Quick answer
Before using a study abroad agent, verify the school, programme, official tuition, admission route, refund terms and what the agent is actually responsible for. Never rely only on verbal promises about admission or visa approval.
This guide is written for Nigerians who need a practical next step. It gives the direct answer first, then shows what to verify, what to prepare, what mistakes to avoid and which related Explainer.NG pages can help.
What an agent can and cannot do
An agent may help with school selection, document review, application forms and communication. An agent cannot honestly guarantee visa approval, scholarship awards or immigration outcomes.
Ask for the agent's role in writing. Separate school fees, application fees, visa fees, service fees and courier fees.
How to verify the school and offer
Open the school website yourself. Check programme name, campus, tuition, intake, admission contact and refund rules. If you receive an admission letter, verify it through the school's official email or portal where possible.
Do not pay large sums into personal accounts without clear evidence of what the payment covers.
Document safety
Your passport, transcripts, certificates and bank records are sensitive. Share only what is necessary and keep copies of everything you submit.
If an agent asks for passwords to your email, school portal or visa account, consider that a serious risk.
Checklist
- Verify school website
- Confirm programme and tuition
- Get agent fees in writing
- Check refund policy
- Keep document copies
- Do not share passwords
- Verify admission letter
People also ask
Can an agent guarantee visa approval?
No. Visa decisions are made by the relevant authority.
Should I pay school fees through an agent?
Use official school payment routes where possible and keep receipts.
How do I verify admission?
Check the school portal or contact official school admissions channels.
What is a red flag?
Guarantees, pressure to pay quickly, personal accounts and refusal to provide written terms.
Should I keep copies?
Yes. Keep copies of every document, receipt and message.