
Do you dream of becoming a lawyer but worried about the high cost of university tuition? You’re not alone. The majority of young Nigerians dream of studying law but think it’s only possible in expensive institutions. The good news is, there are several of the cheapest university to study law in Nigeria where you can get a good education without breaking the bank.
In 2025, parents and students seek the cheapest university to study law so that they can fulfill their dreams while remaining within their budget. Which university to attend is a major decision, and it matters about money. Don’t worry; you don’t have to settle for quality at a low price.
Several of Nigeria’s most well-respected universities offer law degrees within reach of the finances of most families. They offer able lecturers, adequate facilities, and good names—all at a price less than private schools or a few of the bigger names that spring to mind.
Here in this article, we will take you through 15 of the cheapest university to study law in Nigeria in 2025. Either you want to attend a federal university, state, or even private university, there are alternatives you can afford which are within your reach and meet your educational standards.
Let us find out the most appropriate places through which your law career can begin—without emptying your pocket
Table of Contents
What Makes a University the Cheapest Place to Study Law in Nigeria
To determine what renders a university the cheapest to study law in Nigeria, there are several things involved, as shown by accessible data:
Ownership and Funding Model
Government institutions (state or federal) typically charge lower tuition due to the fact that they are subsidized by the government. State universities typically give additional discounts to indigenes of their host state, which is even less than in private universities.
Fee Structure Transparency
Low-cost law schools have clear, low fees with no ancillary fees. They focus on basic academic costs (e.g., registration, library use) rather than bundling high ancillary fees for facilities or services unrelated to basic legal education.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
National Universities Commission (NUC) accredited and Nigerian Law School approved courses protect graduates from costly prolonged delays or disqualifications. Well-developed faculties and curriculum quality also reduce the need for costly external tutorials or recertification.
Location and Living Expenses
Campuses that are situated in areas of comparably low housing, transport, and food expenses allow for students to maintain overall costs low. Having access to low-cost student accommodation or subsidized hostels on campus adds additional affordability.
Program Efficiency
Institutions with fixed calendar years and minimal strike interruptions enable students to graduate on time, without incurring extra years of tuition charges. Moot courts and internship courses included in the curriculum reduce reliance on fee-paying external programs.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Institution-based need-based bursaries, merit scholarships, or work-study provided lower charges for eligible students directly, making legal education more affordable.
By ordering these factors, students are able to find law courses that combine affordability with academic intensity, thus offering an affordable path to a legal career in Nigeria.
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15 Cheapest University to Study Law in Nigeria in 2025
The following are the 15 cheapest universities to study Law in Nigeria for 2025, with detailed explanations and fee ranges based on available data:
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UNILAG is one of the cheapest universities to study law in Nigeria, located in the center of Lagos. The university prides itself in having vibrant campus life and good academic programs, especially in law. UNILAG students of law have the benefit of experienced lecturers and a well-stocked law library. The university has students from all over the country, so it is a melting pot of ideas and cultures.
In terms of school fees, UNILAG is quite manageable compared to the majority of private universities. Although we do not find the exact current law fee in the search results, federal universities like UNILAG typically pay between ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 per session for law, depending on if you are a freshman or a returnee. That puts it in the list of the cheapest universities to study law in Nigeria.
2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
ABU in Zaria, Kaduna State is also a law student’s first choice when they need the cheapest university to study law. ABU is best known for being large in terms of campus space and having diverse courses. ABU offers its law students the best learning space where they receive guidance from the most experienced lecturers and some of the world’s best infrastructure.
ABU school fees are also very low. While the amount charged for law is not stated in the search results, ABU federal university fees are usually between ₦40,000 to ₦100,000 per session. This very low fee makes ABU a student favorite for those on a budget.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU is located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, and is popularly known for its academic performance and beautiful campus. OAU’s faculty of law is famous, and many of its alumni have emerged to become prominent lawyers and judges in Nigeria. OAU offers a diverse student community and sufficient extracurricular activities.
For the 2025/2026 academic session, OAU law school fees for freshers are ₦151,200 and ₦89,200 for returning students. The fees cover tuition, registration, library, and medical services, with some extra charges for ICT and hall maintenance. OAU fees are among the lowest for a federal university, and it is a great option for students looking for the cheapest university to study law.
