Education is the key to a brighter future, but for many Nigerian students, high tuition fees stand in the way of achieving their dreams. Every year, thousands of students struggle to afford university education, and some even give up due to rising costs.
The good news? Some state universities in Nigeria offer quality education at affordable rates, making higher education accessible to students from all backgrounds.
If you’re searching for cheap state universities in Nigeria where you can study without financial pressure, this guide is for you. Below, we list the 10 most affordable state universities in Nigeria (2025), their school fees, and why they are great choices for budget-conscious students.
1. Taraba State University, Jalingo (TSU)
School Fees: ₦25,000 – ₦35,000 per session
Why Choose TSU?
- One of the cheapest universities in Nigeria
- Low fees for both indigenes and non-indigenes
- Offers courses in Sciences, Arts, Education, and Management
- Strong academic standards with modern facilities
2. Gombe State University, Gombe (GSU)
School Fees: ₦22,500 (indigenes), ₦59,000 – ₦80,000 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose GSU?
- Extremely low tuition for Gombe indigenes
- Programs in Medicine, Law, Agriculture, and Social Sciences
- Government-backed affordability
3. Borno State University, Maiduguri (BOSU)
School Fees: ₦39,800 (indigenes, no tuition), ₦59,800 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose BOSU?
- No tuition fees for Borno indigenes (only administrative charges)
- Affordable for non-indigenes compared to other schools
- Courses in Sciences, Social Sciences, and Health
4. Plateau State University, Bokkos (PLASU)
School Fees: ₦40,000 – ₦45,000 (indigenes), ₦80,000 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose PLASU?
- 50% tuition subsidy from Plateau State Government
- Programs in Sciences, Management, and Arts
- Quality education at a reduced cost
5. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero (KSUSTA)
School Fees: ₦34,000 (indigenes), ₦84,000 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose KSUSTA?
- Special low fees for Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara indigenes
- Focus on Science and Technology courses
- Strong practical and research-based learning
6. Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil (ADUSTECH)
School Fees: ₦47,000 (indigenes), ₦115,000 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose ADUSTECH?
- 50% tuition subsidy for Kano indigenes
- Specializes in Engineering, Computer Science, and Agriculture
- Modern facilities and industry-relevant programs
7. Yobe State University, Damaturu (YSU)
School Fees: ₦45,000 – ₦52,000 (indigenes, no tuition), ₦75,000 – ₦95,000 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose YSU?
- No tuition fees for Yobe indigenes
- Offers Law, Medicine, and Social Sciences
- Government commitment to affordable education
8. Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)
School Fees: ₦54,100 – ₦57,100 (indigenes), ₦89,100 – ₦94,100 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose NSUK?
- Close proximity to Abuja for internship opportunities
- Affordable fees compared to private universities
- Strong programs in Law, Medicine, and Business
9. Lagos State University, Ojo (LASU)
School Fees: ₦58,048 (new students), ₦25,000 (returning students)
Why Choose LASU?
- One of the cheapest and best state universities in Nigeria
- Flat-rate fees for all students (indigenes & non-indigenes)
- Top-ranked institution with strong academic reputation
10. Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden (AKSU)
School Fees: ₦93,000 (indigenes), ₦123,000 (non-indigenes)
Why Choose AKSU?
- Most affordable university in Southern Nigeria
- Programs in Engineering, Management, and Social Sciences
- Low fee difference between indigenes and non-indigenes
Why Are Some Universities Cheaper Than Others?
Several factors determine tuition fees:
✅ Government subsidies – Some states heavily subsidize education.
✅ Location – Schools in high-cost areas (like Lagos) may charge more.
✅ Programs offered – Science/Engineering courses often cost more.
✅ State policies – Some governors prioritize affordable education.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Many state universities offer low tuition fees with government support.
✔ Some schools (like Borno & Yobe) have no tuition for indigenes.
✔ LASU, TSU, and GSU are among the most affordable options.
Don’t let finances stop you from pursuing your dreams—choose wisely and invest in your future today!
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