The journey to studying in Canada can be both exciting and daunting, especially for Nigerian students. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled a list of 6 key documents that you need to have in hand before applying. Read on to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience!
As a burgeoning global hub for education, Canada continues to attract international students in droves, particularly from the African continent.
Every year, many Nigerian students travel to Canada to continue their studies.
They go there to learn both in the classroom and in real life settings, gaining a well rounded education that prepares them for success in their future careers.
While requirements for admission to Canadian universities may differ between institutions, there are a certain set of documents that are deemed absolutely crucial for Nigerian students to secure before applying.
However, it is a prevalent issue that many aspiring Nigerian students are not cognizant of the necessary documents they must acquire to be granted admission to Canadian universities.
This article serves to shed light on the half-dozen documents that are essential for Nigerian students to possess prior to applying to study in Canada.
6 Key Documents Needed by Nigerian Students for Canadian Study Applications
1. International Passport
Nigerian students aspiring to be admitted into a university in Canada must hold a valid international passport issued by their home country.
For instance, a student from Nigeria must possess a Nigerian passport.
This passport serves as identification as a citizen of their country of origin.
It is typically issued by the immigration department and is crucial as the Canadian schools will consider the student as an international pupil, and the passport will be used to determine their country of origin.
It is imperative to apply and obtain this document before initiating the admission process.
2. Academic Transcript
As a Nigerian student striving to pursue a master’s degree in Canada, they must present their academic transcript.
This document showcases the student’s performance in their previous academic institution and records all academic achievements from year one to completion.
The student should request their previous university to issue an academic transcript.
This is a crucial document that Canadian schools will not fail to request during the admission process.
3. Reference Letters
Reference letters are recommendations from individuals who know the student well and vouch for their abilities and capabilities.
It is believed that teachers or bosses can provide a better insight into the student’s abilities.
Hence, Canadian schools, like many other institutions worldwide, will always request for reference letters.
Nigerian students seeking admission into Canadian universities should obtain at least three reference letters.
The number of reference letters required may vary depending on the university.
Students can request reference letters from their lecturers or bosses, depending on the school’s requirements.
4. Statement of Purpose
A statement of purpose is a document that explains the student’s reasons for applying to the school and why they should be granted admission to study their desired course.
Nigerian students seeking to study in Canada must submit a statement of purpose. Knowing how to prepare and write this document in line with the school’s demands is an advantage.
5. Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
For Nigerian students harboring the ambition to embark on an academic pursuit in the Canadian terrain, it is a well-established truth that mastery of the English language is a paramount consideration for a smooth and fruitful study experience.
Despite Nigeria not having a widely spoken common language, proficiency in English is still crucial for international students to study in Canada.
As a Nigerian student looking to further your education in Canada, you will be considered an international student and thus, will have to prove your English language proficiency.
This is where IELTS/TOEFL or any other standardized English test comes into play.
Many Canadian schools demand students to take these tests as a requirement for admission.
Although some universities have relaxed this rule, having a test score can certainly boost your chances of being accepted into a Canadian school. In the event that you don’t have a test score, there are still other options available for you to demonstrate your English language proficiency.
6. Previous Degree Certificate
Oh yes, if you’re a foreign student seeking entrance into a prestigious Canadian university for a master’s degree program, then be prepared to flaunt your previous academic credentials!
The school will undoubtedly want to verify the legitimacy of your prior education before granting you admission.
For those applying for undergraduate admission, be ready to showcase your O-level, diploma, or equivalent degree certificate.
However, it’s important to note that these requirements may differ based on the specific school and course of study you are applying for in Canada.
But hold on a minute, don’t get too carried away just yet! There are certain essential documents that you cannot do without, regardless of the school or course you’re applying for.
The aforementioned six documents are a non-negotiable requirement for all Nigerian students aspiring to study in Canada. So, be sure to have them all in order before embarking on your admission process!
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