Are you a newly admitted or returning student at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria? Understanding the current school fees and acceptance fee is essential to planning your academic journey and avoiding last-minute surprises. ABU, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and largest universities, recently released its updated fee schedule for the 2024/2025 academic session.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about ABU’s school fees and acceptance fee, including faculty-based charges, payment methods, key deadlines, budgeting tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Overview of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Founded on October 4, 1962, Ahmadu Bello University is located in Zaria, Kaduna State. It has grown to become one of the top federal universities in Nigeria, with over 18 faculties and 100+ academic departments. The university operates across multiple campuses: the Samaru campus (main), Kongo campus (for law and administration), and the Funtua campus (School of Basic and Remedial Studies).
ABU offers undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and professional courses in a wide range of disciplines including sciences, medicine, engineering, law, education, agriculture, and humanities.
What is the Acceptance Fee at ABU?
The acceptance fee is the first official payment every newly admitted undergraduate must make to validate their admission into ABU.
✅ Current Acceptance Fee (2024/2025): ₦30,000 (Thirty Thousand Naira Only)
This is a one-time, non-refundable payment that confirms your interest and secures your admission slot. Failure to pay within the stipulated timeframe may result in forfeiting your admission.
What Does the Acceptance Fee Cover?
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Allocation of matriculation number
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Registration on the student portal
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Official issuance of the admission letter
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Processing of academic records
ABU Zaria School Fees for 2024/2025 Academic Session
ABU’s school fees—officially referred to as “registration charges”—are structured based on your faculty and whether you're a Nigerian or an international student. These fees were reviewed upward by the university’s senate starting from the 2023/2024 session, with some variations carried over into the 2024/2025 academic session.
Here’s a breakdown of school fees for undergraduate students:
💡 School Fees Range for Nigerian Students:
| Faculty/Program | Fees Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Administration & Business School | ₦66,500 – ₦75,125 |
| Agriculture | ₦70,250 – ₦78,875 |
| Allied Health Sciences | ₦74,000 – ₦78,875 |
| Arts | ₦66,500 – ₦80,750 |
| Basic Medical & Clinical Sciences | ₦70,250 – ₦95,750 |
| Dental Surgery, Pharmacy | ₦82,625 – ₦100,250 |
| Engineering, Environmental Design | ₦70,250 – ₦84,500 |
| Law, Education, Social Sciences | ₦66,500 – ₦82,625 |
| Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Vet Med | ₦70,250 – ₦95,750 |
🌍 School Fees for Non-Nigerian Students:
| Category | Fee (₦) |
|---|---|
| Non-Nigerian Residents | ₦225,000 |
| Non-Residents (Foreign Nationals) | ₦1,537,500 – ₦3,075,000 |
The most expensive programs are those related to health sciences (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy), while arts and education faculties are relatively cheaper.
What’s Included in the School Fees?
ABU’s school fees are comprehensive and cover various charges such as:
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Tuition Fee
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Examination Fee
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Library and ICT Fees
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Identity Card Fee
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Sports and Student Union Charges
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Laboratory/Studio Charges (for applicable departments)
How to Pay Your Acceptance and School Fees at ABU
ABU has streamlined the payment process through its student portal to ensure ease and security.
Step-by-Step Payment Guide:
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Log into ABU Student Portal
Visit https://portal.abu.edu.ng and use your registration details (JAMB Reg. Number and password) to access the portal. -
Generate an Invoice
Navigate to the "Fees Payment" section, choose the appropriate fee (acceptance or school fees), and generate a payment invoice. -
Make Payment Online or at Bank
You can either:-
Pay directly online using your ATM card or bank transfer through the Remita or Payeasy platform.
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Print the invoice and pay at any designated commercial bank.
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Print Your Receipt
After successful payment, return to the portal to confirm and print your payment receipt. Always keep your receipt safe for future reference.
Important Things to Note
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All payments should be completed before the deadline to avoid extra charges or deactivation of your student portal.
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Payments are non-refundable, especially the acceptance fee.
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Ensure your payment matches your faculty’s approved schedule.
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Avoid making payments through unapproved third-party agents or unofficial websites.
Tips for Budgeting as a Student at ABU
To survive and thrive financially at ABU, it’s important to plan your budget wisely. Here are a few tips:
1. Start Early
Set aside money for the acceptance fee immediately after JAMB results and admissions are released.
2. Plan for Accommodation
Depending on whether you stay on or off campus, budget between ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 for lodging per semester.
3. Keep Emergency Funds
Unexpected fees like lab materials, fieldwork, and medical services may arise. Always keep a buffer.
4. Apply for Scholarships
ABU offers several scholarship opportunities. Also, check for external funding from federal/state bursaries and corporate sponsors.
5. Track Payment Deadlines
Mark important registration and payment deadlines in your calendar to avoid late penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the acceptance fee due?
Once you receive your admission offer, the acceptance fee should be paid within two weeks to retain your spot.
2. Can I defer my admission after paying the acceptance fee?
Yes, but you must officially apply for deferment through the Student Affairs Division before the matriculation date.
3. Are the fees different for part-time or distance learning students?
Yes. Part-time, diploma, and Distance Learning Centre (DLC) students have different payment structures. Acceptance fees for some DLC programs, for example, can be as low as ₦12,500 per course.
4. Can I pay in installments?
Typically, no. All fees must be paid in full to complete course registration. However, students in difficult circumstances can sometimes appeal to the university for a payment extension.
5. Are there late registration penalties?
Yes. Failure to pay your fees before the deadline attracts fines or can result in being locked out of the portal or exams.
Final Thoughts
Ahmadu Bello University remains a top choice for students seeking quality education in Nigeria. Whether you’re a newly admitted student or returning for another academic year, understanding the fee structure is crucial to avoiding financial hiccups. The acceptance fee of ₦30,000 secures your spot, while tuition fees for Nigerian undergraduates range between ₦66,500 and ₦100,250, depending on your faculty.
Make sure you follow all official instructions, pay on time, and keep all payment receipts safe. With good planning and timely action, your ABU experience will start on a solid financial footing.
