10 Top-Rated Universities In Nigeria: Tuition Fees, Courses, And Requirements (2025 Guide)

Nigeria is home to some of Africa’s most respected universities, offering a wide range of academic programs that meet international standards. For 2025, these institutions stand out for their quality education, competitive tuition fees, and diverse course offerings. Whether you’re aiming for a career in medicine, engineering, law, or the arts, understanding each university’s requirements will help you make the best choice.

In this guide, we highlight Nigeria’s top 10 accredited universities, their tuition fees, top courses, and entry requirements.

1. University of Ibadan (UI)

Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
Established in 1948, the University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s first university and remains one of Africa’s top-ranked institutions. Known for academic excellence, UI has produced many national leaders and scholars.

Popular Courses:

• Medicine & Surgery

• Law

• Political Science

• Engineering

• Agricultural Science

Tuition Fees: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 (per session for undergraduates)

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 O’Level credits (including English & Mathematics)

• Acceptable JAMB score (usually 200+)

• Post-UTME screening

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Location: Lagos State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
Founded in 1962, UNILAG is one of the most prestigious universities in Nigeria. It offers a vibrant learning environment in the heart of Lagos, with modern facilities and strong industry connections.

Popular Courses:

• Business Administration

• Law

• Medicine

• Mass Communication

• Engineering

Tuition Fees: ₦15,000 – ₦60,000 (depending on faculty)

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 credits in SSCE

• JAMB score of at least 200

• Successful Post-UTME screening

3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
OAU is renowned for its academic rigor and beautiful campus. Established in 1961, it has a strong tradition in research and innovation.

Popular Courses:

• Pharmacy

• Law

• Computer Science

• Architecture

• Engineering

Tuition Fees: ₦20,000 – ₦60,000

Requirements:

• Five O’Level credits including English & Mathematics

• Minimum JAMB score of 200

• Post-UTME performance

4. Covenant University

Location: Ota, Ogun State
Type: Private University

Overview:
Covenant University is one of Nigeria’s top private institutions, ranked highly in Africa for quality education, discipline, and innovation.

Popular Courses:

• Computer Science

• Mass Communication

• Architecture

• Civil Engineering

• Economics

Tuition Fees: ₦900,000 – ₦1,200,000

Requirements:

• Five O’Level credits

• JAMB score (minimum 180–200)

• School’s screening

5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
Founded in 1962, ABU is one of the largest universities in sub-Saharan Africa, with strong academic programs across science, arts, and humanities.

Popular Courses:

• Veterinary Medicine

• Law

• Engineering

• Education

• Agricultural Science

Tuition Fees: ₦20,000 – ₦40,000

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 O’Level credits

• JAMB score from 180 upward

• Post-UTME screening

6. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Location: Nsukka, Enugu State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
Founded in 1960, UNN is modeled after the American education system, offering diverse courses and extensive research opportunities.

Popular Courses:

• Medicine

• Law

• Pharmacy

• Political Science

• Engineering

Tuition Fees: ₦45,000 – ₦70,000

Requirements:

• Five SSCE credits

• JAMB score 200+

• Post-UTME screening

7. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

Location: Akure, Ondo State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
FUTA specializes in science and technology courses, producing skilled graduates for the tech-driven economy.

Popular Courses:

• Computer Engineering

• Surveying & Geoinformatics

• Microbiology

• Agricultural Extension

• Physics

Tuition Fees: ₦25,000 – ₦50,000

Requirements:

• Five O’Level credits

• Minimum JAMB score of 180–200

• Post-UTME test

8. Lagos State University (LASU)

Location: Lagos State
Type: State University

Overview:
LASU is known for its diverse programs and flexible part-time study options, attracting students from across Nigeria.

Popular Courses:

• Law

• Public Administration

• Banking & Finance

• Education

• Mass Communication

Tuition Fees: ₦57,000 – ₦150,000

Requirements:

• Five O’Level credits

• JAMB score from 180 upward

• Post-UTME screening

9. Babcock University

Location: Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
Type: Private University

Overview:
Babcock University offers world-class education in a faith-based environment, emphasizing leadership and service.

Popular Courses:

• Nursing

• Computer Science

• Business Administration

• Political Science

• Mass Communication

Tuition Fees: ₦800,000 – ₦1,200,000

Requirements:

• Five O’Level credits

• JAMB score from 180 upward

• University’s admission process

10. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
Type: Federal University

Overview:
Popularly called Better by Far, UNILORIN is known for its stable academic calendar and quality teaching.

Popular Courses:

• Medicine

• Law

• Engineering

• Accounting

• Education

Tuition Fees: ₦30,000 – ₦60,000

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 O’Level credits

• JAMB score 180+

• Post-UTME

Tuition Fees Comparison Table

Conclusion

Choosing the right university in Nigeria goes beyond prestige — it’s about matching your academic goals, budget, and career aspirations with the right institution. By understanding tuition fees, available courses, and requirements, you can make an informed decision and set yourself up for academic success in 2025.