Covenant University Cut-Off Mark, Courses & School Fees (2026): Full Guide For Prospective Students

If you’re planning to study at Covenant University for the 2026/2027 academic session, you’re already aiming for one of Nigeria’s most prestigious private universities. Located in Ota, Ogun State, Covenant University consistently ranks as the #1 private university in Nigeria and one of the top universities in Africa. Every year, over 15,000 candidates apply for admission, but only a fraction are accepted because of the university’s strict academic standards and competitive cut-off marks.

In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Covenant University, including the 2026 JAMB cut-off mark, departmental cut-off marks, school fees for freshers and returning students, the full list of courses, acceptance fee, hostel costs, Post-UTME process, and proven tips to boost your admission chances.

About Covenant University

Covenant University, often called CU or Covenant, is a private Christian university owned by the Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel) under the leadership of Bishop David Oyedepo. It was established in 2002 and located in Ota, Ogun State, just a short drive from Lagos.

Covenant University operates from a single sprawling campus covering over 1,400 hectares of well-developed land, with modern academic buildings, state-of-the-art laboratories, world-class hostels, sports facilities, and a beautiful chapel that anchors the spiritual life of the campus.

The university has over 9,000 students and offers more than 40 undergraduate programmes across 4 colleges (Engineering, Science and Technology, Leadership and Development Studies, and Management and Social Sciences). Covenant is consistently ranked the #1 private university in Nigeria and one of the top 5 universities in West Africa across major international ranking systems.

Covenant University is well-known for its strong programmes in Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, Economics, Accounting, Architecture, and the Sciences. It’s also famous for its strict disciplinary culture, mandatory chapel attendance, and Christian-based holistic education model that emphasizes leadership development.

If you want to compare Covenant University with other top private and federal universities in Nigeria, check out the Babcock University Cut-Off Mark Guide and the Obafemi Awolowo University 2026 Cut-Off Mark Guide for a useful side-by-side view.

Covenant University General JAMB Cut-Off Mark For 2026/2027

For the 2026/2027 academic session, the general JAMB UTME cut-off mark for Covenant University is 200. This means any candidate who scored 200 or above in the 2026 JAMB UTME is eligible to apply for Covenant’s admission screening.

This is one of the highest cut-off marks for private universities in Nigeria. During the JAMB 2026 Policy Meeting in Abuja (held May 11, 2026), Covenant University joined the elite group of universities — including OAU, UNILAG, UNIBEN, UI, and UNN — that set their minimum at 200. This puts Covenant on par with Nigeria’s top federal universities, which is unusual for a private institution.

But here’s the truth: meeting the 200 cut-off does NOT automatically guarantee admission. Covenant University uses departmental cut-off marks that are typically higher for competitive courses, plus a unique Covenant University Aptitude Test (CUAT) that all applicants must take. Realistically, the average admitted Covenant student scores between 220 and 280.

Covenant University Departmental Cut-Off Marks For 2026 (Estimated)

Here’s the detailed breakdown of departmental cut-off marks at Covenant University, based on previous admission trends. These figures are estimated guides — actual scores may shift slightly based on the year’s applicant pool.

Course/Department	Estimated Cut-Off Mark (JAMB)	Aggregate Required
Petroleum Engineering	260 – 290	70+
Computer Engineering	250 – 280	70+
Electrical/Electronics Engineering	240 – 270	67+
Mechanical Engineering	230 – 260	65+
Chemical Engineering	230 – 260	65+
Civil Engineering	230 – 260	65+
Information and Communication Engineering	230 – 260	65+
Computer Science	250 – 280	70+
Management Information Systems (MIS)	230 – 260	65+
Software Engineering	240 – 270	67+
Industrial Mathematics	220 – 250	63+
Architecture	230 – 260	65+
Estate Management	210 – 240	60+
Building Technology	210 – 240	60+
Industrial Chemistry	220 – 250	63+
Industrial Physics	220 – 250	63+
Biochemistry	220 – 250	63+
Microbiology	220 – 250	63+
Biotechnology	220 – 250	63+
Banking and Finance	230 – 260	65+
Accounting	230 – 260	65+
Business Administration	220 – 250	63+
Economics	230 – 260	65+
Mass Communication	230 – 260	65+
Demography and Social Statistics	210 – 240	60+
Sociology	210 – 240	60+
Psychology	220 – 250	63+
Political Science and International Relations	220 – 250	63+
Public Administration	210 – 240	60+
English Language	210 – 240	60+
French	200 – 230	58+
International Relations	220 – 250	63+
Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management	210 – 240	60+

