Top 12 Cheapest Private Universities in Nigeria for Quality Education.
Nigerian private universities are often considered the best alternatives for students planning for higher education due to the ASUU indefinite strikes and public university disruptions. While some private universities in Nigeria incur millions of Naira per academic session, others offer affordable tuition fees, hostel expenses, and even scholarship programs.
So, if you are planning for your higher education or parents are looking for the best private institutions with accredited courses, low school fees, and good degrees, here are of the top private universities in Nigeria that offer them.
Caleb University
When it comes to private universities in Southwestern Nigeria with affordable tuition fees, Caleb University is among them. It is located in Imota, Lagos State, the centre of commerce.
The institution offers students the opportunity to build their careers in top companies through internship and placement programs. Caleb University offers courses in different fields such as natural Sciences, social sciences, technology, and law, and tuition rates start from ₦215,000 – ₦560,000.
Adeleke University
Adeleke University is proof that Nigerian students looking for high-quality education can achieve their dreams without compromising academic performance or standards. It offers scholarship programs for the underprivileged students and also supports economically challenged students.
It offers undergraduate and Postgraduate courses including basic medical Sciences in physiology, Nursing, public health, medical laboratory Sciences, and Anatomy.
Adeleke offers courses in the Faculty of Arts (Religious Studies, International Relations) Other courses include Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Computer Science, and Food Science and Nutrition. Adeleke University’s tuition fees are affordable, and courses have different prices.
The institution has also warned prospects seeking admission against fraudsters parading themselves as agents. Students are advised to use the proper channel to seek admission.
Paul University
Paul University is among the top private universities in South-Eastern Nigeria with affordable tuition rates. It is located in Awka, the capital city of Anambra. It offers quality education, and students consider its environment peaceful for learning.
The beauty of studying at Paul University is that it offers scholarship programs for the underprivileged and also supports students financially.
Students from all backgrounds are welcome to join with tuition rates starting from ₦190,000 – ₦350,000.
Paul University has strong Christian values and is affordable for students or parents looking for a private University in South East Nigeria.
Oduduwa University
Oduduwa University is one of the leading private universities in Nigeria, offering low tuition fees that include housing expenses, as well as scholarship programs. It is located in Ipetumodu, Osun State, the heartland of the Yoruba people.
The institution offers courses in social science, management, Computer Engineering, Microbiology, Economics, Nursing Sciences, Biological Sciences, and offers low tuition fees for these courses. Undergraduate programs’ tuition fees start from ₦185,000 – ₦245,000, while Postgraduate courses start from ₦210,000 – ₦350,000.
Oduduwa University also offers part-time and pre-degree programs at an affordable price. It starts from ₦98,000 – ₦150,000.
While the institution maintains affordable tuition rates, it offers quality education and has a strong reputation for academic excellence.
SouthWestern University
SouthWestern University, located in Ogun State, Nigeria, offers high-quality education, and it is one of the best private universities in Yoruba land.
If you dream of studying in Southwestern Nigeria, SouthWestern University is one of the cost-effective alternatives for you. The institution offers courses in Administration and Management, Computer Science, Mass Communication, Accountancy, Biochemistry, and Microbiology.
South Western University has a scheduled tuition rate for levels 100, 200, and 400 with different prices. Freshers start from ₦350,000 per academic session, ₦100 for housing expenses, and ₦50,000 for the development fee, totalling ₦500,000.
Tansian University
If you are looking for a Christian devout missionary tertiary institution with affordable tuition fees and a serene environment for learning, Tansian University offers them. The institution is located in South-Eastern Nigeria, Umunya, Anambra State, and was established by Rev. Fr. John Bosco Akam. Tansian University disciplines students, and its academic performance is top-notch.
Tuition fees start from ₦250,000 – ₦700,000. Students aspiring for a missionary institution can join Tansian University and enjoy the benefits it offers.
Veritas University
Veritas University, owned and managed by the Catholic church, offers affordable tuition fees for students from all backgrounds. It’s located in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.
Parents who are looking for a moral and spiritual discipline institution for their children, Veritas University, imbues them. It offers courses in diverse fields, and tuition rates start from ₦415,000 – ₦2,000,000.
Veritas offers scholarship programs for the underprivileged and constantly supports students financially.
Al-Hikmah University
Al-Hakmah University offers quality academic education and is one of the best alternatives for Nigerian students looking for affordable private universities in Western Nigeria.
It is located in Ilorin, Kwara State, and has a strong reputation for academic performance and excellence. It’s an Islamic faith University that allows students from all parts of the country to join their academic programs. Tuition rates start from ₦200,000 – ₦350,000.
Babcock University
When it comes to educational universities that integrate Christian faith alongside academic programs, Babcock University is one of them. It is owned and managed by the Seventh-day Adventist church.
It is located in Ogun State, Nigeria, and was founded in 1959. Offers courses in Administration, international studies, Engineering, and Research programs. Babcock University’s tuition fees are affordable for students from all backgrounds.
Wellspring University
High-quality education is not meant only for rich people. Wellspring University offers courses at affordable rates for students from all backgrounds to join their academic programs.
It is located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. It offers programs in Engineering courses, Nursing Sciences, and Health Sciences. Undergraduate and Postgraduate tuition fees start from ₦600,000 – ₦1,400,000.
