adminAffordable Universities in Nigeria for Undergraduates
Understanding Affordable Universities in Nigeria for Undergraduates
Finding an affordable university in Nigeria has become one of the most important concerns for families, especially as tuition continues to rise. Many parents want schools where their children can get a quality education without facing unbearable fees. Students also want universities that combine affordability with good learning environments, credible accreditation, job opportunities after school, and well-recognized degrees.
The idea of affordability is not only about the amount paid per session. It also includes cost of feeding, accommodation, transport, textbooks, departmental dues, practical materials, and other expenses that shape the full cost of schooling. In 2026, rising inflation, economic fluctuations, and changes in government funding have made the cost of university education a top issue for many Nigerians.
Fortunately, Nigeria still has several public and private universities that offer reasonably priced undergraduate programs. While federal universities are traditionally the cheapest due to government subsidies, some state universities are equally affordable. In recent years, a few private universities have also adopted flexible tuition structures to support low-income students.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the most affordable universities in Nigeria, their tuition structures, courses, admission requirements, cost of living, opportunities, and strategies for minimizing educational expenses.
Why Many Students Are Searching for Affordable Universities in 2026
Economic Pressure on Families
The economic realities in Nigeria rising fuel costs, increased transportation expenses, and inflation have made university education more expensive. Families are therefore prioritizing affordability when choosing institutions.
Affordable Universities in Nigeria for Undergraduates
Removal or Reduction of Subsidies
Some universities adjusted their fee structures over the last few years due to reduced government allocations. This increased the financial burden on students, making the search for cheaper universities more urgent.
Increased Competition for Slots in Federal Universities
Federal universities remain the most affordable, but limited admission capacity means many students are forced to consider alternatives with reasonable tuition.
More Students Seeking Flexible and Work-Friendly Schools
Many undergraduates want universities with flexible payment plans, low acceptance fees, day-student options, and campuses close to home to reduce accommodation costs.
Categories of Affordable Universities in Nigeria
Federal Universities
They offer the lowest tuition fees due to government funding. Examples include:
-
University of Ibadan
-
University of Lagos
-
University of Nigeria Nsukka
-
Obafemi Awolowo University
-
Ahmadu Bello University
-
Federal University of Technology Minna
-
University of Calabar
Federal universities typically charge between 30,000 and 150,000 per session depending on the program.
State Universities
Some state universities are relatively affordable, especially those with subsidized rates for indigenes. Their fees range from 70,000 to 250,000 per session for most programs.
Examples include:
-
Lagos State University
-
Enugu State University of Science and Technology
-
Osun State University
-
Imo State University
-
Adekunle Ajasin University
-
Delta State University
Affordable Private Universities
Although many private universities are expensive, some maintain moderate fees and allow installment payments. Their fees usually range from 250,000 to 600,000 per session.
Examples include:
-
Lead City University
-
Babcock University (general programs)
-
Fountain University
-
Hallmark University
-
Oduduwa University
Detailed Overview of Some of the Most Affordable Universities in Nigeria
(Note: This list focuses on institutions widely known for relatively low tuition compared to others in their category.)
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
Why It’s Affordable
FUNAAB is known for its low tuition fees in science and agricultural courses. Despite being a specialized university, it remains one of the most affordable federal institutions.
Average Tuition
-
30,000 to 70,000 per session
-
Additional departmental fees apply
Popular Courses
-
Animal Production
-
Crop Science
-
Food Science and Technology
-
Agricultural Engineering
-
Veterinary Medicine
-
Water Resources Management
Cost of Living in Abeokuta
Abeokuta is moderately affordable. Students can live on a modest budget if they share accommodation.
Affordable Universities in Nigeria for Undergraduates
University of Calabar (UNICAL)
Why Students Choose It
UNICAL offers some of the lowest departmental and faculty fees in the South-South region.
Tuition Range
-
40,000 to 90,000 depending on department
Notable Courses
-
Medical Sciences
-
Social Sciences
-
Business Administration
-
Nursing
-
Education
-
Biological Sciences
Affordability Advantages
-
Low acceptance fees
-
Access to off-campus housing within student-friendly environments
University of Ibadan (UI)
What Makes UI Affordable
Despite being Nigeria’s premier university, UI remains relatively inexpensive. It has many scholarship opportunities and subsidized fees.
Tuition
-
30,000 to 120,000 depending on course and level
Strong Points
-
High academic reputation
-
Good postgraduate opportunities
-
Strong library and research facilities
Suitable For
-
Students who want academic rigor with affordability
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
Affordability Appeal
ABU is one of the cheapest universities in Nigeria, especially for northern students.
Tuition
-
30,000 to 70,000
-
Medical programs slightly higher
Popular Courses
-
Law
-
Medicine
-
Agriculture
-
Education
-
Engineering
-
Environmental Design
Cost of Living
Extremely affordable. Students spend significantly less compared to southern cities.
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Why It’s Considered Affordable
Although UNILAG increased fees in some years, it still offers moderate fees compared to private alternatives.
Tuition
-
50,000 to 150,000
-
Professional programs higher
Advantages
-
Strong employer recognition
-
Internship opportunities
-
Proximity to major industries
Lagos State University (LASU)
Why It Is Popular
LASU remains one of the most affordable state universities in Nigeria after restructuring its fees to support more students.
