Top 40 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria 2026

Top 40 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria 2026

Private universities in Nigeria provide quality education, modern facilities, and personalized attention. However, the high tuition fees in most private institutions often deter many students. Fortunately, there are numerous private universities offering affordable tuition for 2026 without compromising academic standards. This guide explores the top 40 most affordable private universities, tuition costs, courses offered, scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements, and tips to maximize affordability.

Why Choose an Affordable Private University

Balance Between Quality and Cost

Affordable private universities maintain high academic standards while keeping tuition manageable. Students can access modern facilities without financial strain.

Personalized Learning

Smaller class sizes allow students to receive personalized attention from lecturers.

Opportunities for Scholarships and Financial Aid

Even affordable private universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships.

Flexibility in Payment

Many institutions allow installment payments, making it easier for families to manage tuition.

Professional Networking

Private universities often have strong ties with businesses, which helps students access internships and job opportunities.

Access to Modern Facilities

Affordable tuition does not mean poor facilities. Many private universities invest in labs, libraries, and ICT tools.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Affordable Private University

Accreditation

Ensure the university is recognized by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Tuition Fees

Compare tuition fees across universities, including additional costs such as acceptance fees and accommodation.

Available Courses

Confirm that the institution offers your desired course with full accreditation.

Location

Urban universities may have higher living costs; consider proximity to reduce expenses.

Scholarship Opportunities

Check the availability of merit-based, need-based, and corporate scholarships.

Facilities

Consider labs, libraries, hostels, IT infrastructure, and recreational facilities.

Student Support Services

Counseling, career guidance, and health services enhance the student experience.

Top 40 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria for 2026

The following list includes universities ranked based on tuition affordability, academic quality, facilities, and student support. Tuition ranges are approximate.

1. Covenant University, Ota

Tuition: 800,000–1,200,000 naira per session
Courses: Engineering, Social Sciences, Management, Humanities, ICT
Why Affordable: Offers structured payment plans and scholarship opportunities.

2. Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo

Tuition: 700,000–1,000,000 naira per session
Courses: Medicine, Health Sciences, Law, Engineering, Business
Special Programs: Merit scholarships for top students.

3. Igbinedion University, Okada

Tuition: 600,000–900,000 naira per session
Courses: Law, Medicine, Social Sciences, Business
Benefits: Flexible installment payment, moderate living cost.

4. Madonna University, Okija

Tuition: 550,000–850,000 naira per session
Courses: Sciences, Education, Social Sciences, Management
Why Affordable: Offers scholarships for academic excellence.

5. Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos

Tuition: 600,000–900,000 naira per session
Courses: Business, Law, Media, IT
Advantages: Located in Lagos, provides access to corporate internships.

6. Benson Idahosa University (BIU), Benin City

Tuition: 500,000–850,000 naira per session
Courses: Management, Social Sciences, Engineering
Why Affordable: Offers installment payment and merit scholarships.

7. Achievers University, Owo

Tuition: 500,000–800,000 naira per session
Courses: Law, Management, Humanities, Social Sciences
Benefits: Smaller class sizes and modern facilities.

8. Lead City University, Ibadan

Tuition: 500,000–750,000 naira per session
Courses: Social Sciences, Business, Law, Medicine
Advantages: Affordable compared to other private universities in South West Nigeria.

9. Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa

Tuition: 450,000–700,000 naira per session
Courses: Management, Education, Law, Sciences
Why Affordable: Offers flexible payment plans.

10. Bowen University, Iwo

Tuition: 600,000–900,000 naira per session
Courses: Sciences, Management, Law, Education
Scholarships: Merit-based for high-performing students.

