Cheapest Part-Time Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees 2026
If you have been putting off your university education because of money, this article is your turning point. The cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees are not myths — they are real, accredited institutions where you can earn a genuine Bachelor’s degree while working, running a business, or managing family life.
Part-time university education in Nigeria is not only a flexible option — it is, in many cases, a significantly more affordable route than private full-time programmes. The key is knowing which institutions offer the best value: low fees, accredited programmes, and quality education. That is exactly what this guide delivers.
Why Part-Time University Fees Vary Across Nigeria
Before diving into the list of the cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees, it helps to understand why fees differ so widely from one institution to another. Several factors drive this variation:
- University ownership: Federal universities generally charge lower fees than state universities, which in turn charge less than private institutions. This is because federal universities receive more government funding.
- Course of study: Professional courses like Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering attract higher fees than Arts, Social Sciences, or Education programmes — even in the same university.
- Location: Universities in Lagos and Abuja tend to charge more than those in other states, largely due to higher operational costs.
- Programme structure: Some part-time units are self-funded, meaning all costs fall on the student without government subsidy, pushing fees higher than full-time equivalents.
- Annual fee reviews: Nigerian universities review fees regularly. What you see here reflects 2025/2026 estimates — always confirm with the institution directly before payment.
Cheapest Part-Time Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees 2026
Here is a detailed look at universities that consistently offer affordable part-time degree programmes in Nigeria. These schools combine low fees with NUC accreditation — making them the smartest choices for budget-conscious students in 2026.
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG) — Centre for Distance Learning
UNILAG is Nigeria’s most recognized university, and its part-time programme under the Continuing Education unit remains one of the most structured in the country. Despite its prestige, fees are reasonable for what you get.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦15,000 – ₦25,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦50,000 – ₦75,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Development Levy | ₦20,000 – ₦40,000 |
Courses available include Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Law, Mass Communication, and more. For a university of this calibre, these figures make UNILAG part-time one of the better value options in Lagos.
2. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye
OOU is one of the most popular choices when people search for the cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees. As a state university in Ogun State, it keeps fees at a level most working Nigerians can manage.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦10,000 – ₦15,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦80,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Other Charges | ₦15,000 – ₦30,000 |
OOU offers part-time programmes in Social Sciences, Arts, Education, Business, and Sciences. Its proximity to Lagos makes it highly attractive for workers in the Lagos-Ogun corridor.
3. Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo
LASU runs one of the most organized part-time faculties among Nigerian state universities. The school is particularly popular among Lagos residents who want to avoid long-distance travel to pursue their degrees.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦100,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Development Levy | ₦10,000 – ₦25,000 |
LASU part-time covers Law, Mass Communication, Accounting, Economics, Public Administration, and Computer Science. Evening and weekend classes make it genuinely compatible with a full working schedule.
4. Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka
DELSU is one of the most affordable options in the South-South zone and consistently appears on any honest list of the cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees. It accepts both UTME and Direct Entry candidates.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦8,000 – ₦12,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦25,000 – ₦45,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦70,000 – ₦150,000 |
| Other Levies | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
DELSU part-time programmes span Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, Education, and Law. For students in Delta, Edo, and nearby states, this is one of the most cost-effective routes to a degree.
5. Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma
AAU in Ekpoma, Edo State, is another solid, budget-friendly institution for part-time students. Its fees are among the lowest for any state university in the South-South and South-East region.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦7,000 – ₦12,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦20,000 – ₦40,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦65,000 – ₦130,000 |
| Other Charges | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
AAU offers part-time programmes in Arts, Education, Social Sciences, Law, and Sciences. Its relatively low fee structure makes it a top pick for applicants from Edo, Delta, and Anambra states.
6. Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
ESUT is a reliable and affordable institution for part-time study in the South-East. It is a growing option for applicants who want an affordable degree in a stable academic environment.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦8,000 – ₦13,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦25,000 – ₦45,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦70,000 – ₦160,000 |
| Other Levies | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
7. University of Ibadan (UI) — Distance Learning Centre
UI’s Distance Learning Centre offers a flexible study mode that functions similarly to part-time education. For those who cannot attend physical evening classes regularly, UI’s structure provides a respected degree at a manageable cost.
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 |
| School Fees (per session) | ₦90,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Study Materials | ₦20,000 – ₦50,000 |
UI’s brand value combined with its relatively moderate fees makes this option appealing for serious students who want a degree that opens doors nationally and internationally.
Side-by-Side Fee Comparison — Cheapest Part-Time Universities in Nigeria 2026
Here is a consolidated comparison to help you quickly identify which institution fits your budget when looking at the cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees:
| University | School Fees (per session, ₦) | Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | ₦65,000 – ₦130,000 | South-South |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | ₦70,000 – ₦150,000 | South-South |
| ESUT, Enugu | ₦70,000 – ₦160,000 | South-East |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | ₦80,000 – ₦180,000 | South-West |
| Lagos State University (LASU) | ₦100,000 – ₦250,000 | South-West |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | ₦90,000 – ₦200,000 | South-West |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 | South-West |
What Makes a Part-Time University “Affordable” Beyond School Fees
When searching for the cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees, many students focus only on school fees and overlook other costs that add up over time. A truly affordable part-time university considers all of these:
- Transportation cost: A school close to where you live or work saves you thousands monthly in fuel or transport fares. Factor this into your total cost calculation.
