The African University of Science and Technology (AUST) in Abuja is one of Nigeria’s most respected private postgraduate institutions. It was established in 2007 with a clear mission: to train world-class scientists, engineers, and technologists who can solve Africa’s biggest challenges. If you are considering applying for a master’s or PhD programme, one of the first questions people ask is “how much is AUST school fees?” The answer is straightforward: AUST charges very competitive fees compared to similar international-standard institutions, and the university has kept the structure stable for the 2025/2026 academic session.
As of December 2025, postgraduate tuition fees at AUST range from ₦3,000,000 to ₦4,500,000 per programme, depending on the course and duration. Most master’s programmes last 12–18 months, while PhD programmes typically take 3–4 years. Here is the current breakdown:
- M.Sc. / M.Eng. Programmes (full-time, 12–18 months): ₦3,000,000 – ₦3,800,000
- PhD Programmes (full-time, 3–4 years): ₦3,500,000 – ₦4,500,000
- MBA / Executive Programmes (part-time or modular): ₦3,200,000 – ₦4,000,000
These fees are all-inclusive for tuition, registration, laboratory access, library resources, and most academic materials. However, students should budget separately for accommodation, feeding, and personal expenses.
Accommodation and Living Costs at AUST
AUST provides limited on-campus accommodation for postgraduate students. The hostel fee ranges from ₦350,000 to ₦550,000 per academic year, depending on the room type (single or shared). Most students prefer off-campus living in Abuja’s high-end areas like Maitama, Wuse, or Gwarinpa, where a one-bedroom apartment costs between ₦1,200,000 and ₦2,500,000 per year. Feeding, transport, and utilities usually add another ₦800,000–₦1,200,000 annually.
Additional Fees to Watch Out For
- Acceptance fee (one-time, non-refundable): ₦150,000 – ₦250,000
- Medical screening / health insurance: ₦50,000 – ₦80,000
- Thesis / dissertation binding and defence: ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 (paid in final year)
- Late registration penalty: ₦50,000 – ₦100,000
Payment Options and Scholarships
AUST allows payment in two instalments for most programmes: 60% at the beginning of the session and 40% before the second semester. The university also offers limited scholarships and assistantships, especially for PhD students. These can cover up to 50% of tuition if you maintain excellent grades or work as a graduate teaching/research assistant. International students from other African countries sometimes qualify for partial waivers through the Nelson Mandela Institute partnership.
Why Students Choose AUST Despite the Fees
AUST is not a conventional university. It was created by the Nelson Mandela Institution to build advanced human capital for Africa’s development. The faculty includes professors trained at MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, and other top global schools. Class sizes are small, research facilities are world-class, and every graduate has a strong international network. Many alumni work at Google, IBM, World Bank, or lead major projects back in their home countries.
If you can afford the investment or secure funding, AUST delivers one of the best postgraduate STEM experiences in Africa. The fees are high compared to typical Nigerian universities, but they are actually lower than equivalent programmes in South Africa, Kenya, or Europe when you consider the quality and global recognition.
Have you applied to AUST? Which programme are you targeting—Petroleum Engineering, Computer Science, or Materials Science? Share your thoughts in the comments.