Private Universities in Ibadan and Their Fees: A Complete Guide for 2025
Education is one of the most important investments you can make in your future or in your child’s future. In Nigeria today, many families are choosing private universities because of better facilities, shorter strike disruptions, and more personalized attention compared to public universities.
If you live in or around Oyo State, you may be asking: Which private universities are in Ibadan? How much are their school fees?
This guide will answer exactly that. It will give you:
- A clear list of private universities in Ibadan.
- Their typical tuition ranges.
- A breakdown of what fees usually cover.
- Tips on how to compare costs and make the best decision.
Why Ibadan?
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is one of Nigeria’s oldest and largest cities. Known as a hub for education, Ibadan hosts not only the famous University of Ibadan (a federal university) but also several growing private universities. For students, this means a mix of affordable living costs, access to a rich academic community, and less congestion compared to Lagos or Abuja.
Understanding Private University Fees in Nigeria
Before jumping into the list, it’s important to understand what “school fees” usually mean in a Nigerian private university. Most private schools break down their fees into several parts:
- Tuition Fee: The core cost of teaching for your chosen course. This is often the largest part of the bill.
- Development or Infrastructure Levy: Used for campus upgrades, buildings, and facilities.
- Laboratory / ICT / Studio Fees: Applied to science, engineering, or media courses that use special equipment.
- Registration and Examination Fees: Charged each session to cover admin and exam processes.
- Accommodation (Hostel) Fees: Sometimes optional, sometimes compulsory. Costs vary depending on the type of hostel chosen.
- One-time Freshers’ Charges: Acceptance fee, matriculation fee, medical tests, ID card, etc. These are usually paid only in the first year.
Because of these categories, the figure you see online or in brochures may look smaller than what you actually pay when everything is added up. Always ask for the full breakdown from the university.
List of Private Universities in Ibadan and Their Fees
Here are the major recognized private universities in Ibadan as of 2025, with their common fee ranges explained:
| University | Fee Range (per session) | Other Charges | Why Choose This University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead City University (LCU) | ₦400,000 – ₦1,500,000 | Hostel, feeding, and one-time acceptance/matriculation fees | One of the oldest private universities in Ibadan with many accredited courses |
| KolaDaisi University (KDU) | ₦400,000 – ₦1,000,000 | Accommodation varies by room type; extra levies apply | Transparent fee schedules, flexible accommodation, growing reputation |
| Dominican University (DUI) | ₦340,000 – ₦900,000 | Hostel, ICT, medical, and one-time acceptance fees | Faith-based, detailed course-by-course fee breakdowns |
| Precious Cornerstone University (PCU) | ₦350,000 – ₦800,000 (typical range) | One-time acceptance fee, hostel, and faculty-specific levies | Christian faith-based institution, relatively affordable |
Tips for Comparing Fees and Making the Right Choice
- Check if fees are per semester or per session. Some schools quote by semester, others by full session. Don’t confuse the two.
- Add hostel and feeding to your budget. Even if tuition looks affordable, accommodation may increase your total cost significantly.
- Ask for the freshers’ package. First-year students often pay higher because of acceptance and registration charges.
- Confirm installment options. Some schools allow you to pay 50% upfront and spread the rest. Others may require full payment before resumption.
- Look beyond money. Consider facilities, accreditation status, staff quality, and environment. Sometimes slightly higher fees give better long-term value.
Why Fees Differ Between Courses
- Professional programs (Medicine, Pharmacy, Law): Higher fees due to labs, clinics, and licensing costs.
- Science and Engineering: Higher than Arts because of equipment and labs.
- Humanities and Social Sciences: Usually more affordable.
Practical Advice for Parents and Students
- Start saving early: If you’re planning for a child, begin budgeting before admission to avoid last-minute struggles.
- Verify payments: Always pay through official university portals or designated banks. Avoid middlemen.
- Ask about scholarships or discounts: Some private universities offer scholarships for outstanding students or discounts for siblings.
- Plan for hidden costs: Think about textbooks, transport, meals, and other daily expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the cheapest private university in Ibadan?
Dominican University and Precious Cornerstone University often have the lowest tuition ranges compared to others. But actual cost depends on the specific course.
2. Which private university in Ibadan is best for Medicine or Pharmacy?
Lead City University is one of the few in Ibadan offering professional health-related programs, but fees are on the higher side.
3. Can I pay school fees in installments?
Many private universities in Ibadan allow installment payments, but usually a percentage (like 50%) must be paid upfront before registration.
4. Do fees cover accommodation?
No, most universities charge hostel fees separately.
5. Are there extra fees for new students?
Yes, freshers pay acceptance, medical, and matriculation fees in their first year.
