Cheapest Universities in Ghana and Their Fees 2025

If you are searching for the cheapest universities in Ghana and their fees 2025, this guide is for you. Many Ghanaian students, and even international students from Nigeria and other West African countries, want to get a quality university education without spending too much.

This article will explain everything you need to know — a list of affordable universities, their tuition fees, what makes them cheaper, how to apply, and some tips for managing your costs as a student in Ghana.

We also included a summary table later in the article for easy comparison of fees across different universities.

Why Choose an Affordable University in Ghana?

Many students in Ghana struggle to pay high tuition fees, especially in private universities. Choosing a cheaper university can help you:

• Avoid heavy student debts.

• Focus on your studies without worrying too much about money.

• Still get a recognized degree that can help you build your career.

The good news is that Ghana has several affordable public and private universities offering excellent education at lower costs.

How Are University Fees Determined in Ghana?

Before looking at the cheapest universities, it’s important to understand what determines university fees in Ghana:

• Type of university: Public universities are subsidized by the government, so their fees are much lower than private ones.

• Programme of study: Courses like Medicine, Engineering, and Law usually cost more than courses like Education or Arts.

• Level of study: Postgraduate programmes are often more expensive than undergraduate degrees.

• Local vs. foreign students: International students sometimes pay higher fees compared to Ghanaian citizens.

Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Ghana and Their Fees 2025

Here is a detailed look at the cheapest universities in Ghana for 2025.

1. University of Ghana (UG)

• Location: Legon, Accra.

• Type: Public.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵2,500 – ₵5,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵12,000 – ₵20,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: As Ghana’s premier public university, UG is heavily subsidized and offers several scholarships and grants.

2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

• Location: Kumasi.

• Type: Public.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵3,000 – ₵5,500 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵15,000 – ₵22,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: KNUST is also a public university with moderate fees and offers accommodation options that suit low-income students.

3. University of Cape Coast (UCC)

• Location: Cape Coast.

• Type: Public.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵2,800 – ₵4,500 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵10,000 – ₵18,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: Known for its affordable teacher education and Arts programmes.

4. University for Development Studies (UDS)

• Location: Tamale.

• Type: Public.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵2,000 – ₵4,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵8,000 – ₵15,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: UDS focuses on rural development and charges the lowest fees among Ghanaian public universities.

5. University of Education, Winneba (UEW)

• Location: Winneba.

• Type: Public.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵2,200 – ₵4,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵10,000 – ₵16,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: Specializes in Education and offers many financial aid opportunities for students.

6. Presbyterian University College

• Location: Abetifi-Kwahu.

• Type: Private.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵5,000 – ₵9,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵12,000 – ₵20,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: One of the most affordable private universities in Ghana, with flexible payment options.

7. Valley View University

• Location: Oyibi, Accra.

• Type: Private.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵6,000 – ₵10,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵15,000 – ₵22,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: Christian‑based institution that provides scholarships for bright but needy students.

8. Christian Service University College

• Location: Kumasi.

• Type: Private.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵4,500 – ₵8,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵10,000 – ₵18,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: Maintains low tuition with good quality programmes in Business, Theology, and IT.

9. Pentecost University College

• Location: Sowutuom, Accra.

• Type: Private.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵5,000 – ₵9,000 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵12,000 – ₵18,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: Offers need‑based and merit‑based scholarships to students.

10. African University College of Communications (AUCC)

• Location: Accra.

• Type: Private.

• Tuition Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaian students: ₵6,000 – ₵9,500 per year.

  • Foreign students: ₵12,000 – ₵18,000 per year.

• Why it’s affordable: Focuses on affordable Mass Communication and Business programmes.

Summary Table — Cheapest Universities in Ghana & Fees (2025)

Tips to Study Cheaply in Ghana

1. Choose Public Universities

Public universities cost far less than private ones and still maintain high standards.

2. Apply for Scholarships

Many universities offer financial aid. Check each school’s website for scholarship opportunities.

3. Live Off‑Campus

Renting a room off‑campus can sometimes save money compared to university accommodation.

4. Work Part‑Time

Some students take part‑time jobs on or near campus to support themselves.

5. Start Saving Early

Plan ahead and save before gaining admission to cushion against unexpected costs.

Why Are Public Universities Cheaper?

Public universities are subsidized by the Ghanaian government. The government covers part of the costs of lecturers, facilities, and utilities, which keeps tuition fees lower for students.

Private universities, on the other hand, rely entirely on tuition and donations to run their operations — which is why they are more expensive.

Common Questions About Cheapest Universities in Ghana

Which is the cheapest university in Ghana?

The University for Development Studies (UDS) has some of the lowest fees among public universities.

Are private universities worth it?

Private universities are good if you prefer smaller class sizes, more personalized attention, and modern facilities — but they cost more.

Can foreign students apply to public universities?

Yes, but note that fees for international students are higher than for Ghanaian citizens.

Are there free universities in Ghana?

No, but some students study for free if they earn full scholarships.

How much is accommodation in Ghanaian universities?

It varies — between ₵1,000 and ₵4,000 per semester, depending on location and room type.

Final Thoughts — Cheapest Universities in Ghana & Their Fees 2025

Getting a degree in Ghana doesn’t have to be expensive. The cheapest universities in Ghana and their fees 2025 listed above show you that you can still get quality education at affordable rates.

Public universities like UDS, UEW, and UCC offer the lowest fees, while private universities like Presbyterian and Christian Service University College are among the more affordable options for private education.

When choosing a university, consider your budget, preferred programme of study, location, and opportunities for scholarships.

With good planning, discipline, and the right choice of school, you can earn a recognized degree without breaking the bank.