Rhema University is a private Christian university located in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria. The institution is owned by Living Word Ministries under the leadership of Brother Emma Okorie and licensed by the Federal Government of Nigeria in November 2009. Rhema University commenced academic activities in the 2010/2011 session and holds full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC). The university currently operates from its campus at 153/155 Aba-Owerri Road, Aba. If you are a non-Nigerian student considering this institution, understanding the Rhema University admission requirements for international students is the first step toward securing your place.
Rhema University accepts international applicants across all its accredited programmes, with an acceptance rate of approximately 80%. This guide provides a complete breakdown of the Rhema University admission requirements for international students, covering academic qualifications, documents, tuition fees, the application process, and visa procedures.
About Rhema University and Its Academic Programmes
The name “Rhema” means “the active word” or “the living word,” reflecting the university’s Christian foundation and commitment to character development alongside academic excellence. Rhema University is NUC-accredited and produces well-rounded graduates. Notably, Nursing Science students scored 96.97% in the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria professional examinations, and the MBBS programme holds MDCN accreditation.
The university’s core values include fear of God, integrity, discipline, respect, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence. With a student enrollment of between 500 and 999 students, Rhema University maintains a small, close-knit academic community that benefits international students who prefer personalised attention and a supportive learning environment. The university offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across several colleges:
| College / Faculty | Programmes Offered |
| College of Medicine & Health Sciences | Medicine (MBBS), Nursing Science, Medical Lab Science |
| College of Basic & Applied Sciences | Computer Science, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Industrial Chemistry |
| College of Management & Social Sciences | Accounting, Business Admin, Economics, Mass Communication, Political Science |
| School of Basic Studies | IJMB Programme (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) |
Academic Qualifications Required
The Rhema University admission requirements for international students are straightforward but must be met precisely. Here is what you need:
Secondary School Certificate: You must hold the equivalent of the Nigerian SSCE. Accepted qualifications include IGCSE, GCE O’Level, GCSE, IB Diploma, or any nationally recognised secondary school certificate from your country. A minimum of five credit-level passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, is required.
Entrance Examination: International applicants may sit for the Rhema University screening examination or provide equivalent standardised test scores. Nigeria-based international students should register for JAMB UTME with a minimum score of 160.
Direct Entry: Candidates with A’Level qualifications, IB Diploma, OND, HND, or a first degree from a recognised institution can apply through Direct Entry for admission into 200 Level.
The Rhema University admission requirements for international students also include a minimum age of 16 years. Health Sciences programmes like Medicine and Nursing may have additional requirements such as higher entry scores and medical fitness certification.
Required Documents for International Applicants
Meeting the Rhema University admission requirements for international students goes beyond academic grades. You must prepare and submit these documents:
| S/N | Document Required |
| 1 | Completed online application form |
| 2 | Official secondary school transcripts / certificates (translated to English if necessary) |
| 3 | Credential evaluation report from a recognised body (e.g. WES or local equivalent) |
| 4 | Valid international passport (data page) |
| 5 | Passport-sized photographs (white background) |
| 6 | Birth certificate or age declaration |
| 7 | Proof of English Language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL — for non-English-speaking countries) |
| 8 | Medical fitness certificate |
| 9 | Sponsorship letter or proof of financial capability |
All documents must be original or certified true copies. Transcripts from non-English-speaking countries must be officially translated before submission. The credential evaluation ensures that your qualifications are equivalent to Nigerian academic standards, which is especially important for Health Sciences programmes.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Once you understand the Rhema University admission requirements for international students and have your documents ready, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official Rhema University website at https://rhemauniversity.edu.ng and navigate to the Admissions section.
Step 2: Click “Apply Now” and fill out the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
Step 3: Upload all required documents including transcripts, passport data page, photographs, and credential evaluation report.
Step 4: Pay the non-refundable application fee online and keep your payment receipt.
Step 5: Attend the screening exercise (in-person or online for international candidates).
Step 6: Monitor your admission status through the university portal. Once admitted, pay the acceptance fee of ₦30,000 to secure your place.
Tuition Fees for International Students
A key part of planning your studies at Rhema University as an international student is knowing the cost. International students typically pay higher fees than domestic students. Below is the estimated fee structure:
| Fee Component | Amount |
| Tuition Fee (Per Session) | $2,500 – $3,500 (or Naira equivalent) |
| Acceptance Fee (One-Time) | ₦30,000 |
| Hostel Accommodation (Per Session) | ₦24,000 |
| Medical / Health Fee | ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 |
The Rhema University admission requirements for international students include proof of financial capability, so plan your budget early. Domestic students pay approximately ₦465,000 per session. International fees vary by programme and exchange rate. Medical and Health Sciences programmes generally attract higher fees than Arts and Social Science courses. Rhema University also allows instalment payments, which can ease the financial burden for international families. Contact the Admissions Office at +234 807 684 6648 for the current fee schedule.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
Since instruction is delivered in English, the Rhema University admission requirements for international students include English language competence proof for applicants from non-English-speaking countries:
| English Proficiency Test | Minimum Score |
| IELTS (Academic) | 5.5 overall |
| TOEFL iBT | 60+ |
| Cambridge English (B2 First) | Grade C or above |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 50+ |
Applicants from English-speaking countries (e.g. Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, UK, USA, Canada) or those who completed secondary education entirely in English are typically exempt from this requirement. Submit an official letter from your previous school confirming English-medium instruction if claiming exemption.
