Discover the Affordable and expensive universities in FCT, Abuja, compare tuition fees, and find the right fit based on programs, facilities, and career opportunities.
Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is a key educational component in the country, offering various university opportunities for students from all walks of life.
From affordable public universities to high-end private institutions, the city’s educational offerings reach a variety of academic interests, financial means, and professional aspirations.
This guide covers universities in Abuja including their tuition fees, programs, facilities, and the unique advantages each institution offers. Explore your options with this article to help you decide on the right thing for you – whether you’d prefer budget education or a top-notch university edition!
Affordable and Expensive Universities in FCT (Abuja)
Below is the list of cheap and expensive universities in FCT (Abuja):
Affordable universities in FCT
1. University of Abuja
University Of Abuja: A federal university that provides secondary education at an affordable cost for various disciplines. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in areas like law, engineering, sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Some of its distinct programs are Law, Medicine, Accounting, Business Administration, and Agriculture.
Facilities:
Its primary campus is located at Gwagwalada, and it’s furnished with up-to-date lecture theatres, scientific research laboratories, central library facilities with a variety of holdings, and student hostels. There are also sports facilities, a health center, and a chapel on campus for religious affairs.
Affordability and Accessibility:
The University of Abuja is funded by the government which is a factor that keeps tuition fees significantly lower than that of private universities. It is a good choice for students from lower-income families, as it is affordable. Moreover, its strategic location at Gwagwalada also makes it accessible from every part of Abuja.
What Makes the University of Abuja Special?
The University of Abuja Arena is a great value university, particularly for students seeking diverse programs at an economical price point. Its cheap course fees, a range of courses, and strong campus facilities make it a popular choice for many students.
Tuition Fees: ₦50,000–₦100,000 per semester
See: University of Abuja Fully Accredited Courses – 2024/25
2. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is the largest distance education learning center in Nigeria with flexible degrees, which can be completed through online courses or part-time study.
NOUN is perfect for busy working professionals with families or for people with large work projects.
Programs Offered: NOUN offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines, such as law, business administration, education, social sciences, and health sciences.
Facilities:
NOUN has study centers with computers, online learning environments, and a digital library. It also provides in-person tutorials at different study centers. Students have access to academic resources online lectures and support services to help with their studies
Affordability and Accessibility:
The university’s tuition is among the most affordable in Nigeria, and it has a flexible structure. The answer is NOUN, which offers low-cost education for non-traditional students and working adults. Through its virtual platform students from every nook and cranny in Nigeria including Abuja, can attend classes from the comfort of their homes.
Why Choose NOUN?: NOUN is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable, flexible, and accessible education. Staying with a career or job, many prefer this option due to the flexibility of learning at your own pace.
3. Veritas University
Tuition Fees: ₦380,000–₦930,000
Veritas University, a Catholic University with a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It focuses on academic achievement, character development, and social responsibility.
Programs offered by the university include Law, Business Administration, Accounting, Computer Science, and International Relations.
Facilities:
Equipped with modern-day facilities such as the latest classrooms, research labs, a wide Range library, and on-campus hostels, the university offers a wholesome experience to its students. It also features a praying chapel, a setting for sports, and a garden.
Affordability and Accessibility:
Veritas University is a private university, but its tuition fees is low compared to other private universities in FCT. The location in Bwari, a suburb of Abuja, is relatively accessible and the calm environment is ideal for study.
Why should one choose Veritas University? Veritas does not just offer classes, it offers a complete education, emphasizing character and moral development as much as academics. Its affordability, in addition to its quality education and Catholic values, makes it a great choice for students looking for a comprehensive, yet affordable, education.
Tuition Fees: ₦380,000–₦1,700,000 per session
See: Veritas University Courses and Fees
4. Prime University
Tuition Fees: ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000
Prime University was established in 2023 and offers remedial, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs on a receptive, accommodating, and beautiful campus. This university is open to international and domestic students who want to further their education in Nigeria.
Facilities:
Prime’s classrooms, laboratories, dormitories, and sporting facilities were built to a world-class standard with every academic and administrative building connected to the internet.
Why choose Prime:
As a student enrolled in this school, you will get to participate in many activities on campus including sports and recreation, health and wellness, events, traditions, and religious activities making your academic journey fun and adventurous.
