By Juliet Umeh 

In a move set to revolutionize the way Nigerian students access international education, an international education consultancy firm, UNIPASS has unveiled a “Student-First” initiative that offers free study abroad consultations. 

This breaks from the norm in Nigeria, where agencies typically charge between N50,000 and N150,000 for initial advisory sessions.

With 24 years of experience in the education sector, UNIPASS has built an extensive network covering 18 destinations and hundreds of accredited institutions worldwide. The organization recently reinforced its presence in the country with the launch of a new headquarters in Abuja’s Central Business District in December 2025.

Speaking at the launch, CEO Alvin Atsegwasi said the initiative aims to ensure transparency and “rejection-proof” students’ applications. He stressed that paying to access information should no longer be a barrier, especially in a market where high upfront fees can sometimes mask potential scams.

Atsegwasi said: “The UNIPASS “A-Z approach” addresses key areas to support students. On economic inclusivity, the agency aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 by guiding students across a range of budgets, including low tuition options. 

“Its proven track record shows that over the past two years, the agency has helped more than 1,200 students secure placements, achieving high visa success rates in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Germany. Comprehensive support also extends to academic profiling, financial planning, and career alignment, maximizing students’ post-study work prospects.

“Beyond standard admissions, UNIPASS has launched three major social impact programs. The WING Scholarship funds young Nigerian women pursuing STEM careers. Its Disability Support initiative provides tailored counseling and scholarship assistance for students with disabilities. 

“The Reverse Tourism program partners with local institutions, such as Isaac Balami University, to attract international students to Nigeria, not just the other way round.”

According to him, “UNIPASS’s services cover all levels of higher education, including specialized pathways for third-class degree holders aiming for “Post-Graduate Diplomas or Master’s programs, as well as support for PhD candidates. 

“While walk-ins are welcome at the Millennium Building in Abuja, the agency recommends scheduling appointments online via its website or social media channels to guarantee dedicated consultation time.”

With this initiative, UNIPASS is redefining access to global education in Nigeria, making study abroad opportunities more transparent, inclusive, and accessible.