Cheapest Universities to Study Nursing in Nigeria for 2026:- Choosing an affordable university is an important step for students who want to study Nursing Science in Nigeria. Although nursing is a promising healthcare profession, the cost of university education, accommodation, feeding, transportation, textbooks and clinical training can put pressure on students and their families.
Fortunately, students do not necessarily need to attend an expensive private university to obtain a nursing degree. Some public universities publish relatively affordable fee schedules, while others provide opportunities to reduce expenses through scholarships, student support programmes and careful budgeting.
If you are searching for the cheapest universities to study Nursing in Nigeria for 2026, this guide will help you compare available options, understand their published fees, identify additional expenses and make an informed admission decision.
It is important to understand that the cheapest university is not always the one with the lowest advertised tuition. A school with low tuition but expensive accommodation and compulsory charges may cost more overall than another institution with a higher tuition fee.
This article therefore considers affordability, officially published fees where available, the importance of nursing programme approval and the total cost of studying Nursing Science.
Important note: University fees and professional accreditation can change. The figures in this article are based on published official fee schedules available for the 2026/2027 academic session where indicated. They should not automatically be treated as the final fees for every applicant or every session.
Cheapest Universities to Study Nursing in Nigeria: Quick Overview
The following institutions are useful starting points for students comparing the cost of a nursing degree in Nigeria.
| University | Type | Published fee information | What to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State | Federal | 2026/2027 schedule lists ₦210,000 for Nursing Sciences and ₦100,000 for accommodation for 100-level students | Confirm that Nursing has the required current professional approval and that admissions are open |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun | Federal | ₦485,000 for 100-level Nursing Science and ₦305,000 for 200–500 levels in the published 2026/2027 schedule | Check additional charges and accommodation costs |
| University of Ilesa, Osun State | State | Published 2026/2027 fee schedule lists total charges of ₦795,500 for 100-level Nursing Science | Confirm the latest fee breakdown and current programme approval |
| Federal universities with established Nursing Science departments | Federal | Fees differ by university and student category | Request the latest official fee schedule before choosing |
| State universities offering Nursing Science | State | Fees vary by state, residency status and programme | Compare tuition, compulsory charges and living expenses |
| Private universities offering Nursing Science | Private | Costs vary considerably; some publish fees above ₦1 million | Check the full bill, accommodation and other compulsory charges |
The table is a comparison guide, not a definitive national ranking. Published figures are not necessarily calculated on the same basis, and a low fee alone does not establish that a nursing programme is currently approved for admission.
The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, publishes a 2026/2027 fee schedule showing ₦210,000 in school fees and ₦100,000 for accommodation for 100-level Nursing Sciences, giving a listed total of ₦310,000. However, applicants should verify the programme’s current professional approval and admission status before making any payment.
The Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, publishes a Nursing Science charge of ₦485,000 for 100-level students and ₦305,000 for levels 200–500 for the 2026/2027 session. Its separate charges must also be considered when preparing a budget.
1. Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State
The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is one institution worth examining when comparing low published fees for health-related courses.
Its official 2026/2027 schedule lists the following charges for Nursing Sciences:
| Fee item | 100-level amount |
|---|---|
| School fees | ₦210,000 |
| Accommodation | ₦100,000 |
| Published total | ₦310,000 |
These figures make the university an option for students researching lower-cost nursing education. The schedule also publishes separate charges for students at higher levels. Applicants should check the applicable fee for their level rather than assuming that every year will cost the same.
Why students may consider this university
1. Relatively low published charges
The official schedule provides a clear starting point for calculating the initial school and accommodation expenses.
2. Accommodation information is available
Because accommodation is a significant part of student expenses, having a published accommodation figure makes preliminary budgeting easier.
3. A federal university option
Students comparing public institutions may wish to investigate its admission requirements, learning facilities and student support services.
Important accreditation warning
Do not choose a nursing programme based on price alone. Before applying, contact the university and check the latest Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) records to confirm that the specific Nursing Sciences programme is approved to admit students.
This check is particularly important when researching a newly established institution or a newly introduced programme.
Official website: Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia
2. Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun
The Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, is another institution to consider when comparing nursing school fees.
Unlike universities that publish only general fee information, the institution provides a schedule of charges for individual programmes and academic levels.
For the 2026/2027 academic session, its published Nursing Science charges are:
| Academic level | Published Nursing Science charges |
|---|---|
| 100 Level | ₦485,000 |
| 200 Level | ₦305,000 |
| 300 Level | ₦305,000 |
| 400 Level | ₦305,000 |
| 500 Level | ₦305,000 |
These figures are taken from the university’s official schedule of students’ charges. They should be read as the published programme charges, not as a guarantee that accommodation, feeding, transport and every other personal expense are included.
Why consider the university?
