If you are planning to earn a foreign degree while studying in Nigeria, it is very important to check if the university is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Many students fall into the trap of enrolling in foreign-affiliated institutions that are not recognized by the NUC, and later face problems with employment or further education.
In this detailed guide, we present the list of foreign universities accredited by NUC in Nigeria (2025), their programs, fees, and what you need to know before applying.
This article is carefully written for Nigerian students and parents who want to make informed decisions about foreign universities operating in Nigeria.
Why Choose a Foreign University in Nigeria?
Studying at a foreign university with campuses in Nigeria has some clear benefits:
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You earn an internationally recognized degree while staying in Nigeria.
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The cost is much lower than going abroad.
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You save on travel, visa, and living expenses overseas.
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Programs are usually delivered in partnership with reputable universities abroad.
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You gain exposure to global teaching standards and curriculum.
However, you must ensure the university is approved by the NUC. Otherwise, your certificate may not be recognized for NYSC or employment.
What Is NUC and Why Does Accreditation Matter?
The National Universities Commission (NUC) is the body responsible for regulating and approving universities and degree-awarding institutions in Nigeria.
When a foreign university is accredited by the NUC, it means:
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Its programs meet Nigerian academic standards.
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Its degree is recognized in Nigeria and abroad.
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Graduates are eligible for NYSC and postgraduate studies.
How Does NUC Approve Foreign Universities in Nigeria?
Foreign universities that wish to operate in Nigeria must apply to the NUC and meet its guidelines for academic quality, faculty, facilities, and curriculum.
Once approved, they are added to the official list of accredited universities.
NUC also conducts periodic inspections to ensure compliance with standards.
Full List of Foreign Universities Accredited by NUC in Nigeria (2025)
Below are some of the well-known foreign universities approved by the NUC to operate in Nigeria in 2025.
These universities have campuses or collaborative arrangements in Nigeria and award degrees that are recognized both locally and internationally.
1. Nile University of Nigeria
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Country of Origin: Turkey
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Location: Abuja
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Why It’s Accredited: Operates with high-quality teaching, modern facilities, and a curriculum that meets NUC standards.
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Programs Offered: Engineering, Law, Medicine, Social Sciences, Business, Computer Science, etc.
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Estimated Fees: ₦2,500,000 – ₦6,000,000 per year
2. American University of Nigeria (AUN)
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Country of Origin: USA
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Location: Yola, Adamawa State
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Why It’s Accredited: Affiliated with American universities and delivers an American-style education.
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Programs Offered: Business, Law, Engineering, ICT, Political Science, and more.
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Estimated Fees: ₦1,800,000 – ₦5,000,000 per year
3. Pan-Atlantic University (Lagos Business School)
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Country of Origin: Spain
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Location: Lagos
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Why It’s Accredited: Offers globally competitive business and management education.
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Programs Offered: Business Administration, Accounting, Media and Communication.
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Estimated Fees: ₦1,500,000 – ₦3,000,000 per year
4. Gregory University
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Country of Origin: Collaborates with international universities
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Location: Uturu, Abia State
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Why It’s Accredited: Combines Nigerian and international academic standards.
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Programs Offered: Health Sciences, Engineering, Law, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences.
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Estimated Fees: ₦500,000 – ₦1,500,000 per year
5. Achievers University
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Country of Origin: United Kingdom (collaboration)
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Location: Owo, Ondo State
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Why It’s Accredited: Partners with UK universities and delivers recognized programs.
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Programs Offered: Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing, Engineering, Business.
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Estimated Fees: ₦400,000 – ₦900,000 per year
6. Baze University
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Country of Origin: United Kingdom
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Location: Abuja
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Why It’s Accredited: British-style curriculum with international teaching standards.
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Programs Offered: Law, Engineering, Social Sciences, Computing, Management.
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Estimated Fees: ₦2,500,000 – ₦4,500,000 per year
7. Lead City University
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Country of Origin: UK/US collaborations
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Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
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Why It’s Accredited: Blends local and foreign education systems for international relevance.
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Programs Offered: Arts, Education, Law, Sciences, Social & Management Sciences.
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Estimated Fees: ₦350,000 – ₦800,000 per year
8. Bells University of Technology
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Country of Origin: Collaborates with UK and US institutions
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Location: Ota, Ogun State
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Why It’s Accredited: Offers engineering and technology programs recognized locally and abroad.
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Programs Offered: Engineering, Sciences, Management, Computing.
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Estimated Fees: ₦400,000 – ₦850,000 per year
9. Igbinedion University
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Country of Origin: UK (collaborations)
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Location: Okada, Edo State
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Why It’s Accredited: Nigeria’s first private university, maintaining international partnerships.
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Programs Offered: Medicine, Law, Engineering, Natural & Applied Sciences.
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Estimated Fees: ₦500,000 – ₦3,000,000 per year
10. Renaissance University
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Country of Origin: UK/US collaborations
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Location: Enugu
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Why It’s Accredited: Small class sizes and internationally-aligned programs.
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Programs Offered: Law, Natural Sciences, Management Sciences, Social Sciences.
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Estimated Fees: ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 per year
Summary Table: Accredited Foreign Universities in Nigeria (2025)
University Name | Country of Origin | Location | Estimated Fees (₦) |
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Nile University | Turkey | Abuja | 2,500,000 – 6,000,000 |
American University of Nigeria | USA | Yola | 1,800,000 – 5,000,000 |
Pan-Atlantic University | Spain | Lagos | 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 |
Gregory University | Various | Abia State | 500,000 – 1,500,000 |
Achievers University | UK | Ondo State | 400,000 – 900,000 |
Baze University | UK | Abuja | 2,500,000 – 4,500,000 |
Lead City University | UK/US | Ibadan | 350,000 – 800,000 |
Bells University of Technology | UK/US | Ogun State | 400,000 – 850,000 |
Igbinedion University | UK | Edo State | 500,000 – 3,000,000 |
Renaissance University | UK/US | Enugu | 300,000 – 600,000 |
How to Verify If a Foreign University Is Accredited in Nigeria
Follow these steps to confirm the status of a university:
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Visit the official NUC website (www.nuc.edu.ng).
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Search the list of approved universities and centers.
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Contact the university directly and request proof of accreditation.
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Visit the campus if possible to confirm its operations.
Tips for Choosing the Right Accredited Foreign University in Nigeria
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Consider your preferred course and if it is fully accredited.
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Compare tuition fees and your budget.
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Check graduate employment rates and alumni testimonials.
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Look at the campus facilities and environment.
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Verify international affiliations and partnerships.
Common Questions About Accredited Foreign Universities in Nigeria
Can I do NYSC if I graduate from a foreign university in Nigeria?
Yes, if the university is approved by the NUC.
Are their degrees recognized abroad?
Yes, especially those with strong partnerships with foreign universities.
Is it cheaper than studying abroad?
Yes, you save significantly on accommodation, travel, and living expenses.
Are all foreign universities in Nigeria accredited?
No. Many unapproved centers claim affiliation with foreign universities. Always confirm with NUC.
Final Thoughts
Studying at a foreign university accredited by the NUC in Nigeria allows you to earn an internationally respected degree without leaving the country. In this guide, we’ve listed the foreign universities accredited by NUC in Nigeria (2025), their fees, and programs.
Top choices like Nile University, AUN, Pan-Atlantic, and Baze University lead because of their academic quality, global partnerships, and graduate outcomes.
Before enrolling, always verify the accreditation status and choose an institution that aligns with your academic and career goals.