Transfer to an American University from a Nigerian University in 4 Simple Steps

Last updated on March 15th, 2023

The United States of America is one of the leading countries for study destinations for Nigerian students. Due to its high academic standard, the US attracts students from all over the world. Its universities also dominate the world rankings as the top destinations for accessing world-class education.

Aside from that, you will get access to functional research centers and academic resources to make learning easy and fun. Also, Nigerian students can transfer to an American university from a Nigerian university without losing their previous academic credits. The credit system of the US universities makes it easy to transfer from Nigeria to the US as long as conditions are met.

This comprehensive guide will show you how to transfer to an American university, the requirements, and other information. Here we go!

Who is a transferable applicant?

This individual has enrolled in or started studying at a postsecondary school in America. This happens after gaining a secondary diploma in their home country or USA. You can start the application process online and pay an application fee of not up to 100 dollars. However, you will also pay the complete tuition fees, as there will be no fee waiver.

Can degrees be transferred from a Nigerian university to an American university?

The question above is one that many Nigerian students ask regularly. Before transferring to an American university, consider if the school is accredited locally and internationally. Then, search for a degree program that you can easily transfer to.

It is necessary to understand that not all degrees, such as medicine, law, and education, are easily transferable. So, it would be best to consider the options available and whether they are favorable to you before you consider transferring to a US university.

Tips for Applying to College Abroad

If you are applying to study abroad in the US while you are already enrolled at a college in your home country, you can meet the study abroad advisor in your school for guidance. However, if there is no study abroad advisor, you can check some online materials or contact a trusted mentor who can help you.

Those who have previously transferred to an American university may be handy with answers to guide your decision. In addition, they can serve as an advisor along the line. If you are fortunate, your intending college may hold a session or college fair for prospective students to ask questions regarding their admission or transfer process.

Major Considerations Before Applying for Transfer to an American University

You must consider the following before applying for your transfer to an American university:

Timeline

Generally, it is recommended to begin the transfer application process at least 12 months before the enrolment date to your new school. However, you must also know that the deadline may differ from the first-year application. Besides, some schools may not have a deadline, but priority dates to aim for. Hence, contacting the schools you are to apply to is necessary.

Application Process

The transfer application process may vary from that of the first-year applicants. You may be required to submit a transfer application for other information and supporting documents.

In addition, you may not need to write any transfer examinations. Nevertheless, find out the conditions set by the school, so you do not do the wrong thing.

Admissions Criteria

The transfer criteria to an American university differ from institution to institution. Most American universities prefer that you have completed at least one year of study before applying for the transfer. However, some universities may require that you have a two-year residency before graduation. You should spend at least two years in the school before they can award a degree to you.

Four Simple Steps to apply to an American university

Applying to a US university does not require a different process from applying to another university in your home country. It is easier if you meet the criteria and follow the guidelines. Nevertheless, it may be tricky for you if you need clarification about where to start.

Hence, you must follow the following steps to apply:

#Step 1: Research Schools in the US

The first step is to research properly regarding the school you intend to apply to. However, you must first identify your need, whether transferring to a bachelor’s program or master’s or even wanting to spend a semester in the US.

In addition, ensure to narrow your search down to the program you want to study. Learn the cost of transfer and know if your pocket can carry it. If not, consider a cheaper school.

#Step 2: Consider the Requirements

After narrowing down your choices, you must consider the requirements of the individual universities to know if you met them. You can contact the school for more information if you need clarification on any sketchy condition. Thus, it is not out of place to ask questions.

#Step 3: Gather the Supporting Documents

You must gather the required materials once you understand what the universities are looking for. For instance, you will likely send them copies of your transcripts for secondary or postsecondary institutions you attend. Other documents include copies of your passports, financial statement, and English language requirements. In addition, some schools ask for a personal statement or may even extend it to a video interview.

In addition, you may send the documents using an online system or via mail. These things require extra time, and deadlines must not be exceeded.

#Step 4: Start Your Applications

To apply, it is vital to have a checklist for the individual schools you selected. If you have everything ready, this step is a straightforward one. Take note of deadlines and ensure you are working on time. Intermittently check the American university websites to check the progress of your application.

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• Study in the USA Guide for Nigerian Students
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Requirements to Transfer to the US

Diverse universities in the US have their unique transfer policies. Hence, you should research the transfer process for the individual university before starting. Moreover, you can visit the US educational advising center in Abuja or Lagos to get the relevant information you need.

In addition, if you do not have a study visa, you can search for schools that accept students for exchange in an 18-month program in the US.

Application Letter

Your application letter is essential in transferring your admission to an American university. Include your name, date of birth, education, country of birth, citizenship, and permanent address.

Since you have yet to complete your education in Nigeria, you must submit your secondary school transcript to aid the transfer.

Letter of Recommendation

This requirement is optional. If your American university does not require a letter of recommendation, you do not need to submit it.

Certificate for English Standardization

This includes IELTS and TOEFL. It is compulsory, and you must meet the cut-off points.

Credit Transfer

For you to be able to transfer to an American university, you must meet the required credit unit load. This depends on the university you are transferring to.

Your current university would also screen your completed courses to decide which credits are worth transferable. This process may take longer time than necessary. Hence, you must notify the school early enough so they can begin the compilation of your academic record to beat the application deadline of your intended American school.

In addition, some course credits may not be transferable, meaning you will take further classes in the US to cover for the lapses. And it would be best if you did so before your graduation. It is also vital to keep track of the application process o you do not miss any relevant information in between.

Must Read: Transfer to a Canadian University from Nigeria in 4 Simple Steps

How to Transfer to an American University

To transfer to an American university from Nigeria, you must follow the following steps:

Obtain the required documents

Getting the required documents would help in deciding your eligibility for transferring to the university of your choice. Thus, you need the following documents:

• College Admission Essay
• Transcript of academic records from your current university
• Application fee receipt
• English proficiency test certificate, e.g., IELTS

You can submit them online or through fax to the university. Besides, your Nigerian institution will send your transcript to your intending US university via the official school email address as a PDF attachment.

What is the Application Process?

You must submit the supporting documents to the American university you are transferring to at the appropriate time. But first, you must find out if the school requires additional documents. Below is the application process:

• Completed Common Application, which includes essay and resume
• Payment of application fee
• Academic records, including official transcripts and certified English translations, must be for each postsecondary institution attended
• Proof of English proficiency
• Bank letter showing proof of financial support for the first year of study and living expenses
• Copy of your passport information page

Note: all financial documents can only be valid if dated within the past three months. You can obtain a sample bank letter and other guides from the school’s official page.

How many credits do you need to transfer to an American university?

You need around 67 credits per credit hour to transfer to an American university. Transfer credits must also have the same number of credit hours to be considered ‘equivalent.’

Conclusion

Transferring to an American university from a Nigerian university can be a great experience. It can provide you with new opportunities and perspectives that you may not have had at your Nigerian university. Additionally, it can be a great way to improve your English language skills. Overall, to transfer to an American university from Nigeria is a simple process that takes only four steps. The information in this guide will help you navigate your way.