If you are looking for affordable universities in Nigeria with easier admission chances, state universities are one of the best options. While they are generally more expensive than federal universities, some state universities are surprisingly cheap, especially for indigenes.

Many students ask:

• Which is the cheapest state university in Nigeria?
• How much are state university school fees?
• Are state universities affordable for non-indigenes?

This well-researched guide will answer all these questions in detail and help you choose the best affordable state university.

What You Should Know About State Universities in Nigeria

State universities are owned and funded by state governments, not the federal government.

Key Characteristics:

• Moderate tuition fees
• Easier admission compared to federal universities
• Discounts for indigenes
• Flexible cut-off marks

Average fees:

• ₦25,000 – ₦150,000 per session

However, non-indigenes may pay higher fees.

Why Some State Universities Are Cheap

Several factors make some state universities affordable:

1. Government Subsidy

State governments subsidize fees for residents.

2. Indigene Discounts

Indigenes often pay significantly lower fees.

3. Location

Universities in less urban states tend to be cheaper.

Top Cheapest State Universities in Nigeria (With School Fees)

Below is a deeply researched and verified list of the most affordable state universities in Nigeria.

1. Taraba State University (TSU)

School Fees:

• ₦25,000 – ₦35,000 per session

Why It’s One of the Cheapest:

• Extremely low tuition
• Affordable for both indigenes and non-indigenes

Best For:

• Arts
• Social Sciences
• Education

2. Gombe State University (GSU)

School Fees:

• ₦22,500 – ₦80,000 per session

Key Advantages:

• Very low fees for indigenes
• Offers Medicine, Law, and Science programs

3. Borno State University (BOSU)

School Fees:

• ₦36,000 – ₦60,000 per session

Unique Feature:

• Free tuition for indigenes (only service charges apply)

4. Plateau State University (PLASU)

School Fees:

• ₦40,000 – ₦80,000 per session

Why Choose It:

• Government subsidy reduces fees
• Affordable for science and arts courses

5. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA)

School Fees:

• ₦34,000 – ₦84,000 per session

Best For:

• Science
• Technology
• Engineering

6. Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)

School Fees:

• ₦65,000 – ₦103,000 (freshers)

Highlights:

• One of the cheapest in Northern Nigeria
• Strong programs in arts and social sciences

7. Kogi State University (KSU)

School Fees:

• Around ₦57,500 per session

Why It’s Popular:

• Affordable tuition
• Wide range of courses

8. Delta State University (DELSU)

School Fees:

• ₦30,000 – ₦98,000 per session

Key Strength:

• Strong programs in Medicine, Law, and Education

9. Lagos State University (LASU)

School Fees:

• ₦58,000 – ₦150,000 (freshers)
• ₦25,000 (returning students)

Why It Stands Out:

• Affordable despite being in Lagos
• Strong academic reputation

10. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

School Fees:

• ₦77,500 per session

Best For:

• Education
• Arts
• Sciences

11. Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma

School Fees:

• ₦97,000 – ₦150,000 per session

Popular Courses:

• Law
• Business
• Medical programs

12. Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

School Fees:

• ₦75,000 – ₦135,000 per session

Key Advantage:

• Multi-campus system
• Affordable tuition

13. Benue State University (BSU)

School Fees:

• ₦80,000 – ₦100,000 per session

14. Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA)

School Fees:

• ₦60,000 – ₦80,000 per session

Cheapest State Universities (Summary Table)

University	Fees Range
Taraba State University	₦25K – ₦35K
Gombe State University	₦22K – ₦80K
Borno State University	₦36K – ₦60K
Plateau State University	₦40K – ₦80K
KSUSTA	₦34K – ₦84K
DELSU	₦30K – ₦98K
LASU	₦25K – ₦150K
NSUK	₦65K – ₦103K

Cheapest State Universities for Different Courses

Cheapest for Medicine

• Gombe State University
• Delta State University
• Benue State University

Cheapest for Engineering

• KSUSTA
• LAUTECH
• Rivers State University

Cheapest for Arts and Social Sciences

• Taraba State University
• Nasarawa State University
• Kogi State University

Hidden Costs to Consider

Even if tuition is low, total expenses include:

Accommodation

• ₦30,000 – ₦150,000

Feeding

• ₦150,000 – ₦400,000 yearly

Books & Materials

• ₦20,000 – ₦50,000

Total yearly cost may reach ₦300K – ₦700K

Admission Requirements for State Universities

UTME Requirements

• JAMB score: 140–180 minimum
• Correct subject combination
• Choose university as first choice

O’Level Requirements

• Minimum 5 credits, including:
  • English
  • Mathematics

Direct Entry Requirements

• ND, HND, NCE, JUPEB

Advantages of Cheapest State Universities

1. Easier Admission

Lower cut-off marks.

2. Affordable Fees

Especially for indigenes.

3. Stable Academic Calendar

Fewer strikes compared to federal universities.

Disadvantages

1. Indigene Preference

Non-indigenes may pay more.

2. Moderate Reputation

Some are less recognized than top federal universities.

How to Choose the Best Cheap State University

Consider:

• Your budget
• Your JAMB score
• Course availability
• Location and living costs

Expert Tips

• Apply to both federal and state universities
• Choose less competitive courses if needed
• Confirm fees from official school portals
• Consider indigene benefits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the cheapest state university in Nigeria?

Taraba State University and Gombe State University are among the cheapest.

2. How much are state university school fees?

Typically:

• ₦25,000 – ₦150,000 per session

3. Are state universities cheaper than federal universities?

No. Federal universities are generally cheaper.

4. Can non-indigenes study cheaply in state universities?

Yes, but they may pay higher fees than indigenes.

5. Which state university is best and affordable?

Top options include:

• Lagos State University
• Delta State University
• Osun State University

Final Thoughts

State universities in Nigeria offer a great balance between affordability and accessibility. While they may not be as cheap as federal universities, many still provide quality education at relatively low cost.

If you want:

• Easier admission
• Moderate fees
• Stable academic calendar

Then a state university might be the perfect choice for you.