If you scored between 200 and 220, you’ll have realistic chances with programmes like Sociology, Public Administration, English Language, French, Estate Management, and Building Technology. For Petroleum Engineering, Computer Science, and Accounting, scores of 240+ are realistic targets.

Covenant University uses an aggregate formula combining your JAMB UTME score and your CUAT (Covenant University Aptitude Test) result — the formula is similar to what’s broken down in the UNIOSUN Cut-Off Mark Calculation Guide, but Covenant places even more weight on its internal aptitude test.

Full List Of Courses Offered At Covenant University

Covenant University offers programmes across 4 colleges. Here’s the complete breakdown:

College of Engineering

• Petroleum Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Information and Communication Engineering

College of Science and Technology

• Computer Science
• Management Information Systems (MIS)
• Software Engineering
• Industrial Mathematics
• Industrial Chemistry
• Industrial Physics (Applied Geophysics, Electronics, Energy Materials)
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• Architecture
• Estate Management
• Building Technology

College of Management and Social Sciences

• Accounting
• Banking and Finance
• Business Administration
• Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management
• Marketing
• Economics
• Demography and Social Statistics
• International Relations
• Political Science
• Public Administration
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Mass Communication

College of Leadership and Development Studies

• English Language
• French
• History and International Studies (selected programmes)
• Educational Management

It’s worth noting that Covenant University does NOT currently offer Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, Dentistry, Law, or Agriculture — programmes you’ll find at most federal universities. If those are your career targets, you may want to consider Babcock University (which offers Medicine and Nursing) or federal institutions instead.

Covenant University School Fees For 2026 (Full Breakdown)

Covenant University is one of the most expensive private universities in Nigeria — but that’s because of the world-class facilities, accommodation, feeding plan, leadership programmes, and faith-based holistic education students receive. Unlike federal universities, Covenant’s fees are largely the same regardless of state of origin (no indigene vs. non-indigene difference).

Covenant University Tuition Fees For Freshers (100 Level) – 2026

College/Department	Tuition (₦)	Total Package (Tuition + Accommodation + Feeding) (₦)
College of Engineering	₦750,000 – ₦900,000	₦1,150,000 – ₦1,350,000
College of Science and Technology	₦700,000 – ₦850,000	₦1,100,000 – ₦1,300,000
Architecture	₦750,000 – ₦900,000	₦1,150,000 – ₦1,350,000
Estate Management/Building Technology	₦700,000 – ₦850,000	₦1,100,000 – ₦1,300,000
College of Management and Social Sciences	₦650,000 – ₦800,000	₦1,050,000 – ₦1,250,000
Mass Communication	₦700,000 – ₦850,000	₦1,100,000 – ₦1,300,000
English Language/French	₦600,000 – ₦750,000	₦1,000,000 – ₦1,200,000
Accounting/Banking and Finance	₦700,000 – ₦850,000	₦1,100,000 – ₦1,300,000
Economics/Business Administration	₦680,000 – ₦830,000	₦1,080,000 – ₦1,280,000