4. University of Ibadan (UI)
UI, located in Oyo State, is the oldest university in Nigeria and is known to be academically excellent. The UI faculty of law is highly reputable, and there are good lecturers and a good network of alumni. The university environment is peaceful, which is conducive for serious studies.
Although the search results do not detail the school fees for law at UI down to the last digit, federal universities like UI usually pay between ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 per session for law students. This figure places UI in contention for the cheapest university to study law.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN is located in Enugu State and is one of the biggest universities in Nigeria. UNN has a well-developed law faculty that has a history of producing good lawyers and law scholars. The learning environment at UNN is student-friendly, and they have good facilities.
Like in other federal universities, law school tuition fees at UNN typically cost between ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 per semester. The affordable cost of study makes UNN a strong candidate for students seeking the most affordable university to study law.
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6. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Bayero University, Kano is one of the oldest and most respected universities in Northern Nigeria. BUK is particularly respected due to the multi-cultural makeup of the students as well as quality academic programs. The law faculty at BUK is respected, and the university is often a choice for students who want quality education at relatively low fees.
For law students, school fees are the lowest in Nigeria. Recent information points to the fact that new law students pay around N105,000 while returning students pay N97,000 per session. A compulsory acceptance fee of N10,000 is also charged to new entrants.
If you need hostel accommodation, you will be charged between N37,590 and N80,290 depending on the room category. This places BUK in high contention for those seeking to obtain legal training at a very affordable price without sacrificing quality.
7. Lagos State University (LASU)
Lagos State University, LASU for short, is located in the vibrant city of Lagos. It has dynamic campus life and robust connections in the legal field. The LASU law school is one of the most popular schools of its nature in the country, producing many high-performing lawyers.
The school fee for law in LASU could be different, especially for indigenes and non-indigenes of Lagos State. LASU is on average affordable compared to private universities, and school fees for law students usually range from N150,000 to N250,000 per session.
This amount depends on your state of origin and the specific year of study. LASU also offers flexible payment plans, which can help make the cost more manageable.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin, popularly known as UNILORIN, is located in Kwara State. It is known to have an uninterrupted academic year, hence students graduate on time. The law faculty at UNILORIN is highly credible, with well-experienced lecturers and a well-set curriculum.
UNILORIN school fees for law students are affordable. Most of the law students pay between N70,000 and N120,000 per session, depending on their level and other charges. That is why UNILORIN is an ideal choice for students who want value for money and quality.
9. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, also known as UNIZIK, is located in Awka, Anambra State. The university was named after Nigeria’s first president and is well known for its academic excellence. One of the best law faculties in the eastern part of the country is found within this institution.
In UNIZIK, first or second session law students remit fees ranging from N70,000 as a new student to N120,000 for re-admission. The institution has relatively affordable fees compared to other institutions, and the university provides good accommodations for law students.
10. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Ekiti State University, or EKSU, is located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. It is a state university with a growing reputation for academic excellence, especially in the law school.
The tuition fees of EKSU students who study law are typically N120,000 to N200,000 per session. The fee is slightly above some federal schools but EKSU remains among the cheapest schools to study law in Nigeria, especially when compared to private ones.
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11. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
UNICAL is located in Cross River State, and it’s a darling of south-south students. Law faculty here is settled with very experienced lecturers and a conducive learning environment. UNICAL is a student-friendly institution with a very good mix of academics and campus activities.
When it comes to school fees, UNICAL is one of the cheapest universities to study law in Nigeria. Students studying law pay between ₦60,000 and ₦100,000 per session, depending on whether you are an old or new student and other minor charges. It is a great option for those who want quality education at a low cost.
12. Delta State University (DELSU)
DELSU is yet another affordable law institution, especially for Delta State and surrounding areas students. It is located in Abraka and has a very excellent law faculty that focuses on practice and theory. The school is known to have a calm environment and stable academic calendar.
