Dual-Degree Programs Abroad: How Nigerians Can Earn Two International Degrees at Once 

The New Frontier of Global Education for Nigerians 

For many Nigerian students, the pursuit of a world-class education goes beyond earning a single foreign degree. There is a growing interest in dual-degree programs, which allow students to study in two different countries and earn two qualifications. These programs not only increase prestige, but also provide greater global exposure, job opportunities, and possibilities for migration. 

As international universities become more welcoming to African students, countries like Germany, France, Canada, Malaysia, China, and India are at the forefront with structured dual-degree options. Many of these partnerships are supported by strong diplomatic relationships with Nigeria, offering visa pathways, low tuition, and opportunities after study. 

Here is a detailed guide to the top destinations offering dual-degree programs for Nigerian students to consider in 2025. 

Germany – Engineering and Applied Sciences Powerhouse 

Why Nigeria’s Future Engineers Choose Germany 

Germany has been a key destination for Nigerians seeking practical learning and industrial experience. With minimal or no tuition fees at public universities, it is one of the most affordable places for dual-degree programs, particularly in engineering, computer science, and renewable energy. Many German universities work with institutions in other EU countries, the UK, and the U.S. to offer dual qualifications. 

Top Universities Offering Dual-Degree Programs 

1. Technische Universität München (TUM): Offers dual programs with U.S. and French universities.  
2. RWTH Aachen University: Known for joint degrees in mechanical engineering and robotics.
3. University of Stuttgart: Popular for collaborations in energy and automotive engineering. 

Costs and Living 

1. Most public universities charge little to no tuition.
2. Living costs vary from ₦1.5 million to ₦2.5 million per year, depending on the city. 

Visa Process for Nigerians 

Nigerians can apply for a student visa at the Embassy of Germany in Abuja.

Required documents include: 

1. Admission letter from a German university
2. Proof of financial means (about €11,000 or ₦21 million in a blocked account)
3. Health insurance and passport photographs
4. Academic transcripts and motivation letter 

Apply for German Student Visa – Embassy of Germany, Abuja  

Tips for Nigerian Students 

1. Learn basic German (A2/B1 level) to help with daily communication.
2. Apply early for accommodation; student hostels fill up quickly.
3. Join Nigerian student communities like the Nigerian Scholars in Germany Network (NiSIG) for support. 

France – Where Culture Meets Academic Excellence 

Why France Attracts Nigerian Scholars 

France is popular among Nigerians interested in business, international relations, and the arts. French universities participate in many Erasmus+ and Franco-Anglophone dual-degree programs, allowing students to study one year in France and another in a partner country, earning two degrees that are recognized across Europe. 

Top Universities Offering Dual Programs 

1. Sciences Po offers double degrees with Columbia University and the London School of Economics.
2. Université Paris-Saclay offers dual programs in data science and biotechnology.
3. INSA Lyon provides engineering and innovation management programs with Canadian and Asian partners. 

Costs and Living 

France offers affordable education, with tuition fees ranging from ₦1.2 million to ₦3 million per year. Living costs in cities like Lyon or Toulouse average around ₦2 million annually. 

Visa Process for Nigerians 

Students must apply through Campus France Nigeria before scheduling a visa appointment at the French Embassy in Abuja.

Required documents include: 

1. Admission offer or pre-enrollment
2. Proof of funds (~€7,380 per year or ₦14 million)
3. Health insurance
4. Proof of accommodation 

Apply for French Student Visa – France-Visas Nigeria  

Tips 

1. Learn conversational French to improve your study experience.
2. Apply early for the Eiffel Scholarship or French Government Grants available to African students.  

Canada – Flexible Study-Work Options 

Why Nigerians Thrive in Canada 

Canada is considered one of the most welcoming countries for Nigerians. Its universities offer dual-degree and joint-program options through partnerships with institutions in the U.S. and UK, particularly in business, health sciences, and technology. 

Top Universities 

1. University of Toronto: Global Affairs dual-degree with Sciences Po (France).
2. University of British Columbia (UBC): Offers several joint programs in sustainability and the environment.
3. York University: Offers dual degrees in business and law.

Costs and Living 

Tuition ranges from ₦8 million to ₦15 million per year, while living costs vary between ₦4 million and ₦6 million annually. 

Visa Process 

Students can apply online for a Study Permit via IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).

