UNICAL school fees for 2025, admission requirements, and cut-off marks for all faculties. Complete guide includes hostel fees, payment methods, and relevant FAQs for prospective students.

UNICAL School Fees 2025: Complete Guide

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) remains one of Nigeria’s premier federal universities, attracting thousands of students annually. If you’re planning to pursue your undergraduate degree at UNICAL in 2025, understanding the school fees structure, admission requirements, and cut-off marks is crucial for proper planning. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need about UNICAL’s 2025 academic session.

Overview of University of Calabar (UNICAL)

Located in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, the University of Calabar is a federal university that was founded in 1975. UNICAL, which is renowned for its academic brilliance and stunning campus, provides undergraduate and graduate programs in a number of faculties. Admission is extremely competitive because the university has continuously upheld its standing as one of Nigeria’s best.

With its ideal location in the center of Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, UNICAL offers students easy access to a thriving cultural scene.

The university occupies more than 500 hectares of land and has state-of-the-art facilities, such as contemporary lecture halls, fully furnished labs, an extensive library system, and recreational areas.

The university offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and a large number of postgraduate programs across its 14 faculties. Notable alumni from UNICAL have achieved success in a variety of industries, including business, politics, academia, and entertainment.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted the institution full accreditation, and it has academic affiliations with universities across the globe.

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Why Choose UNICAL?

UNICAL stands out among Nigerian universities for several reasons:

Academic Excellence: The university maintains high academic standards with experienced faculty members holding advanced degrees from reputable institutions worldwide. The curriculum is regularly updated to meet international standards and industry requirements.

Research Opportunities: UNICAL is actively involved in cutting-edge research across various disciplines. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects and present their findings at national and international conferences.

Modern Facilities: The university continues to upgrade its infrastructure with modern laboratories, digital libraries, computer centers, and wireless internet connectivity across campus.

Cultural Diversity: With students from all parts of Nigeria and other African countries, UNICAL offers a multicultural environment that enhances the learning experience.

Industry Connections: The university maintains strong relationships with industries and organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and job placements after graduation.

UNICAL School Fees Structure for 2025

New Students (Freshers) School Fees

For the 2025 academic session, UNICAL school fees vary depending on your course of study and faculty. Here’s the breakdown for new students:

Arts and Humanities Programs:

• Tuition Fee: ₦25,000
• Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000
• Registration Fee: ₦5,000
• Library Fee: ₦2,000
• Laboratory Fee: ₦3,000
• Sports Fee: ₦1,000
• Medical Fee: ₦2,000
• ID Card Fee: ₦1,000
• Total: ₦59,000

Science Programs:

• Tuition Fee: ₦25,000
• Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000
• Registration Fee: ₦5,000
• Library Fee: ₦2,000
• Laboratory Fee: ₦8,000
• Sports Fee: ₦1,000
• Medical Fee: ₦2,000
• ID Card Fee: ₦1,000
• Total: ₦64,000

Medical Sciences (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy):

• Tuition Fee: ₦25,000
• Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000
• Registration Fee: ₦5,000
• Library Fee: ₦2,000
• Laboratory Fee: ₦15,000
• Clinical Fee: ₦10,000
• Sports Fee: ₦1,000
• Medical Fee: ₦2,000
• ID Card Fee: ₦1,000
• Total: ₦81,000

Engineering and Technology:

• Tuition Fee: ₦25,000
• Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000
• Registration Fee: ₦5,000
• Library Fee: ₦2,000
• Laboratory Fee: ₦12,000
• Workshop Fee: ₦8,000
• Sports Fee: ₦1,000
• Medical Fee: ₦2,000
• ID Card Fee: ₦1,000
• Total: ₦76,000

Returning Students (200L – 500L) School Fees

Returning students pay slightly lower fees as they don’t pay acceptance fees:

Arts and Humanities: ₦39,000 Science Programs: ₦44,000 Medical Sciences: ₦61,000 Engineering and Technology: ₦56,000