11–20 Affordable Private Universities

11. Rhema University, Aba – 450,000–700,000 naira

12. Summit University, Offa – 450,000–700,000 naira

13. Bingham University, Karu – 500,000–800,000 naira

14. Chrisland University, Abeokuta – 450,000–700,000 naira

15. Nigerian Turkish Nile University, Abuja – 500,000–850,000 naira

16. Covenant Christian University, Ota – 500,000–750,000 naira

17. Gregory University, Uturu – 500,000–800,000 naira

18. Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji – 450,000–700,000 naira

19. Lead City University, Ibadan – 500,000–750,000 naira

20. Madonna University, Elele – 550,000–850,000 naira

Observation: These universities combine affordability with quality education and support services. Many provide scholarship opportunities, installment payments, and moderate living costs, making them attractive to Nigerian students.

21–30 Affordable Private Universities

21. Fountain University, Osogbo – 450,000–700,000 naira

22. Augustine University, Ilara – 450,000–700,000 naira

23. Obong University, Obong Ntak – 500,000–800,000 naira

24. Tansian University, Umunya – 450,000–700,000 naira

25. Salem University, Lokoja – 450,000–700,000 naira

26. Veritas University, Abuja – 500,000–800,000 naira

27. Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo – 500,000–850,000 naira

28. Caritas University, Enugu – 500,000–800,000 naira

29. University of Mkar, Mkar – 450,000–700,000 naira

30. Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo (Branch) – 700,000–1,000,000 naira

These universities maintain high-quality education while keeping tuition within a reasonable range for 2026 students.

31–40 Affordable Private Universities

31. Novena University, Ogume – 450,000–700,000 naira

32. Adeleke University, Ede – 500,000–800,000 naira

33. Chrisland University, Abeokuta – 450,000–700,000 naira

34. Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa – 450,000–700,000 naira

35. Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, Agbara-Otor – 500,000–850,000 naira

36. Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin – 450,000–700,000 naira

37. Bells University of Technology, Ota – 600,000–900,000 naira

38. Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo – 500,000–800,000 naira

39. Augustine University, Ilara – 450,000–700,000 naira

40. Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja – 500,000–850,000 naira

Observation: These universities provide an affordable alternative to more expensive private institutions, while still offering accredited programs across Sciences, Arts, Social Sciences, Business, and Health-related fields.

Top 40 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria 2026

Common Courses Offered Across Affordable Private Universities

Science and Technology

1. Computer Science

2. Information Technology

3. Environmental Science

4. Biochemistry

5. Microbiology

6. Physics and Chemistry

7. Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)

Social Sciences

1. Sociology

2. Economics

3. Political Science

4. Psychology

5. Mass Communication

Arts and Humanities

1. English Language

2. History

3. Philosophy

4. Theatre Arts

5. Linguistics

Business and Management

1. Accounting

2. Business Administration

3. Marketing

4. Entrepreneurship

5. Finance

Law and Legal Studies

1. Law (LLB)

2. International Law

3. Commercial Law

Health and Allied Sciences

1. Nursing

2. Public Health

3. Medical Laboratory Science

4. Pharmacy

Education

1. Arts Education

2. Science Education

3. Guidance and Counseling

4. Technical Education

Part-Time Work and Scholarship Opportunities

On-Campus Jobs

Many affordable private universities allow students to work on campus as teaching assistants, library assistants, lab technicians, or administrative aides.

Scholarship Options

1. Merit-based scholarships for top students

2. Need-based assistance for low-income students

3. Alumni and private foundation sponsorships

Tuition Payment Plans

Installment schemes spread tuition over the semester or session, making it more manageable.

Mistakes Students Make When Choosing Affordable Private Universities

1. Focusing solely on tuition and ignoring accreditation

2. Overlooking course availability

3. Ignoring living and transportation costs

4. Missing scholarship and financial aid opportunities

5. Neglecting campus facilities and student support services

Top 40 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria 2026

Tips to Maximize Affordability

1. Compare tuition across universities for your course.

2. Apply early for scholarships and financial aid.

3. Consider universities outside major cities to reduce living expenses.

4. Opt for installment payments if cash flow is limited.

5. Balance academics with part-time work opportunities on campus.

Detailed Tuition Breakdown for 2026

The tuition fees for affordable private universities vary depending on the course and program. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of approximate tuition fees per session for undergraduates:

Tuition by University

Living Costs in Affordable Private Universities

In addition to tuition, students need to consider living expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and personal items. Approximate monthly costs are:

Tip: Students who live off-campus in shared housing can save significantly on accommodation.

