy changes introduced in early 2024
- The numbers reflect approved visas, not just applications
Recent UK immigration reforms have reshaped student migration patterns:
- Restrictions on dependants reduced overall visa numbers but kept main applicant demand relatively stable
- Increased scrutiny of student sponsorship and compliance affected some institutions
- Greater emphasis on academic credibility and financial proof influenced application outcomes
Despite these changes, Nigeria maintained a strong presence in the rankings, indicating sustained interest and adaptability among Nigerian applicants to travel out.
Alongside India, China, and Pakistan, Nigeria is now firmly established as one of the core contributors to the UK’s international student population.