Covenant University Tuition Fees For Returning Students (200 – 500 Level) – 2026

College/Department	Total Per Session (₦)
College of Engineering	₦1,050,000 – ₦1,300,000
College of Science and Technology	₦1,000,000 – ₦1,250,000
Architecture	₦1,050,000 – ₦1,300,000
College of Management and Social Sciences	₦950,000 – ₦1,200,000
Mass Communication	₦1,000,000 – ₦1,250,000
English Language/French	₦900,000 – ₦1,150,000
Accounting/Banking and Finance	₦1,000,000 – ₦1,250,000
Economics/Business Administration	₦980,000 – ₦1,230,000

Covenant University’s pricing is all-inclusive — meaning tuition, accommodation (hostel), feeding (3 meals daily), and basic learning materials are bundled into one total fee. This is one of the reasons many parents prefer Covenant despite the high cost: you pay once and don’t worry about additional bills for food, accommodation, or basic upkeep.

For comparison, federal universities like UI charge much less in tuition but have many additional costs. The UNILAG School Fees for 100 Level Breakdown shows the contrast clearly — federal universities are far cheaper but you handle accommodation and feeding separately.

Other Fees You Should Expect At Covenant University

Beyond the all-inclusive package, freshers should plan for these additional costs:

Item	Estimated Cost (₦)
Acceptance Fee (Freshers only)	₦200,000 – ₦300,000
CUAT Aptitude Test Fee	₦5,000 – ₦8,000
Application Fee	₦10,000 – ₦15,000
Medical/Health Insurance	₦25,000 – ₦40,000
Identity Card Fee	₦5,000 – ₦8,000
Caution Deposit (Refundable)	₦25,000 – ₦40,000
Library Use Fee	₦15,000 – ₦25,000
ICT/Technology Fee	₦20,000 – ₦35,000
Convocation Robe/Gown (final year)	₦20,000 – ₦35,000
Stationery & Textbooks	₦60,000 – ₦120,000
Personal Allowance (per month)	₦25,000 – ₦70,000
Transport to/from Lagos (monthly)	₦10,000 – ₦25,000

When you sum everything, a fresher at Covenant University should budget around ₦1,400,000 to ₦1,700,000 for the first session, including all-inclusive package, acceptance, application costs, personal upkeep, and miscellaneous expenses. Engineering and Architecture students should budget closer to ₦1,800,000+ because of design materials, project costs, and software licenses.

While these figures are significantly higher than federal universities, parents and students often justify the cost because Covenant provides:

• Stable academic calendar (no ASUU strikes ever)
• World-class infrastructure
• 24/7 power and water supply
• Mandatory meal plans (3 meals daily)
• Built-in accommodation
• Strong leadership and Christian values training

Covenant University Admission Requirements For 2026

To gain admission into Covenant University, you must meet these requirements:

1. JAMB UTME Score

• Minimum of 200 in the 2026 UTME (general cut-off)
• Higher scores for competitive courses (refer to table above)
• Covenant University must be your first choice institution

2. O’Level Requirements

You need at least 5 credit passes (in WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, GCE, or IGCSE) in not more than 2 sittings, including:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Three other relevant subjects depending on your intended course

Subject combinations by department:

• Engineering: English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, plus one other science subject
• Computer Science/Software Engineering: English, Mathematics, Physics, plus two other science subjects
• Architecture: English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, plus Fine Art or Technical Drawing
• Accounting/Banking and Finance: English, Mathematics, Economics, plus two relevant subjects
• Economics/Business Administration: English, Mathematics, Economics, plus two other subjects
• Mass Communication: English, Mathematics, Literature in English, Government, plus one other
• Sciences (Microbiology, Biochemistry, etc.): English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics
• English/French: English, Mathematics, Literature in English, plus two other Arts subjects

3. CUAT (Covenant University Aptitude Test)

Unlike most Nigerian universities, Covenant conducts its own internal CUAT screening in addition to JAMB. This is mandatory for all applicants.