See: Prime University Courses and Fees – Cheap Private University in Abuja
5. Philomath University
Tuition: ₦1,400,000 – ₦2,400,000
Philomath is a private university with its main campus in Kuje, Abuja, and an extension at Maitama Abuja. Licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in April 2021 to offer academic programs across its six (6) faculties.
This university is a world-class institution committed to life-changing education, teaching excellence, functional research, global trends, and entrepreneurship that leads to real-world impact.
Facilities:
The science and technology labs are cutting-edge, fostering innovation and hands-on exploration for future scientists, engineers, and tech leaders.
See: Philomath University Courses and Fees
6. Affiliated Institution: Turkish Maarif International College
The international ties and academic rigor defining the Turkish Maarif International College present an exceptional learning opportunity for students to thrive and realize their potential in that type of environment.
While it is still primarily known as a high school, it has developed cost-effective higher education programs. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate education in fields like engineering, business, and computer science.
Facilities:
It has well-furnished classrooms, science and computer labs, libraries, and sports facilities. It also focuses on nurturing students’ critical thinking and global outlook through a modern curriculum.
Cost and Place of Use:
Also, the college is more affordable than many of the private universities in Abuja. The international location provides students with access to a world-class education at a practical price point.
Why choose Turkish Maarif International College:
The college is safe for students who want to obtain an internationally recognized education whilst keeping costs under control. It is also perfect for students who want to study abroad later, as it prepares you with a global mindset.
5. Islamic University of Technology
Location: Abuja
Tuition Costs: (Depends on the program)
A specialized technical and vocational university, the Islamic University of Technology at Abuja offers courses in electrical engineering, computer science, and information technology.
Facilities:
It has classrooms, modern workshops, specialized technical labs, and a library. The university stresses greatly on practical skills and provides students with plenty of scope for the on-ground experience.
The cost and availability of its various schools of swelling up…
With lower tuition for these programs, this university presents a great option for students pursuing technical careers.
Additionally, being located in Abuja makes it easy for students to live within or outside the city.
Why choose the Islamic University of Technology?
This is a great option for students interested in careers in technology, engineering, or other technical fields. It is cheap and provides a Good Practical education.
Expensive Universities in FCT
1. Nile University of Nigeria
Location: Jabi
Aggregate Fees: ₦2,400,000–₦2,800,000
Nile University – One of the Best Private Schools in Abuja Nile University is famous for its world-class facilities and its internationalization through world-class faculty. It is well known for its diverse courses from Law to Engineering to Computer Science to Business Administration.
Facilities:
The Nile University campus offers state-of-the-art classrooms, modern laboratories, extensive libraries, and a student center. Students are offered a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports and cultural associations. The hostel relationships are very neat and clean by the university.
Affordability and Accessibility:
Nile is one of the most expensive universities in Abuja. However, the fees at Nile are truly worth it for a world-class education. Owing to its universal recognition and its convenient location in Jabi, it is well-positioned for students seeking a high-quality international educational experience.
Why Choose Nile University?
Nile University: Nile University is the most globally recognized higher institution in Nigeria.
See: Nile University Courses and Fees
2. Baze University
Location: Jabi
Tuition Fees: ₦2,994,600–₦3,327,400
Baze University is a private university that offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Law, Engineering, Computer Science, and Business. It is renowned for providing quality education, high-tech facilities, and global alliances.
Facilities:
The campus has multimedia lecture halls, laboratories, a library, sports facilities, and well-furnished hostels. Students coming out of campus regularly complain about ‘boring’ life and many campuses have very good ways of helping students and internships, study abroad, etc.
Affordability and Accessibility:
It should be noted that Baze University has one of the highest tuition fees in the country but also has some of the best facilities to match its fees. It is located in Jabi, making it easily accessible to students living in, or around Abuja.
Why Choose Baze University?
Baze University is the university of choice for globally-minded and work-ready students. It also serves students well in the job market by placing importance on entrepreneurship and innovation.
See: Baze University Courses and Fees
3. African University of Science and Technology (AUST)
Location: Abuja
Tuition Fees: ₦1,500,000 – ₦3,019,300
AUST is renowned for its extreme focus on MS & PhDs in science and technology. It offers graduate programs in computer science, engineering, and management. A world-class Education with world-class International Universities.
Facilities:
AUST maintains various advanced labs, research centers, a well-equipped library, and modern classrooms. This makes this campus an ideal region for research and innovation.