Payment Schedule and Deadlines

Understanding the payment schedule is crucial for proper financial planning. UNICAL typically operates on the following payment timeline:

First Installment (60% of total fees): Must be paid before or during registration period Second Installment (40% of total fees): Should be completed before the end of first semester examinations

Students who fail to complete payment by the stipulated deadlines may face the following consequences:

• Late registration fees of ₦5,000
• Restriction from writing examinations
• Inability to access academic results
• Possible withdrawal from the university

Scholarship Opportunities at UNICAL

UNICAL offers various scholarship opportunities to deserving students:

Merit-Based Scholarships:

• UNICAL Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for top performers
• Faculty-specific scholarships for outstanding students
• Alumni association scholarships

Need-Based Financial Aid:

• Work-study programs for financially challenged students
• Payment plan options for those unable to pay fees at once
• Emergency financial assistance for students facing hardship

External Scholarships: Students can also apply for external scholarships from:

• Federal Government scholarships
• State government scholarships
• Private sector scholarships
• International scholarship programs

UNICAL Cut Off Marks for 2025/2026

General JAMB Cut Off Mark

The University of Calabar general JAMB cut-off mark for the 2025/2026 academic session is between 140-160 points. However, meeting the general cut-off mark doesn’t guarantee admission, as the final admission depends on your Post-UTME performance and course of choice.

Faculty-Specific Cut Off Marks

Faculty of Arts:

• English and Literary Studies: 180
• History and International Studies: 170
• Philosophy: 165
• Religious and Cultural Studies: 160
• Music: 155
• Theatre Arts: 175

Faculty of Science:

• Mathematics: 200
• Physics: 190
• Chemistry: 185
• Biology: 190
• Computer Science: 220
• Statistics: 175
• Geology: 170

Faculty of Engineering:

• Civil Engineering: 200
• Electrical/Electronic Engineering: 210
• Mechanical Engineering: 205
• Chemical Engineering: 200
• Agricultural Engineering: 180

Faculty of Medicine:

• Medicine and Surgery: 250
• Dentistry: 230
• Pharmacy: 220
• Nursing: 200
• Medical Laboratory Science: 190

Faculty of Social Sciences:

• Economics: 200
• Political Science: 185
• Psychology: 190
• Sociology: 175
• Geography: 170
• Mass Communication: 210

Faculty of Education:

• Education and English: 165
• Education and Mathematics: 170
• Education and Biology: 175
• Guidance and Counselling: 160

Faculty of Law:

• Law: 240

Detailed Faculty-Specific Information

Faculty of Medicine Cut-Off Analysis:

The Faculty of Medicine remains the most competitive at UNICAL, with Medicine and Surgery requiring the highest scores. Here’s what you need to know:

• Medicine and Surgery (250 points): This program requires not just high JAMB scores but also excellent O’Level results with A’s in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Post-UTME performance is crucial as many candidates score above 250 in JAMB.
• Dentistry (230 points): Similar requirements to Medicine but slightly more accessible. Strong science background essential.
• Pharmacy (220 points): Growing in popularity due to career prospects in pharmaceutical industry.

Faculty of Engineering Insights:

Engineering programs at UNICAL are well-regarded and produce graduates who are highly sought after in the job market:

• Electrical/Electronic Engineering (210 points): Highest cut-off in engineering due to high demand and limited capacity.
• Computer Engineering: Though not separately listed, it’s typically included under Electrical Engineering with similar requirements.
• Civil Engineering (200 points): Strong mathematics and physics background required.

Faculty of Social Sciences Competitiveness:

Several programs in this faculty are highly competitive:

• Mass Communication (210 points): High demand due to media industry growth.
• Economics (200 points): Popular choice for students interested in finance and banking careers.
• Psychology (190 points): Increasing interest in mental health makes this program competitive.

