Updated School Fees of Nigerian Universities (2026) – Federal, State & Private Universities
Choosing a university in Nigeria is not only about the course you want to study. It is also important to know how much you will pay as school fees. Many students and parents search online every year for the latest tuition fees before applying for admission through JAMB.
School fees in Nigerian universities have changed significantly over the past few years. While some institutions still maintain relatively affordable fees, others have increased their charges due to inflation, improved facilities, and the rising cost of running educational institutions.
This guide provides an overview of the updated school fees of Nigerian universities. The figures are based on the latest publicly available information and official announcements where available.
However, universities may revise their fees at any time, so students should always confirm the current fees on the official website of their chosen institution before making payment.
Whether you are looking for a federal, state, or private university, this article will help you understand the expected cost and plan your educational budget.
Why You Should Check School Fees Before Applying
Many admission seekers focus only on gaining admission. Unfortunately, some students receive admission offers but cannot proceed because they did not plan for the financial requirements.
Knowing the school fees ahead of time helps you:
- Prepare your budget.
- Compare different universities.
- Choose a school that fits your financial capacity.
- Avoid unexpected expenses.
- Make informed admission decisions.
For parents, checking the tuition fees early also helps in financial planning throughout the academic session.
Why School Fees Differ Among Nigerian Universities
One question many students ask is:
“Why does one university charge ₦80,000 while another charges over ₦500,000?”
There are several reasons.
1. Ownership
The biggest factor is ownership.
There are three categories of universities in Nigeria:
- Federal universities
- State universities
- Private universities
Federal universities receive funding from the Federal Government. Because of this support, students usually pay lower tuition.
State universities receive funding from state governments. However, the level of funding differs from one state to another.
Private universities depend mainly on tuition paid by students, which explains why their fees are much higher.
2. Course of Study
Not every department pays the same amount.
Courses requiring laboratories, hospitals, studios, workshops, or practical training often cost more.
Examples include:
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Architecture
These programmes require expensive equipment and practical sessions.
3. Level of Study
Freshers usually pay more than returning students because they are required to pay additional charges such as:
- Acceptance fee
- Registration fee
- Identity card fee
- Medical screening fee
- Orientation fee
- Faculty charges
Returning students often pay only tuition and recurring charges.
4. Accommodation
Some universities include hostel accommodation in the school fees, while others charge separately.
Students living off-campus may not pay hostel fees but will incur transport and rent costs.
5. Facilities Available
Universities with modern classrooms, ICT centres, laboratories, libraries, internet facilities, and better infrastructure often charge higher fees.
Students benefit from these improved learning environments.
Components of University School Fees
Many people think school fees mean only tuition.
In reality, students pay several charges, including:
- Tuition fee
- Registration fee
- ICT fee
- Library fee
- Laboratory fee
- Examination fee
- Faculty dues
- Departmental dues
- Medical fee
- Student union fee
- Sports fee
- Development levy
- Identity card fee
- Hostel fee (where applicable)
Understanding these charges helps students know exactly what they are paying for.
Updated School Fees of Federal Universities in Nigeria (2026)
Federal universities remain the most affordable option for many Nigerian students.
Below are estimated tuition ranges for new students. Fees may vary by course and level.
| Federal University | Estimated School Fees |
|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | ₦120,000–₦220,000 |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | ₦110,000–₦210,000 |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | ₦90,000–₦180,000 |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | ₦110,000–₦200,000 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | ₦100,000–₦180,000 |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | ₦100,000–₦200,000 |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | ₦95,000–₦190,000 |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | ₦80,000–₦160,000 |
| Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) | ₦100,000–₦180,000 |
| Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) | ₦95,000–₦170,000 |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | ₦90,000–₦180,000 |
| Federal University Lokoja (FULOKOJA) | ₦90,000–₦170,000 |
| Federal University Dutse (FUD) | ₦80,000–₦150,000 |
| Federal University Kashere (FUK) | ₦80,000–₦150,000 |
| Federal University Lafia (FULAFIA) | ₦90,000–₦170,000 |
Note: Professional courses such as Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, Engineering, and Medical Laboratory Science usually attract higher fees than Arts, Education, and Social Science programmes.
What Students Should Expect in Federal Universities
Although federal universities are subsidized by the government, students should budget for additional expenses such as:
- Acceptance fee
- Hostel accommodation
- Departmental dues
- Faculty charges
- Textbooks
- Laboratory materials
- Field trips
- Practical sessions
- Project costs (for final-year students)
These expenses can significantly increase the total cost of studying.