Affordability and Accessibility:
Nevertheless, one constantly pays a premium for education at AUST, and their education is worth the price. Located in Abuja, it has excellent research opportunities and a strong postgraduate community.
Why Choose AUST?
NOTE: This is a training for career development but if you have AUST, then keep AUST for Transfer to and move ahead step by step in your life and career in addition to your interest in a field of science, engineering, or technology. It provides academic and professional opportunities with an emphasis on research and collaborations among the global organizations that work with it.
See: African University of Science and Technology Courses and Fees
4. Nigeria Turkish Nile University.
Location: Jabi
Fees: ₦1,500,000–₦2,400,000
Nigeria Turkish Nile University is located in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. It possesses an international aspect as it comes from the Turkish education system attached to it, the college is exclusively focused on academics. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as Business Administration, Law, Engineering, and Computer Science.
Facilities:
The university has modern infrastructure like a library, computer lab, sports complex, and also a hostel. This allows for much variety within the field among academics and extracurricular activities, thereby creating well-rounded students on campus.
Affordability and Accessibility:
Though the fees are high-end for an Abuja private university, it will be worth the amount for the education and international exposure. Located at Jabi, just at the center of Abuja, it is easily accessible to students all over Abuja.
Why choose Nigeria Turkish Nile University:
If you want world-class education, international exposure, and a multicultural environment, Nigeria Turkish Nile University is your best choice.
Features Affecting Tuition Fees
Factors Affecting School Fees in Nigerian Universities include:
1. Type of Institution:
Public universities, such as the University of Abuja, are heavily subsidized by the government, which means that they are far cheaper than private universities.
The tuition prices of private universities like Nile University and Baze University are higher because their revenues come from tuition fees.
2. Course Complexity:
Many graduate programs requiring specialized tools such as medicine, engineering, and law that require lab facilities and specialized faculty members may also come at a premium tuition price.
3. Facilities and Infrastructure:
Those schools, that have modern facilities, such as Nile University and Baze University, usually have to pay higher fees due to their premium infrastructure. These costs entail high-tech laboratories, sports facilities, and residential arrangements.
4. Faculty and Staff:
Institutions like Nile University that employ a large proportion of international faculty will normally be charging more so that they can pay competitive salaries and cover the costs associated with their ongoing training and development.
5. Location and Reputation:
Because Abuja is the capital city, institutions there are a lot more expensive than other cities in the country with private universities wanting to grow their population with Nigerians and foreigners alike.
Moreover, prestige is another important factor affecting price, as top-ranking, internationally recognized institutions are likely to request higher tuition fees.
How to Select the Right University
Choosing the right university is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Several factors determine the decision, and they must be judiciously considered so the university caters to academic and personal objectives.
Here’s a checklist for making an informed decision:
1. Programs and Courses of Study
The most basic thing to check before applying to a university is if the university offers the course you are interested in studying. Some universities offer specialized professional fields, while others have a wider array of programs.
Study the subjects for your chosen courses, and, if applicable, the specialization, and the quality of teaching in your chosen field.
2. International Tuition Fees and Funding/Scholarships
One of the major factors while selecting a university is the tuition fee. Public universities are typically less expensive than private universities but usually have larger class sizes and less personalized resources.
Take stock of your budget and research universities that provide scholarships, financial aid, or flexible payment options.
3. University reputation and ranking
The reputation of the university is important for your future career. Top universities are typically more competitive and graduates may be better regarded by employers. This said, if your field of study dictates, a less eminent university may still provide good teaching.
4. Location and Accessibility
Think about the location of the university you are considering and its accessibility for you. If you’re studying in a big city such as Abuja, consider transportation, cost of living, and the distance from your home to the university. Accessibility means it should be relatively close to industries, and job opportunities that may be relevant to your field.
5. Facilities and Campus Life
Campus facilities — like libraries, research labs, hostels, and recreational areas — greatly affect your university life. Choose the universities with good campus life where you can have other fields of activities like sports. However, if you plan to live on campus, make sure the university provides adequate accommodation.
6. Career support and Alumni network.
Glance at how the university provides career guidance and job fair placement. A powerful alumni network can also help you find opportunities in your career. Look into how well the university prepares its students for the respective workforce.
7. Student-Teacher Ratio and Class Size
With fewer students, professors can often give more personalized attention and form better relationships with students. Find out the average class size and student-to-faculty ratio at the universities that you’re considering. That ratio is even smaller, which improves your learning process handsomely for fields that require interaction (law, engineering, and so on).
