Cheapest Federal University in Nigeria and Their School Fees 2025
Choosing the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees is one of the biggest concerns for students preparing for admission. As the cost of education continues to rise in Nigeria, many parents and students look for federal universities that still offer quality education at affordable prices. Federal universities remain the most preferred option because they provide strong academic training, nationwide recognition, and lower tuition fees compared to private schools.
This article explains the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees, admission requirements, career opportunities, and how to select a value-driven institution. You will also find a list of affordable federal universities for science students, medicine, accounting, and postgraduate studies.
What Are Federal Universities?
Federal universities are public institutions fully funded and regulated by the Federal Government of Nigeria. They aim to:
- Provide quality and accessible education
- Maintain uniform standards nationwide
- Offer subsidized tuition fees
- Support national development through research and innovation
There are over 40 federal universities spread across Nigeria, each offering different programs and opportunities for students.
Why You Should Study in Federal Universities
Studying in a federal university offers many long-term advantages:
- Affordable Tuition Fees: Federal universities are known for very low school fees, making them accessible to students from different backgrounds.
- Accredited and Recognized Courses: Employers, both in Nigeria and abroad, highly respect certificates from federal institutions.
- Strong Academic Staff: Many lecturers have international training and experience.
- Diverse Student Community: Students from all states mix together, improving cultural understanding.
- Access to National Scholarships: Federal institutions attract TETFund, PTDF, and other government-funded scholarships.
If you are searching for the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees, federal universities naturally provide some of the best value.
Career and Job Opportunities at Federal Universities
Federal universities expose students to career-building opportunities such as:
- Industrial training (IT)
- SIWES placements
- Research internships
- Entrepreneurial development programs
- Job fairs and networking events
Graduates from federal universities work in government agencies, multinational companies, banks, hospitals, ICT firms, oil companies, NGOs, and research institutes.
Top Federal Universities with Low Tuition for Science Students
Below are some of the most affordable federal universities for science programs like Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology, Biology, Computer Science, and Engineering:
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
- School Fees: ₦30,000 – ₦35,000
- Why It’s Affordable: High government subsidy and low departmental dues.
- Quality: Strong science laboratories and top-ranked research programs.
2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- School Fees: ₦25,000 – ₦45,000
- Why It’s Affordable: One of the lowest fees among all federal universities.
- Quality: Well-equipped science faculty and wide course options.
3. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- School Fees: ₦27,000 – ₦37,000
- Why It’s Affordable: Low tuition with strong research support.
- Quality: Competitive science programs and modern labs.
4. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
- School Fees: ₦28,000 – ₦40,000
- Why It’s Affordable: Subsidized technology-based education.
- Quality: Excellent for engineering and computing.
All these schools fall among the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees for science students.
Cheapest Federal Universities to Study Medicine and Surgery
Medicine and Surgery is one of the most expensive courses in private universities. However, these federal universities offer more affordable fees:
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- School Fees: ₦45,000 – ₦55,000
- Why It’s Affordable: Highly subsidized medical programs.
2. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- School Fees: ₦45,000 – ₦60,000
- Why It’s Affordable: Moderate medical tuition and quality teaching hospitals.
3. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- School Fees: ₦40,000 – ₦55,000
- Why It’s Affordable: Stable academic calendar and low fees.
These remain part of the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees for medical aspirants.
Cheapest Federal Universities to Study Accounting
If you want to study Accounting at a low cost, consider:
1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- School Fees: ₦40,000 – ₦50,000
- Quality: Strong business and accounting faculty.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- School Fees: ₦35,000 – ₦45,000
- Quality: Highly rated accounting and management programs.
3. Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUSOK)
- School Fees: ₦28,000 – ₦38,000
- Quality: One of the cheapest federal universities for business courses.
General Admission Requirements for Federal Universities
To gain admission into federal universities through UTME or Direct Entry, candidates must meet the following:
- Minimum of 5 credits in relevant O’level subjects
- A good JAMB score (usually 180–250 depending on the course)
- Successful POST-UTME screening performance
- For Direct Entry: ND, NCE, HND, or A-level certificates
Each school may add extra requirements, but these are the core standards.
Cheapest Federal University in Nigeria and Their School Fees 2025
Below is a list of the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees for the 2025 academic year:
| Federal University | School Fees Range |
| ABU Zaria | ₦25,000 – ₦45,000 |
| UDUSOK | ₦28,000 – ₦38,000 |
| UNIMAID | ₦27,000 – ₦37,000 |
| UNN | ₦40,000 – ₦50,000 |
| UI | ₦30,000 – ₦35,000 |
| UNILORIN | ₦40,000 – ₦55,000 |
| OAU | ₦35,000 – ₦45,000 |
These institutions consistently rank among the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees because of strong government support and low departmental charges.
Federal Universities with the Most Affordable Postgraduate Programs
Postgraduate students also enjoy subsidized fees in some federal institutions:
1. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- Fees: ₦65,000 – ₦90,000
2. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
- Fees: ₦70,000 – ₦100,000
3. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- Fees: ₦60,000 – ₦110,000
These schools provide some of the lowest postgraduate tuition in Nigeria.
How to Choose a Value-Driven Federal University
When selecting the right institution, consider:
- School Fees: Compare the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees before choosing.
- Course Accreditation: Ensure the program is approved by NUC and professional bodies.
- Location & Cost of Living: Cities like Lagos and Abuja have higher living expenses.
- Library and Laboratory Facilities: Very important for science, medical, and technology students.
- Academic Calendar Stability: Schools like UNILORIN rarely go on strike.
- Graduate Employability: Check how employers rate graduates from the university.
Making the right choice ensures you enjoy both quality education and affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the cheapest federal university in Nigeria?
ABU Zaria, UDUSOK, and UNIMAID are currently among the cheapest federal university in nigeria and their school fees list.
2. Are federal universities better than private universities?
Yes. Federal universities offer more affordable fees, better recognition, and broader academic opportunities.
3. What JAMB score do I need for federal universities?
Most federal institutions accept between 180–250 depending on the course.
4. Are hostels available in federal universities?
Yes, although availability depends on demand. Hostel fees range from ₦15,000 – ₦60,000 yearly.
5. Which federal university is best for Medicine?
UNILAG, UNIBEN, and UNILORIN are popular for strong medical programs.