AbdulThe University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), founded in 1975 by the Federal Government of Nigeria, is located Tanke in Ilorin, Kwara State. Over the years, the institution has grown to become one of the top-ranking universities in Nigeria and Africa, widely recognized for its consistent academic calendar, research excellence, vast landmass and not joining strikes.
As one of the most sought-after universities by applicants, UNILORIN’s affordability compared to other federal universities has also been a significant attraction. In this article, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the UNILORIN school fees for freshers (100 Level), returning students, acceptance fees, payment procedures, hostel fees, House rent prices around the school, additional costs, and scholarship opportunities for the 2025/2026 academic session.
University of Ilorin School Fees for Freshers (100 Level & Direct Entry Students 2025/2026)
Freshers (100 Level and Direct Entry) typically pay higher school fees compared to returning students. This is because of one-time charges such as the acceptance fee, medical examination, endowment fund, matriculation, ID card, and caution deposit.
Below is a breakdown of UNILORIN Freshers’ Fees for 2025/2026:
| S/N | Faculty | University Charges (₦) | Faculty Charges (₦) | Total (₦) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Science-Based Programmes | 121,800.00 | 16,440.00 | 138,240.00 |
| 2 | Arts and Humanities | 121,800.00 | 11,640.00 | 133,440.00 |
| 3 | College of Health Sciences | 121,800.00 | 132,840.00 | 254,640.00 |
Key Note: Students in Health Sciences (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, etc.) pay the highest due to lab-intensive courses, medical training, and practicals.
University of Ilorin School Fees for Returning Students 2025/2026
Returning students pay lower charges since they are exempted from most one-time payments made by freshers. The table below highlights the 2025/2026 UNILORIN Returning Students’ Fees:
| S/N | Faculty | University Charges (₦) | Faculty Charges (₦) | Total (₦) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Science-Based Programmes | 55,920.00 | 13,440.00 | 69,360.00 |
| 2 | Arts and Humanities | 54,000.00 | 9,200.00 | 63,200.00 |
| 3 | College of Health Sciences | 55,920.00 | 47,640.00 | 103,560.00 |
University of Ilorin Acceptance Fee for Freshers 2025/2026
The acceptance fee is a one-time, non-refundable fee paid by newly admitted students to secure their admission.
- Amount: ₦40,000
- Payment Deadline: Within 1–2 weeks after admission offer.
- Late payment of acceptance fee may result in loss of admission.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Pay UNILORIN School Fees
Follow these simple steps to pay your school fees:
- Visit the official UNILORIN Student Portal.
- Log in with your JAMB Registration Number (freshers) or Matriculation Number (returning students) and your password.
- Navigate to the “School Fees” section.
- Generate your Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR).
- Pay online using a debit card or take the RRR to any commercial bank in Nigeria for payment.
- Print your payment receipt – this will be needed for clearance and course registration.
UNILORIN Hostel and Accommodations Fee
Accommodation Options in UNILORIN 2025/2026
The University of Ilorin offers students three main accommodation choices: the school hostel (public hostel), private hostels, and off-campus housing. Below is a breakdown of each option, their advantages, and costs.
1. UNILORIN School Hostel (Public Hostel)
Staying in the school hostel is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended for freshers, especially those coming from outside Ilorin.
- Cost: ₦50,000 – ₦120,000 per year
- Location: Inside the school premises (ensures maximum security)
- Facilities: 24/7 solar power supply, proximity to lecture halls
- Disadvantage: Rooms are shared (4–8 students per room), and all occupants share toilets, bathrooms, and kitchens
Overall, this is the most affordable accommodation option, especially for new students.
2. UNILORIN Private Hostels
Private hostels are ideal for students who value privacy and comfort. Most are located within the school premises or just outside the main gate.
- Cost: ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 per year
- Facilities: 2–4 students per room, depending on the campus, constant electricity, internet access, and good security
- Advantage: More comfortable and less crowded compared to school hostels
If you prefer a serene environment and can afford a higher cost, private hostels are a great choice.
3. Off-Campus Accommodation (Outside the School)
The University of Ilorin is located in a peaceful and secure environment, making off-campus living safe and popular among students.
- Popular areas for students: Oke-Odo, Sanrab, School Gate, Tanke Junction, Tanke Roundabout, Pipeline Road, Basin, Taoheed Road, Tanke F Division, GRA, Gaa Kanbi (Oke & Isale).