- Textbook and material costs: Some universities provide study packs or have well-stocked libraries. Others leave students to source all materials independently, which adds significant cost.
- Exam and project fees: Many universities charge separate fees for examinations, project supervision, and clearance. Ask specifically about these before enrolling.
- Stability of academic calendar: A university with frequent strikes or academic disruptions costs you more — in time, transport, and delayed income from career promotions tied to your degree. Academic stability is a financial factor.
Tips for Reducing the Cost of Part-Time University Education in Nigeria
Even at the cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees, every naira counts. Here are practical strategies to reduce your overall financial burden:
- Apply early: Late application sometimes attracts higher processing fees or penalty charges. Early applicants also avoid rush-related expenses.
- Use digital textbooks: PDF versions of most university textbooks are available online — often free or at a fraction of the physical book price.
- Form study groups: Sharing notes, handouts, and study materials with classmates cuts individual costs significantly.
- Confirm fee payment deadlines: Late payment of school fees almost always attracts penalty surcharges. Pay on time to avoid these unnecessary extra costs.
- Ask about instalment payment plans: Some universities allow students to pay school fees in two or three instalments per session. This eases the cash flow burden considerably.
- Apply for employer sponsorship: If you are employed, find out if your company has an education support or sponsorship policy. Many Nigerian organisations fund employees’ part-time degree programmes.
Are Cheap Part-Time Universities in Nigeria Still Quality Institutions?
This is the question every smart student asks — and the answer is a firm yes, provided the institution is NUC-accredited. Low fees do not mean low quality when it comes to established state and federal universities. AAU, DELSU, OOU, and ESUT are not diploma mills. They are government-owned, nationally recognized universities with functioning faculties, qualified lecturers, and graduates working in top public and private sector roles across Nigeria.
The critical test is always accreditation. A cheap degree from a non-accredited institution is worth nothing. A degree from an NUC-accredited university — regardless of how low the fees are — holds its value. Always verify at nuc.edu.ng before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the cheapest part-time university in Nigeria for 2026?
Based on current estimates, Ambrose Alli University (AAU) and Delta State University (DELSU) offer some of the lowest part-time school fees in Nigeria — starting from around ₦65,000 to ₦70,000 per session. Both are NUC-accredited and offer a range of courses.
2. Do cheap part-time universities in Nigeria offer the same certificate as expensive ones?
Yes. Every NUC-accredited university in Nigeria issues the same category of degree — Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, etc. The certificate does not indicate whether you paid low or high fees. What matters is accreditation and your academic performance.
3. Can I pay part-time university fees in instalments?
Several Nigerian universities allow instalment payments for school fees, especially for part-time students who are self-sponsored. Confirm this option directly with the bursary or accounts department of your target institution before enrollment.
4. Are part-time university fees in Nigeria the same for all courses?
No. Professional courses like Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering attract significantly higher fees than Arts, Education, or Social Science courses — even within the same university. Always check the fee schedule for your specific course.
5. Is UNILAG part-time affordable compared to private universities?
Yes. Even though UNILAG charges higher fees than most other state universities on this list, it remains far cheaper than most private universities in Nigeria, where part-time or flexible programmes can cost ₦400,000 to over ₦1,000,000 per session.
6. How do I confirm the current fees of a part-time university in Nigeria?
Visit the university’s official website and look for the “Bursary,” “Finance,” or “Fees Schedule” section. You can also call the part-time unit directly or visit the campus in person. Never rely solely on unofficial sources for fee information.
7. Do federal universities in Nigeria offer part-time programmes?
Most federal universities in Nigeria do not run conventional part-time programmes. However, some like UI and UNILAG operate equivalent flexible programmes through their Continuing Education or Distance Learning Centres. These are the closest federal alternatives with government-backed fee structures.
Final Thoughts on the Cheapest Part-Time Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees
A university degree is still one of the most valuable investments a Nigerian can make — and you do not need to be wealthy to earn one. The cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees covered in this guide prove that quality education and affordability can coexist. From AAU’s ₦65,000 starting fees to UNILAG’s ₦300,000 upper range, there is a realistic option for almost every budget.
What matters most is not how little you pay — it is that you choose an accredited institution, apply on time, stay consistent with your studies, and complete your programme. The degree you earn as a working adult carries something extra that no full-time programme can replicate: real-world experience running alongside academic knowledge.
The cheapest part-time universities in Nigeria and their fees are well within reach. All it takes is the right information, the right preparation, and the decision to begin.