Private universities in Nigeria are often associated with expensive tuition, but that is not always the case. Many NUC-accredited private institutions charge fees as low as ₦98,000 to ₦300,000 per session, making them competitive with state universities. If you are asking which private universities has the lowest school fees? This guide answers that question with a detailed ranking of the 15 most affordable private universities in the country for the 2026/2027 session.

For students and parents who want the benefits of private university education, including uninterrupted academic calendars, smaller class sizes, and modern facilities, without the million-naira price tag, this article is for you. Understanding which private universities has the lowest school fees? helps you make a smart decision that balances cost with quality.

Why Consider Affordable Private Universities?

Private universities in Nigeria offer several advantages over public institutions. They operate without ASUU strike disruptions, meaning you can graduate on time. Class sizes are typically smaller, allowing more direct interaction with lecturers. Most campuses have modern facilities, reliable internet, and functional laboratories. Many also offer flexible payment plans, scholarships, and instalment options that make tuition manageable. For students who value academic stability and a structured learning environment, affordable private universities provide excellent value.

The key concern for most families is cost. Nigeria currently has over 110 licensed private universities, and their fees range from under ₦100,000 to over ₦3 million per session depending on the institution and course. Knowing which private universities has the lowest school fees? saves you from overpaying for the same quality of education available at a lower cost elsewhere.

Top 15 Private Universities with the Lowest School Fees

Below is a comprehensive table answering which private universities has the lowest school fees? All universities listed are NUC-accredited and currently accepting students.

S/N	University	Location	Fee Range (Per Session)	Notable Courses
1	Oduduwa University	Osun State	₦98,000 – ₦245,000	Mass Comm, Business Admin, Computer Sc.
2	Al-Hikmah University	Kwara State	₦106,500 – ₦350,000	Law, Accounting, Computer Sc., Education
3	Tansian University	Anambra State	₦129,000 – ₦450,000	Law, Accounting, Mass Comm, Microbiology
4	Paul University	Anambra State	₦190,000 – ₦240,000	Accounting, Computer Sc., Theology
5	Veritas University	Abuja (FCT)	₦190,000 – ₦245,000	Law, Mass Comm, Political Sc., Accounting
6	South Western University	Ogun State	₦190,000 – ₦340,000	Banking & Finance, Mass Comm, IR
7	Wellspring University	Edo State	₦200,000 – ₦350,000	Business Admin, Accounting, Computer Sc.
8	Obong University	Akwa Ibom	₦210,000 – ₦320,000	Accounting, Agric, Computer Sc., Education
9	Caleb University	Lagos State	₦204,500 – ₦346,500	Law, Education, Sciences, Social Sciences
10	Caritas University	Enugu State	₦220,000 – ₦390,000	Sociology, Microbiology, Marketing, Chemistry
11	Rhema University	Abia State	₦250,000 – ₦464,000	Nursing, Accounting, Business Admin
12	Spiritan University	Enugu State	₦250,000 – ₦400,000	Philosophy, Theology, Education, Sciences
13	Atiba University	Oyo State	₦200,000 – ₦450,000	Medicine, Nursing, Business Admin
14	Ajayi Crowther University	Oyo State	₦315,000 – ₦500,000	Law, Medicine, Sciences, Education
15	Lead City University	Oyo State	₦350,000 – ₦500,000	Engineering, Law, Computer Sc., Nursing

 

The table above answers which private universities has the lowest school fees? Fees vary by course, faculty, and whether you are a fresher or returning student. Science-based and professional courses (Medicine, Law, Engineering, Nursing) typically cost more than Arts and Social Science programmes at the same university. Always confirm exact fees on each university’s official website before making payment.

Spotlight on the Top 5 Most Affordable

For students specifically asking which private universities has the lowest school fees? these five institutions consistently offer the lowest tuition across multiple faculties:

1. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (Osun State)

Oduduwa University stands as the most affordable private university in Nigeria with fees starting from just ₦98,000 per session. The university offers flexible instalment payment plans and provides scholarships for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Courses span Science, Management, Social Sciences, and Arts. Accommodation costs between ₦30,000 and ₦140,000 per session.

2. Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin (Kwara State)

This Islamic faith-based institution offers quality education from ₦106,500 per session for some programmes. Al-Hikmah provides scholarships, grants, and financial aid based on academic performance and financial need. The university has strong programmes in Law, Sciences, Education, and Management Sciences.

3. Tansian University, Umunya (Anambra State)

Tansian University offers tuition starting from ₦129,000, making it one of the most affordable options in South-East Nigeria. The university has NUC accreditation across its programmes and is known for its friendly campus environment and practical-oriented teaching approach.