Tuition Range
-
80,000 to 250,000 depending on course
Strong Faculties
-
Law
-
Business Administration
-
Medical College
-
Social Sciences
-
Education
Delta State University (DELSU)
Affordability Highlights
DELSU maintains reasonable fees for indigenes while offering quality instruction.
Tuition
-
Indigenes: 80,000–120,000
-
Non-indigenes: 130,000–190,000
Popular Courses
-
Mass Communication
-
Business Administration
-
Sociology
-
Medicine
-
Education
Ambrose Alli University (AAU Ekpoma)
Tuition
-
100,000 to 200,000 depending on department
Why It’s Considered Moderately Affordable
AAU fees are lower than many southern state universities and the cost of living in Ekpoma is reasonable.
Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
Fees
-
40,000 to 80,000
Popular Courses
-
Engineering
-
Environmental Sciences
-
ICT fields
Affordable Universities in Nigeria for Undergraduates
Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA)
Tuition
-
80,000 to 150,000
Why Students Love It
AAUA has stable academic sessions and relatively affordable accommodation.
Key Factors That Influence the Cost of Schooling in Nigeria
Location
Urban cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt have higher living expenses. Rural or semi-urban institutions are more affordable.
Course of Study
Medical, engineering, and laboratory-based courses require higher fees due to equipment and practical costs.
Accommodation Choices
On-campus hostels are cheaper but limited. Off-campus apartments vary based on location.
Transportation Costs
Students who live far from campus spend more on transport, affecting their total schooling cost.
Feeding
Feeding expenses depend on the university’s environment. Campuses with large markets and competition offer cheaper options.
Complete Admission Requirements for Affordable Universities in Nigeria
Basic Requirements
-
O’Level (WAEC/NECO/GCE) results with 5 credits
-
JAMB score meeting university cutoff
-
Post-UTME screening
-
Birth certificate
-
Local government identification
-
Application fees for screening
Additional Requirements for Competitive Courses
-
Higher JAMB scores
-
Strong O’Level grades in math and sciences
-
Direct Entry qualifications such as ND, NCE, or A-level results
Steps to Apply to Affordable Universities in Nigeria
Step 1: Register for JAMB
Choose the university and course during UTME registration.
Step 2: Sit for UTME
Aim for high scores to increase admission chances.
Step 3: Apply for Post-UTME
Submit documents online and take the screening when scheduled.
Step 4: Wait for Admission List
Monitor merit, catchment, and supplementary lists.
Step 5: Pay Acceptance Fee
This secures your admission.
Step 6: Complete Clearance
Submit documents physically or online.
Step 7: Pay School Fees
Follow the school’s payment guidelines.
Step 8: Resume
Attend orientation and begin lectures.
Mistakes Students Make When Selecting an Affordable University
Choosing Based on Fees Alone
Cheap tuition does not automatically mean quality education.
Ignoring Cost of Living
A low school fee with high accommodation expenses can still make a university expensive.
Selecting an Overcrowded Course
Competing with thousands of candidates reduces admission chances.
Misinterpreting Indigene/Non-Indigene Policies
Some state universities charge different fees for indigenes.
Not Checking Accreditation
Every course must be accredited by the relevant authority.
Cost-Saving Tips for Students in Affordable Universities
Live Off-Campus with Roommates
Sharing rooms reduces accommodation costs.
Buy Used Textbooks
Students can save significantly by buying fairly used books.
Cook Instead of Eating Out
Cooking is cheaper than daily restaurant meals.
Apply for Scholarships
Many universities offer internal scholarships for high-performing students.
Choose Student-Friendly Transport Routes
Some campuses have shuttle buses that reduce costs.
Work Part-Time
Students can earn income through:
-
Tutoring
-
Freelance writing
-
POS operations
-
Digital marketing
-
Hair/Barbing services
Affordable Universities in Nigeria for Undergraduates
Challenges Students in Affordable Universities May Face
Overcrowded Classes
Large student populations can reduce the quality of interaction.
Limited Accommodation
Most federal universities struggle with hostel shortages.
Strike Actions
Some public universities experience academic interruptions.
Limited Practical Tools
Laboratory-based courses may experience equipment limitations in some institutions.
Opportunities Available for Students in Affordable Universities
Internship Programs
Students often get placement opportunities in:
-
Government agencies
-
Private firms
-
NGOs
-
Media houses
Entrepreneurship Hubs
Many universities now provide entrepreneurship training for students.
Research Grants
Students with strong academic performance can access small research funds.
Campus Jobs
Universities may offer:
-
Library assistant roles
-
Department office support
-
Lab assistance
Case-Study Style Examples: How Students Survive on Low Budgets
Student A: A Medical Student in UNICAL
He lives in shared off-campus housing, buys books second-hand, and works weekends at a tutorial center.
Student B: An Engineering Student at ABU Zaria
She uses the school shuttle for transport, participates in departmental activities, and receives internal scholarships.
Student C: A Mass Communication Student at AAUA
He lives in low-cost hostels, eats affordable meals on campus, and works remotely as a social media assistant.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Affordable University
Selecting an affordable university in Nigeria requires balancing school fees, accommodation expenses, cost of living, course accreditation, and future job opportunities. Whether choosing a federal, state, or affordable private university, students must evaluate the total cost of study, not just tuition.
Affordable universities remain an excellent opportunity for Nigerian undergraduates to pursue quality education without overwhelming financial burden. With the right planning, budget discipline, and academic focus, students can graduate with strong prospects for employment or further studies.
admin