School Fees in Private Universities in Nigeria (2026)
Private universities in Nigeria are known for offering a more stable academic calendar, better learning environments, and faster graduation timelines compared to public institutions. However, one major factor that often discourages many students is the cost of tuition.
Unlike federal and state universities, private universities are fully funded by individuals or organizations, which means students bear the full cost of running the institution. Because of this, school fees in private universities are significantly higher and vary widely depending on the school, course of study, and facilities available.
In this guide, we will look at school fees in private universities in Nigeria for 2026, what influences the cost, and what students should expect before choosing any private institution.
Understanding School Fees in Private Universities in Nigeria
Private university fees are not standardized. Each institution sets its own fees based on infrastructure, quality of lecturers, course demand, and location.
Several factors affect tuition in private universities:
First, course of study plays a big role. Courses like medicine, law, engineering, pharmacy, and nursing are usually the most expensive due to laboratory use and professional requirements.
Second, the reputation and ranking of the university also influence fees. Well-known private universities tend to charge higher fees due to demand and quality perception.
Third, accommodation is often compulsory in most private universities, which increases the total cost significantly.
On average, private university fees in Nigeria range from ₦400,000 to over ₦5,000,000 per session, depending on the institution and course.
Private Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees (2026 Estimate)
Below is a breakdown of 30 private universities in Nigeria and their estimated annual tuition fees.
Covenant University, Ota
One of the most prestigious private universities in Nigeria.
Estimated fees: ₦900,000 – ₦1,500,000
Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo
A well-known faith-based institution.
Estimated fees: ₦800,000 – ₦2,500,000
Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos
Highly respected for business and media studies.
Estimated fees: ₦1,200,000 – ₦3,000,000
American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola
Offers American-style education system.
Estimated fees: ₦2,000,000 – ₦5,000,000
Bowen University, Iwo
Owned by the Baptist Church.
Estimated fees: ₦700,000 – ₦1,800,000
Crescent University, Abeokuta
Islamic-based private university.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,500,000
Redeemer’s University, Ede
Faith-based institution with strong academic standards.
Estimated fees: ₦800,000 – ₦2,000,000
Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
One of the early private universities in Nigeria.
Estimated fees: ₦700,000 – ₦1,800,000
Igbinedion University, Okada
First private university in Nigeria.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦2,000,000
Lead City University, Ibadan
Popular private university in the southwest.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,500,000
Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU)
Owned by Christ Apostolic Church.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,800,000
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Ado-Ekiti
One of the most expensive and well-equipped universities.
Estimated fees: ₦1,000,000 – ₦5,000,000
Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo
Anglican Church-owned university.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,800,000
Bingham University, Karu
Faith-based institution.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,500,000
Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin
Islamic private university.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Mountain Top University
Owned by Mountain of Fire Ministries.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,500,000
McPherson University
Faith-based institution.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Rhema University, Aba
Owned by Christ Embassy church.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,300,000
Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin
Well-structured private university.
Estimated fees: ₦700,000 – ₦1,800,000
Salem University, Lokoja
One of the earlier private universities.
Estimated fees: ₦400,000 – ₦1,200,000
Novena University, Ogume
Located in Delta State.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,300,000
Paul University, Awka
Owned by Anglican Church.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Western Delta University, Oghara
Small but growing institution.
Estimated fees: ₦400,000 – ₦1,000,000
Veritas University, Abuja
Catholic Church-owned university.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,500,000
Edwin Clark University, Delta State
Relatively new private university.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,300,000
Christopher University, Mowe
Private-owned institution.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Anchor University, Lagos
Owned by Deeper Life Bible Church.
Estimated fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,500,000
Dominican University, Ibadan
Catholic private university.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Hezekiah University, Umudi
Faith-based private institution.
Estimated fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
One of the most expensive private universities.
Estimated fees: ₦1,500,000 – ₦4,000,000
School Fees in Private Universities in Nigeria (2026)
| Private University | Estimated School Fees (₦) |
|---|---|
| Covenant University | 900,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Babcock University | 800,000 – 2,500,000 |
| Pan-Atlantic University | 1,200,000 – 3,000,000 |
| American University of Nigeria (AUN) | 2,000,000 – 5,000,000 |
| Bowen University | 700,000 – 1,800,000 |
| Crescent University | 600,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Redeemer’s University | 800,000 – 2,000,000 |
| Benson Idahosa University | 700,000 – 1,800,000 |
| Igbinedion University | 600,000 – 2,000,000 |
| Lead City University | 500,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Joseph Ayo Babalola University | 600,000 – 1,800,000 |
| Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | 1,000,000 – 5,000,000 |
| Ajayi Crowther University | 600,000 – 1,800,000 |
| Bingham University | 600,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Al-Hikmah University | 500,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Mountain Top University | 600,000 – 1,500,000 |
| McPherson University | 500,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Rhema University | 500,000 – 1,300,000 |
| Elizade University | 700,000 – 1,800,000 |
| Salem University | 400,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Novena University | 500,000 – 1,300,000 |
| Paul University | 500,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Western Delta University | 400,000 – 1,000,000 |
| Veritas University | 600,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Edwin Clark University | 500,000 – 1,300,000 |
| Christopher University | 500,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Anchor University | 600,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Dominican University | 500,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Hezekiah University | 500,000 – 1,200,000 |
| Nile University of Nigeria | 1,500,000 – 4,000,000 |
General Overview of Private University Fees in Nigeria
From the list above, it is clear that private universities are significantly more expensive than federal and state universities. Most schools fall between ₦500,000 and ₦2,000,000, while top-tier institutions can go above ₦5,000,000 per session.
The major advantage of private universities is stability—no strikes, faster academic calendar, and better learning environments. However, cost remains the biggest barrier.
Other Costs Students Should Expect
Apart from tuition fees, students in private universities also pay for:
- Compulsory accommodation
- Feeding plans (in some schools)
- Development and ICT fees
- Laboratory and departmental charges
- Acceptance fees
These additional costs can significantly increase total yearly expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Private Universities in Nigeria
1. How much are school fees in private universities in Nigeria?
School fees in private universities usually range from about ₦400,000 to over ₦5,000,000 per session depending on the school, course, and facilities offered.
2. Why are private universities more expensive than federal and state universities?
Private universities are fully funded by individuals or organizations, so students bear the full cost of tuition, accommodation, and services, making them more expensive.
3. Do private universities charge the same fees for all courses?
No. Courses like medicine, law, nursing, and engineering are usually more expensive than arts, social sciences, and education-related courses.
4. Is accommodation included in private university fees?
In most private universities, accommodation is compulsory and included in the total fees, though the quality and cost vary by institution.
5. Do private universities in Nigeria go on strike?
No. One major advantage of private universities is that they rarely or never go on strike, allowing students to graduate on time.
6. Can school fees in private universities be paid in installments?
Some private universities allow installment payments, but this depends on the institution’s policy. Many still require full or major payment before resumption.
7. Are private universities better than federal and state universities?
It depends on preference. Private universities offer better stability and facilities, while federal and state universities are more affordable.
8. Do private university fees change every year?
Yes. Fees can increase yearly due to inflation, infrastructure development, and institutional policy changes, so students should always confirm before admission.
Before You Go
Private universities in Nigeria offer quality education, discipline, and a stable academic environment, but they come at a high financial cost. Before choosing any private university, students and parents should carefully consider their financial capacity and long-term academic goals.
It is always important to compare different institutions and ensure that the chosen university aligns with both academic aspirations and financial reality.
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