If you want to study Computer Science in Nigeria but your budget is limited, you do not necessarily need to attend an expensive private university. There are several Nigerian universities where students can study Computer Science at a much lower cost, especially when you consider federal universities, newer public institutions, scholarships, and universities with flexible payment options.
The important thing is to look beyond the advertised “school fees.” Registration, acceptance fees, accommodation, ICT charges, medical fees, examinations, laboratory charges and other compulsory payments can increase the total amount you spend each year.
This guide highlights some of the more affordable options available to students looking to study Computer Science in Nigeria and explains what you should consider before choosing a university.
What Is the Cheapest University to Study Computer Science in Nigeria?
There is no single university that is permanently the cheapest because school fees can change from one academic session to another. Fees may also differ between new and returning students.
However, federal universities are generally among the most affordable options for Nigerian students, while some newer universities offer competitive fees or scholarships.
For example, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (FUNAI), published a 2025/2026 schedule showing tuition as free, with listed charges bringing the total for the referenced category to ₦52,800.
Another example is the Federal University of Science and Technology Kabo, Kano, which states that Nigerian undergraduate students do not pay tuition, although students still pay approved charges for services such as registration, examinations, ICT, medical services and other university services.
The lesson is simple: free tuition does not always mean zero university expenses.
10 Affordable Universities and Options for Computer Science in Nigeria
The following institutions and options are worth considering if affordability is one of your major priorities. Always confirm the latest fees directly with the institution before making a payment.
1. Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (FUNAI)
Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike is one of the public universities students can consider when looking for affordable university education.
FUNAI’s published 2025/2026 student-charge schedule states that tuition is free and lists various compulsory charges. One category in the schedule totals ₦52,800, although the amount payable can vary according to student category and programme.
For students interested in Computer Science, a major advantage of choosing a federal university is that the cost structure can be significantly lower than many private universities.
Before applying, check whether Computer Science is available for your preferred admission route and confirm the current requirements from the university.
2. Federal University of Science and Technology Kabo, Kano
Federal University of Science and Technology Kabo, commonly known as FUST Kabo, is another institution to watch if your main concern is keeping tuition costs low.
The university states that Nigerian undergraduate students are not charged tuition. Instead, students pay approved charges covering areas such as registration, laboratory or studio consumables, information technology services, examinations, medical services, sports and library services. Accommodation is charged separately where applicable.
Because the university states that the final amount depends on the student’s invoice and programme, applicants should not rely on a general figure found on blogs or social media.
3. Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kaduna
Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kaduna is particularly interesting for students searching for affordable computing-related programmes.
Its published fee information lists Computer Science at ₦142,000, plus a listed ₦100,000 charge, giving a stated total of ₦242,000 for the category shown. Software Engineering is listed at ₦182,000 plus ₦100,000, while Information Technology and Cyber Security are also listed at ₦142,000 plus ₦100,000.
This makes the institution an option worth investigating if you want a computing programme without paying the much higher fees associated with many private universities.
4. Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
Federal University Oye-Ekiti is another public university that students frequently consider when searching for affordable Computer Science programmes.
FUOYE has a dedicated computing environment and offers programmes related to Computer Science and other technology fields. The university’s official website also publishes information about student registration, fees and academic activities.
Because public university charges can change, prospective students should obtain the latest official fee schedule rather than relying on an old “FUOYE school fees” article.
5. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Bayero University, Kano is another federal university that should be on the shortlist of students comparing affordable Computer Science options.
BUK provides an official undergraduate schedule-of-fees system where students can access information concerning registration and payment.
One advantage of considering an established federal university is that affordability can be combined with a long-established academic environment. However, students should compare the complete annual cost, including accommodation and other charges, rather than comparing tuition alone.
6. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin is a popular choice among Nigerian students and offers Computer Science within its academic structure.
For students interested in an affordable university, UNILORIN is worth researching because federal universities generally operate a different fee structure from many private universities.
However, do not choose a university based only on a list claiming that it has “cheap school fees.” Confirm the current charges through the institution’s official student or bursary channels before paying.
7. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
Federal University of Technology, Akure is a strong option for students who want to combine affordability with a technology-focused academic environment.
FUTA provides undergraduate admission and registration systems for prospective and existing students. Its official registration information confirms that students are required to complete school-fee payment before course registration.
For someone planning a career in software development, data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity or other technology areas, a university with a strong technology orientation can be worth considering even when another institution appears slightly cheaper.
8. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan is one of Nigeria’s established federal universities and offers Computer Science.
UI’s official student portal provides current registration information, including deadlines and fee-related registration requirements. For the 2025/2026 session, the university published deadlines and penalties connected with school-fee payment and course registration.
Although “cheap” should not be the only factor when selecting a university, an established public university may provide a good balance between educational reputation and relatively controlled costs.
9. Minaret University
Students who prefer a private university can also investigate lower-cost private options.
Minaret University’s published 2025/2026 fee information lists Computer Science tuition at ₦550,000 per session, with a payment option of 40% at registration and 60% later in the academic year.
Private universities generally cost more than many federal universities, but they may provide advantages such as smaller classes, structured academic calendars and flexible payment arrangements.
Before choosing a private university, calculate tuition together with accommodation, feeding, registration and other compulsory charges.
10. Mudiame University
Mudiame University is another private university that offers Computer Science.
For new students in the 2025/2026 academic session, the university lists Computer Science at ₦493,980 per year, made up of ₦283,980 tuition and ₦210,000 in other charges.
This shows why students should compare the total annual cost rather than tuition alone. A university with lower tuition can sometimes become more expensive after additional charges are included.
Cheapest Federal Universities vs Private Universities for Computer Science
If affordability is your biggest concern, federal universities deserve serious consideration.
Federal universities can have significantly lower tuition or government-supported fee structures. Some institutions, such as FUNAI and FUST Kabo, explicitly state that undergraduate tuition is free, although students still have other approved charges.
Private universities, on the other hand, generally charge higher fees. For example, Minaret University lists ₦550,000 tuition for Computer Science for 2025/2026, while Mudiame University lists ₦493,980 as its total annual charge for new Computer Science students in that session.
That does not mean private universities are a bad choice. A private university may offer a more structured learning environment, modern facilities or flexible payment arrangements.
The right choice depends on your budget, academic goals and preferred learning environment.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Computer Science in Nigeria?
The total cost varies widely.
A student at a federal university may pay considerably less in tuition and institutional charges than a student at a private university. However, the final annual budget can include:
- Tuition or institutional charges
- Acceptance fee
- Registration fee
- Examination fee
- ICT charges
- Medical charges
- Library charges
- Faculty or departmental dues
- Accommodation
- Feeding
- Transportation
- Textbooks and learning materials
- Laptop and internet expenses
- SIWES or industrial training expenses
- Project expenses in later years
For this reason, two universities with similar tuition can have very different total costs.
Is Computer Science Expensive to Study in Nigeria?
Computer Science does not have to be one of the most expensive university courses to study.
Compared with programmes that require extensive clinical training or specialised equipment, Computer Science can be relatively affordable at many public universities.
However, there is another important expense: technology.
A Computer Science student should ideally have access to a reliable laptop. You may also need internet data, software development tools, cloud services or other resources for assignments and personal projects.
The good news is that many programming tools are free to use. Students can learn programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java or C++ using free development environments and online educational resources.
What to Look for Besides Cheap School Fees
Choosing the cheapest university may save money today but create problems later if the programme does not meet your expectations.
Before applying, consider these factors.
Accreditation
Make sure the university and programme have the appropriate approval and accreditation for the qualification you want to obtain. Check official university information and relevant regulatory sources rather than trusting social media advertisements.
Quality of the Computer Science Programme
Look at the courses taught in the programme.