1. Health-science focus
A university focused on health sciences may offer an academic environment centred on healthcare education and related disciplines.
2. Published charges for different levels
The fee schedule helps families plan beyond the first year instead of considering only the initial admission bill.
3. A federal institution to compare with other options
Students can compare its total cost with that of other federal and state universities offering Nursing Science.
What should applicants check?
Before accepting admission, confirm the current Nursing Science entry requirements, approved student intake, clinical training arrangements, accommodation charges and all compulsory fees.
Official fee information: Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun — Admissions and Fees
3. University of Ilesa, Osun State
The University of Ilesa is another institution worth investigating when comparing the cost of studying Nursing Science in Nigeria.
Its published 2026/2027 school-fee schedule provides a breakdown of charges for Nursing Science, including tuition and other university fees.
The published total for 100-level Nursing Science is ₦795,500. This is the total displayed in the university’s fee schedule, rather than tuition alone. Students should review the individual items and confirm the current amount applicable to their admission category.
Why consider the University of Ilesa?
1. A published fee breakdown
The university provides a fee schedule that enables prospective students to examine several compulsory charges instead of relying only on estimates from unofficial websites.
2. A state university option
Students may compare it with federal universities and institutions in their home states to determine which offers the most affordable overall arrangement.
3. An opportunity to compare the complete cost
Applicants should include accommodation, feeding, transport, clinical-related expenses and personal supplies when calculating their budget.
What should you confirm before applying?
Ask the university for the current Nursing Science admission requirements, the approved fee schedule for your entry level and the latest professional approval status of the programme.
Official website: University of Ilesa — School Fees
4. Other Federal Universities Offering Nursing Science
Federal universities are worth investigating because they may provide more affordable education than some private institutions. However, it would be misleading to claim that every federal university is cheap or that all federal universities charge the same fees.
Some universities charge additional fees for laboratory use, clinical training, registration, examinations, technology services and other academic activities.
When comparing federal universities, start by identifying institutions with a Nursing Science department and then request their latest official fee schedules.
Universities students may investigate include:
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- University of Benin
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Ilorin
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Calabar
- University of Jos
- University of Port Harcourt
This list is intended to help students begin their research. It is not a claim that every institution listed has an open Nursing Science admission exercise for every session or that each currently has the same accreditation status.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria publishes a list of approved nursing training institutions and their accreditation status. Prospective students should check that list and confirm the status of the particular university programme they intend to enter.
How to compare these universities
For every institution, find out:
- The school fees for newly admitted Nursing Science students.
- The charges for returning students.
- Whether clinical fees are included in the published total.
- Whether hostel accommodation is compulsory.
- The cost of accommodation if it is charged separately.
- Whether there are additional departmental or professional charges.
- Whether the programme is currently approved to admit students.
Avoid assuming that a university has the lowest fees simply because it is federally owned. Obtain the actual figures before making your decision.
5. State Universities Offering Nursing Science
State universities may also be worth considering, especially for students who live close to the institution.
The cost of attending a university is not determined by tuition alone. A student who lives with family near a university may spend less overall than someone attending a university with lower school fees but living far away.
When researching a state university, check whether its fee schedule differs for indigenes and non-indigenes. Also confirm whether Nursing Science attracts additional charges that do not apply to other departments.
Advantages of considering a state university
Lower living expenses for nearby students: Staying with family may reduce accommodation, transport and feeding expenses.
Access to local support: Students who remain close to home may receive practical and financial support from relatives.
More choices: Comparing state universities alongside federal institutions gives applicants more opportunities to find a suitable combination of affordability, location and admission requirements.
However, state universities do not all charge low fees. Some health-related programmes have substantial compulsory charges, so the current fee schedule is essential.
6. Are Private Universities Cheap for Nursing Science?
Private universities can provide another route into Nursing Science, but students should examine the total cost carefully.
Some private institutions charge significantly more than the lower-cost public options discussed above. Their fee structures may include tuition, accommodation, feeding, laboratory charges, clinical expenses and other compulsory payments.
For example, Greenfield University publishes 2026/2027 Nursing Science programme fees of ₦1,500,000 for levels 100–200 and ₦1,750,000 for level 300 and above. These published programme fees illustrate why students should compare private universities against public institutions before deciding.
A private university may still be suitable for a student who has sufficient financial support, receives a scholarship or has other reasons for preferring the institution. The important point is to establish the complete cost before accepting an offer.
Questions to ask a private university
Before making a payment, ask:
- What is the full school-fee total for a new Nursing Science student?
- Is accommodation included?
- Are feeding and clinical expenses separate?
- Are there compulsory annual increases?
- Is instalment payment permitted?
- Are scholarships available for the programme?
- Is the Nursing Science programme currently approved for admission?