Course-Specific Admission Tips

For Medicine and Allied Health Sciences:

• Focus on scoring above 280 in JAMB
• Ensure A grades in O’Level science subjects
• Prepare extensively for Post-UTME with emphasis on science subjects
• Consider UNICAL as first choice to benefit from catchment area considerations

For Engineering Programs:

• Mathematics and Physics are crucial subjects
• Practical laboratory experience is valuable
• Stay updated with technological trends
• Build a strong foundation in problem-solving skills

For Arts and Humanities:

• Develop excellent communication skills
• Read widely to improve general knowledge
• Practice essay writing for Post-UTME
• Show passion for your chosen field during screening

Admission Requirements for UNICAL 2025

JAMB Requirements

1. O’Level Results: Five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects including English Language and Mathematics at not more than two (2) sittings in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB.
2. JAMB Score: Minimum of 140 points in UTME with the right subject combination for your chosen course.
3. Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old.
4. Subject Combinations: Must register for the correct JAMB subject combination for your intended course.

Post-UTME Requirements

1. Post-UTME Form: Purchase and complete UNICAL Post-UTME form when released.
2. Required Documents:
   • JAMB result slip
   • O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
   • Birth certificate or age declaration
   • Local Government Area certificate of origin
   • Passport photographs
   • Medical certificate

Direct Entry Requirements

For Direct Entry candidates:

• Two (2) A’Level passes or equivalent in relevant subjects
• National Diploma (ND) with Upper Credit or Higher National Diploma (HND) with Merit
• Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) with Merit
• Five (5) O’Level credit passes including English Language and Mathematics

UNICAL Hostel Accommodation and Fees

On-Campus Hostel Options

UNICAL provides affordable on-campus accommodation for students. The hostel fees for the 2024/2025 session include Standard Room (4-6 occupants) at ₦15,000 per session and Executive Room (2 occupants) at ₦25,000 per session.

Hostel Facilities Include:

• Furnished rooms with beds, reading tables, and wardrobes
• 24-hour electricity supply
• Water supply
• Security services
• Common rooms and recreational facilities
• Laundry services

How to Apply for UNICAL Hostel

1. Visit the official UNICAL hostel portal: http://hostel.unical.edu.ng/
2. Create an account and login
3. Select your preferred hostel and room type
4. Make payment online
5. Print your accommodation receipt
6. Report to the hostel with required documents

Comprehensive Hostel Guide

Male Hostels at UNICAL:

1. Malabor Hostel Complex: One of the largest male hostels with modern facilities including study rooms, recreational areas, and 24-hour security.
2. Eta Agbor Hostel: Known for its quiet environment, ideal for serious students. Features include common rooms, laundry facilities, and reliable power supply.
3. Cross River Hall: Recently renovated with improved facilities including modern toilets, kitchen areas, and internet connectivity.

Female Hostels:

1. UNICAL Female Hostel Complex: Modern facility with enhanced security measures, including CCTV surveillance and restricted access.
2. New Female Hostel: Latest addition with state-of-the-art facilities including air-conditioned study areas and modern kitchen facilities.

Hostel Application Process and Tips

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Online Registration: Create account on hostel portal after gaining admission
2. Document Upload: Upload admission letter, passport photographs, and guarantor’s information
3. Payment: Make hostel fee payment through designated channels
4. Room Allocation: Wait for room allocation which is typically first-come-first-served
5. Check-in: Report to allocated hostel with required documents and payment receipts

Essential Items for Hostel Life:

• Bedding materials (mattress, pillows, bed sheets)
• Study materials (reading table lamp, books, stationery)
• Kitchen utensils for cooking
• Personal toiletries and medications
• Laptop/computer for academic work
• Extension cables and power surge protectors

Hostel Rules and Regulations:

Students living in UNICAL hostels must adhere to specific rules:

• No overnight visitors without proper authorization
• Maintain cleanliness in personal and common areas
• Respect quiet hours for studying (typically 10 PM – 6 AM)
• Report maintenance issues promptly
• Participate in hostel cleaning exercises
• No gambling, cultism, or illegal activities

Off-Campus Housing Options

Popular Student Areas:

1. 8 Miles: Close to campus with numerous student-friendly accommodations ranging from ₦80,000 to ₦150,000 per year.
2. Satellite Town: Affordable housing options with good transportation links to campus.
3. Ikot Efanga: Quiet residential area preferred by serious students, with rents between ₦100,000 to ₦200,000 annually.
4. Mbukpa: Popular among students, offers both budget and premium accommodation options.