A useful Computer Science curriculum should expose students to areas such as:
- Programming
- Data structures and algorithms
- Database systems
- Computer architecture
- Operating systems
- Software engineering
- Computer networks
- Web technologies
- Mathematics and statistics
- Artificial intelligence or machine learning
- Cybersecurity
- Project development
The exact course structure differs between universities.
Location
Your university’s location can have a major effect on your total expenses.
A school with low fees may not be cheap if you have to spend a large amount on transportation, accommodation and feeding.
For example, living with your family while attending a nearby university may reduce your annual expenses significantly.
Accommodation
Ask whether the university provides affordable student accommodation and whether spaces are guaranteed.
If you must rent privately, investigate the cost of rent, electricity, water, transportation and security before making your decision.
Learning Facilities
Computer Science is a practical discipline. Find out whether students have access to computer laboratories, reliable internet, libraries and other learning resources.
Career Opportunities
Think about what you want to do after graduation.
Computer Science can lead to careers such as:
- Software developer
- Web developer
- Mobile application developer
- Data analyst
- Data scientist
- Systems analyst
- Database administrator
- Network administrator
- Cybersecurity professional
- Cloud engineer
- AI or machine-learning professional
- IT consultant
Your university is important, but your practical skills, projects, internships and professional experience also matter.
How to Reduce the Cost of Studying Computer Science
If money is tight, there are several ways to reduce your expenses.
First, investigate federal and state universities before applying to expensive private institutions.
Second, check whether the university offers scholarships, bursaries or financial assistance.
Third, compare accommodation options. Living at home, sharing accommodation or using affordable university hostels can reduce your expenses.
Fourth, avoid buying every learning resource immediately. Many programming resources are available online at no cost.
Finally, develop practical skills alongside your university education. Learning programming, Git, databases, web development and other relevant technologies can help you build a portfolio without spending heavily on additional courses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Universities for Computer Science in Nigeria
Which university has the lowest school fees for Computer Science in Nigeria?
There is no permanent single answer because universities change their charges. Some federal universities have tuition-free or very low-tuition structures for Nigerian undergraduates, while other public and private institutions have different charges. FUNAI and FUST Kabo are examples of institutions that currently state that undergraduate tuition is free, although other charges still apply.
Can I study Computer Science for less than ₦200,000 per year?
It is possible at some institutions or under particular fee structures, but you should not assume that the total cost will remain below ₦200,000. Additional charges such as registration, accommodation, medical services, ICT and examination fees can increase the amount you pay.
Are federal universities cheaper than private universities?
In many cases, yes. Federal universities generally offer more affordable options than many private universities, although the exact cost depends on the institution, programme and academic session.
What is the cheapest private university for Computer Science in Nigeria?
There is no universally cheapest private university because fees and scholarships change. Minaret University, for example, lists ₦550,000 tuition for Computer Science for 2025/2026, while Mudiame University lists ₦493,980 as the total annual charge for new Computer Science students for that session.
Is Computer Science a good course to study in Nigeria?
Yes. Computer Science can provide a foundation for careers in software development, data, cybersecurity, networking, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and other technology fields. However, university education should be combined with practical skills, personal projects, internships and continuous learning.
Final Thoughts
Finding the cheapest university to study Computer Science in Nigeria is not simply about finding the lowest number on a school-fees list.
The best affordable university is one that gives you a reasonable combination of low total cost, recognised academic credentials, suitable Computer Science training, learning facilities, accommodation options and career opportunities.
Federal universities should be among the first options you investigate if your budget is limited. Institutions such as FUNAI and FUST Kabo currently publish tuition-free undergraduate policies, while universities such as the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kaduna publish relatively modest charges for Computer Science.
If you prefer a private university, compare the complete cost rather than tuition alone. Minaret University and Mudiame University demonstrate how private institutions can have different fee structures and payment arrangements.
Most importantly, verify fees directly with the university before paying. University charges can change between academic sessions, and figures published on third-party websites may become outdated.
Your goal should not simply be to graduate cheaply. It should be to obtain a quality Computer Science education at a cost that you and your family can realistically afford while building the practical skills needed for a successful career in technology.