The cheapest suitable university is the one whose verified total cost fits your budget and whose programme meets the required professional standards.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Nursing in Nigeria?
There is no single fee that applies to every Nigerian university. The total cost depends on the institution, entry level, accommodation arrangement, fee structure and personal spending.
A useful budget should include the following categories.
| Expense | What to include |
|---|---|
| School fees | Tuition and compulsory university charges |
| Acceptance fee | One-time payment where applicable |
| Registration | Departmental, faculty and university registration charges |
| Accommodation | Hostel or private accommodation |
| Feeding | Daily meals and drinking water |
| Transportation | Travel to campus, clinical sites and home |
| Learning materials | Textbooks, notebooks, printing and other supplies |
| Clinical requirements | Approved uniforms, footwear and other required items |
| Personal expenses | Toiletries, communication and other necessities |
| Emergency savings | Money reserved for unexpected expenses |
Example of a student budget
Suppose a university publishes school fees of ₦300,000 and accommodation of ₦100,000.
The student’s initial known university and accommodation charges would be:
- School fees: ₦300,000
- Accommodation: ₦100,000
- Combined published charges: ₦400,000
This is only an example of how to calculate a budget. It is not a quotation from a particular university, and it excludes other expenses unless the institution confirms that they are included.
A student should not assume that ₦400,000 will cover the entire academic year. Feeding, transport, registration, clinical supplies and personal needs may increase the total.
How to prepare a realistic budget
First, obtain the official fee schedule. Next, ask which items are compulsory and which are optional. Add the likely cost of accommodation and daily living, then set aside some money for unexpected expenses.
If the total is beyond your family’s budget, compare other approved programmes, investigate scholarships and consider universities closer to home.
Requirements for Studying Nursing Science in Nigeria
Nursing Science admission requirements depend on the institution and the applicable admission rules. Applicants should consult the university’s current admission brochure and the relevant regulatory authorities.
O’Level requirements
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria lists five O’Level credit passes in the following subjects for the basic and post-basic programmes covered by its published requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
The Council states that the credits must be obtained in no more than two sittings from recognised examination bodies, including WAEC, NECO and NABTEB. Applicants should confirm how the requirement applies to their particular degree programme and university.
UTME subject combination
Students applying through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination should check the current JAMB brochure and their chosen university’s requirements.
Nursing Science applicants commonly prepare for the required science subjects, including Use of English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Confirm the official subject combination before registering for UTME because an incorrect combination can affect eligibility.
JAMB score and screening
There is no single departmental cut-off mark that guarantees admission into every university offering Nursing Science.
The required score can vary by institution and admission year. A university may also use post-UTME screening, O’Level results and other approved criteria.
To improve your chances:
- Study the current JAMB syllabus.
- Practise questions from relevant past examinations.
- Work on Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Use of English.
- Check the institution’s latest screening requirements.
- Ensure your O’Level results meet the admission conditions.
- Monitor official admission announcements.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission because available places and competition can affect selection.
Why Accreditation Matters More Than Low Fees
Affordability is important, but nursing students must also pay attention to professional approval.
Nursing is a regulated profession. Students need an appropriate education and training pathway that satisfies the relevant requirements for professional recognition and registration.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria publishes approved-school information and notes that accreditation status can change. Its published guidance explains that full accreditation lasts five years and provisional accreditation lasts two years. The Council also states that an embargo on student intake remains until the relevant deficiencies are addressed and the required decision is made to lift it.
What students should do
Before paying an acceptance fee or school fees:
- Find the university’s Nursing Science programme in the latest official NMCN information.
- Confirm the current accreditation status.
- Check whether the programme is permitted to admit new students.
- Ask the university for clarification if its information conflicts with the Council’s records.
- Keep receipts and official admission documents.
Do not rely only on an old blog post, social media advertisement or a claim that a programme was accredited several years ago.
If a programme is listed as being under an accreditation process, do not automatically interpret that as permission to admit students. Confirm the current status directly with the relevant authorities.
A low fee is not a good bargain if the programme’s approval and professional pathway have not been properly verified.
How to Find the Cheapest University That Fits Your Budget
Finding an affordable university requires more than searching for the lowest tuition figure. The following steps can help you make a better decision.
Step 1: Make a shortlist
Choose several universities that offer Nursing Science and are realistic options based on your academic qualifications and preferred location.
Step 2: Obtain official fee schedules
Visit each university’s official website or contact its admissions office or bursary department.
Ask for the fee schedule for the correct academic session and student category. Avoid relying on figures published by unofficial websites when an official schedule is available.
Step 3: Calculate the complete cost
Add school fees, accommodation, feeding, transport and other necessary expenses.
A university with higher school fees may still be less expensive overall if you can live at home or obtain affordable accommodation nearby.
