Anambra State, often called the Light of the Nation, is one of southeastern Nigeria’s most vibrant educational hubs. Beyond its thriving commercial activity in Onitsha and Nnewi, the state hosts a growing number of NUC-accredited private universities offering quality education across diverse disciplines. If you are searching for private universities in Anambra State and their fees, this guide provides a complete and current breakdown for the 2026/2027 academic session.
With seven NUC-approved private universities, Anambra State offers more private education options than most states in the Southeast. These institutions provide stable academic calendars, smaller class sizes, faith-based learning environments, and faster graduation timelines. This detailed guide on private universities in Anambra State and their fees covers every institution, their fee structures, available courses, and what makes each one unique.
Whether you are a JAMB candidate, a parent comparing options, or a student exploring universities in the Southeast, this article gives you everything you need to make an informed decision.
Quick Overview: All Private Universities in Anambra
Below is a summary table of private universities in Anambra State and their fees for the 2026/2027 session.
| S/N | University | Location | Year Est. | Estimated Fees/Session |
| 1 | Madonna University | Okija | 1999 | ₦350K – ₦1.5M |
| 2 | Tansian University | Umunya | 2007 | ₦129K – ₦700K |
| 3 | Paul University | Awka | 2009 | ₦190K – ₦400K |
| 4 | Legacy University | Okija | 2016 | ₦250K – ₦600K |
| 5 | Peter University | Achina-Onneh | 2023 | ₦300K – ₦650K |
| 6 | University on the Niger | Umunya | 2023 | ₦300K – ₦700K |
| 7 | Shanahan University | Onitsha | 2023 | ₦350K – ₦750K |
Fees shown are estimated ranges that vary by programme, student level, and additional charges. Always confirm current fees on each university’s official website before making payments.
1. Madonna University, Okija
Madonna University is the oldest and most established entry on the private universities in Anambra State and their fees list. Founded in 1999 by Very Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Matthew Paul Edeh, Madonna holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first private university. The main campus is located in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, with additional campuses in Elele (Rivers State) and Akpugo (Enugu State).
School Fees Breakdown
| Programme Category | Estimated Fees Per Session |
| Arts, Social Sciences, Education | ₦350,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Natural Sciences, Computer Science | ₦500,000 – ₦800,000 |
| Medicine, Nursing, Health Sciences | ₦800,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| Law | ₦600,000 – ₦900,000 |
Madonna offers the widest programme range among Anambra’s private universities, including Medicine and Surgery, Law, Nursing, Pharmacy, Engineering, Natural Sciences, and Management Sciences. The university is known for its strong Catholic faith-based environment, strict discipline, and community service orientation. Madonna’s medical programme is particularly well-regarded in the Southeast.
2. Tansian University, Umunya
Tansian University is one of the most affordable options among private universities in Anambra State and their fees. Founded in 2007 by Reverend Monsignor Professor John Bosco Akam, Tansian is a Catholic institution located in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area. The university is named after Nigeria’s first canonized saint, Blessed Michael Iwene Tansi.
School Fees Breakdown
| Programme Category | Estimated Fees Per Session |
| Arts, Social Sciences, Management | ₦129,000 – ₦350,000 |
| Sciences, Computer Science | ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Law, Nursing, Medical Lab Science | ₦500,000 – ₦700,000 |
Tansian offers programmes in Law, Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science, Philosophy, Social Sciences, Management Sciences, and Natural Sciences. The university’s remarkably low starting fee of ₦129,000 makes it one of the cheapest private universities in Nigeria. Tansian also received financial and infrastructural support from the Anambra State government, reflecting its reputation as a well-grounded institution.
3. Paul University, Awka
Paul University is another highly affordable institution on the private universities in Anambra State and their fees list. Established in 2009 by the Anglican Church bishops of the five dioceses East of the Niger, Paul University is located in the Anambra State capital, Awka. The university is named after St. Paul’s University College, originally founded in 1904 by the Church Missionary Society.
School Fees Breakdown
| Programme Category | Estimated Fees Per Session |
| General Tuition (Most Courses) | ₦190,000 – ₦240,000 |
| Law | ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 |
| Total (incl. accommodation, others) | ₦300,000 – ₦400,000 |
Paul University offers programmes in Arts, Natural and Applied Sciences, Law, Management Sciences, and Social Sciences. With tuition starting at ₦190,000, it ranks among the cheapest private universities in the entire country. The university also offers loans and scholarships to underprivileged students, making it accessible to families across all income levels. Its location in the state capital provides easy access to transportation, markets, and social amenities.
4. Legacy University, Okija
Legacy University adds a newer, research-focused option to the private universities in Anambra State and their fees list. Established in 2016, Legacy is located in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, on over 100 acres of land along the Onitsha–Owerri Expressway.
