Private Universities in Nigeria with Low School Fees and Easy Admission
Private Universities in Nigeria with Low School Fees and Easy Admission
Navigating Nigerian private universities can be tricky on a tight budget. This guide uncovers affordable institutions, explains how to apply smoothly, compares options, outlines pros and cons, and answers common questions—all in clear, beginner‑friendly English.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Landscape of Private Universities in Nigeria
What Counts as “Low School Fees”?
Why Some Private Universities Have Easier Admission
Top Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria (HEADING includes list with key metrics)
Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (OUI)
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Al‑Hikmah University, Ilorin
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Paul University, Awka
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Obong University, Akwa Ibom
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Rhema University, Aba
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Fountain University, Osogbo
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Caritas University, Enugu
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Wellspring University, Benin City
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(Others as examples)
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How to Apply: Tips for Easy Admission into Private Universities
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Pros and Cons of Picking a Low‑Fee Private University
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Quick Comparison Table of Selected Universities
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Frequently Asked Questions (10+)
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Conclusion
Understanding the Landscape of Private Universities in Nigeria
Nigeria has one of the largest private‑university sectors in Africa, with over 100 institutions nationwide. Tuition fees vary widely—from under ₦100,000 per session at budget‑friendly schools to several million at elite ones.Legit.ng – Nigeria news.+1CampusCybercafe
Even though federal universities are popular for being cheaper, private universities often offer better infrastructure, shorter school calendars, and faith‑based environments—but affordability is often a challenge. This guide highlights those exceptions: private universities that deliver real value with low fees and less‑competitive admission protocols.
What Counts as “Low School Fees”?
For the purpose of this article, “low school fees” refers to institutions whose annual tuition falls roughly between ₦100,000 and ₦500,000 per session. These universities tend to be easier to afford and often have more lenient admission thresholds.
According to various credible sources:
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Oduduwa University charges between ₦98,000 and ₦245,000.Pulse Nigeria+1Schooly
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Al‑Hikmah University ranges from about ₦146,000 to ₦856,000, with many courses under ₦300,000.SchoolyJAMB 2025Pulse Nigeria
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Paul University comes in around ₦190,000 – ₦350,000, sometimes including accommodation.Arewa Campus NGPulse Nigeria+1
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Obong University is quoted at ₦170,000 – ₦300,000.Legit.ng – Nigeria news.CampusCybercafeSchool Crib
These figures make them significantly cheaper than mid‑range institutions whose fees often exceed ₦1 million.Legit.ng – Nigeria news.Pulse Nigeria
Why Some Private Universities Have Easier Admission
Several factors contribute to easier admission chances at these low‑fee private universities:
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Less competition relative to premium institutions (e.g., Covenant, Pan‑Atlantic, Landmark).Legit.ng – Nigeria news.
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Flexible entry requirements: many accept pass marks in UTME and O‑Levels, sometimes allowing two sittings.
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Scholarship options or installment payment plans ease financial barriers.Arewa Campus NGPulse Nigeria
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Smaller or faith‑based institutions may prioritize students aligning with their mission and infrastructure, not just exam scores.
Top Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria
Below are standout examples of private universities combining low fees and relatively accessible admission routes. Figures drawn from multiple sources, as cited.
Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (OUI)
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Tuition Fee: ₦98,000 – ₦245,000 per session (pre‑degree ₦98k‑150k; undergraduate broadly ₦185k‑245k)Arewa Campus NGPulse Nigeria+1Schooly
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Admission Ease: Often considered one of the most accessible private universities. Scholarships and payment plans help.Pulse NigeriaSchooly
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Why Choose OUI: Low cost, flexible, growing courses, modern facilities in Osun State.
Al‑Hikmah University, Ilorin
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Tuition Fee: ₦146,000 – ₦856,000, with many programs under ₦300,000.SchoolyJAMB 2025Pulse Nigeria
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Admission Ease: Offers scholarships; faith‑based environment with manageable requirements.Pulse NigeriaArewa Campus NG
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Ideal For: Muslim students and others seeking affordable, faith‑inspired education.
Paul University, Awka
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Tuition Fee: ₦190,000 – ₦350,000 per session; some include accommodation.Arewa Campus NGPulse Nigeria+1
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Admission Ease: Known to support students financially and offer loans/scholarships.Pulse Nigeria
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Why Choose Paul: Quiet, academically focused environment in Eastern Nigeria.
Obong University, Akwa Ibom
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Tuition Fee: ₦170,000 – ₦300,000 per session.Legit.ng – Nigeria news.CampusCybercafeSchool Crib
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Admission Ease: Generally straightforward admission; acceptance fee low.
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Attractive Aspect: Peaceful campus, broad course offerings.
Rhema University, Aba
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Tuition Fee: ₦250,000 – ₦450,000 per session.SchoolyJAMB 2025CampusCybercafe
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Admission Ease: Faith‑based institution blending academics and spirituality.
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Ideal For: Christian families looking for values‑driven education.
Fountain University, Osogbo
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Tuition Fee: ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 per session.CampusCybercafeSchooly
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Admission Ease: Islamic faith‑based, offers moderate fees with moral discipline emphasis.