For students of law, DELSU’s fees are fairly reasonable. Most students pay between ₦80,000 and ₦150,000 per semester. The fees may vary based on your level and whether you are an indigene of Delta State. DELSU is a perfect option for students seeking the cheapest university to pursue law.
13. Ambrose Alli University (AAU)
AAU in Ekpoma, Edo State is popular for its blended learning. The law school at the institution is among the best in the state universities, and the majority of the graduates emerge as renowned lawyers. The university is also well known for its friendly campus and lively campus life.
Law school tuition at AAU is usually between ₦120,000 and ₦180,000 per semester. While it might be a bit pricier than some of the federal schools, AAU is a cheaper alternative to private universities. If you are seeking a mix of quality and price, AAU would be a choice.
14. Abia State University (ABSU)
ABSU Uturu, Abia State is also a good choice for law students who want to save a few bucks. The university boasts of a reputable law faculty as well as an appropriate learning environment and development. ABSU is highly preferred among students from the southeast.
ABSU law students typically pay ₦100,000 to ₦150,000 per semester. It is quite affordable compared to private institutions or those located in big cities. ABSU is the best option for someone seeking the cheapest university to study law in Nigeria.
15. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
UNIMAID in Borno State is especially well-known for being resilient and persistent towards education in difficult times. The law faculty has a reputable name, and the students can enjoy a diverse and rich campus culturally.
Fees for law school at UNIMAID generally range from ₦60,000 to ₦120,000 per semester. This places it among one of the most affordable universities on which to take a degree in law, especially for northern Nigerian students.
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What are the Admission Requirements of These Law Schools?
In order to be admitted into a law school in Nigeria, you will be required to meet some requirements. Provided below are the most critical ones:
Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Mode
- Five Credit Passes: You will need five credit level passes in five SSC or O’Level subjects, e.g., English Language and Literature in English, at not more than two sittings.
- UTME Score: You will also need an acceptable UTME pass.
Direct Entry Mode
- Diploma Certificate: Two or three years’ diploma, along with credit in five subjects including English Language and Literature in English at the SSC or O’Level of GCE.
- Advanced Level Certificates: Three Principal or Advanced Level certificates in Higher School Certificate or GCE, along with credit in English Language as well as in English Literature at the SSC or O’Level of GCE.
Good Honors Degree: Good honors degree can also make you eligible for direct entry.
Other Requirements for Common and Islamic Law Programme
- Islamic Studies: You will need a credit pass in Islamic Studies obtained in not more than two sittings, in addition to the above.
Other Requirements
- JUPEB Admission: Some universities, including the University of Nigeria Nsukka, do not take law students into admission except through JUPEB. You will need to apply online and meet their requirements.
Be sure to consider the specific requirements of the universities you want to apply to as they may differ.
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How Do You Select the Best Cheap University to Study Law?
In seeking the cheapest university to study law in Nigeria, consider the following:
- Accreditation: Check the university and law course are accredited by the relevant bodies.
- School Fees: Compare university charges, considering payment options and scholarships.
- Quality of Education: Evaluate faculty qualifications, facilities, and resource quality.
- Reputation: Research the reputation of the university, graduate employability, and networking opportunities.
- Location: Consider proximity, safety, and living costs.
By looking at these factors, you can find the cheapest university to study law that fits your taste and budget. Prioritize what you want and make a sensible decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any low-cost private schools with law courses?
Yes, there are some private schools like Al-Hikmah University, Crescent University, and Igbinedion University with low-cost law courses.
Am I eligible to study law through direct entry in Nigeria?
Yes, there are also direct entry for law courses in some universities where diploma certificates, advanced level certificates, or honors degrees of good grades are needed.
Are federal universities cheaper than private universities for law courses?
Federal universities are typically cheaper than private universities for law courses with reduced school fees.
Do I receive a scholarship to study law in Nigeria?
Yes, some universities offer scholarships or financial aid to law students, so it’s worth checking with the university or external organizations for opportunities.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest university to study law in Nigeria is achievable without compromising quality. By considering factors like accreditation and reputation, you can make an informed decision.
With so many low-cost options open to you, you can make your lawyer dream a reality without breaking the bank. Make an informed decision and good luck with your education!
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