Is Studying in a State University Cheaper Than a Federal University in Nigeria? (Tuition + Hostel Fees Compared)

One of the biggest questions Nigerian students and parents ask every admission season is:

“Which is cheaper — a State University or a Federal University?”

It sounds like a simple question, but the answer is not as straightforward as it seems.

At first glance, many people assume Federal Universities are cheaper because they’re funded by the Federal Government, while State Universities are owned and funded by state governments, which often face tighter budgets.

But is that really true today — especially when you consider tuition fees, hostel costs, and hidden charges?

Let’s dive deep into this topic and explore the real cost of studying in a Federal vs. State University in Nigeria, using the 2025 academic context.

Read Also: Can You Get Admission Without JAMB? – Comprehensive Answers

Understanding the Basics: Federal vs. State Universities

Before we talk about costs, it’s important to understand the difference between both types of universities in Nigeria.

⚖️Federal Universities

These are universities owned, managed, and funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
They include prestigious schools like:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Federal universities receive direct subventions from the government, meaning that most of their running costs are subsidized — including tuition, infrastructure, and staff salaries.

Read Also: Top 5 Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria (With Fees and Links)

 State Universities

State universities are owned and funded by individual state governments. Examples include:

• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Ekiti State University (EKSU)
• Kwara State University (KWASU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
• Rivers State University (RSU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)

Because state governments operate on tighter budgets, students are often required to pay higher tuition fees to support university funding.

Tuition Fees: Which Is Cheaper?

Let’s go straight to the heart of the matter — tuition fees.

When comparing the tuition fees of Federal and State universities in Nigeria, there’s a clear difference. Federal universities generally remain cheaper due to government subsidies. However, this has been changing gradually, especially in recent years with increased operational costs.

Average Federal University Tuition Fees (2025)

University	Freshers’ Fees (₦)	Returning Students (₦)
UNILAG	₦55,000 – ₦80,000	₦40,000 – ₦60,000
UI	₦50,000 – ₦75,000	₦40,000 – ₦60,000
UNN	₦50,000 – ₦70,000	₦40,000 – ₦55,000
ABU Zaria	₦45,000 – ₦60,000	₦35,000 – ₦50,000
UNILORIN	₦60,000 – ₦80,000	₦45,000 – ₦65,000
FUTA	₦70,000 – ₦90,000	₦60,000 – ₦75,000

So, the average tuition fee for Federal Universities in 2025 ranges between ₦50,000 and ₦90,000 per session — depending on the course and faculty.

🧠 Science and Engineering courses usually cost slightly more because of lab and practical fees, while arts and education programs tend to be cheaper.

Average State University Tuition Fees (2025)

University	Freshers’ Fees (₦)	Returning Students (₦)
LASU	₦180,000 – ₦220,000	₦160,000 – ₦200,000
KWASU	₦200,000 – ₦230,000	₦180,000 – ₦210,000
EKSU	₦180,000 – ₦210,000	₦150,000 – ₦200,000
UNIOSUN	₦160,000 – ₦200,000	₦140,000 – ₦180,000
RSU	₦200,000 – ₦250,000	₦180,000 – ₦220,000
DELSU	₦170,000 – ₦200,000	₦150,000 – ₦180,000

The average tuition for State Universities in 2025 falls between ₦150,000 and ₦230,000 per session, making them two to three times higher than most Federal institutions.

Why the difference?
Federal universities receive better funding from the central government, while State universities rely on tuition as a major source of revenue.

Hostel Fees Comparison

Next, let’s talk about where you’ll live — because your accommodation cost also plays a big role in your total university expenses.

Federal University Hostel Fees (2025)

Federal universities usually provide subsidized hostel accommodation for students, though spaces are limited.

University	Hostel Fee (₦)	Accommodation Type
UNILAG	₦40,000 – ₦70,000	Shared (4–6 per room)
UNN	₦25,000 – ₦45,000	Shared rooms
UI	₦30,000 – ₦50,000	Standard & Executive hostels
OAU	₦25,000 – ₦40,000	Standard halls of residence
UNILORIN	₦35,000 – ₦60,000	On-campus, shared
ABU	₦20,000 – ₦40,000	Shared dormitories

On average, Federal University hostels cost between ₦25,000 and ₦60,000 per session — depending on the campus and room type.

However, due to limited space, many students end up renting off-campus hostels, which can cost anywhere from ₦80,000 to ₦200,000 yearly, depending on location and facilities.

State University Hostel Fees (2025)

State universities typically charge higher hostel fees, largely because accommodation maintenance is not heavily subsidized.

