The National University of Science and Technology, Abuja (NUSTA) is an emerging institution poised to become a leading center for techno-scientific innovation, entrepreneurship, and human development in Nigeria. Located in the Federal Capital Territory, NUSTA aims to provide cutting-edge education in science, engineering, and technology-related fields. As the 2025/2026 academic session approaches, prospective students are eager to understand the financial commitment required to join this prestigious institution.
For fresh students, the school fees at NUSTA will vary depending on the program of study, whether the student is pursuing a science-based or technology-based course, and additional charges such as acceptance fees, accommodation, and other levies. While NUSTA has not yet commenced admissions for undergraduate or postgraduate programs as of April 01, 2025, the university has emphasized that all official updates will be communicated via its website. In the meantime, this article provides an estimated breakdown of school fees for fresh students based on comparable institutions and general expectations for a specialized university of this nature.
NUSTA School Fees Structure for Fresh Students (2025/2026 Academic Session)
The table below outlines the estimated school fees for fresh students at NUSTA, broken down into key components. These figures are hypothetical and subject to change upon official confirmation from the university management.
| Fee Component | Science-Based Courses (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) | Technology-Based Courses (e.g., Engineering, Computer Science) | Notes |
| Tuition Fee | ₦650,000 | ₦750,000 | Per session, excludes accommodation |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦50,000 | ₦50,000 | One-time payment for new students |
| Registration Fee | ₦20,000 | ₦20,000 | Payable annually |
| Laboratory/Practical Fee | ₦50,000 | ₦70,000 | For courses requiring lab work |
| Library Fee | ₦15,000 | ₦15,000 | Access to digital and physical resources |
| ICT/Technology Fee | ₦25,000 | ₦30,000 | Covers internet and tech infrastructure |
| Development Levy | ₦30,000 | ₦30,000 | Contribution to campus development |
| Medical Fee | ₦20,000 | ₦20,000 | Health services on campus |
| Student Union Fee | ₦5,000 | ₦5,000 | Optional in some cases |
| Total (Excluding Hostel) | ₦865,000 | ₦990,000 | Estimated total without accommodation |
| Hostel Fee (Optional) | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 | Depends on room type and availability |
| Grand Total (With Hostel) | ₦1,015,000 – ₦1,115,000 | ₦1,140,000 – ₦1,240,000 | Full estimated cost for freshers |
Key Notes on NUSTA School Fees
- Tuition Fee Variation: Science-based courses like Biology or Chemistry are typically less expensive than technology-based courses such as Engineering or Computer Science due to differences in equipment and infrastructure requirements.
- Acceptance Fee: This is a mandatory one-time payment for all newly admitted students to secure their admission slot.
- Hostel Accommodation: Accommodation is optional and varies based on availability and the type of room (e.g., single or shared). Students opting to live off-campus will exclude this fee from their total.
- Payment Flexibility: Like many Nigerian universities, NUSTA may offer the option to pay fees in installments, though this will be confirmed by the management closer to the admission period.
- Late Payment Penalties: Students are encouraged to pay their fees early to avoid additional charges, which are common in tertiary institutions for late payments.
Why the Fees May Differ?
NUSTA’s focus on techno-scientific innovation suggests a significant investment in state-of-the-art laboratories, workshops, and ICT infrastructure. This could result in higher fees compared to general universities like UNIABUJA, where fees for fresh students range from ₦84,000 to ₦225,000. However, as a specialized institution, NUSTA’s fees are likely to align more closely with private universities like the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), where tuition starts at ₦750,000 per session.
How to Pay NUSTA School Fees
Once officially released, the payment process will likely be outlined on the NUSTA portal (nusta.edu.ng). Typically, students will:
Step 1 – Log into the student portal using their admission details.
Step 2 – Generate an invoice for the applicable fees.
Step 3 – Make payments via designated banks or online platforms as specified by the university.
Step 4 – Submit proof of payment for clearance.
Advice for Prospective Students
- Verify Information: Since NUSTA is not admitting students until 2025, keep an eye on the official website for the exact fee schedule and admission updates.
- Budget Accordingly: Start planning finances early, considering both tuition and additional costs like accommodation and textbooks.
- Scholarships: Inquire about potential scholarships or financial aid once the university begins operations, as such opportunities may be available for pioneering students.
The National University of Science and Technology, Abuja (NUSTA) promises to be a transformative institution in Nigeria’s educational landscape. While the exact school fees for fresh students in the 2025/2026 academic session are yet to be officially published, the estimated figures provided above offer a realistic starting point for planning. Prospective students are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and prepare for a rewarding academic journey at NUSTA.
