Top 10 Private Universities in Nigeria Offering Low School Fees 2026 (Verified List)
One of the biggest reasons many Nigerian students avoid private universities is the assumption that the fees are always too high. It is a very understandable concern — when you hear names like Covenant University, Babcock University, or American University of Nigeria, the school fees that come to mind can be enough to make your head spin.
But here is what many people do not know: not every private university in Nigeria is expensive. There is a growing list of private universities in the country that are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), offer quality education, run a stable academic calendar with zero risk of ASUU strikes, and still charge fees that are genuinely affordable — fees that many families can manage with proper planning.
If you or your child has been eyeing a private university but you have been held back by the fear of outrageous fees, this guide is for you. We have researched, verified, and compiled the top 10 private universities in Nigeria offering low school fees for the 2026 academic session — including their locations, fee ranges, available courses, and what makes each one worth considering.
Read this guide carefully. You might just find the perfect affordable private university that ticks every box.
Why Choose a Private University in Nigeria?
Before we get into the list, let us quickly address why many students and parents now consider private universities despite their relatively higher fees compared to federal and state schools:
No ASUU Strikes: This is the number one reason. Private universities in Nigeria are not part of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which means they do not go on strike. While students in federal universities have sometimes lost months — and even full years — to prolonged strikes, private university students continue studying without disruption.
Stable Academic Calendar: Private universities run their academic sessions on schedule. Exams are held when planned, results are released on time, and graduations happen as expected. This means you can predict exactly when you will graduate.
Better Security and Discipline: Most private universities maintain stricter rules on campus, which often leads to a safer, more focused, and more disciplined learning environment.
Smaller Class Sizes: With fewer students per lecturer, private universities generally offer more personal attention and better lecturer-student interaction.
Better Facilities: Many private universities invest more in their infrastructure — libraries, labs, hostels, and internet connectivity.
These advantages make private universities attractive — and when the fees are also affordable, the decision becomes even easier.
What “Low Fees” Means in This Guide
For the purpose of this article, we define “low fees” as school fees of ₦500,000 or below per academic session for most programmes. Some universities on this list charge even less — as low as ₦98,000 per session for certain courses.
Please note that school fees can change each academic session and may vary depending on your course of study, your level (fresh or returning student), and whether you are staying in school hostel accommodation or off campus. The figures provided in this guide are verified estimates based on available 2025/2026 data — always confirm the most current fee schedule directly from the university’s official website or admissions office before applying.
Top 10 Private Universities in Nigeria With Low School Fees
1. Oduduwa University — Ipetumodu, Osun State
Estimated School Fees: ₦98,000 – ₦245,000 per session Website: www.oduduwauni.edu.ng
Oduduwa University is located in Osun State and offers one of the lowest tuition fees among private institutions, with fees ranging between ₦98,000 and ₦245,000 per academic session. That makes it, without question, the most affordable private university in Nigeria right now.
Oduduwa University is known for its affordable fees and flexible payment plans. Popular courses include Business Administration, Computer Science, Mass Communication, Accounting, and several others in the Social Sciences and Management Science faculties.
The university is fully accredited by the NUC and has been providing quality education to students from across Nigeria since it was established. For families who want the stability of a private university without the burden of expensive fees, Oduduwa University is the most obvious and compelling starting point.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Lowest fees of any private university in Nigeria
- NUC accredited
- Offers a wide range of Social Science and Management courses
- Flexible payment plans available
2. Caritas University — Amorji-Nike, Enugu State
Estimated School Fees: ₦220,000 – ₦390,000 per session Website: www.caritasuni.edu.ng
Caritas University is a private university in Enugu, Nigeria. The fees for undergraduate students at Caritas University have been approved for the 2024/2025 academic year and range from ₦220,000 to ₦390,000, depending on the program of study. Courses such as sociology, mathematics and statistics, microbiology, psychology, industrial relations and personnel management, marketing, and industrial chemistry have a fee of ₦220,000.
The Federal Government of Nigeria authorized Caritas University, Amorji-Nike, Enugu, as a private university on December 16, 2004. It was established by Rev. Fr. Prof. Emmanuel Paul Mattew Edeh C.S.Sp, OFR and is the second Catholic university in Nigeria.