Step-by-Step Admission Guide for 2026

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

1. Minimum SSCE/WAEC/NECO result: 5 credits including English and Mathematics

2. JAMB UTME registration and score (where applicable)

3. Post-UTME screening for most universities

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

1. Birth certificate

2. SSCE/WAEC/NECO result

3. JAMB result slip

4. Passport photographs

5. Recommendation letters (if needed)

Step 3: Apply Through the University Portal

1. Complete online application forms

2. Pay the application fee (varies between 5,000–20,000 naira)

Step 4: Post-UTME or Screening

1. Prepare using previous questions and study guides

2. Attend interview if applicable

Step 5: Acceptance and Registration

1. Confirm admission

2. Pay first tuition installment

3. Collect student ID and register for courses

Top 40 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria 2026

Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities

Merit-Based Scholarships

1. Awarded to students with outstanding academic performance

2. Often cover partial or full tuition fees

Need-Based Assistance

1. Designed for students from low-income families

2. Covers tuition, accommodation, or other essentials

Alumni and Private Foundation Scholarships

1. Many universities partner with corporate organizations to support students

Work-Study Programs

1. Students can work on campus to offset tuition costs

2. Common roles include teaching assistant, library aide, lab assistant, and administrative support

Pros and Cons of Affordable Private Universities

Pros

1. Lower tuition fees without compromising quality

2. Smaller class sizes for personalized learning

3. Access to modern facilities and technology

4. Scholarship and financial aid opportunities

5. Closer interaction with lecturers and staff

6. High potential for networking and internships

Cons

1. Limited course offerings in some institutions

2. Smaller campuses with fewer extracurricular activities

3. Less recognition compared to top-tier private universities (varies by institution)

4. Some universities may have stricter admission requirements

Tips to Thrive Academically and Financially

1. Early Application

Apply as early as possible to increase chances for scholarships and secure admission.

2. Budget Planning

Track tuition, living costs, and personal expenses to avoid financial strain.

3. Use Campus Resources

Libraries, labs, and online learning platforms improve academic performance.

4. Seek Part-Time Opportunities

Engage in campus work or freelance opportunities to supplement income.

5. Build Professional Networks

Use university events, seminars, and workshops to connect with industry professionals.

6. Academic Excellence

Maintain high grades to qualify for scholarships and internship opportunities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Focusing solely on tuition and ignoring accreditation

2. Overlooking living expenses and additional fees

3. Missing scholarship deadlines

4. Neglecting course availability

5. Ignoring student support services

Living and Studying in Affordable Private Universities

Affordable private universities offer a balanced learning environment, often with well-maintained hostels, libraries, ICT labs, and recreation facilities. Students should consider:

1. Distance from home to minimize transport costs

2. Campus safety and security

3. Availability of student support services

4. Access to health and counseling services

Future Outlook for Affordable Private Universities

Expanding Programs

1. More courses in STEM, business, and health sciences

2. Online learning integration to reduce costs

Scholarship Growth

1. Increasing corporate and foundation partnerships for student funding

Facility Upgrades

1. Improved libraries, laboratories, hostels, and ICT infrastructure

International Collaboration

1. Exchange programs and partnerships with foreign universities for skill development

Career Support

1. Stronger emphasis on internships and graduate employability

Conclusion

The top 40 most affordable private universities in Nigeria for 2026 offer a realistic balance of cost, quality, and opportunities for undergraduates. By understanding tuition structures, living costs, scholarships, and application processes, students can maximize their educational investment. These institutions provide excellent environments for academic excellence, career development, and personal growth. Choosing the right university, budgeting carefully, and applying early for financial aid or scholarships are key strategies for success. Students can achieve world-class education without breaking the bank, ensuring a strong foundation for future careers in Nigeria and globally.