Tips for Finding Off-Campus Accommodation:

• Start searching early, preferably 2-3 months before resumption
• Visit properties personally before making payments
• Verify landlord’s authenticity and property ownership
• Consider proximity to campus, security, and transportation
• Budget for additional costs like electricity, water, and internet
• Join student housing groups on social media for recommendations

Student Life and Campus Facilities at UNICAL

Academic Facilities

UNICAL Library System: The university boasts a comprehensive library system with over 200,000 books, journals, and digital resources. The main library operates 24/7 during examination periods and provides:

• Digital databases and e-books
• Computer terminals with internet access
• Group study rooms and quiet study areas
• Photocopy and printing services
• Reference and research assistance

Computer Centers: Multiple computer laboratories across faculties equipped with modern computers and high-speed internet connectivity. Students have access to:

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Statistical analysis software (SPSS, R)
• Programming environments
• CAD software for engineering students
• Online learning platforms

Laboratories: State-of-the-art laboratories for science and engineering programs including:

• Chemistry and Physics laboratories with modern equipment
• Biological sciences labs with microscopes and research tools
• Engineering workshops with industrial-grade machinery
• Medical laboratories for practical training
• Language laboratories for effective communication skills

Sports and Recreation

UNICAL provides extensive sports facilities to promote physical fitness and recreational activities:

Sports Facilities:

• Olympic-size swimming pool
• Football stadium with synthetic grass
• Basketball and volleyball courts
• Tennis courts and badminton halls
• Athletics track for field events
• Gymnasium with modern fitness equipment

Sports Programs: Students can participate in various sports including football, basketball, swimming, athletics, tennis, and table tennis. UNICAL teams regularly compete in inter-university competitions and have won several national championships.

Health Services

The University Health Center provides comprehensive healthcare services to students and staff:

• General medical consultations
• Emergency medical services
• Dental care
• Laboratory services
• Pharmacy services
• Health education and counseling
• Immunization programs

Students pay a nominal health fee as part of their school fees, which covers basic medical services throughout the academic year.

Transportation and Campus Mobility

Shuttle Services: UNICAL operates internal shuttle buses connecting different parts of the campus. The service is particularly useful given the campus’s large size.

External Transportation: The university is well-connected to Calabar city through:

• Commercial buses and taxis
• Motorcycle taxis (okada) for quick transportation
• Student-operated transport services
• Private car arrangements

Campus Security

UNICAL prioritizes student safety through:

• 24/7 security personnel across campus
• CCTV surveillance in strategic locations
• Campus lighting for night-time safety
• Security checkpoints at major entrances
• Emergency response systems
• Student identification verification processes

Financial Planning for UNICAL Students

Total Cost of Education

Beyond school fees, students should budget for additional expenses:

Annual Cost Breakdown (Approximate):

• School fees: ₦59,000 – ₦81,000
• Accommodation (hostel): ₦15,000 – ₦25,000
• Feeding: ₦150,000 – ₦250,000
• Books and materials: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000
• Transportation: ₦20,000 – ₦40,000
• Personal expenses: ₦50,000 – ₦100,000
• Total Annual Cost: ₦324,000 – ₦546,000

Money-Saving Tips for Students

1. Cook Your Own Meals: Significant savings compared to eating out regularly
2. Buy Used Textbooks: Purchase from senior students or online platforms
3. Share Accommodation: Consider sharing off-campus apartments with friends
4. Use Campus Facilities: Take advantage of free sports and recreational facilities
5. Apply for Scholarships: Actively seek and apply for scholarship opportunities
6. Part-time Work: Engage in legitimate part-time work within university regulations

