Top 10 Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)

Looking for the top 10 cheapest state universities in Nigeria and their fees in 2025? You’re not alone. As education costs rise, thousands of Nigerian students and parents are searching for affordable state-owned institutions that offer quality degrees without breaking the bank.

This article provides a complete breakdown of the cheapest state universities in Nigeria in 2025, including their school fees, course availability, and reasons why they are considered good choices for budget-conscious students.

Whether you're preparing for JAMB, considering a change of institution, or weighing your admission options, this guide has everything you need.

Why Consider a State University in Nigeria?

State universities in Nigeria are established and run by individual state governments. They serve as an alternative to federal universities and offer the following advantages:

• More admission slots for state indigenes

• Diverse course offerings and modern campuses

• Affordable tuition compared to private universities

• Shorter admission processes for local candidates

• Options for those who didn't meet federal cut-offs

Even though some state universities are expensive, many still offer very cheap tuition, especially for residents of the host state.

What Makes a State University Cheap?

To be considered one of the cheapest state universities in Nigeria, a school must meet these criteria:

• Low tuition fees (₦50,000 to ₦100,000 annually)

• Minimal departmental and hidden charges

• Subsidies for state indigenes

• Access to scholarships or bursaries

• Fair hostel and accommodation costs

Let’s now explore the top 10 cheapest state universities in Nigeria and their fees in 2025.

Top 10 Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)

1. Lagos State University (LASU)

• Location: Lagos

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦57,000 – ₦80,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Law, Medicine, Mass Comm, Education

LASU remains one of the best and most affordable state universities in Nigeria. The Lagos State Government subsidizes fees for indigenes, and even non-indigenes enjoy relatively low tuition compared to other institutions.

LASU’s reputation for quality education, good lecturers, and central location makes it a top pick.

2. Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

• Location: Osogbo

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦75,000 – ₦95,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Accounting, Nursing, Political Science

UNIOSUN operates a multi-campus system across the state, and tuition is standardized across most departments. The school has gained popularity for its efficient calendar and transparent fee structure.

State indigenes enjoy additional fee reliefs, making it one of the cheapest state universities in Nigeria.

3. Delta State University (DELSU)

• Location: Abraka

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦65,000 – ₦98,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Business Admin, Medicine, Pharmacy

DELSU is one of the most established state universities in Nigeria. Its affordable tuition for indigenes and well-organized departments make it a preferred choice in the South-South.

The school also offers a good learning environment and accessible fees for science, arts, and social sciences students.

4. Kogi State University (KSU)

• Location: Anyigba

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦47,000 – ₦85,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Biochemistry, Microbiology, Banking

KSU is well-regarded for its stable academic calendar and low tuition fees, especially for Kogi State indigenes. Even non-indigenes pay lower than most private or federal universities.

Its science and management courses are gaining more recognition, and hostel fees are also student-friendly.

5. Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)

• Location: Keffi

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦45,000 – ₦70,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Sociology, Economics, Mass Communication

NSUK has remained among the cheapest state universities in Northern Nigeria. Its serene location and relatively low cost of living make it ideal for both indigent and middle-class families.

The school’s growing academic reputation and low entry fees make it a hidden gem.

6. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

• Location: Ado-Ekiti

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦60,000 – ₦100,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: English, Education, Medicine

EKSU has reduced tuition in recent years to support students. The school has also improved in facilities and staff strength.

It offers a wide range of NUC-accredited programs and remains one of the top budget-friendly state universities in the Southwest.

7. Taraba State University (TASU)

• Location: Jalingo

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦40,000 – ₦70,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: History, Physics, Education

TASU is among the most affordable in the Northeast. The school is expanding rapidly and offers tuition waivers for Taraba indigenes, while non-indigenes also benefit from low fees.

With its simple fee structure and new facilities, TASU offers great value for money.

8. Benue State University (BSU)

• Location: Makurdi

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦45,000 – ₦85,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Agriculture, Law, Theater Arts

BSU is a respected university in the Middle Belt with very accessible fees. While medical and law-related programs cost more, most other courses remain affordable for all students.

The university also supports educational scholarships and state bursaries.

9. Gombe State University (GSU)

• Location: Gombe

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦38,000 – ₦75,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Science Education, Chemistry, Law

GSU continues to rank among the cheapest state universities in Nigeria, especially for science and arts students. It has well-structured programs and friendly payment policies for students.

Living expenses in Gombe are also low, which further reduces student costs.

10. Imo State University (IMSU)

• Location: Owerri

• Tuition Fees (2025): ₦60,000 – ₦95,000/year

• Indigene Discounts: Yes

• Popular Courses: Nursing, Law, Political Science

IMSU has remained a low-cost choice for Imo State students. While fees for professional courses like medicine are slightly higher, most departments charge below ₦100,000 annually.

It’s a great option for those seeking a cheap and recognized university in the Southeast.

Summary Table: Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria 2025

Why These Are the Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria (2025)

• Supported by state government funding

• State indigenes enjoy fee discounts

• Departments charge unified tuition

• Scholarships and bursaries reduce real costs

• Living expenses in host towns are affordable

These schools balance low tuition with quality education, making them ideal for budget-conscious families.

FAQs – Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees 2025

Which is the cheapest state university in Nigeria in 2025?
Gombe State University (GSU) and Taraba State University (TASU) rank among the most affordable in 2025.

Can non-indigenes attend cheap state universities?
Yes. But non-indigenes often pay slightly higher fees than state residents.

Are cheap universities low in quality?
Not necessarily. Many affordable state universities have quality lecturers and NUC-approved courses.

What’s the average tuition for state universities in Nigeria in 2025?
Most charge between ₦45,000 and ₦100,000 depending on course and student status.

Do state universities go on strike often?
It varies. Some are stable while others may join ASUU strikes. Always check recent trends before choosing.

Final Thoughts: Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)

The top 10 cheapest state universities in Nigeria and their fees in 2025 prove that higher education doesn’t have to be expensive. These institutions offer affordable tuition, recognized degrees, and access to quality education for thousands of Nigerian students.

If you're looking for a cost-effective path to earn your degree, choosing one of these low-cost state universities can save you money without sacrificing academic quality.

Make your choice based on budget, course availability, and location—and start your academic journey today.