8. Accreditation and Affiliation
Make sure that the institution is approved by recognized organizations and provides internationally accepted programs. If a university is well-connected to these industry leaders or international institutions, it could give you better exposure and access to job opportunities.
Comparing the Fees of Different Universities and Categories
Abuja Universities also have diverse Tuition fees starting from Private to public, private universities tend to be more expensive than public institutions. Here’s a breakdown of fees by category:
Public Universities
1. University of Abuja:
Tuition Fees: ₦100,000 – ₦200,000
Public universities receive government funding that allows tuition fees to be relatively low. One of the best examples would have to be the University of Abuja, an affordable university that does not fail to offer variety in the courses offered.
2. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN):
Tuition: Varies depending on the program, but overall relatively low.
With flexible programs and low tuition rates, NOUN provides students with the opportunity to earn a degree with a distance education, making it a highly favorable option.
Private Universities
1. Nile University of Nigeria:
Tuition: ₦2,400,000 – ₦2,800,000
Nile University has similar fees to other high-end institutes which means its fees include premium facilities, international faculty, and research opportunities.
2. Baze University:
Tuition Fees: ₦2,994,600 – ₦3,327,400
Baze University is also quite expensive, with fees nearing ₦3 million. It is worth it for the quality of education, international exposure, great infrastructure, and diverse academic programs.
3. Veritas University:
Tuition Fees: ₦380,000 – ₦930,000
According to Kenney, Veritas’s tuition fee is lower than a standard private university, reflecting the impressive academic standards of Veritas.
4. Nigeria Turkish Nile University:
Tuition Fees: ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,400,000
This University’s fees are a view of its global connections along with its higher standards educational standards and high end of facilities.
5. Philomath University:
Tuition: ₦1,400,000 – ₦2,400,000
Empower students to achieve their academic and career aspirations through a personalized learning experience.
6. Prime University:
Tuition Fees: ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000
In a stimulating and encouraging learning atmosphere, Prime University provides students with the ideal route to obtain a degree and realize their goals with flexible academic programs and reasonably priced tuition.
Low-Cost Alternatives for Specialized Offerings
1. Islamic University of TechnologyIslamic University of Technology
Tuition Fees: Varies (Generally cheaper for Technical programs)
As an engineering college, the fees are reasonable and provide good value to students taking up engineering and allied IT and technology degrees.
2. Turkish Maarif International College (Higher institution affiliated with)
Tuition Fees:
Lower than premium private universities
The college has unique global collaboration in its academic programming, with lower fees than private universities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which university is the most affordable in Abuja?
University of Abuja ₦100,000 – ₦200,000
2. Is their price — high or otherwise — worth it?
Yes, it does, because private universities such as Nile University Baze University, and others are equipped with first-class facilities and faculties, and students are given connections to international networks.
3. Is it possible to work while studying at a university in Abuja?
Yes, there are distance learning and part-time degree programs that allow you to work while you study at universities such as NOUN and Veritas University.
4. Do universities in Abuja offer scholarships?
There are a plethora of universities that offer scholarships based on candidates’ merits or financial needs such as Veritas and Nile. The tuition costs can therefore be hugely alleviated by these scholarships.
5. Do all universities provide hostel facilities?
And for all universities in Abuja including the University of Abuja, Nile University, and Veritas, hostel accommodations are provided. These hostels are well-furnished with all the required facilities for students.
Conclusion
There are numerous schools in Abuja, and all meeting different financial levels and academic ambitions are available. From affordable public universities to elite private ones, like the University of Abuja and Nile University respectively, Abuja has a variety of its residents.
Choosing between cheap and expensive universities will most depend on your academic goals, your financial resources, and the culture of the university that you desire.
Public universities, including the University of Abuja and NOUN, make an excellent option for students seeking an impressive education yet wishing to stick to a budget, as they offer these education experiences at a fraction of the price of private universities.
Conversely, top private institutions such as Nile University, Baze University, and Veritas, although expensive, offer a world-class learning environment with modern facilities, should you be interested in studying in an international environment.
At the end of the day, when it comes to choosing a university, it is about balancing the cost with the quality of education and facilities. Make your decision only after considering all factors, including whether the program is offered, the accessibility of campus, and campus life.
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