Student Visa and Immigration Process
After meeting the Rhema University admission requirements for international students and receiving your admission letter, you must obtain a student visa:
Step 1: Obtain your official admission letter and acceptance fee receipt from Rhema University.
Step 2: Apply for a Student Visa (STR) at the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate in your country.
Step 3: Submit your passport, admission letter, proof of financial support, medical certificate, and photographs.
Step 4: Upon arrival in Nigeria, regularise your visa with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). You may need to obtain a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) for stays longer than 90 days. Rhema University’s Student Affairs office can assist with the regularisation process.
Campus Life for International Students
Beyond the Rhema University admission requirements for international students, knowing what campus life looks like helps you prepare. Rhema University provides a serene learning environment with modern classrooms, equipped laboratories, a well-stocked library, and on-campus accommodation at just ₦24,000 per session — one of the most affordable hostel rates among Nigerian private universities.
The university emphasises Christian values and moral discipline alongside academics. International students benefit from small class sizes, personalised attention from lecturers, and a safe campus environment. Aba is a major commercial city in South-East Nigeria, known as the manufacturing hub of the country, with easy access to markets, hospitals, banks, and transportation links to other major Nigerian cities.
Rhema University also runs the IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) programme through its School of Basic Studies, which can serve as an alternative pathway for international students who do not meet direct entry requirements. This one-year foundation programme prepares students for university-level study and leads to Direct Entry admission into 200 Level upon successful completion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does Rhema University accept international students?
A: Yes. Rhema University accepts international applicants across all accredited programmes with an acceptance rate of approximately 80%.
Q: What qualifications do I need as an international student?
A: Five credit-level passes (or equivalent grades) in relevant subjects from a recognised secondary school qualification, including English Language and Mathematics. Accepted qualifications include IGCSE, GCE O’Level, GCSE, IB Diploma, and other nationally recognised certificates. Health Science programmes may require higher grades in science subjects.
Q: Do I need JAMB to apply as an international student?
A: International students outside Nigeria are not required to write JAMB UTME. Nigeria-based international students should register for JAMB with a minimum score of 160. The Rhema University admission requirements for international students also allow Direct Entry with A’Level, IB Diploma, or equivalent qualifications, bypassing JAMB entirely.
Q: How much are tuition fees for international students?
A: Approximately $2,500 to $3,500 per session depending on the programme. Hostel accommodation is ₦24,000 per session.
Q: Do I need an English proficiency test?
A: Yes, if you are from a non-English-speaking country. Accepted tests include IELTS (minimum 5.5), TOEFL iBT (minimum 60), and PTE Academic (minimum 50).
Q: How do I get a student visa for Nigeria?
A: Apply for a Student Visa (Subject to Regularisation — STR) at the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate. You need your admission letter, valid passport, proof of financial support, medical certificate, and passport photographs. Processing typically takes two to four weeks, so apply early.
Q: What programmes can international students study?
A: Any accredited programme including Medicine (MBBS), Nursing, Computer Science, Accounting, and more. Visit the official website for the full list that falls under the Rhema University admission requirements for international students.
Q: Is on-campus accommodation available?
A: Yes. Rhema University provides hostel accommodation at ₦24,000 per session, one of the most affordable rates among Nigerian private universities. The hostel provides basic furnishing, security, and access to campus facilities. International students are encouraged to live on campus for easier integration.
Conclusion
The Rhema University admission requirements for international students are clear and accessible: five credit-level passes in relevant O’Level subjects (or equivalent), credential evaluation for foreign qualifications, English proficiency proof for non-English speakers, a valid international passport, and proof of financial capability. Tuition ranges from $2,500 to $3,500 per session with affordable hostel accommodation at ₦24,000.
Start your application today by visiting the official website at https://rhemauniversity.edu.ng and contacting the Admissions Office at +234 807 684 6648 or via email at admissions@rhemauniversity.edu.ng. Prepare your documents early, gather your credential evaluations, secure your English proficiency scores if needed, and understand the full Rhema University admission requirements for international students outlined in this guide. Take the first step toward earning a quality, NUC-accredited degree in a disciplined Christian environment at Rhema University, Aba, Nigeria.