The US boasts top cities that are student-friendly and impressive for living and studying. They are located in exciting places to make learning fun and enthusiastic. Besides, the leading Nigerian student cities and universities to study in the USA offer comfort but not affordability.
Nevertheless, they are not totally out of reach if you know what you want and how to manage funds. Moreover, numerous Nigerians are already living and studying there, so the cost should not deter you. Meanwhile, we have enlisted the top Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA and why they made it to our top ten.
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Top Nigerian Student Cities and Universities in the USA
Nigerian students have a lot of options when it comes to choosing a university in the United States. Here are the top Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA.
- Boston
- New York City
- San Francisco
- Chicago
- Los Angeles
- Washington DC
- Philadelphia
- Pittsburgh
- Atlanta
- Baltimore
#1. Boston
The first on our list of top Nigerian student cities is Boston. When it comes to where the best brains in the USA reside, this city will always make it to the top. It is home to at least five top US universities. Similarly, it has consistently appeared on the QS Best Student Cities index, while the universities have ranked high on world university rankings.
Aside from being all-serious academically, Boston is prestigious for its arts and culture, especially when it comes to legendary music. You will also find classic pubs and clubs in the city where students can unwind after a long week. Sporting activities are also among the package. So yes, Boston is a beautiful Nigerian student city.
Top universities in Boston include Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston University, Northeastern University, Tufts University, and the University of Massachusetts.
#2. New York City
New York City, often known as the City That Never Sleeps, is one of Nigeria’s student cities. It goes by many aliases based on the different activities going on here. Besides, it is a financial power where economic and business activities go on regularly. Therefore, you can count on New York City to give the best in classical music, fashion, bright lights, and deli shops.
It has consistently ranked among the top cities of the world and the universities gracing the list of the best universities. The categories include desirability and high quality of life.
The top universities in New York City include Columbia University, New York University, Yeshiva University, the University of Delaware, and City University, New York.
#3. San Francisco
Resting close to the famous Californian innovative hub Silicon Valley, San Francisco is a top Nigerian student city. Being home to prestigious universities like Stanford University, San Francisco University, the University of California, San Francisco, and the University of California, Berkeley, makes the city popular.
Aside from education, San Francisco is a hub to top financial and technology companies. This has earned it a position in the ‘employer activity’ category of the QS Best Student City index. With top universities also comes high tuition fees, yet the city is friendly in terms of affordability when compared to its counterparts.
#4. Chicago
Next on the list of top Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA is Chicago. Also known as the Windy City, it is a fast-paced, high-ranking economic city. It was the spot of jazz music and blues explosion in the 20th century.
You would think that with all the activities in the city, it will hardly have space for education. But that is not true, as it houses at least five top universities and colleges. They are the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, the University of Illinois, Chicago, and Loyola University, Chicago. The presence of these universities earned them a top position in the ‘employer activity’ category of the global university rankings.
#5. Los Angeles
This city is among the top Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA for several reasons. First, it enjoys all-around sunshine throughout the year, making it a great place to inhabit. Then, it is a hub for creative industries – music, television, and movie. Finally, if you enjoy visiting the beaches, Los Angeles is prepared for you. After all, it is the home of ‘Muscle Beach.’
Regardless of the entertainment, there is always something to exercise your mind. That is why it also houses influential universities with top positions in the world university rankings. Hence, whether you choose the University of California, Los Angeles, or would instead attend the University of Southern California or California Institute of Technology, you will never go wrong with your choice.
#6. Washington DC
Being the seat of the US power, it will not be surprising to see Washington DC, ranking among the top Nigerian student city in the USA. So, if you choose to study in this city, you are not only going for education but having first-rated contact with US history and politics. The White House, Supreme Court, and historical monuments are all embedded in this city.
As a foremost student city, Washington DC boasts five universities with leading positions on the QS World University Rankings. The University of Maryland, George Washington University, Howard University, and Georgetown University are among the top universities in this iconic city.
#7. Philadelphia
With the University of Philadelphia, an Ivy League member, at the center, Philadelphia holds a lot for Nigerian students. Other top institutions in the city include Temple University and Drexel University. In addition, it has a rich history in US politics, including the Declaration of the US Independence, signed in 1776.
Besides, it is one of the tourist attractions the US boasts of, having an all-around modern metropolis and becoming a hub for sports and fine dining. Little wonder why they nicknamed it the ‘city of brotherly love.’
#8. Pittsburgh
This second-largest city in the USA made it to the list of top Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA. Although its universities are leading in the world ranking, making them expensive, the city compensates for that with its affordable cost of living. This has attracted students of diverse backgrounds to the city and allowed them to study in prestigious universities. Two outstanding universities in Pittsburgh include Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
#9. Atlanta
This is Georgia’s capital and largest city, and it is known as the “city in a forest” because of its many trees. Furthermore, Atlanta’s progressive stance during the American Civil Rights Movement gave it the nickname “the city too busy to hate.” With so many activities surrounding it, the city has become a desirable location for students.
Atlanta boasts several universities topping the world chart in the educational sector. The universities also have high research standards and are best for studying industrial-related courses. For example, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Clark Atlanta University are world-class universities in Atlanta.
#10. Baltimore
Baltimore made it to our list of top Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA for several reasons. First, it is a major seaport and has recently joined the league of popular settings for TV series. Then it is the largest city in the state of Maryland. Finally, Baltimore’s rich history has shot it to the limelight, including the Washington Monument.
It is also known as the ‘Charm City’ and the ‘Land of Pleasant Living.’ In its educational history, it has stellar medical schools that are celebrated on international platforms. These schools are John Hopkins University, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Loyola University, Maryland, Notre Dame of Maryland, and the University of Baltimore.
Must Read: University Deadlines in the USA for Nigerian Students
Frequently Asked Questions
What city in the US has the best education system?
While it may not harbor the top schools in the US, Ann Arbor in Michigan is rated the most educated city in the USA. It is followed by San Jose, Washington, DC, and San Francisco.
Why is the USA the best place to study?
From time immemorial, the USA has boasted some leading universities with quality teaching and research. They also allow Nigerian students to attend the best schools in the world. Moreover, US universities rank high on world university rankings. They also follow systematic practices to ensure students access an excellent education.
Can I get a fully-funded scholarship in the USA?
Yes, you can get fully funded scholarships to study in the USA if you meet the standards. However, these scholarships are rare because they cover tuition and other costs that partially funded scholarships may not cover. Hence, it is exceptionally competitive, and even though you meet the criteria, you may not still beat other applicants.
How can I study in the USA for free?
You will hardly find a US university that offers free government or private education. However, there is a way out for you. You can apply for multiple scholarships and may be lucky to become a beneficiary. Find out the requirements to study in the USA here.
Conclusion
There are numerous Nigerian student cities and universities in the USA where you can apply for studies. These cities are quite affordable and have picturesque views and fun-loving spots. Besides, your city’s needs must reflect your aspiration, goals, and financial capability. Therefore, you must also consider your lifestyle to know if the city you wish to immigrate to has what it takes to fund it.