Caritas University is a Catholic-faith institution but admits students from all religious backgrounds. It offers programmes across Engineering, Management Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Environmental Sciences. The calm learning environment and the relatively low fees make it one of the most popular choices for students in the South-East.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Very affordable fees for Social Science and Management courses (₦220,000)
- Catholic-founded but open to all faiths
- Offers Engineering and Science courses at competitive rates
- Stable academic calendar
3. Paul University — Awka, Anambra State
Estimated School Fees: ₦190,000 – ₦350,000 per session Website: www.pauluniversity.edu.ng
Paul University is located in Awka, Anambra State. The current tuition fees at Paul University range between ₦190,000 to ₦240,000. The university also offers loans and scholarships to underprivileged students.
Paul University is owned by the Anglican Diocese of Awka and has built a strong reputation for academic quality combined with genuine affordability. It is one of the few private universities in Nigeria that actively offers loans and scholarships to underprivileged students — meaning even students who cannot afford the already-low fees may get additional support.
The university offers programmes in Arts, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Management Sciences, and Law. It operates in a safe, structured, and well-maintained campus environment in Awka — the capital of Anambra State.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- One of the most affordable private universities in Nigeria
- Offers financial loans and scholarships to needy students
- Anglican-owned but open to all
- Strong programmes in Social Sciences, Arts, and Law
4. Al-Hikmah University — Ilorin, Kwara State
Estimated School Fees: ₦106,500 – ₦600,000 per session Website: www.alhikmah.edu.ng
The tuition fee at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin ranges from ₦106,500 – ₦1,362,000. The varying fees are as a result of choice of programmes, and it is also related to whether you’re a fresh student, or returning student.
For most non-professional programmes, Al-Hikmah University remains one of the most affordable private universities in Nigeria — especially for returning students. Al-Hikmah University was established in 2005 by the Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (AROIF), Nigeria. It is an Islamic university but admits students from all religious backgrounds and remains fully committed to providing quality education regardless of faith.
Al-Hikmah University is known for affordable fees and offers programs in Arts, Sciences, Law, and Education. It is an Islamic faith-based university but admits students from all religions.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- One of the cheapest private universities in Northern Nigeria
- Offers Law, Education, Sciences, and Arts programmes
- Open to students of all faiths
- Located in Ilorin — easily accessible from multiple states
5. Obong University — Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State
Estimated School Fees: ₦180,000 – ₦350,000 per session Website: www.obonguniversity.net
Obong University is one of the oldest private universities in Nigeria and ranks as one of the cheapest universities in the country as well, with a tuition fee around ₦180,000 – ₦200,000. Obong University appeals to students seeking affordability without compromising education quality with its modest fees and serene environment.
Obong University is operated by the Churches of Christ in Nigeria and is located in Obong Ntak in Akwa Ibom State. It offers programmes in Social Sciences, Management Sciences, Arts and Humanities, and Natural and Applied Sciences. The university is particularly popular among students from Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and other states in the South-South region.
Obong University started as African College of Management in 1997, after which it was renamed the University of Africa before becoming Obong University as it is known today.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- One of the oldest and most affordable private universities in the South-South
- Offers Social Sciences, Management, Arts, and Science programmes
- Christian-faith institution with a serene campus environment
- Very low base fees for most programmes
6. Fountain University — Osogbo, Osun State
Estimated School Fees: ₦250,000 – ₦400,000 per session Website: www.fountainuniversity.edu.ng
Fountain University is owned by the Nasrul-Lahi-il-Fathi Society and offers affordable programs in sciences and humanities. It is located in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, and has been providing quality, values-based education since it was established.
Fountain University is an Islamic-faith institution but admits students from all religious backgrounds. It offers programmes in Science, Management Sciences, Arts, and Social Sciences. With fees ranging from ₦250,000 to ₦400,000 per session for most programmes, it sits comfortably among the most affordable private universities in the South-West.
The university emphasises moral and academic discipline, operates a stable academic calendar, and is fully accredited by the NUC. For students in Osun, Oyo, and neighbouring states looking for an affordable private university, Fountain University is a strong option.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Affordable fees for Science and Arts programmes
- NUC accredited
- Located in Osogbo — central and accessible
- Values-based education with a focus on discipline and academic excellence
7. Claretian University — Nekede, Imo State
Estimated School Fees: ₦258,000 – ₦350,000 per session Website: www.claretianuniversity.edu.ng
Claretian University is a government-approved private university located in Nekede, Imo State. It is a Catholic-founded institution run by the Claretian Missionaries and is one of the more quietly impressive affordable private universities in Nigeria’s South-East zone.
Claretian University is a government-approved private university in Nigeria located in Nekede, Imo State. It offers courses at fees ranging from ₦258,000 to ₦350,000 per session — making it one of the most affordable options for students in Imo, Abia, and surrounding states who want the stability of a private university without the high cost.
