The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), located in Ilorin, Kwara State, is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and affordable federal universities. Every academic year, thousands of students aspire to secure admission into this renowned institution. For prospective and returning students preparing for the 2024/2025 academic session, understanding the current fee structure is essential. This blog post offers a detailed overview of the acceptance fee, school fees, accommodation charges, and essential budgeting tips to help students navigate the financial obligations of studying at UNILORIN.
Acceptance Fee at UNILORIN (2024/2025)
All newly admitted UTME candidates are required to pay an acceptance fee before completing their admission processes. For the 2024/2025 academic session, the acceptance fee at UNILORIN is ₦20,900. This includes a ₦1,000 portal service charge, bringing the total to ₦21,900.
This fee is non-refundable and is a prerequisite for matriculation. Payment is made via the official UNILORIN portal using ATM cards or generated Remita payment slips that can be paid at designated banks.
Other Pre-Matriculation Charges:
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Post-UTME Screening Fee: ₦2,000
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Certificate Verification Fee: ₦5,000
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JAMB Verification Fee: ₦2,500
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Student ID Card Production: ₦2,000
These charges are mandatory for all newly admitted students.
UNILORIN School Fees by Faculty (2024/2025)
UNILORIN's school fees vary by faculty and are structured based on the course of study and faculty requirements. Here is a general breakdown:
1. Faculties with Lower Tuition (e.g., Arts, Education, Social Sciences):
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Estimated Range: ₦45,000 to ₦60,000
2. Faculties with Mid-Range Tuition (e.g., Agriculture, Sciences):
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Estimated Range: ₦60,000 to ₦80,000
3. Faculties with Higher Tuition (e.g., Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy):
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Estimated Range: ₦80,000 to ₦106,540
These figures cover tuition but exclude additional charges like medical fees, ICT levies, and departmental dues.
Mandatory University Charges for All Students
Apart from tuition, there are university-wide service charges that all students must pay. These charges help maintain essential services on campus. They include:
| Fee Type | Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| Medical Registration | 3,500 |
| Examination Registration | 7,500 |
| Sports Levy | 3,500 |
| ICT/Computer Maintenance | 5,000 |
| Library Development Levy | 3,500 |
In total, these mandatory charges typically range from ₦30,000 to ₦35,000 per session.
Departmental Charges for Returning Students
Returning students (200 level and above) are also expected to pay departmental levies that vary depending on their department and course requirements. These charges usually cover practical sessions, workshops, laboratory materials, and industrial training programs.
Some sample departmental charges include:
| Department | Fee (₦) |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | 15,700 |
| Home Economics & Food Science | 15,700 |
| Agricultural Extension & Rural Development | 50,000 |
| Industrial Training (Fieldwork) | 40,250 |
| Pharmacy | 40,500 |
| English, Linguistics, Performing Arts | 15,700–18,300 |
It’s important to confirm specific fees with the department or via the student portal.
Accommodation Charges at UNILORIN
For students who wish to live on campus, UNILORIN offers hostel accommodation at varying rates based on the room type. Accommodation fees for the 2024/2025 session are as follows:
| Room Type | Fee (₦) |
|---|---|
| Shared Room (Multiple Beds) | 14,000 |
| Two-Person Room | 28,000 |
| Four-Person Room | 56,000 |
| Six-Person Room | 84,000 |
Rooms are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early payment is strongly advised.
How to Make Payments at UNILORIN
Here is a step-by-step guide for fee payment:
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Login to the Student Portal: Visit portal.unilorin.edu.ng.
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Generate Your Invoice: Navigate to “School Fees” and select your current level to generate your invoice.
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Choose a Payment Option: Pay online using ATM cards or take the invoice to designated banks for over-the-counter payments.
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Print Receipts: After successful payment, print your receipt for clearance and record keeping.
Ensure all payments are made before the stipulated deadlines to avoid penalties.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
UNILORIN offers a variety of financial aid opportunities, including:
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Merit-Based Scholarships for high-performing students
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Bursaries funded by departments, alumni, or philanthropists
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Installment Payment Plans in some faculties for students facing financial hardship
Students are encouraged to regularly check the university’s official website or their faculty’s notice board for updates on available scholarships.
Budgeting Tips for Students
Managing university expenses requires smart budgeting. Here are some helpful tips:
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Start Early: Plan your finances ahead of resumption to avoid last-minute rush.
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Track Expenses: Use apps or a notebook to keep track of all expenses.
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Apply for Aid: Don’t hesitate to apply for scholarships or bursaries.
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Choose Affordable Accommodation: Opt for shared rooms if you’re on a tight budget.
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Consolidate Payments: Pay tuition and other charges in bulk to minimize transaction fees.
Conclusion
Studying at the University of Ilorin offers a blend of academic excellence and affordability. By understanding the full structure of fees—including acceptance fees, tuition, mandatory service charges, and accommodation—students and parents can plan effectively for the 2024/2025 academic year. Always confirm updated fees from the official UNILORIN portal or your department to avoid misinformation.
For aspiring students, UNILORIN continues to be a top choice for quality education at a reasonable cost. Make your payment plans early, apply for financial aid when necessary, and take full advantage of the opportunities the institution offers.
