The University of Calabar (UNICAL), one of Nigeria's foremost federal universities, is located in Calabar, Cross River State. As with any higher institution, understanding the cost of schooling is crucial for students and their families. For the 2024/2025 academic session, both new and returning students must familiarize themselves with the official fee structure. This blog post provides an in-depth breakdown of UNICAL’s acceptance and school fees, including fee variations across faculties, detailed payment procedures, and frequently asked questions to help guide students.
Understanding UNICAL's Fee Structure
At UNICAL, student fees are categorized into two main parts: the acceptance fee and the school fees. While the acceptance fee is a one-time, non-refundable charge paid by newly admitted students, school fees are paid every academic session by both new and returning students. The total amount varies slightly depending on the student’s course of study and level.
UNICAL Acceptance Fee for 2024/2025
Amount: ₦40,300 (Forty Thousand, Three Hundred Naira only)
The acceptance fee is the first payment required after a student gains admission into UNICAL. This fee confirms that a candidate has accepted the admission offer. Failing to pay the acceptance fee within the stipulated period can lead to the forfeiture of the admission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Paying the Acceptance Fee
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Visit the UNICAL Acceptance Portal
Go to https://myunical.edu.ng/acceptance -
Input Personal Details
Enter your JAMB Registration Number or CES form number, your phone number, and the confirmation order number you received from your E-Tranzact payment. -
Generate Invoice
An invoice will be generated. Ensure you review all the details. -
Make Payment
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Online Payment: Use your debit card to complete the payment on Remita.
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Bank Payment: Take your invoice to any commercial bank supporting E-Tranzact payments and make the payment.
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Print Your Acceptance Receipt
After successful payment, log back in to print your acceptance fee receipt. This document will be required during physical screening and registration.
UNICAL School Fees for 2024/2025
UNICAL’s school fees vary by faculty and programme. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of what students should expect based on their academic level.
1. Fresh Students (100 Level)
Freshers in the 2024/2025 academic session are required to pay between ₦59,850 and ₦63,850. This difference in amount depends largely on the faculty. Science-based courses generally have slightly higher fees than non-science courses.
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Non-Science Faculties (e.g., Arts, Education, Social Sciences): ₦59,850
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Science Faculties (e.g., Biological Sciences, Engineering, Medicine): ₦63,850
These fees cover tuition, ICT levy, library services, departmental and faculty dues, and other student-related charges.
2. Returning Students (200 Level and Above)
Returning students are expected to pay slightly lower fees since many of the one-time charges applicable to freshers (such as portal fees and ID card issuance) are not included in their billing.
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Non-Science Faculties: ₦44,350
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Science Faculties: ₦48,350
3. Final-Year Students
Final-year students pay a bit more than other returning students due to extra charges for project supervision, graduation levy, and alumni dues.
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Non-Science Faculties: ₦47,350
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Science Faculties: ₦51,350
4. CES Students (Part-Time & Diploma Programmes)
The Combined External Studies (CES) Programme has a distinct fee structure:
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Fresh Students (Science): ₦85,850
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Fresh Students (Non-Science): ₦84,850
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Returning Students (Science): ₦70,350
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Returning Students (Non-Science): ₦69,350
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Final-Year Students (Science): ₦73,350
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Final-Year Students (Non-Science): ₦72,350
Students enrolled in diploma and part-time programmes must consult the CES section of the UNICAL portal for specific fee details related to their course.
How to Pay UNICAL School Fees
Follow these simple steps to pay your school fees:
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Visit the UNICAL Portal
Access the fee portal via https://myunical.edu.ng/fee.aspx -
Generate Payment Invoice
Input your JAMB Registration Number or Matric Number, select your programme and level, and click on "Generate Invoice." -
Choose Payment Method
You can pay online via Remita using your debit card or go to a commercial bank to pay using the E-Tranzact platform. -
Print Your Payment Receipt
Once your payment has been confirmed, return to the portal to print your official payment receipt. Keep this receipt for your records and for clearance.
Important Notes About UNICAL School Fees
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Late Payment Penalty: Students who fail to pay their school fees within the specified time will incur a penalty of ₦5,000. It is essential to pay early to avoid additional charges.
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Hostel Fees: Accommodation fees are not included in the school fees. Students who wish to stay on campus must apply and pay separately for hostel space.
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Medical Fees: Medical services are also charged separately, and students must pay this fee to access UNICAL's medical facilities.
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Uniform Fees Across States: As a federal university, UNICAL does not differentiate tuition fees based on the state of origin. All students pay the same amount, regardless of where they are from.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I pay the acceptance fee in installments?
A: No. The acceptance fee must be paid in full. It is also a one-time, non-refundable fee.
Q: Can I pay my school fees in installments?
A: No. The University of Calabar requires full payment of school fees before students can register their courses or attend lectures.
Q: How long do I have to pay my acceptance fee?
A: The university usually sets a 2-4 week deadline after the release of the admission list. Check the academic calendar or admission letter for the exact deadline.
Q: Are postgraduate fees the same as undergraduate fees?
A: No. Postgraduate students have a different fee structure, which is available on the Postgraduate School section of the UNICAL portal.
Q: What happens if I pay but it doesn’t reflect on the portal?
A: In case of payment issues, contact UNICAL ICT or the Bursary Department with proof of payment (Remita receipt or bank printout).
Final Thoughts
Understanding the fee structure of the University of Calabar is essential for all students. Whether you're a newly admitted student preparing to pay your acceptance fee or a returning student budgeting for the next session, the information provided here helps you plan adequately. Always ensure that payments are made through approved channels to avoid issues with registration and clearance.
The University of Calabar remains committed to providing quality education at affordable rates. For more updates on fees and admissions, regularly visit www.unical.edu.ng or check the MyUNICAL portal.
