Located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is well-known for its varied programs in a number of academic fields and for its academic brilliance. Both present and prospective students must comprehend the fee schedule in order to properly manage their funds. The OAU undergraduate and graduate tuition costs for the 2025–2026 academic year are broken down in detail in this page.
Acceptance Fees
Upon admission, all fresh students are required to pay an acceptance fee to confirm their admission. The acceptance fees are as follows:
- Undergraduate Acceptance Fee: ₦35,000
- Postgraduate Acceptance Fee: ₦40,000
Undergraduate School Fees
The undergraduate school fees at OAU vary based on the faculty and the student’s level of study (freshers or returning students). Below is a detailed breakdown:
- Faculties of Arts, Law, and Humanities
- Freshers: ₦151,200
- Returning Students: ₦89,200
- Faculties of Technology and Science
- Freshers: ₦163,200
- Returning Students: ₦101,200
- College of Health Sciences and Faculty of Pharmacy
- Freshers: ₦190,200
- Returning Students: ₦128,200
These fees encompass tuition, examination, registration, library, and medical services. In addition to these, all undergraduate students are required to pay the following general fees:
- Hall Maintenance Fee: ₦5,000
- Utility Fee: ₦3,000
- ICT Fee: ₦3,000
- Caution Fee (new students only): ₦5,000
Example Calculation for a Fresh Undergraduate in the Faculty of Arts:
- Acceptance Fee: ₦35,000
- School Fees: ₦89,200
- General Fees: ₦16,000
Total: ₦140,200
Postgraduate School Fees
Postgraduate fees at OAU are determined by the specific program and faculty. Below is a breakdown of the fees for various postgraduate programs:
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Programs
- General PGD Programs: ₦120,000
- Information Technology Policy & Regulation: ₦250,000
- Electronics & Telecommunications: ₦400,000
- Professional Master’s Programs
- Architecture/MFA: ₦100,000
- LLM/MILR/M.Ed./Social Sciences: ₦120,000
- MPA/M.Sc./LG/MIR: ₦122,000
- Dental Health, Public Health: ₦160,000
- Geographic Information Systems & Remote Sensing: ₦200,000
- Managerial Psychology, Technology Management: ₦170,000
- Engineering Telecommunications: ₦600,000
- Science & Environmental Design & Management: ₦270,000
- MBA Regular: ₦150,000
- MBA Executive: ₦400,000
- Academic Master’s/M.Phil. Programs
- Business Administration & Accounting: ₦120,000
- Education, Arts, Social Sciences, and Others in Administration: ₦120,000
- Environmental Design & Management: ₦120,000
- Dentistry: ₦130,000
- Geographic Information Systems & Remote Sensing: ₦180,000
- Science: ₦120,000
- Agriculture, Pharmacy, Technology: ₦130,000
- Clinical Sciences & Basic Medical Sciences: ₦150,000
- Ph.D. Programs
- Business Administration and Accounting: ₦170,000
- Law, Arts, Education, Social Sciences, and Others in Administration: ₦200,000
- Science: ₦220,000
- Agriculture, Pharmacy, Technology, and Environmental Design & Management: ₦220,000
- College of Health Sciences: ₦250,000
Additional Postgraduate Fees:
- Accommodation Fee: ₦40,000
- Caution Fee (fresh students only): ₦10,000
Example Calculation for a Fresh Master’s Student in Business Administration:
- Acceptance Fee: ₦40,000
- Tuition Fee: ₦120,000
- Accommodation Fee: ₦40,000
Total: ₦200,000
Contents
- 1 Why It Is Prestigious to Attend Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- 1.1 1. Academic Excellence and Rigorous Programs
- 1.2 2. Historical Legacy and National Influence
- 1.3 3. Beautiful and Iconic Campus Architecture
- 1.4 4. Distinguished Alumni Network
- 1.5 5. Strong Culture and Traditions
- 1.6 6. Competitive Admission Process
- 1.7 7. Strong International Collaborations and Exchange Programs
- 1.8 8. Affordable Yet High-Quality Education
- 1.9 9. Strong Support for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- 1.10 10. Respected Name and Employment Opportunities
- 1.11 Conclusion
Why It Is Prestigious to Attend Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Originally founded as the University of Ife in 1961, it was subsequently renamed in honor of Nigerian nationalist and statesman Chief Obafemi Awolowo. OAU has established a reputation for cultural relevance, leadership development, and academic quality. Because of OAU’s illustrious alumni, demanding academic programs, and historical contributions to Nigerian education, it is seen as a mark of prestige.
1. Academic Excellence and Rigorous Programs
One of the primary reasons why OAU is prestigious is its strong academic foundation. The university offers a wide range of programs across faculties such as Law, Medicine, Engineering, Social Sciences, and the Arts. Its curriculum is designed to challenge students, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed in their respective fields.
