How to Move to the US as a Nigerian Student with a Scholarshi
Moving to the United States as a Nigerian student with a scholarship involves several key steps. This guide outlines the essential process, from finding scholarships to settling in the U.S.
Step 1: Find and Apply for Scholarships
Start by identifying fully or partially funded scholarships that accept Nigerian applicants. Common options include:
1.Fulbright Foreign Student Program
2.MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
3.Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship
4.Institutional scholarships (offered directly by U.S. universities)
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. Most will require strong academic performance, leadership potential, and financial need. Prepare documents such as transcripts, standardised test scores (SAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS), letters of recommendation, a CV, and a statement of purpose.
Step 2: Secure Admission to a U.S. Institution
Once shortlisted or awarded a scholarship, you’ll typically be guided to apply (if you haven’t already) to a partnered university. Submit all required documents on time. After admission, the school will issue an I-20 Form—a critical step for your visa.
Step 3: Apply for a Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Use the I-20 Form to begin your U.S. visa process:
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350).
Complete the DS-160 Form (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application).
Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or Consulate in Lagos.
Attend the interview with your passport, I-20, DS-160 confirmation, visa fee receipt, proof of scholarship/funding, academic records, and test scores.
Step 4: Make Travel Arrangements
Once your visa is approved:
Book your flight (arrive no more than 30 days before your programme starts).
Arrange housing with help from your university’s international student office.
Plan finances (bring some USD in cash or get a Nigerian bank card that works internationally).
Step 5: Arrive and Settle in the U.S.
On arrival:
Present your documents (passport with F-1 visa, I-20, and school acceptance letter) to Customs and Border Protection.
Check in with your Designated School Official (DSO) upon arrival.
Attend orientation and complete any registration or compliance steps your school requires.
Step 6: Maintain Your Student Status
Stay enrolled full-time.
Do not work off-campus without authorisation.
Keep your I-20 and visa valid.
Report address changes and academic updates to your DSO.
Here are some trusted websites where you can find scholarships to study in the U.S:
1. Fastweb
4. Cappex
5. IEFA (International Education Financial Aid)
7. Niche
Conclusion
Moving to the U.S. as a Nigerian student with a scholarship requires careful planning, from securing funding and admission to obtaining your visa and settling in. By following each step diligently and staying organised, you can successfully begin your academic journey in the U.S. and make the most of your scholarship opportunity.
