If you are planning to pursue a career in teaching or education and wondering about the best colleges of education in Nigeria and their fees, this guide is for you.
In this detailed article, we explain everything you need to know from tuition fees, facilities, and admission requirements to what makes each of these colleges stand out. Whether you’re choosing based on affordability, quality of education, or location, you’ll find all the answers here.
We also include a summary table later in the article to help you compare these schools at a glance and make the best decision.
Why Choose a College of Education in Nigeria?
Colleges of Education are institutions that train teachers and award the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). An NCE is the minimum qualification required to teach in primary and junior secondary schools in Nigeria.
There are many reasons why thousands of students choose colleges of education every year:
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They are generally more affordable than universities.
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The programs are shorter, usually 3 years.
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Many colleges offer direct entry opportunities into universities after NCE.
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They focus on practical teaching skills and methods.
What Makes a Good College of Education?
When deciding where to study, here are a few factors that make a college of education one of the best:
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Accreditation by the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).
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Qualified and experienced lecturers.
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Modern teaching facilities like libraries, ICT centers, and laboratories.
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Well-organized teaching practice opportunities.
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Affordable fees with clear breakdowns.
Top 10 Best Colleges of Education in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)
Below are the top‑ranked colleges of education in Nigeria this year, based on quality of education, facilities, student satisfaction, and affordability.
1. Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo (ACE Ondo)
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Location: Ondo State
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Fees (2025): ₦90,000 – ₦120,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: ACE Ondo is one of the most prestigious colleges of education in Nigeria. It is affiliated with Obafemi Awolowo University and offers both NCE and degree programs. Their facilities are modern and the academic environment is excellent.
2. Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka
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Location: Lagos State
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Fees (2025): ₦70,000 – ₦100,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: Known for its technical and vocational teacher training programs, this college is ideal if you’re interested in teaching sciences or technology subjects.
3. Federal College of Education, Zaria (FCE Zaria)
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Location: Kaduna State
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Fees (2025): ₦60,000 – ₦90,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: FCE Zaria is one of the oldest and most respected colleges in Nigeria. It has a large student population and is well known for its strong education and arts programs.
4. Federal College of Education, Abeokuta (FCE Abeokuta)
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Location: Ogun State
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Fees (2025): ₦65,000 – ₦85,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: This college is popular for its serene environment and strong focus on teacher education for basic and secondary schools.
5. Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri
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Location: Imo State
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Fees (2025): ₦70,000 – ₦95,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: Alvan Ikoku is a household name in teacher training in Nigeria. The college is affiliated with the University of Nigeria Nsukka for its degree programs.
6. Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze
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Location: Anambra State
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Fees (2025): ₦60,000 – ₦85,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: Known for its technical teacher education, this college produces highly skilled graduates who can teach in technical and vocational schools.
7. Federal College of Education, Kano (FCE Kano)
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Location: Kano State
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Fees (2025): ₦55,000 – ₦80,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: FCE Kano is affordable, accessible, and offers a wide range of programs. It serves students from the northern region and beyond.
8. Federal College of Education, Kontagora
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Location: Niger State
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Fees (2025): ₦50,000 – ₦75,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: This college is highly affordable and well regarded for its teacher education programs, especially in arts and humanities.
9. Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo
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Location: Oyo State
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Fees (2025): ₦60,000 – ₦90,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: With a long history and strong affiliation with the University of Ibadan for its degree programs, this college produces highly competent teachers.
10. Tai Solarin College of Education (TASCE), Ijebu-Ode
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Location: Ogun State
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Fees (2025): ₦65,000 – ₦95,000 per session
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Why It Stands Out: TASCE combines affordability with quality education, producing graduates who excel in both public and private schools.
Summary Table — Best Colleges of Education and Their Fees (2025)
| College Name | Location | Fees per Session |
|---|---|---|
| Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo | Ondo State | ₦90k – ₦120k |
| FCE (Technical), Akoka | Lagos State | ₦70k – ₦100k |
| FCE, Zaria | Kaduna State | ₦60k – ₦90k |
| FCE, Abeokuta | Ogun State | ₦65k – ₦85k |
| Alvan Ikoku FCE, Owerri | Imo State | ₦70k – ₦95k |
| FCE (Technical), Umunze | Anambra State | ₦60k – ₦85k |
| FCE, Kano | Kano State | ₦55k – ₦80k |
| FCE, Kontagora | Niger State | ₦50k – ₦75k |
| Emmanuel Alayande COE, Oyo | Oyo State | ₦60k – ₦90k |
| Tai Solarin COE, Ijebu-Ode | Ogun State | ₦65k – ₦95k |
How to Choose the Best College of Education for You
Here are some tips to help you choose the right school:
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Check accreditation: Only apply to NCCE‑accredited institutions.
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Compare fees: Balance affordability with quality.
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Consider location: Choose a school in a state or city where you can thrive.
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Review facilities: Libraries, hostels, ICT labs, and teaching practice opportunities matter.
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Ask about affiliations: Some colleges allow you to earn both NCE and a university degree.
Advantages of Studying at a College of Education
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Shorter program duration (3 years).
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Affordable tuition fees compared to universities.
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Practical, hands‑on teaching experience.
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Pathway to university degrees through direct entry.
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Opportunities for employment in both public and private schools after graduation.
Common Questions About Colleges of Education in Nigeria
Which college of education is the cheapest in Nigeria?
Among federal colleges, FCE Kontagora and FCE Kano are among the most affordable, with fees starting around ₦50,000 – ₦55,000 per session.
Do colleges of education offer degree programs?
Yes. Many are affiliated with universities to offer degree programs alongside NCE.
How long does it take to complete an NCE program?
Typically 3 years if studying full‑time.
Can NCE holders go to university?
Yes. NCE holders can apply for direct entry admission into 200‑level at universities.
Do colleges of education have hostels?
Most do, especially the federal and state colleges, but availability and cost vary by institution.
Comparing Colleges of Education With Universities and Polytechnics
| Feature | Colleges of Education | Universities | Polytechnics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years | 4–5 years | 2–4 years |
| Certificate | NCE | Degree (BSc/BA) | ND/HND |
| Focus | Teacher training | Broad academic | Technical & vocational |
| Cost | Lower | Higher | Moderate |
| Direct Entry | Yes | N/A | Yes |
Final Thoughts — Choosing the Right College of Education in 2025
Selecting the best college of education in Nigeria and understanding their fees is a crucial step toward your teaching career.
Federal colleges tend to offer the best combination of affordability, quality, and facilities. If you’re looking for a reputable school, Adeyemi College of Education, Alvan Ikoku FCE, and FCE Zaria are excellent choices. If budget is your top concern, consider FCE Kontagora or FCE Kano, which are among the cheapest while still maintaining good standards.
No matter which college you choose, make sure it is accredited, offers the programs you want, and fits your budget and lifestyle.