Choosing the right dental school is a vital decision for anyone aspiring to become a dentist, dental therapist, or dental nurse in Nigeria. While public institutions are popular, many private dental schools offer competitive training, modern facilities, and flexible learning environments.
In this blog post, we present the 10 best private dental institutions in Nigeria for 2025—all of which are approved by relevant authorities like the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and offer quality dental education.
Why Study Dentistry in a Private Institution in Nigeria?
Private dental institutions provide several benefits, including:
- Modern labs and simulation facilities
- Smaller class sizes for better learning
- Prompt academic calendars
- High-quality learning environments
- Opportunities for international exposure and internships
Top 10 Best Private Dental Institutions in Nigeria (2025)
1. Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
- Faculty: School of Dentistry and Basic Medical Sciences
- Accreditation: MDCN & NUC
- Programs: Dentistry (BDS)
- Tuition Fee: ₦1,200,000 – ₦1,500,000/year
- Admission Requirement: 5 credits in science subjects + high JAMB/UTME score
2. Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
- Faculty: College of Health Sciences – Dentistry
- Programs: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
- Tuition Fee: ₦1,350,000/year
- Special Features: World-class teaching hospital
- Admission Requirement: 5 credits including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English & Maths
3. Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State
- Faculty: Faculty of Health Sciences
- Program: Dental Nursing and Basic Oral Health
- Tuition Fee: ₦800,000 – ₦1,000,000/year
- Accreditation: MDCN
- Admission Requirement: O'Level result + UTME in science subjects
4. Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State
- Faculty: College of Health Sciences
- Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- Tuition Fee: ₦1,200,000/year
- Special Note: Nigeria’s first private university to produce dental surgeons
5. Madonna University, Elele, Rivers State
- Faculty: Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences
- Program: Dentistry, Dental Nursing
- Tuition Fee: ₦850,000 – ₦1,000,000/year
- Admission Requirement: 5 science credits in WAEC/NECO
6. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt
- Faculty: Faculty of Dentistry
- Programs: BDS and Dental Therapy
- Tuition Fee: ₦1,400,000/year
- Accreditation: MDCN, NUC
- Highlight: One of Nigeria’s first private medical universities
7. Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State
- Department: Health Sciences
- Program: Dental Nursing
- Tuition Fee: ₦600,000 – ₦800,000/year
- Admission Requirement: UTME with focus on science subjects
- Approved by: Nigerian Board of Nursing
8. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State
- Faculty: Health Sciences
- Program: Dental Health Technology, Dental Therapy
- Tuition Fee: ₦500,000 – ₦700,000/year
- Focus: Practical training and hands-on experience
9. Rhema University, Aba, Abia State
- Faculty: Medical and Health Sciences
- Program: Oral Health & Dental Technology
- Tuition Fee: ₦550,000 – ₦750,000/year
- Accreditation: NUC
- Unique Feature: Small class size for personalized teaching
10. Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State
- Faculty: College of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Program: Dental Therapy and Oral Health
- Tuition Fee: ₦600,000 – ₦800,000/year
- Note: Offers direct-entry and regular UTME admissions
Admission Requirements for Private Dental Institutions in Nigeria (2025)
To gain admission into these institutions, applicants must:
- Have at least 5 credit passes in O’Level results (WAEC, NECO or GCE) in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Sit for UTME (JAMB) and score the approved minimum cut-off (180–250, depending on the school)
- Pass the post-UTME or internal screening exam conducted by the institution
- Provide all necessary documents, including birth certificate, state of origin, and passport photographs
FAQs: Private Dental Schools in Nigeria
1. Are private dental schools in Nigeria accredited?
Yes. All schools listed above are either fully accredited by the MDCN, NUC, or relevant health authorities.
2. Can I practice dentistry with a degree from a private university?
Yes, if your institution is MDCN-accredited and you complete the required internship and licensing exam.
3. What is the duration of dental school in Nigeria?
Typically 5 to 6 years, including one year of clinical internship.
4. Do private dental institutions accept transfer students?
Some do, especially from related accredited programs, but requirements vary.
5. Are scholarships available in private dental schools?
Some schools like ABUAD and Babcock offer merit-based or need-based financial aid.
Conclusion
Whether you are passionate about dental surgery, dental therapy, or oral health technology, these top 10 private dental institutions in Nigeria for 2025 offer you the perfect opportunity to kickstart a rewarding career in dentistry. They are equipped with modern facilities, quality teaching staff, and accredited programs that meet both local and international standards.
Before applying, ensure that your chosen institution is accredited, fits your budget, and aligns with your career goals.