Students who want to join leading universities in industry-focused training programs without compromising academics can choose Wellspring University as one of the best alternatives.
Ajayi Crowther University
A name that will always remain in the hearts of Africans: Bishop Ajayi Crowther.
Located in Oyo State, Nigeria, it has a strong reputation for academic performance, and its educational programs are top-notch.
Ajayi Crowther University is among the top private universities in Nigeria, where students can get affordable tuition fees and hostel expenses without compromising academic standards.
It offers courses in theology, Law Administration, and Management. It has a serene environment where students learn peacefully, and its school fees begin with ₦200,000 – ₦2,000,000 depending on the selected courses. Nigerian students can achieve academic dreams at Ajayi Crowther University.
Conclusion,
Nigerian public universities are often considered the leading giants in the educational sector. Private universities are the best alternatives for students who want to avoid disruption in public universities.
Our list of private institutions in Nigeria has shown that students can achieve their academic goals in private universities without compromising educational standards.
Students don’t have to break the bank before they can get a quality education in Nigeria; these private universities set affordable tuition rates, minimal hostel expenses, and development fees.
Read more: Top NYSC Orientation Camps in Nigeria
Some institutions adopted an instalment policy and also offer scholarship programs for the underprivileged and continually support economically challenged students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oduduwa University in Ipetumodu, Osun State, offers one of the most affordable tuition fees among private tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
School fees starts from ₦98,000 to ₦245,000 depending your course.
Yes, several private universities in Nigeria offer tuition fees under ₦500,000.
Some notable institutions includes,
Paul University (₦342,000 per year)
Caritas University (₦131,000–₦390,000)
Oduduwa University (₦98,000–₦245,000)
Focused on continuous learning. Has smaller classes for personalized attention.
Modern facilities and resources.
Structured academic calendars, reducing delays.
Opportunities for scholarships and financial aid.
Enhanced employability through industry-relevant programs.
Yes, many of these institutions offer scholarships and financial aid to deserving students. For example,
Oduduwa University provides scholarships for underprivileged students.
Paul University offers loans and scholarships to underprivileged students.
Application processes may vary bl depending the institution. Generally, what you do,
visit the university’s official website for admission.
Prepare your necessary documents (e.g., academic transcripts.
Submit an online application form or visit the admissions office.
Pay any required application fees.
Await admission notification and follow instructions.
How to Apply to Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria
- Research Available Institutions
Identify universities that offer affordable tuition fees and programs that align with your career goals.
- Check Accreditation Status
Ensure the university is recognized by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to guarantee the validity of your degree.
- Review Admission Requirements
Each university has specific entry requirements. These may include academic qualifications, age limits, and specific subject prerequisites.
- Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare your essential documents such as:
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Birth certificate or age declaration.
Passport-sized photographs.
JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) results (if applicable). - Complete the Application Form
Fill out the application form accurately, providing all required information.
- Submit the Application
Submit the completed application form along with the necessary documents to the university’s admissions office or through their online portal.
- Pay Application Fees
Ensure you pay any required application fees as specified by the university.
- Await Admission Decision
If offered admission, follow the instructions provided to accept the offer and proceed with registration.
- Register and Pay Tuition Fees
Complete the registration process and pay the required tuition fees to secure your place in the program.
| University | Location | Tuition (₦) | Notable Programs | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oduduwa University | Ipetumodu, Osun | ₦98,000 – ₦150,000 | Engineering, Sciences, Law | oduduwauniversity.edu.ng |
| Paul University | Awka, Anambra | ₦120,000 – ₦300,000 | Arts, Social Sciences, Theology | pauluniversity.edu.ng |
| South Western University | Okun-Owa, Ogun | ₦190,000 – ₦250,000 | Business, Computer Science, Social Sciences | southwesternuniversity.edu.ng |
| Caleb University | Imota, Lagos | ₦200,000 – ₦250,000 | Sciences, Law, Business | calebuniversity.edu.ng |
| Adeleke University | Ede, Osun | ₦273,000 – ₦350,000 | Medicine, Law, Engineering | adelekeuniversity.edu.ng |
| Ajayi Crowther University | Oyo, Oyo | ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 | Theology, Humanities, Social Sciences | acu.edu.ng |
| Lead City University | Ibadan, Oyo | ₦350,000 – ₦500,000 | Law, Business, Social Sciences | leadcity.edu.ng |
| Crescent University | Abeokuta, Ogun | ₦400,000 – ₦600,000 | Law, Sciences, Social Sciences | crescent.edu.ng |
| Joseph Ayo Babalola University | Ikeji Arakeji, Osun | ₦717,000 – ₦1,510,000 | Theology, Sciences, Social Sciences | jabu.edu.ng |
| Caritas University | Enugu, Enugu | ₦220,000 – ₦390,000 | Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences | caritasuniversity.edu.ng |
| Renaissance University | Ugbawka, Enugu | ₦550,000 – ₦700,000 | Business, Law, Social Sciences | renaissanceuniversity.edu.ng |
| Novena University | Ogume, Delta | ₦500,000 – ₦700,000 | Sciences, Social Sciences, Management | novenauniversity.edu.ng |
