Cheapest Private Universities in Nigeria 2024/2025

Private universities in Nigeria are generally known for it expensiveness , but many private universities offer quality education at an affordable and convenient low cost. This article expatiates the most affordable private universities their tuition fees and other additional expenses and information 

List of the Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria

Obong University:

Obong University In Akwa Ibom is known to be very affordable with small class sizes which allow students have personalized learning and strong academic support.

The tuition Fees from N180,000 per session. Other costs include accommodation N50,000, Acceptance fee N20,000.
The school offers discounts for full tuition payment and also merit-based scholarships.

Oduduwa University

Oduduwa University in Osun is also among the top cheapest universities even with it high graduates employability rate which is due to industry partnerships.

The tuition Fees starts from N185,000 per session. Other Costs are acceptance fee N10,000,hostel accommodation N90,000 which is optional.

The school offers flexible tuition payment in three installments and also has strong internship programs.

Wellspring University

Wellspring University is a Christian-based university in Edo that emphasizes discipline and moral values. 

The tuition Fees is around N213,000 per session

Other Costs are hostel fees N80,000 and registration N15,000.

The school offers career mentorship programs and graduate employability support.

Ajayi Crowther University

Ajayi Crowther University is a christian ethical school  located in Oyo and is among the top 5 cheapest universities in Nigeria.

The tuition Fees ranges from N162,000 – N782,000 depending on course.

Other Costs include examination fee N10,000, accommodation N100,000.

The school has financial aid opportunities and also offers  installment payment options.

Caritas University

Caritas University located in Enugu is a Catholic Church management school with well-equipped libraries and a serene study environment.

The tuition Fees ranges From N248,000 per session.

Other Costs include Library fees N7,000 and Hostel N100,000.

Tansian University

Tansian University Is located in Anambra is among the cheapest universities that offers Special discounts for low-income students and also entrepreneurial training for their students.

The tuition Fees ranges from N258,000 – N300,000 per session.

Other Costs include Development fee N30,000 and Medical N10,000.


Paul University

Paul University in Awka is an Anglican affiliated university that has flexible tuition fees and strong internship programs.

The Tuition Fees starts from N300,000 per session.

Other Costs include Health insurance N5,000 and ICT fee N12,000.

Rhema University

Rhema University is a university in Aba that blends  spiritual and academic life and also offers entrepreneurship center support.

The Tuition Fees is around N300,000 per session.

Other Costs include Sports fee N5,000 and ID card N2,000.

Fountain University

Fountain University in Osun is an Islamic faith-based education and has a very conducive academic atmosphere.

The tuition Fees is About N341,000 per session.

Other Costs include Security fee N8,000 and Student union dues N4,000.

Al-Hikmah University

Al-Hikmah University in Kwara is also an Islamic-based school and the tuition fee is payable in two installments.

The tuition Fees starts from N350,000 per session.

Other Costs include Accreditation levy (N15,000)and Hostel N120,000 which is not mandatory.

Hidden Costs in Private Universities

Choosing a cheap Private University shouldn’t be based on lower tuition fees alone, students should look out for additional costs before applying, these hidden costs include:

Acceptance Fees:

This is a fee paid to the school immediately after admission to secure your admission. It ranges from N10,000 – N50,000.

Developmental Fees:

This fee is charged for campus infrastructure and ranges from N20,000 – N40,000.

Medical Fees:

This fee covers healthcare services which is usually between N5,000 – N15,000.

Accommodation Fees:

This fee is also called hostel fee which is paid for housing. It can be mandatory or optional  depending on the school and level. It’s usually between N50,000 – N200,000.

ICT Fees:

This fee is paid for accessibility to e-learning platforms, from N10,000 – N30,000.

How to Reduce Education Costs in Private Universities

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Scholarships awarded based on academic excellence, achievement and the likes. Available in institutions like Rhema and Oduduwa.
  • Need-Based Financial Aid:This is a financial aid for students from low-income backgrounds.
  • Family Discounts: Discounts offered when siblings enroll in the same university.
  • Early Payment Discounts:Discounts some universities give  for early tuition payment.

Installment Payment Plans

  •  Most private universities offer flexible tuition payment in two to four installments.
  • Some institutions wave penalties for late payment if students provide proof of financial difficulties.

Choosing the Best Affordable Private University

When choosing the cheapest university in Nigeria there are some factors to consider aside the affordability of the tuition fees, these include:

  • Accreditation: Ensure the school has NUC (National Universities Commission) approval.
  • Total Cost: make sure to consider the tuition costs alongside other hidden fees as mentioned above before choosing a school.
  • Graduate Employability Rate : Make sure to research the university graduate success and employability rates.
  • Facilities & Campus Life: Make sure ti check for the faculties like accommodation, libraries, internet access, career opportunities and other extracurricular activities.

Conclusion on Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria

Selecting an affordable private university requires careful evaluation and calculation of tuition, hidden costs, financial aid options, and student support services. 

By leveraging scholarships and flexible payment plans, students can receive quality education without excessive financial burden.

Note: Always contact the university directly or check their official website for accurate fee structures and financial aid options.

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