Banking Services on Campus

Several banks operate on or near campus providing services like:

• Account opening for students
• ATM services
• Mobile banking solutions
• Student loan facilities
• Financial literacy programs

Additional Fees

• Late Registration Fee: ₦5,000
• Change of Course Fee: ₦10,000
• Transcript Fee: ₦2,000
• Result Verification Fee: ₦1,000
• Replacement ID Card: ₦1,000
• Certificate Collection Fee: ₦5,000
• Convocation Fee: ₦10,000

Online Payment

1. Visit the UNICAL undergraduate portal: https://portal.unical.edu.ng/
2. Login with your credentials
3. Select “School Fees Payment”
4. Choose your payment method (ATM card, bank transfer, or online banking)
5. Complete the transaction
6. Print your receipt

Bank Payment

Students can also pay through designated banks:

• First Bank of Nigeria
• United Bank for Africa (UBA)
• Zenith Bank
• Access Bank

Important Dates for 2025 Academic Session

• JAMB Registration: December 2024 – February 2025
• JAMB UTME: March – April 2025
• Post-UTME Registration: May – June 2025
• Post-UTME Examination: July 2025
• Admission List Release: August – September 2025
• Resumption Date: October 2025

Tips for Securing Admission to UNICAL

1. Score High in JAMB: Aim for scores well above the minimum cut-off mark
2. Prepare for Post-UTME: Study past questions and practice regularly
3. Choose Courses Wisely: Consider less competitive courses as alternatives
4. Submit Documents Early: Avoid last-minute rush when submitting requirements
5. Stay Updated: Regularly check the official UNICAL website for updates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum JAMB score for UNICAL in 2025?

The minimum JAMB cut-off mark for UNICAL in 2025 is 140 points. However, competitive courses require much higher scores, with some requiring up to 250 points for Medicine and Surgery.

2. How much are UNICAL school fees for new students in 2025?

UNICAL school fees for new students in 2025 range from ₦59,000 for Arts programs to ₦81,000 for Medical Sciences. The fees vary based on your course of study and faculty.

3. Can I pay UNICAL school fees in installments?

Yes, UNICAL allows students to pay school fees in installments. However, you must complete payment before the deadline to avoid late registration fees.

4. How do I check my UNICAL admission status?

You can check your UNICAL admission status by visiting the official admission portal at https://portal.unical.edu.ng/Identity/Admission/CheckAdmissionStatus and entering your JAMB registration number.

5. What documents do I need for UNICAL admission?

Required documents include JAMB result slip, O’Level results, birth certificate, local government certificate of origin, passport photographs, and medical certificate.

6. Is UNICAL hostel accommodation compulsory for first-year students?

No, UNICAL hostel accommodation is not compulsory. Students can choose between on-campus hostels or off-campus private accommodation.

7. How much does UNICAL hostel cost in 2025?

UNICAL hostel fees range from ₦15,000 for standard rooms to ₦25,000 for executive rooms per academic session.

8. Can I change my course after admission to UNICAL?

Yes, you can change your course after admission, but you’ll need to pay a change of course fee of ₦10,000 and meet the requirements for the new course.

9. When does the 2025 academic session begin at UNICAL?

The 2025 academic session is expected to begin in October 2025, following the completion of the admission process.

Conclusion

In Nigeria, UNICAL is still a great option for high-quality postsecondary education. The university provides excellent value for your educational investment with affordable tuition, extensive academic programs, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Prospective students should meet all requirements and achieve competitive scores on the JAMB and Post-UTME exams in order to adequately prepare for the admissions process.

You can always check the official university website at www.unical.edu.ng or get in touch with the admissions office directly for the most up-to-date information regarding UNICAL school fees, admission requirements, and important dates.

Keep in mind that UNICAL admission is competitive, so your chances of success are greatly increased if you prepare ahead of time and fulfill all requirements. I wish you luck as you apply to one of the best universities in Nigeria.