US Consulate Invites Nigerian Students for Pre-Departure Orientation

The United States Consulate General in Lagos has announced a pre-departure orientation programme for Nigerian students who have obtained valid US student visas, aimed at equipping them with essential information and skills needed for academic and social life in the United States.

The orientation session is scheduled to hold on Thursday, December 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will take place at the US Consulate General, 2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to an announcement posted on Monday via X by the US Mission in Nigeria, the programme is open to all Nigerian holders of US student visas, with interested participants required to register through an online form available on the Mission’s official X page.

The initiative is designed to help students transition smoothly into the US education system by addressing academic expectations, cultural differences, and practical aspects of student life abroad.

EducationUSA alumni currently studying at various US institutions are expected to facilitate the session by sharing firsthand experiences and practical guidance on studying and living in the United States.

“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 learn how to deal with culture shock, relate to professors, get on-campus jobs, apply for CPT/OPT and internships, manage your time, money and mental health, and handle issues such as racism and sexual harassment, alongside travel tips and visa renewal guidance,” it added.

The programme comes amid reports of tighter US immigration enforcement, following claims that over 85,000 visas, including more than 8,000 student visas globally, have allegedly been revoked since January due to security and criminal-related concerns.