The institution boasts highly qualified lecturers, many of whom are renowned researchers and industry experts. OAU’s academic staff regularly contribute to groundbreaking research, and the university is affiliated with several international academic organizations. These affiliations enhance learning experiences and provide students with exposure to global academic standards.
2. Historical Legacy and National Influence
OAU has played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s educational and political landscape. It was founded as a response to the need for more higher education institutions in Nigeria and quickly became known for its progressive policies and intellectual contributions.
The university was among the first in Africa to implement a fully functional e-learning system, demonstrating its commitment to innovation. Additionally, OAU has been home to some of Nigeria’s most influential thinkers, scholars, and leaders, making it a hub of intellectual and social progress.
3. Beautiful and Iconic Campus Architecture
The physical structure of OAU contributes to its prestige. The university is famous for its stunning architectural designs, particularly the Faculty of Administration building, which is one of the most photographed university buildings in Nigeria. The expansive campus features lush greenery, well-maintained lecture halls, and student-friendly environments.
The main library, Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library, is one of the largest university libraries in West Africa, housing thousands of books, research journals, and digital resources. This library has been instrumental in fostering academic success among students and researchers.
4. Distinguished Alumni Network
A university’s prestige is often measured by the accomplishments of its alumni, and OAU has produced some of the most notable figures in Nigeria and beyond. The university’s graduates have excelled in politics, business, academia, entertainment, and technology.
Some distinguished alumni include:
- Professor Wole Soyinka – Nobel Laureate in Literature.
- Femi Otedola – Business magnate and philanthropist.
- Akinwumi Adesina – President of the African Development Bank.
- Dino Melaye – Former Nigerian senator and political influencer.
OAU’s strong alumni network provides mentorship and career opportunities for current students, making it an attractive choice for those who aspire to be future leaders.
5. Strong Culture and Traditions
OAU is known for its rich culture and traditions, which foster a sense of belonging among students. The institution hosts several annual events that celebrate African heritage, academic achievements, and social unity. One of the most anticipated events is the annual OAU Students’ Union Week, where students showcase talents, engage in intellectual debates, and enjoy various social activities.
Additionally, the university places a strong emphasis on student activism and leadership. Many of Nigeria’s most vocal and effective activists began their journey at OAU, a testament to its culture of encouraging free speech and critical thinking.
6. Competitive Admission Process
Another reason why OAU is considered prestigious is its highly competitive admission process. Gaining admission into the university requires outstanding academic performance in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and post-UTME screening. With thousands of applicants every year and limited spaces available, only the best and brightest students secure a spot at OAU.
This selectivity ensures that students who attend the university are among the most talented individuals in the country. The competitive nature of the admissions process further enhances the university’s reputation for excellence.
7. Strong International Collaborations and Exchange Programs
OAU maintains partnerships with top universities and organizations worldwide, allowing students to participate in exchange programs, internships, and collaborative research projects. These international collaborations provide students with a global perspective, which is essential in today’s interconnected world.
Students at OAU have had the opportunity to study or conduct research at institutions such as Harvard University, the University of London, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). These collaborations make OAU graduates highly competitive in the global job market.
8. Affordable Yet High-Quality Education
Despite its prestige, OAU remains one of the most affordable universities in Nigeria. The institution offers a world-class education at a fraction of the cost of private universities, making it accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
The affordability of OAU, combined with the high standard of education, makes it an attractive option for those seeking academic excellence without the burden of excessive tuition fees. This affordability ensures that financial limitations do not prevent deserving students from receiving a top-tier education.
9. Strong Support for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
OAU encourages entrepreneurship and innovation among its students. The university has business incubation centers that help students develop and launch their startups. Many successful Nigerian entrepreneurs began their businesses while studying at OAU, leveraging the university’s resources and mentorship programs.
The institution also collaborates with major organizations to provide funding, training, and support for student-led enterprises. This entrepreneurial culture prepares students for self-reliance and financial independence after graduation.
10. Respected Name and Employment Opportunities
Graduating from OAU gives students a competitive edge in the job market. Employers recognize and respect the university’s name, knowing that OAU graduates have received a rigorous and comprehensive education.
Many companies actively recruit OAU graduates because of their strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities. Holding an OAU degree often opens doors to prestigious job opportunities in Nigeria and abroad.
Conclusion
Attending Obafemi Awolowo University is a prestigious achievement due to its rich history, academic excellence, beautiful campus, and notable alumni network. The university continues to shape the future of Nigeria by producing innovative thinkers, leaders, and change-makers.
For prospective students, gaining admission into OAU is not just about acquiring a degree; it is about joining a community of scholars, activists, and visionaries who are committed to excellence. The prestige associated with OAU is well-earned, making it one of the most respected universities in Africa.
