The United States Consulate General in Lagos is set to host a pre-departure orientation programme for Nigerian students preparing to embark on their academic journeys.
It was gathered that the pre-departure orientation for Nigerian students is designed to equip students holding valid U.S. student visas with the practical knowledge and cultural insights needed for a transition to life and study in the United States.
Scheduled for Thursday, December 18, the pre-departure orientation for Nigerian students will take place at the U.S. Consulate General on Victoria Island, Lagos.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that attendance is open to all U.S. student visa holders who register through the online form provided by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.
The half-day session will feature presentations and firsthand accounts from EducationUSA alumni who are currently studying at various U.S. institutions. This peer-to-peer sharing model is critical, offering relatable advice that standard guidebooks often miss.
Topics are expected to be tailored to the adjustment period new students face, ensuring they are prepared for life on and off campus.
This was announced in a public notice posted on Monday via X by the US Mission in Nigeria.
“The pre-departure orientation will prepare you for life as a student in the United States. EducationUSA alumni studying at various U.S. institutions will share information on all you need to know before you depart for the U.S.,” the orientation form description read.
“You will understand how to deal with culture shock, avoid the Freshman 15, relate to professors, make new friends, get an on-campus job, become a resident adviser, apply for CPT/OPT and internships, get additional scholarships, get on the Dean’s List, get into an honours programme, and handle racism and sexual harassment.
“We’ll also share travel tips, what to pack, when and how to renew your student visa, and how to manage your mental health, time, and money.”
The initiative comes amid reports that the Trump administration has intensified immigration enforcement, with over 85,000 visas allegedly revoked for foreign nationals since January, including more than 8,000 student visas worldwide over security and criminal concerns.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass also reports that Nigeria remains a top-sending country for international students to the United States.
Last year alone, over 14,000 Nigerian students were enrolled in more than 1,000 U.S. higher education institutions.