Step 4: Check admission eligibility
Confirm the required O’Level subjects, UTME combination, screening conditions and departmental requirements.
Step 5: Verify programme approval
Check the latest NMCN approved-school information and confirm that the programme is currently authorised to admit students.
Step 6: Ask about financial support
Ask whether the university offers scholarships, bursaries, payment plans or other forms of financial assistance. Read the eligibility rules carefully because support may be limited or may not cover every charge.
Step 7: Compare before paying
Prepare a table containing each university’s school fees, accommodation, estimated living expenses and professional approval status.
This will help you identify the most affordable suitable option rather than choosing based on a single fee figure.
Tips for Reducing the Cost of Studying Nursing
Students can take practical steps to manage education expenses without compromising their training.
Choose a suitable location
Consider universities that are reasonably close to your family home. If staying with family is possible and practical, it may reduce accommodation and feeding expenses.
Apply for scholarships
Research scholarships and bursaries offered by universities, government agencies, charitable organisations and other legitimate education-support programmes.
Always confirm eligibility, application deadlines and coverage through official sources.
Prepare a spending plan
Create a monthly budget for food, transportation, learning materials and personal needs. Tracking spending can help you identify unnecessary expenses.
Purchase required learning materials carefully
Ask lecturers or the department for the approved list of materials before buying textbooks and clinical items. This helps prevent spending money on items that are not required.
Avoid unofficial admission agents
Use official admission portals and authorised payment channels. Do not transfer money to an individual who promises guaranteed admission or professional approval.
Plan for clinical training
Nursing education includes practical learning and clinical requirements. Ask your chosen institution which items and expenses students must cover so that you can prepare in advance.
Career Opportunities After Studying Nursing Science
Students considering Nursing Science should understand that the programme involves academic study, practical training, professional responsibilities and ongoing learning.
Depending on their qualifications, registration status, experience and additional training, nurses may pursue opportunities in areas such as:
- General hospital nursing
- Community health services
- Maternal and child health
- Emergency and critical care
- Paediatric nursing
- Mental health services
- Public health programmes
- Nursing education
- Research and healthcare administration
Specific roles may require additional qualifications, specialist training, professional experience or registration.
Students should focus on developing clinical competence, communication, teamwork, ethical judgement and the ability to provide safe, respectful care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest university to study Nursing in Nigeria in 2026?
There is no reliable single answer for every student because universities publish different types of charges and may update their fees. The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, lists ₦210,000 in school fees and ₦100,000 for accommodation for 100-level Nursing Sciences in its 2026/2027 schedule. However, applicants must confirm the programme’s current professional approval and admission status before treating it as a suitable option.
How much are Nursing Science school fees in Nigeria?
The amount varies by university. For example, the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, lists ₦485,000 for 100-level Nursing Science and ₦305,000 for levels 200–500 in its 2026/2027 fee schedule. Other institutions may charge substantially more or less. Always check the latest official schedule.
Are federal universities cheaper than private universities for Nursing Science?
Some federal universities may be more affordable, but this is not guaranteed. Compare the full bill, including accommodation, clinical expenses, registration and other compulsory charges.
Can I study Nursing Science without Biology, Chemistry and Physics?
Applicants should meet the current subject requirements for their chosen programme. Nursing Science normally requires the relevant science subjects, and the NMCN’s published requirements list credits in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Language and Mathematics for the programmes covered. Confirm your eligibility with the university and the current JAMB brochure.
Is a university with low school fees automatically the best choice?
No. Students should also consider professional approval, teaching and clinical facilities, admission eligibility, location, living expenses and the support available during training.
Do Nursing Science fees remain the same throughout the programme?
Not necessarily. Fees can differ by academic level and may change between sessions. Obtain the published fee schedule for each level where available and confirm whether the university has announced any revisions.
Does the school-fee amount include accommodation?
Not always. Some universities publish school fees and accommodation separately, while others may include certain charges in a combined total. Check the official schedule carefully before preparing your budget.
How can I confirm that a Nursing Science programme is approved?
Check the latest approved-school information from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and contact the university or Council if you need clarification. Do not assume that a programme is approved merely because it appears in an old admission advertisement.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest university to study Nursing in Nigeria for 2026 requires careful research. Published fee schedules can help students identify affordable possibilities, but school fees are only one part of the total cost of a nursing education.
The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, and the University of Ilesa are useful starting points for comparing officially published charges. Their figures should be checked against the latest university announcements, and the current professional approval of each programme must be confirmed before applying.
Before making your final choice, compare the full cost of attendance, check your admission eligibility, investigate financial support and confirm that the programme is approved to admit students.
The best option is not simply the university with the smallest fee figure. It is an affordable institution that meets your academic needs, fits your family’s budget and provides a properly approved pathway into nursing.