The university offers programmes in Education, Management Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. Legacy focuses on entrepreneurship, innovation, and practical skills development. Estimated fees range from ₦250,000 to ₦600,000 per session depending on the programme. The university’s modern facilities and disciplined academic culture attract students seeking a structured, focused learning environment.
5. Peter University, University on the Niger, and Shanahan University
Three newer institutions complete the private universities in Anambra State and their fees list. Peter University in Achina-Onneh (approved 2023) is a Catholic institution committed to research and moral development, with fees ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦650,000. University on the Niger in Umunya (approved 2023) offers programmes across Sciences, Management, and Social Sciences with fees from ₦300,000 to ₦700,000. Shanahan University in Onitsha (approved 2023) is the newest addition, with estimated fees of ₦350,000 to ₦750,000.
As newer institutions, these universities are still growing their programme portfolios and campus infrastructure. They offer smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and the opportunity to be part of a founding student community. Prospective students should visit each university’s website to confirm available courses, accreditation status of specific programmes, and current fee schedules before applying.
Comparing the Private Universities
When reviewing private universities in Anambra State and their fees, the right choice depends on your budget, preferred course, and campus preferences.
Madonna University is the best option for students pursuing Medicine, Law, or professional health sciences, offering the widest programme range and longest track record. Tansian University and Paul University are the most affordable choices, ideal for families seeking quality private education under ₦400,000 per session. Legacy University suits students who prefer a research-oriented, entrepreneurial environment. Peter University, University on the Niger, and Shanahan University appeal to students who value being part of a new, growing institution with smaller communities and personalized support.
All seven institutions benefit from Anambra State’s strategic location in the Southeast, vibrant commercial ecosystem, and lower cost of living compared to cities like Lagos and Abuja. Students enjoy access to bustling markets in Onitsha and Nnewi, reliable transportation networks, and a strong support system within the Igbo academic community.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements are broadly similar across private universities in Anambra State and their fees:
- JAMB (UTME): Minimum score of 140–160. Select your preferred university as first choice during JAMB registration.
- O’Level Credits: Five credits including English Language and Mathematics at not more than two sittings (WAEC/NECO). Professional courses require specific science subjects.
- Post-UTME Screening: Each university conducts its own screening, which may include aptitude tests, interviews, or document verification.
- Direct Entry: Candidates with ND, NCE, IJMB, or A’Level qualifications can apply through JAMB Direct Entry into 200 level.
How to Choose the Right University
Selecting from private universities in Anambra State and their fees requires weighing these factors:
- Budget: Paul University and Tansian University offer the lowest fees (from ₦129,000 and ₦190,000). Madonna and the newer institutions charge more but provide additional facilities and programme options.
- Course Availability: Only Madonna offers Medicine and Surgery. Check each university’s NUC-accredited course list for your preferred programme.
- Campus Facilities: Visit campuses to inspect hostels, laboratories, libraries, and lecture halls before committing.
- Location: Paul University is in Awka (state capital). Shanahan is in Onitsha (commercial hub). Others are in smaller towns offering quieter academic environments.
- Faith-Based Environment: Madonna, Tansian, Paul, and Peter universities all operate under Christian faith traditions, which may influence campus culture and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many private universities are in Anambra State?
Anambra State has seven NUC-accredited private universities: Madonna, Tansian, Paul, Legacy, Peter, University on the Niger, and Shanahan. This guide on private universities in Anambra State and their fees covers all seven institutions with detailed fee breakdowns.
Which is the cheapest private university in Anambra?
Tansian University offers the lowest starting fees at ₦129,000 per session for some programmes. Paul University follows closely with tuition from ₦190,000. Both are among the cheapest private universities in Nigeria overall.
Does any private university in Anambra offer Medicine?
Yes. Madonna University offers Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, and other health sciences programmes. It is the only private university in Anambra State with a medical programme.
Can I pay fees in instalments?
Yes. Most institutions on the private universities in Anambra State and their fees list offer flexible payment plans. Paul University also provides loans and scholarships for financially disadvantaged students. Contact each university’s bursary department for specific instalment schedules.
What is the JAMB cut-off for these universities?
Most private universities in Anambra accept JAMB scores from 140 to 160. Madonna may set slightly higher cut-offs for professional courses like Medicine and Law. Each university also conducts post-UTME screening.
Are these universities accredited by NUC?
Yes. All seven private universities in Anambra State and their fees hold NUC accreditation. Degrees from these institutions carry the same national and international recognition as those from federal and state universities. Always confirm programme-specific accreditation on the NUC website.
Conclusion
Anambra State offers seven distinct private university options catering to different budgets, academic goals, and campus preferences. From Madonna University’s established medical programme to Paul University’s remarkably affordable ₦190,000 tuition, there is an institution for every student in the Southeast.
Use the fee breakdowns and comparisons in this guide to narrow your options. Visit each university’s official website to confirm current fees, review accredited programmes, and begin your application. The right university choice today shapes your career for years to come — take time to choose wisely and apply early.