NUC Hikes Application Fees For Establishment Of Private University

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has increased the application fees for establishing private universities in Nigeria by over 400%, aiming to improve coordination and preparedness.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced a significant increase in the application fees for establishing private universities in Nigeria.

The Commission’s Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Ribadu, explained that the fee hike was designed to improve coordination and ensure that newly established private universities are prepared to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.

The application fee has risen from ₦1 million to ₦5 million, and the processing fee has been increased from ₦5 million to ₦25 million. The NUC clarified that the ₦25 million processing fee applies to applicants who previously bought forms at the old rate but have not yet paid the processing fee. “They are also expected to effect payments within a period of 30 working days or risk forfeiture of their pending applications,” the NUC stated.

The Commission also announced a one-year moratorium on all inactive applications, including those of private open universities that have not made progress in over two years. “The Commission hereby imposes a Moratorium for a period of one year with effect from Monday, 10th February, 2025 on: Inactive applications for the establishment of new private universities to enable the Commission to conduct a comprehensive review of such pending applications with a view to determining their viability,” the statement read.

The moratorium will also apply to applications that are still at Step 1 of the 14-step approval process, which includes those who have only submitted Letters of Intent. The NUC further clarified that “Acceptance of fresh applications for the establishment of private universities, including private open universities” will be suspended during the moratorium period.

However, the NUC reassured that it will continue processing all active applications. “For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission will continue to process pending active applications and make appropriate recommendations to the Federal Executive Council for approval,” the Commission added.

These changes are part of the NUC’s efforts to enhance the establishment process for private universities and ensure that they meet modern standards to contribute effectively to Nigeria’s educational sector.

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