University	Hostel Fee (₦)	Accommodation Type
LASU	₦60,000 – ₦100,000	On-campus shared
KWASU	₦35,000 – ₦60,000	On-campus standard
EKSU	₦40,000 – ₦80,000	Standard or executive rooms
UNIOSUN	₦50,000 – ₦90,000	Shared, ensuite
RSU	₦70,000 – ₦120,000	Premium hostels
DELSU	₦45,000 – ₦85,000	Shared rooms

💡 Average Hostel Fee (State Universities): ₦45,000 – ₦90,000 per session

This shows that hostel accommodation in State Universities is slightly more expensive, though many also offer executive-style options for students who desire more comfort.

The Real Cost of Studying: Tuition + Hostel

Let’s compare the total yearly cost for both university types.

Category	Federal Universities	State Universities
Average Tuition (₦)	₦60,000 – ₦90,000	₦180,000 – ₦230,000
Average Hostel Fee (₦)	₦25,000 – ₦60,000	₦45,000 – ₦90,000
Total (₦)	₦85,000 – ₦150,000	₦225,000 – ₦320,000

✅ Federal Universities are generally cheaper, costing roughly ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 per year, while State Universities can cost up to ₦250,000 or more annually — excluding personal expenses.

Other Expenses to Consider

Even though tuition and hostel fees take the spotlight, students (and parents) should plan for additional costs that affect the total cost of education.

Expense Type	Federal Universities (₦)	State Universities (₦)
Departmental/Faculty Dues	5,000 – 10,000	7,000 – 15,000
Acceptance Fee	20,000 – 30,000	25,000 – 35,000
Registration / Exam Fees	5,000 – 10,000	7,000 – 12,000
Medical Fees	3,000 – 5,000	5,000 – 7,000
Feeding / Monthly Allowance	20,000 – 30,000	25,000 – 40,000

📌 Bottom Line: Regardless of university type, the cost of living (transportation, feeding, and books) can significantly affect your total expenses.

Why Federal Universities Are Generally Cheaper

1. Government Subsidy:
   Federal universities receive direct funding for staff salaries, lab equipment, infrastructure, and maintenance.
2. Scale of Operation:
   They have larger student populations and more federal allocations, reducing the need to charge high tuition.
3. Stable Funding:
   Federal schools have access to TETFund and national education grants.

Why State Universities Are More Expensive

1. Limited Government Support:
   State universities depend heavily on tuition fees for day-to-day operations.
2. Higher Infrastructure Costs:
   Many are still growing and need funds to maintain facilities.
3. Autonomy in Pricing:
   State governments have the freedom to fix tuition independently — and often adjust fees to match economic realities.
4. Localized Funding Challenges:
   In some cases, internally generated revenue (IGR) and student fees make up over 70% of the school’s total budget.

Are Federal Universities Always Better?

Not necessarily. While Federal Universities are cheaper, State Universities often provide smaller class sizes, less competition, and faster academic calendars (no frequent ASUU strikes).

In contrast, Federal Universities boast stronger reputations, better research facilities, and more robust alumni networks — but can face delays due to strikes and overcrowding.

So, when choosing between the two, it’s not just about cost — it’s about value, timing, and your personal academic goals.

Hostel Experience: Federal vs. State

In Federal universities, hostels are often older, more populated, and harder to secure, especially for freshers. However, the low cost makes them a lifesaver for many students.

In State universities, hostels tend to be newer and better maintained, with smaller room sizes and better hygiene, but you pay extra for the comfort.

🧕 Female hostels in many State universities (like KWASU, LASU, and RSU) now feature private bathrooms, study rooms, and even internet access — something you may not easily find in Federal hostels like OAU’s Angola Hall or UI’s Mellanby Hall.

Final Verdict — Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re trying to minimize cost, then Federal Universities are the clear winners.

Aspect	Federal Universities	State Universities
Tuition	✅ Cheaper	❌ More expensive
Hostel Fees	✅ Lower	❌ Higher
Academic Stability	❌ Frequent strikes	✅ Fewer disruptions
Campus Facilities	✅ Well established	⚖️ Depends on funding
Admission Difficulty	❌ Highly competitive	✅ Easier access
Overall Cost	✅ Affordable	❌ Higher

Conclusion:

Studying in a Federal University is cheaper in both tuition and hostel fees. However, State Universitiesoffer speed, smaller classes, and better academic continuity — which may justify the extra cost for some students.

So, your choice should depend on what matters most to you:

• Affordability? → Choose a Federal University.
• Speed and fewer strikes? → Go for a State University.
• Comfort and modern hostels? → State Universities often win.

Quick Recap

• Federal University fees: ₦85,000 – ₦150,000 (tuition + hostel)
• State University fees: ₦225,000 – ₦320,000 (tuition + hostel)
• Federal Universities are cheaper overall.
• State Universities are faster and often more convenient.