The university offers programmes in Management Sciences, Social Sciences, and Natural and Applied Sciences. It operates in a calm, disciplined environment that encourages academic focus and personal development.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Affordable fees for South-East students
- Catholic-owned with a focus on moral and academic excellence
- Small class sizes for better learning
- Located in Nekede — within Owerri’s metropolitan area
8. Tansian University — Umunya, Anambra State
Estimated School Fees: ₦258,000 – ₦700,000 per session Website: www.tansianuniversity.edu.ng
Tansian University (TANU) is located in Umunya, Anambra State. It was founded by John Bosco Akam. Although Tansian University is a private university, the Anambra State government under Peter Obi donated cash and vehicles for its infrastructural upgrade and development. The university’s fee ranges from ₦258,000 to ₦700,000.
For most non-professional courses, Tansian University’s fees start from a very accessible ₦258,000 per session. The university offers programmes in Management Sciences, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Engineering-related disciplines. It has benefited from strong institutional support including the state government’s investment in its development — which speaks to its credibility and growing infrastructure.
Tansian University is a good choice for students from Anambra, Enugu, and the broader South-East region who want private university quality at a price point that is manageable.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Entry-level fees from ₦258,000 for many programmes
- Supported by both the church and government infrastructure investment
- Offers a good range of Social Science and Management courses
- Stable academic environment
9. Adeleke University — Ede, Osun State
Estimated School Fees: ₦270,000 – ₦450,000 per session Website: www.adelekeuniversity.edu.ng
Adeleke University is located in Ede, Osun State with estimated school fees of ₦270,000 – ₦450,000. Owned by Nigerian billionaire Adedeji Adeleke, the university offers courses in engineering, business, and sciences.
Adeleke University is a private, faith-based university situated on 520 acres of tranquil, natural territory in the ancient town of Ede, Osun State, in the southwest of Nigeria. It is one of the commonly known cheapest private universities in Nigeria.
Adeleke University offers programmes in Engineering, Sciences, Management Sciences, Arts, and Social Sciences. What makes the university particularly attractive is its large campus — 520 acres of serene natural space — and its willingness to offer quality education at fees that are significantly lower than what most people associate with well-resourced private universities.
The university is NUC accredited, has good laboratory and learning facilities, and runs a stable academic calendar. For students in Osun, Oyo, and neighbouring South-West states, Adeleke University offers excellent value for money.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Large, well-maintained 520-acre campus
- Offers Engineering, Sciences, and Management courses
- Fees starting from ₦270,000 for many programmes
- Growing reputation for academic quality in the South-West
10. Lead City University — Ibadan, Oyo State
Estimated School Fees: ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 per session (for most courses) Website: www.lcu.edu.ng
The tuition at Lead City University ranges from ₦300,000 to ₦5,500,000. The lowest fee for new students is ₦300,000 for those studying Computer Science. For most standard programmes in Social Sciences, Management Sciences, and Arts — Lead City University’s fees fall in the ₦300,000 to ₦600,000 range, which is very competitive for a university of its standing and location.
Lead City University is located in Ibadan, the largest city in West Africa by land area, and is one of the most well-known private universities in Oyo State. Lead City University offers flexible fee payment and a wide range of programs.
The university is NUC accredited and has graduated over 5,000 students. It is especially known for strong programmes in Computer Science, Business Administration, Law, Education, and Media Studies. The combination of its location in Ibadan, its flexible payment options, and its relatively accessible fees (for non-professional courses) make it a popular choice among South-West students.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Located in Ibadan — one of Nigeria’s most accessible cities
- Computer Science and Social Science fees start from ₦300,000
- Flexible fee payment plans available
- Strong academic reputation with over 5,000 graduates
Top 10 Private Universities With Low Fees — Quick Reference Table
| # | University | Location | Estimated Fees (Per Session) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oduduwa University | Ipetumodu, Osun State | ₦98,000 – ₦245,000 |
| 2 | Caritas University | Amorji-Nike, Enugu State | ₦220,000 – ₦390,000 |
| 3 | Paul University | Awka, Anambra State | ₦190,000 – ₦350,000 |
| 4 | Al-Hikmah University | Ilorin, Kwara State | ₦106,500 – ₦600,000 |
| 5 | Obong University | Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State | ₦180,000 – ₦350,000 |
| 6 | Fountain University | Osogbo, Osun State | ₦250,000 – ₦400,000 |
| 7 | Claretian University | Nekede, Imo State | ₦258,000 – ₦350,000 |
| 8 | Tansian University | Umunya, Anambra State | ₦258,000 – ₦700,000 |
| 9 | Adeleke University | Ede, Osun State | ₦270,000 – ₦450,000 |
| 10 | Lead City University | Ibadan, Oyo State | ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 |
Note: All fee figures are estimates based on verified 2025/2026 sources. Fees may vary by course, level, and payment option. Always confirm directly with the university before applying.
