Canada Study Permit from Nigeria
What Nigerian students need for a 2026 application, step by step
How the Application Works from Nigeria
There is no fast-track stream for Nigerian students any more: IRCC closed the Nigeria Student Express on 8 November 2024, so every application now goes through the regular study permit process. That makes a well-documented file more important, not less.
You apply online through your IRCC account once you hold a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and, for most applicants, a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). After you pay, IRCC sends a biometrics instruction letter and you book an appointment at a VFS Global Canada visa application centre in Lagos or Abuja. Depending on your history you may also be asked for a medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Documents Nigerian Students Prepare
| Requirement | What to prepare |
|---|---|
| Letter of acceptance | From a DLI, for the program and intake you will actually attend |
| PAL / TAL | Needed by most applicants; master's and doctoral students at public DLIs are exempt in 2026 |
| Tuition deposit | Receipt for the deposit your college or university asks for; amounts vary by school |
| Proof of funds | CAD 23,448 for living costs (single, outside Quebec), about โฆ22.4 million, plus first-year tuition and travel |
| GIC (optional) | A Guaranteed Investment Certificate from a participating Canadian bank is a clear way to show living funds |
| Source of funds | Bank statements, sponsor's income and business records, and an explanation of any large deposits |
| Study plan | Why this program, why Canada, how it fits your background, and your plans after graduation |
| Language results | The IELTS, PTE or other score your institution requires |
The CAD 23,448 figure applies to applications submitted on or after 1 September 2026 and rises with each accompanying family member. Confirm the current table on canada.ca before you apply.
Government Fees in CAD and Naira
| Fee | CAD | About (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Study permit | CAD 150 | โฆ144,000 |
| Biometrics (one person) | CAD 85 | โฆ81,000 |
| Living-cost funds to show (single) | CAD 23,448 | โฆ22.4 million |
Naira figures are indicative only, converted at about โฆ957 per CAD and โฆ1,775 per GBP (late October 2026). Exchange rates move daily, and official amounts are set in CAD or GBP. VFS Global may charge separate service fees.
Where Nigerian Files Usually Go Wrong
Unexplained deposits
A large sum that appears just before you apply, with no clear source, invites doubt. Show where the money came from.
Weak sponsor evidence
If a parent or relative pays, show the relationship, their income and why they are supporting you.
A plan that doesn't add up
A program unrelated to your degree or work, with no explanation, is a common reason for refusal.
Past refusals not addressed
Always declare earlier refusals and show what has changed. See our [refusal guide](/canada-visa-refusal-from-nigeria).
Never submit borrowed, edited or purchased bank statements or admission letters. IRCC checks documents, and misrepresentation can lead to a five-year ban from Canada.
Next Steps
The usual refusal reasons, getting the officer's notes, and a stronger new file.
Proof of funds 2026How IRCC looks at funds, GICs and loans.
The GIC explainedHow a GIC works and when it helps.
All Nigeria guidesCanada, UK and PR guidance for Nigerian applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Your Canada Study Plan Reviewed
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