Required documents include: 

1. Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
2. Proof of funds (~CAD 20,000 or ₦24 million)
3. Academic records, biometrics, and medical documentation 

Apply for Canadian Study Permit 

Tips 

1. Consider applying under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for quicker processing.
2. Nigerian students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. 

Malaysia – Affordable Dual-Degree Pathways in Asia 

Why Nigeria’s Middle-Class Students Choose Malaysia 

Malaysia is quickly becoming a popular spot for international education. It hosts branch campuses of UK and Australian universities, offering dual-degree programs where students graduate with one Malaysian degree and one British or Australian qualification while studying in a more affordable environment. 

Top Universities 

1. University of Nottingham Malaysia offers UK-awarded degrees.
2. Monash University Malaysia provides dual Australian degrees in IT and engineering.
3. INTI International University offers American-linked business programs. 

Costs and Living 

1. Tuition costs between ₦2.5 million and ₦4.5 million per year, while living expenses average ₦1.5 million annually. 

Visa Process 

Applications are managed by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

Required documents include: 

1. Offer letter from the university
2. Medical exam certificate
3. Passport bio-data page
4. Proof of funds 

Apply for Malaysian Student Pass – EMGS  

Tips 

1. Choose universities in Kuala Lumpur or Johor for easy access to part-time work.
2. Nigeria has a large student community and direct flights via Qatar Airways and Emirates.  

China – The Asian Academic Powerhouse 

Why Nigerians Look East 

China has become a leader in global education, with over 50,000 African students enrolled each year. It offers dual-degree and exchange programs with universities in the U.S., Australia, and the UK, focusing on fields like engineering, medicine, and business management. 

Top Universities 

1. Tsinghua University: Joint MBA and engineering degrees with MIT.
2. Zhejiang University: Collaborations in renewable energy and AI.
3. Shanghai Jiao Tong University: Offers international joint medical programs. 

Costs and Living 

Tuition ranges from ₦2.5 million to ₦5 million per year, while living costs average ₦1.8 million annually. 

Visa Process 

Students apply for the X1 or X2 visa at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja.

Required documents include: 

1. JW202 or admission letter
2. Physical exam certificate
3. Passport photos
4. Proof of accommodation 

Apply for Chinese Student Visa – Embassy of China, Abuja 

Tips 

1. Apply for Chinese Government or CSC scholarships early.
2. Learn basic Mandarin before arriving to help with integration. 

India – Science and Technology Excellence 

Why India Appeals to Nigerians 

India’s education system combines affordability with strong programs in science and medicine. Many Indian universities collaborate with Western institutions for dual or twinning degrees, especially in computer science, health, and engineering. 

Top Universities 

1. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE): Joint medical programs.
2. Amity University: Global MBA and IT degrees.
3. Lovely Professional University (LPU): Engineering partnerships with U.S. universities. 

Costs and Living 

Tuition costs between ₦2 million and ₦3.5 million per year, while living expenses average around ₦1.2 million annually. 

Visa Process 

Students can apply at the High Commission of India in Abuja or online via the official portal.

Required documents include: 

1. Admission letter
2. Passport and photographs
3. Financial proof
4. Medical certificate 

Apply for Indian Student Visa – Indian Visa Online Portal 

Tips 

1. Consider major cities like Pune, Bangalore, or Delhi for better opportunities.
2. Nigerians benefit from a strong diaspora network and low living costs. 

Tips for Nigerian Students Pursuing Dual-Degree Programs 

1. Plan your finances carefully: Always budget for at least one year’s expenses upfront.
2. Apply early: Visa and admission processes can take 3 to 6 months.
3. Look for scholarships: Explore options like Erasmus+, DAAD, MEXT, and CSC grants.
4. Prepare for cultural adaptation: Familiarize yourself with the local language and customs.
5. Validate your credentials: Ensure your Nigerian certificates are notarized and legalized before submission. 

Two Degrees, One Global Future 

For Nigerians eager to enhance their global presence, dual-degree programs offer more than just an academic pathway they serve as a gateway to transformation. By combining academic prestige, cultural exchange, and international job prospects, these programs help Nigerians compete and collaborate on the global stage. Whether in Germany’s labs, or Canada’s innovation centers, earning two international degrees marks a new era in educational mobility one where the Nigerian dream meets global potential.