Are Federal Universities Still Cheap?
Compared to private universities, yes.
However, due to rising inflation and increased operational costs, several federal universities have reviewed their fees in recent years.
Even with these adjustments, they remain the preferred choice for many Nigerians because they offer quality education at a relatively affordable cost.
Updated School Fees of State Universities in Nigeria (2026)
State universities are owned and funded by individual state governments. Their fees are generally higher than those of federal universities but lower than most private universities. One important thing to note is that many state universities charge different fees for indigenes (students from the state) and non-indigenes.
This means that if you are from the state where the university is located, you may enjoy lower tuition fees.
Below is an estimated fee range for fresh students. These figures may vary depending on the course of study and faculty.
| State University | Estimated School Fees (Fresh Students) |
|---|---|
| Lagos State University (LASU) | ₦120,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | ₦140,000 – ₦230,000 |
| Rivers State University (RSU) | ₦130,000 – ₦220,000 |
| Ekiti State University (EKSU) | ₦110,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Benue State University (BSU) | ₦100,000 – ₦170,000 |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | ₦130,000 – ₦220,000 |
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | ₦120,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Imo State University (IMSU) | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Kogi State University | ₦100,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Kaduna State University (KASU) | ₦120,000 – ₦210,000 |
| Gombe State University | ₦90,000 – ₦170,000 |
| Nasarawa State University | ₦90,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Taraba State University | ₦80,000 – ₦160,000 |
| Plateau State University | ₦90,000 – ₦170,000 |
| Sule Lamido University | ₦80,000 – ₦150,000 |
Important: Courses such as Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Engineering, Law, and Medical Laboratory Science usually cost more than Education, Arts, or Social Science courses.
Why Do State Universities Charge Different Fees?
Several factors determine the amount you will pay in a state university:
1. Indigene and Non-Indigene Status
Many state universities provide subsidized tuition for indigenes. Non-indigenes may pay significantly more.
2. Professional Courses
Programmes that require laboratories, hospitals, studios, or workshops attract higher charges because they are more expensive to run.
3. Development Projects
Some universities include development levies to improve classrooms, hostels, libraries, laboratories, and ICT facilities.
4. Student Services
Fees may also cover:
- Medical services
- ICT support
- Examination processing
- Library access
- Student union activities
- Sports and recreational facilities
Updated School Fees of Private Universities in Nigeria (2026)
Private universities generally have the highest tuition fees because they rely mainly on student payments to fund their operations.
However, many parents choose them because of:
- Stable academic calendar
- Smaller class sizes
- Better learning facilities
- Improved security
- Reduced strike actions
- Modern laboratories and libraries
Below are estimated annual tuition ranges.
| Private University | Estimated Annual School Fees |
|---|---|
| Covenant University | ₦1,400,000 – ₦1,700,000 |
| Babcock University | ₦900,000 – ₦2,500,000 |
| Bowen University | ₦800,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | ₦1,200,000 – ₦5,000,000 |
| Lead City University | ₦600,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| Madonna University | ₦700,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Igbinedion University | ₦900,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| Nile University | ₦2,000,000 – ₦6,000,000 |
| Bingham University | ₦700,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Caleb University | ₦700,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| Pan-Atlantic University | ₦2,500,000 – ₦6,000,000 |
| Redeemer’s University | ₦700,000 – ₦1,600,000 |
Why Are Private Universities More Expensive?
Private universities receive little or no government funding. Their tuition covers:
- Salaries of academic and non-academic staff
- Maintenance of campus facilities
- Electricity and internet services
- Modern laboratories
- Hostel maintenance
- Security
- Learning resources
- Continuous infrastructure development
Many private universities also provide uninterrupted academic calendars, allowing students to graduate on schedule.
Cheapest Universities in Nigeria
If your budget is limited, these universities are generally among the more affordable options (subject to change):
- Federal University Dutse (FUD)
- Federal University Kashere (FUK)
- Taraba State University
- Sule Lamido University
- Gombe State University
- Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- Federal University Lokoja
- Nasarawa State University
Remember that “cheap” does not mean low quality. Many of these universities have qualified lecturers and produce graduates who excel in different professions.
