Nigeria is less commonly considered than some other study-abroad destinations, but it offers international students access to a large university system and a wide range of academic programs. Students should compare program availability, admission requirements, costs, and visa rules directly with each institution before applying.
Interested students can use this Nigerian universities for international students as a a starting point. Let’s take al look!
Top Universities in Nigeria for International Students
1. University of Ibadan
Established in 1948, the University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s oldest university. It began as University College, Ibadan, in a special relationship with the University of London and became an independent university in 1962. UI currently lists seventeen faculties, and Times Higher Education placed it in the 801–1000 band of the 2026 World University Rankings. Postgraduate students account for about half of the university’s enrollment.
The University of Ibadan also operates a Distance Learning Centre that offers flexible undergraduate degree programs. Campus resources include libraries, health services, student housing, and zoological and botanical gardens.
2. Lagos State University
Lagos State University is a public university established by Lagos State in 1983. It operates campuses in Ojo, Ikeja, and Epe. Ojo is the main campus, Ikeja houses the College of Medicine, and Epe hosts engineering and agriculture programs. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, part-time, and distance-learning options across multiple faculties and schools.
In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, LASU was placed in the 1501+ band. Prospective international students should consult the university directly for current program availability, admission requirements, and student-support information.
3. University of Lagos
The University of Lagos is one of Nigeria’s first-generation universities and was founded in 1962. It operates campuses at Akoka, Yaba, and Idi-Araba. Following a 2025 restructuring, UNILAG expanded from twelve to nineteen faculties, with programs spanning the arts, sciences, health disciplines, engineering, law, management, and other fields. It also operates units such as the Distance Learning Institute and the International School Lagos.
Times Higher Education placed UNILAG in the 801–1000 band of the 2026 World University Rankings. The university also uses the institutional slogan “University of First Choice and the Nation’s Pride.” International applicants should consult the university’s international-student page for current admission guidance.
4. Covenant University
Covenant University is a private Pentecostal Christian university in Ota, Ogun State, that has operated since 2002. Times Higher Education placed it in the 1001–1200 band of the 2026 World University Rankings.
Covenant University currently lists four colleges: the College of Engineering, the College of Leadership and Development Studies, the College of Management and Social Sciences, and the College of Science and Technology. Campus facilities include a sports complex and the Centre for Learning Resources, the university’s computerized library and virtual-library service.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in Enugu State, is Nigeria’s first full-fledged indigenous and first autonomous university, modeled on the American educational system. Its official website currently lists seventeen faculties, 102 academic departments, 108 undergraduate programs, and 211 postgraduate programs. Times Higher Education placed UNN in the 1201–1500 band of the 2026 World University Rankings.
UNN’s official overview lists three campuses in Enugu State: Nsukka, Enugu, and Ituku-Ozalla. The Nsukka campus is the main campus and hosts the Roar Nigeria Hub, an innovation and entrepreneurship initiative.
We hope that this article on the best universities in Nigeria for international students was helpful! If you’re interested in studying abroad, make sure to check out the Available Programs for International Students!