Important Things to Know Before Choosing an Affordable Private University
Choosing a university based only on fee affordability is a mistake. Here are key things to always check before making your final decision:
1. Confirm NUC Accreditation. Before anything else, confirm that the university and your specific course of study are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). An unaccredited degree is worthless, no matter how cheap or expensive it was. All universities on this list are NUC approved, but always verify the accreditation status of your specific course before enrolling.
2. Check if Your Course Is Offered. Not every university offers every course. Visit the official university website or call the admissions office to confirm that your desired programme is available and running.
3. Ask About Hidden Fees. School fees quoted in brochures and websites often cover only tuition. There may be additional fees for accommodation, medical levy, sporting fees, library fees, ICT fees, and acceptance fees. Always ask for a full breakdown of all costs before committing.
4. Visit the Campus if Possible. Before enrolling, try to visit the campus physically or at least look at verified photos and student reviews online. A serene, well-maintained campus can make a big difference in your academic experience.
5. Check Scholarship and Financial Aid Availability. Some of the universities on this list — especially Paul University — offer scholarships and loans to financially disadvantaged students. If you need financial assistance beyond just affordable fees, ask about these programmes.
6. Confirm the Admission Requirements. Each university has its own admission requirements — JAMB cut-off marks, O’Level subjects, and Post-UTME screening processes. Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the cheapest private university in Nigeria in 2026? Based on verified data, Oduduwa University in Ipetumodu, Osun State is currently the cheapest private university in Nigeria, with fees ranging from ₦98,000 to ₦245,000 per session depending on the course.
Q2: Are cheap private universities in Nigeria NUC accredited? Yes. All universities on this list are approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). However, you should always verify the accreditation status of your specific course before enrolling, as individual programmes within a university may still be going through the accreditation process.
Q3: Can I pay private university school fees in instalments? Yes, many of the universities on this list offer flexible instalment payment plans. Ajayi Crowther University, for example, has flexible paying schedules and allows paying in installments. Always ask the bursar’s office about payment plans before making any commitment.
Q4: Is quality education guaranteed at cheap private universities? Affordability does not automatically mean poor quality. All universities on this list are accredited and have functioning academic programmes. The quality of your experience also depends on your personal commitment, the courses you choose, and the faculty in your department. Do your research on each university before deciding.
Q5: Which affordable private university is best for Medicine and Surgery? Medicine is generally expensive at private universities regardless of how cheap the school is overall. However, if Medicine is your goal and you want a private university, consider Caritas University and Rhema University in the South-East — both have Medical Laboratory Science and related health programmes at relatively lower costs than most.
Q6: Do these universities run the same academic session as federal universities? Yes. All private universities in Nigeria run fully accredited degree programmes that are equivalent to those in federal and state universities. Your certificate from any of these NUC-accredited institutions carries the same value.
Q7: Can I get a scholarship at any of these universities? Yes. Paul University explicitly offers loans and scholarships to underprivileged students. Other universities may also have scholarship schemes — always ask the admissions or bursar’s office about available financial aid.
Q8: Which of these universities is best for Social Sciences? Several universities on this list are particularly strong for Social Sciences. Caritas University (Sociology, Psychology, Marketing start at ₦220,000), Paul University, Obong University, and Al-Hikmah University are all known for affordable and quality Social Science programmes.
Our Final Words
The idea that private universities in Nigeria are always out of reach financially is a myth that this list has just busted completely. From Oduduwa University’s fees of ₦98,000 per session to Lead City University’s flexible payment options, there are real, NUC-accredited private universities in Nigeria that you can actually afford.
The advantages of studying at a private university — no ASUU strikes, stable calendar, smaller classes, better security — are very real. And when you can access those advantages at fees between ₦100,000 and ₦500,000 per session, the decision becomes much easier to make.
Do your research, compare the options, verify the fees and accreditation status of your specific course, and make an informed decision. A quality private university education in Nigeria is more within your reach than you think.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a parent or student who is currently making this decision. And if you have questions about any of the universities on this list, drop them in the comment section below.
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