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Why Choose: Affordable, principled environment in Osun State.
Caritas University, Enugu
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Tuition Fee: ₦250,000 – ₦450,000 per session.SchoolyJAMB 2025School Crib
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Admission Ease: Catholic‑affiliated, supportive system, affordable ranges.
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Why Choose: Emphasis on research and disciplined learning.
Wellspring University, Benin City
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Tuition Fee: ₦250,000 – ₦500,000 per session.SchoolyJAMB 2025Pulse Nigeria
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Admission Ease: Entrepreneurial‑focused, financial aid available.
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Ideal For: Students interested in tech, business, and innovation.
How to Apply: Tips for Easy Admission into Private Universities
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Research Eligibility
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Most require UTME scores (often minimum 150–180) and five credits in relevant O‑Level subjects.
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Check Cut‑Off Marks and Registration Dates
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Leverage Scholarships & Payment Plans
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Many schools offer sliding‑scale fees, installment plans, or support for low‑income families.Pulse NigeriaArewa Campus NG
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Prepare Documents Early
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JAMB result, O‑Level certificates, birth certificate, recent photograph, application fee.
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Use Supplementary Forms Wisely
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A few private universities let you apply even if JAMB first choice was elsewhere—take advantage.
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Apply Promptly
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Budget universities often close admissions earlier as funds fill.
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Follow Up
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Monitor your portal and ensure final acceptance is confirmed.
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Pros and Cons of Picking a Low‑Fee Private University
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable tuition—often under ₦300,000 | Basic facilities compared to elite universities |
| Smaller classes allow better student support | Limited programs or fewer faculty in some niche areas |
| Less competitive admission | Some may lack high-end labs or research infrastructure |
| Faith‑based values may align with families | Location may be remote or less urban |
| Faster academic calendars; no ASUU strikes | May lack high-profile employer connections |
Quick Comparison Table of Selected Universities
| University | Location | Fee Range (₦) | Admission Ease | Unique Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oduduwa University | Ipetumodu, Osun | 98,000 – 245,000 | Very accessible | Lowest fees, flexible plans |
| Al‑Hikmah University | Ilorin, Kwara | 146,000 – 856,000 | Accessible, scholarships | Faith-based, diverse programs |
| Paul University | Awka, Anambra | 190,000 – 350,000 | Supportive application | Quiet, academic atmosphere |
| Obong University | Akwa Ibom | 170,000 – 300,000 | Straightforward | Affordable, broad offerings |
| Rhema University | Aba, Abia | 250,000 – 450,000 | Faith-driven ease | Values-based education |
| Fountain University | Osogbo, Osun | 300,000 – 400,000 | Accessible | Moral discipline, affordable |
| Caritas University | Enugu | 250,000 – 450,000 | Supportive | Research-oriented, disciplined |
| Wellspring University | Benin City, Edo | 250,000 – 500,000 | Entrepreneurial | Business and tech focus |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Q: What is considered low tuition at private universities in Nigeria?
A: Typically, schools charging between ₦100,000 and ₦500,000 per session are considered low‑fee private universities. -
Q: Are admission requirements easier at these universities?
A: Generally, yes. Many require average UTME scores (~150‑180) and standard C5 in O‑Levels, sometimes allowing two sittings. -
Q: Do these schools offer scholarships or payment plans?
A: Yes—many like Oduduwa, Al‑Hikmah, and Paul University offer scholarships or flexible installment schemes.Pulse NigeriaArewa Campus NG -
Q: How do I choose between them?
A: Consider factors like location, available programs, religious orientation, campus infrastructure, and your personal finance. -
Q: Do any require first‑choice JAMB listing?
A: Some do. Ajayi Crowther, for example, requires first‑choice listing and at least 180 score.Wikipedia Others may be more flexible. -
Q: Are they recognized and accredited?
A: Yes. Most listed institutions are approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC). -
Q: Is accommodation included in tuition?
A: Rarely. Tuition usually excludes hostel, exam, or administrative fees. -
Q: Do they offer postgraduate programs?
A: Some do, but offerings can be limited compared to larger institutions. -
Q: Can I change my JAMB choice to one of these easily?
A: Yes, JAMB allows change of institution during specified periods each year. Check JAMB portal for details. -
Q: How soon will I graduate?
A: A typical bachelor’s program remains four years (or five for professional courses). Private universities often run uninterrupted calendars, which may allow timely graduation. -
Q: What if I can’t afford the fees even at these low‑cost schools?
A: Many have bursaries, female empowerment scholarships, or instalment schemes—contact their student affairs or bursary offices early.
Conclusion
Affordable private university education in Nigeria is absolutely within reach. Institutions like Oduduwa University, Al‑Hikmah, Paul, Obong, Rhema, Fountain, Caritas, and Wellspring offer quality education at budgets that most families can manage—with admission processes that are welcoming rather than overly competitive.
By understanding fee ranges, application strategies, and trade‑offs, you can make an informed choice that balances cost, values, and academic goals. Start your application early, ask about financial support, and choose the environment that fits your ambition and budget.