Most Expensive Universities in Nigeria
Some universities charge premium fees because of their facilities, international partnerships, and specialized programmes.
Examples include:
- Pan-Atlantic University
- Nile University
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- Babcock University (for some professional programmes)
- Covenant University
- Igbinedion University
Professional programmes such as Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Aviation-related courses often attract the highest tuition fees.
Other Expenses You Should Budget For
School fees are only one part of the total cost of studying at a university. Students should also prepare for:
- Acceptance fee
- Hostel accommodation
- Off-campus rent
- Textbooks and handouts
- Feeding
- Transportation
- Laboratory coats and equipment
- Practical materials
- Departmental dues
- Faculty dues
- Medical screening
- Identity card
- Internet and data subscription
- Final-year project expenses
- Convocation charges
Planning for these costs early can reduce financial stress during your studies.
How to Pay University School Fees in Nigeria
Most Nigerian universities now use online payment systems to make fee payment easier and more secure. Although the exact process may differ from one institution to another, the general steps are similar.
1. Accept Your Admission
Before paying school fees, ensure you have accepted your admission on the appropriate platforms, including your university portal and, where applicable, the JAMB CAPS portal.
2. Create or Activate Your Student Portal Account
After admission, the university will provide instructions for creating your student account. This portal is where you will complete registration, make payments, and access academic information.
3. Generate a Payment Invoice
Log in to the student portal and generate an invoice or Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR), depending on the payment system used by your institution.
4. Make Payment
You can usually pay through:
- Debit/ATM card
- Internet banking
- Commercial bank branches
- Mobile banking apps
- Approved payment platforms
Always pay through the university’s official payment channels. Avoid paying into personal bank accounts or using unofficial agents.
5. Print Your Payment Receipt
After successful payment, print or save your receipt. You may need it for course registration, hostel allocation, clearance, or examinations.
Tips to Reduce the Cost of University Education
Although school fees can be expensive, there are practical ways to reduce the financial burden.
Apply for Scholarships
Many organizations, government agencies, oil companies, banks, and private foundations offer scholarships to Nigerian students.
Some scholarships cover:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Books
- Living expenses
- Research grants
Always check the eligibility requirements and application deadlines.
Consider Federal Universities
If affordability is your main concern, federal universities are generally the least expensive option because they receive government support.
Live in the School Hostel
Hostel accommodation is often cheaper than renting a private apartment off campus. It can also reduce transportation costs and provide easier access to lectures and campus facilities.
Buy Fairly Used Textbooks
Instead of purchasing brand-new textbooks, consider:
- Buying fairly used copies.
- Borrowing from the university library.
- Sharing textbooks with classmates.
- Using recommended digital resources where permitted.
Create a Student Budget
A monthly budget helps you manage your money wisely. Include:
- Feeding
- Transport
- Internet/data
- Printing and photocopying
- Personal expenses
- Emergency savings
Avoid unnecessary spending to stay financially stable throughout the semester.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Some businesses offer discounts on:
- Educational software
- Internet subscriptions
- Transportation
- Learning materials
Always ask if student discounts are available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which university has the cheapest school fees in Nigeria?
Several federal universities and some state universities have relatively low tuition fees. However, the exact amount varies by programme and academic session.
2. Which universities have the highest school fees?
Most private universities charge the highest fees, especially for professional programmes such as Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Nursing.
3. Do federal universities charge tuition fees?
Many federal universities receive government funding, but students still pay various charges, including registration, ICT, laboratory, library, and development fees.
4. Do school fees change every year?
Yes. Universities may review their fees due to inflation, operational costs, government policies, or infrastructure development.
5. Can I pay my school fees in installments?
Some universities allow installment payments, while others require full payment before registration. Always check your institution’s official guidelines.
6. Are hostel fees included in school fees?
Not always. In many universities, hostel accommodation is paid separately.
7. Why do fresh students pay more?
Fresh students usually pay additional charges such as:
- Acceptance fee
- Medical screening
- Identity card fee
- Orientation fee
- Registration charges
8. Which courses have the highest tuition fees?
Professional courses generally cost more, including:
- Medicine and Surgery
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Engineering
- Law
- Architecture
9. Can school fees be refunded?
Policies differ by institution. Some fees are non-refundable, while others may be refundable under specific conditions.
10. Where can I confirm the latest school fees?
The best source is the university’s official website or the admissions office. Since fees can change, always verify before making any payment.