- Cost:
- Self-contained room: ₦70,000 – ₦150,000 per year
- Room & parlour or 2-bedroom apartment: ₦120,000 – ₦300,000 per year
These areas are peaceful, student-friendly, and have strong security, with many students already living there.
Note
If you are coming to UNILORIN and prefer to live outside the hostels, you can contact us on WhatsApp: 07077704912 or email us at info@educyclopedia.com. We can help you secure a good apartment and even find a reliable roommate to share with if you want.
Additional Charges & Miscellaneous Fees
In addition to the main tuition and faculty fees, UNILORIN students pay some miscellaneous fees. Below is a structured breakdown:
| S/N | Fee Description | Freshers (₦) | Returning Students (₦) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tuition | Free | Free | Tuition is free for undergraduates. |
| 2 | Examination | 24,048.00 | 16,056.00 | Covers exam costs. |
| 3 | Registration | 12,000.00 | 4,320.00 | Annual registration. |
| 4 | Endowment Fund (Once) | 30,000.00 | N/A | One-time payment for freshers. |
| 5 | Caution Deposit | 24,000.00 | N/A | Refundable for freshers. |
| 6 | Identity Card | 6,000.00 | N/A | Issued to freshers. |
| 7 | Sports | 12,000.00 | 3,000.00 | For sports facilities. |
| 8 | Medical Services | 11,160.00 | 2,400.00 | Health services for students. |
| 9 | Bandwidth | 12,000.00 | 9,000.00 | Internet access. |
| 10 | LMS (Learning Management) | 6,000.00 | 6,000.00 | E-learning platform. |
| 11 | Late Registration Fee | — | ₦2,500 (if applicable) | For late payments. |
UNILORIN Fee Payment Deadline & Penalties
- Fresh Students: Must pay at least one week before registration starts.
- Returning Students: Must pay before the deadline in the academic calendar.
- Late Payment Penalty: ₦2,500 (and possible exclusion from registration/exams).
Recommendation: Always pay early to avoid penalties and registration issues.
Scholarships & Financial Aid Opportunities at UNILORIN
Students can ease financial stress through scholarships and loans. Popular options include:
Federal Ministry of Education Scholarships
- Eligibility: Nigerian citizens in recognized universities.
- Benefits: Tuition support, stipends.
- Application: Apply via the Federal Ministry of Education Portal.
NELFUND (Nigerian Education Loan Fund)
This is the best and fastest loan you can get, Your school fees will be paid from 100 to 500level, they will even pay for our hostel and also have some pocket money every semester. Quickly read through How to Secure the 2025/2026 NELFUND Student Loan: Step-by-Step Guide. Once you get admission to submit the loan form.
- Interest-free loan scheme for public university students.
- Covers tuition and living expenses.
- Repayment begins after graduation.
UNILORIN & International Scholarships
- UNILORIN International Student Scholarships.
- Erasmus+ Grants for exchange students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the school fees for freshers at UNILORIN?
Freshers pay between ₦133,000 – ₦254,000, depending on faculty.
2. What are the school fees for returning students?
Returning students pay between ₦63,000 – ₦103,000 depending on their program.
3. How do I pay UNILORIN school fees?
Through the student portal using Remita online or at any commercial bank.
4. Can I pay in installments?
Currently, UNILORIN requires full payment before registration, if you dont have the money, just secure the NELFUND loan..
5. What happens if I don’t pay before the deadline?
You risk late registration penalties or being unable to sit for exams.
6. Are there additional fees aside from tuition?
Yes – acceptance fee, medical examination, internet access, sports, and administrative fees.
7. Are Houses outside the school premises safe?
Generally, Ilorin town is a safe place so yes, houses around the school are very safe to stay.
RELATED ARTICLE
JAMB Admission Deadline 2025: Requirements, and How to Upload Documents on JAMB Portal
Final Thoughts
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) remains one of the most affordable and reliable federal universities in Nigeria. With its stable academic calendar and diverse learning opportunities, it is an excellent choice for students seeking quality education at a reasonable cost.
Whether you’re a fresher preparing for 100 Level or a returning student, planning ahead for your fees is important. Remember to pay on time, take advantage of available scholarships and loans most especially the Nigeria education loan fund (NELFUND), and keep all payment
Abdul