4. Paul University, Awka (Anambra State)

Paul University charges between ₦190,000 and ₦240,000 per session. The university actively supports students with financial challenges through loans and scholarships. It provides a structured Christian-values environment while maintaining academic excellence.

5. Veritas University, Abuja (FCT)

For students in Abuja asking which private universities has the lowest school fees? Veritas University is the answer. Run by the Catholic Church, Veritas charges between ₦190,000 and ₦245,000 and allows students to pay in instalments. The university offers programmes in Law, Social Sciences, Management, and Natural Sciences with full NUC accreditation.

What to Consider Before Choosing

Finding which private universities has the lowest school fees? is important, but cost should not be your only criterion. Consider these factors before making your final decision:

1. NUC Accreditation: Confirm that your chosen course has full NUC accreditation. A degree from an unaccredited programme has limited value with employers and for further studies.
2. Location and Living Costs: A university with low tuition in an expensive city may cost more overall than a slightly pricier school in an affordable town. Factor in accommodation, feeding, and transport.
3. Available Courses: Not all affordable universities offer every course. Verify that your preferred programme is available before applying.
4. Facilities and Resources: Check that the university has functional laboratories (for science students), a well-stocked library, reliable internet, and decent hostel accommodation.
5. Payment Plans: Some universities allow instalment payments per semester or per quarter. This flexibility can make even slightly higher fees more manageable than a lump-sum payment.

General Admission Requirements

Most universities in this guide on which private universities has the lowest school fees? share similar admission criteria:

6. O’Level Results: Five credit passes including English Language and Mathematics at WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, obtained in not more than two sittings.
7. JAMB Score: A minimum UTME score (usually 140–180 depending on the university). Some private universities accept lower scores than federal institutions.
8. Post-UTME Screening: Most conduct an internal screening or entrance examination after JAMB.
9. Direct Entry: HND and OND holders, A-Level, IJMB, and JUPEB candidates can apply for Direct Entry into 200 Level.

Private universities generally have more flexible admission processes than federal universities. Some accept candidates who did not choose them as first choice in JAMB, and application windows tend to stay open longer. This accessibility is another advantage when evaluating which private universities has the lowest school fees?

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the cheapest private university in Nigeria?

Based on current fee schedules, Oduduwa University in Osun State offers the lowest tuition starting from ₦98,000 per session. This consistently makes it the top answer when students ask which private universities has the lowest school fees?

Are cheap private university degrees recognised?

Yes, absolutely. All universities on this list have NUC accreditation. The degree certificate from an affordable private university carries the same recognition as one from an expensive institution, provided the specific programme is accredited.

Do private universities accept low JAMB scores?

Many affordable private universities accept JAMB scores from 140 and above, which is lower than the 180–200 typically required by popular federal and state universities. This is a key advantage when considering which private universities has the lowest school fees? for candidates with modest UTME scores.

Can I pay school fees in instalments?

Several private universities on this list offer instalment payment options. Oduduwa University, Veritas University, South Western University, and Wellspring University all allow students to spread payments across the session. Check each university’s bursary department for specific instalment terms.

Are scholarships available at affordable private universities?

Yes. Many affordable private universities offer merit-based scholarships, faith-based bursaries, and need-based financial aid. Al-Hikmah, Veritas, Paul University, and Oduduwa University all have active scholarship programmes that can further reduce your costs.

Is it better to attend a cheap private university or a federal university?

Both options have merits. Federal universities offer lower fees but face ASUU strikes and overcrowded classrooms. Affordable private universities provide uninterrupted calendars and smaller class sizes at slightly higher but still manageable fees. The best choice depends on your priorities. If you want to graduate on time with personalised attention, understanding which private universities has the lowest school fees? helps you find the right fit.

 

Conclusion

Private university education in Nigeria does not have to cost millions. This guide on which private universities has the lowest school fees? for the 2026/2027 session reveals 15 NUC-accredited institutions with fees starting from ₦98,000 per session. From Oduduwa University in Osun State to Lead City University in Oyo State, affordable options exist across every region of the country.

Start by identifying your preferred course, then compare the universities on this list that offer it. Verify NUC accreditation, check for scholarship opportunities, and confirm instalment payment options before applying. Every year, thousands of Nigerian students ask which private universities has the lowest school fees? and the answer is clear: quality private education is accessible at every budget level. With careful research and early application, you can secure quality private university education at a price that fits your budget. Visit each university’s official website for the latest fee schedules and begin your application today.