Top 10 Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees (2025 Updated):–Education is often called the best investment, but in Nigeria, the rising cost of living has made many families anxious about how much it truly costs to get a degree. The good news? Federal universities in Nigeria remain some of the most affordable options. Compared to private schools that charge millions per year, federal universities still provide quality education at lower costs.
But which ones are the cheapest right now? In this guide, we’ll list the top 10 cheapest federal universities in Nigeria, their average tuition fees, and what makes them stand out in 2025.
Why Federal Universities Are Affordable
Federal universities are funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria, which helps subsidize tuition for students. Unlike private universities where tuition alone can exceed ₦1 million per year, federal universities charge between ₦30,000 and ₦80,000 per session on average.
Of course, there are other expenses—accommodation, departmental dues, acceptance fees—but tuition remains much lower compared to private schools.
Top 10 Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees
Here’s the updated list based on tuition costs:
1. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- School Fees: ₦85,000 – ₦100,000
- ABU is not only one of the cheapest universities in Nigeria but also one of the largest. With faculties ranging from Medicine to Agriculture, ABU attracts students from across the country.
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
- School Fees: ₦120,000 – ₦200,000
- Nigeria’s first university remains affordable while maintaining a global reputation for academic excellence.
3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- School Fees: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000
- UNILAG is popular for its urban location, modern facilities, and diverse programs. Despite being in Lagos, it remains relatively affordable.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
- School Fees: ₦1105,000 – ₦195,000
- Known for its rich academic tradition, OAU consistently ranks among Nigeria’s top universities, while keeping tuition moderate.
5. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- School Fees: ₦120,000 – ₦200,000
- UNIBEN’s affordability and wide range of courses make it a top choice for many students.
6. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
- School Fees: ₦85,000 – ₦170,000
- As one of the leading agricultural universities in Nigeria, FUNAAB offers affordable tuition while focusing on food security and research.
7. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- School Fees: ₦97,000 – ₦170,000
- BUK is another affordable federal institution that attracts students from all regions, particularly for medical and science programs.
- Source: buk.edu.ng
8. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)
- School Fees: ₦98,000 – ₦200,000
- Often called one of the cheapest universities in Nigeria, UDUS is recognized for its low tuition and solid academic reputation.
9. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- School Fees: ₦135,000 – ₦200,000
- Known as “better by far,” UNILORIN is affordable, disciplined, and has one of the fastest academic calendars in Nigeria.
10. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- School Fees: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000
- FUTA is a technology-focused university, affordable compared to other tech schools in the country.
Additional Costs to Expect
While tuition is cheap, students should budget for other expenses:
- Acceptance Fee: ₦10,000 – ₦40,000 (once for freshers).
- Accommodation: ₦20,000 – ₦70,000 per year (on campus).
- Departmental/Faculty Fees: ₦5,000 – ₦15,000.
- Books and Materials: ₦10,000 – ₦30,000.
So, while tuition may be ₦30,000, a student might still spend up to ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 per year including all charges.
Why Choose a Cheap Federal University?
- Lower Cost of Education – Families can save money without compromising on quality.
- Diverse Programs – Federal universities offer a wide variety of courses.
- Government Support – Fees are subsidized compared to private universities.
- Recognition – Federal universities are highly regarded across Nigeria and abroad.
Recommended
FAQs on Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria
Which is the cheapest federal university in Nigeria?
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) is often ranked as the cheapest, with fees starting around ₦85,000.
Are federal universities better than state universities?
Not always, but federal universities are usually cheaper and better funded.
Can I pay school fees in installments?
Most federal universities require full payment at once, but some allow installments.
Are accommodation fees included in tuition?
No, accommodation is separate. Students must pay hostel fees in addition to tuition.
Which federal university has the highest fees?
Universities offering professional programs like Medicine or Pharmacy usually charge more.
Conclusion
If you’re planning for university in Nigeria but worried about cost, federal universities remain the best choice for affordability. With tuition fees ranging from ₦90,000 to ₦200,000 per year, institutions like ABU, BUK ,UI, UNILAG, and UDUS prove that quality education doesn’t have to break the bank.
For parents and students alike, knowing these figures helps in financial planning and ensures that money isn’t a barrier to academic success.
As of 2025, these are the top 10 cheapest federal universities in Nigeria—and they remain some of the best options for accessible, quality education.