• CUAT Fee: ₦5,000 – ₦8,000
• Format: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Total questions: Usually 100
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Subjects: General Aptitude, English, Mathematics, and your course-related subjects
• Plus an interview session (for shortlisted candidates)

4. Christian Faith Commitment

Covenant University is a Christian university, and while non-Christians are welcomed, all students must:

• Attend mandatory chapel services
• Sign a code of conduct that aligns with the university’s faith-based values
• Participate in Christian-based leadership programmes

5. Direct Entry (DE) Requirements

For Direct Entry candidates:

• IJMB/JUPEB with at least 2 passes (good grades preferred)
• Or A-Level (Cambridge) with at least 2 principal subjects
• Or National Diploma (ND) with minimum of Upper Credit
• Or HND with minimum of Upper Credit
• Plus the standard O’Level requirements

Step-by-Step Guide On How To Apply For Covenant University 2026 Admission

Here’s a clean walkthrough of the application process:

Step 1: Register For JAMB UTME

• Buy your JAMB e-PIN (currently around ₦7,200)
• Register at any accredited JAMB CBT centre
• Select Covenant University as your first-choice institution
• Choose the correct subject combination for your intended course

Step 2: Take The UTME Examination

• Sit for your exam at the scheduled CBT centre
• Aim for 230+ to be safely competitive

Step 3: Apply For Covenant University Admission

• Visit the official Covenant University admissions portal at covenantuniversity.edu.ng/admissions
• Click on “Apply Now” for the 2026/2027 session
• Fill in your details and pay the application fee

Step 4: Pay For CUAT

• Once your application is processed, pay for the CUAT screening test
• You’ll receive a confirmation email with your CUAT date

Step 5: Take The CUAT Screening

• Travel to Ota campus on the scheduled date (multiple test sessions are held)
• Take the CBT-format aptitude test
• Some candidates may also have an interview session

Step 6: Check Admission Status

• Covenant releases admission lists in batches via their portal and JAMB CAPS
• If admitted, accept the offer on JAMB CAPS

Step 7: Pay Acceptance Fee

• Pay your acceptance fee within the deadline (usually 2 weeks)

Step 8: Complete School Fees Payment

• Log into Covenant portal, generate your payment invoice, and pay through approved banks or online channels
• Most parents pay the full session fees upfront

Step 9: Resume On Campus

• Complete registration, hostel allocation, ID card collection, and orientation programmes
• Note: Covenant has strict resumption timelines — late resumption may delay your matriculation

Tips To Boost Your Covenant University Admission Chances

To maximize your odds of getting into Covenant University, follow these tips:

1. Aim significantly above 200 — Don’t settle for the minimum. Target 240+ for general courses and 260+ for Petroleum/Computer Engineering.
2. Make Covenant your first choice — Covenant heavily prioritizes first-choice candidates during admission.
3. Take CUAT seriously — Covenant weighs CUAT heavily. Practice with past aptitude tests and refresh your JAMB subjects beforehand.
4. Maintain strong O’Level results — A1s and B2s in core subjects boost your overall profile significantly.
5. Show character in your interview (if invited) — Covenant values discipline, leadership potential, and Christian values. Express these clearly.
6. Apply early — Don’t wait. Covenant’s application portal opens early, and slots fill quickly.
7. Have your finances ready — Covenant has firm fee payment deadlines. Late or partial payment can cost you admission.
8. Verify your O’Level uploads carefully — Make sure all required subjects are correctly listed.
9. Match subject combinations correctly — Wrong subjects in JAMB will disqualify you automatically.
10. Avoid online scammers — Apply directly through Covenant’s official portal. Never pay anyone offering “guaranteed admission.”

Common Mistakes Students Make While Applying To Covenant University

Avoid these common errors:

• Choosing Covenant as second choice (severely reduces admission chances)
• Skipping CUAT registration (it’s mandatory, no exceptions)
• Underestimating Covenant’s strict disciplinary culture
• Wrong JAMB subject combinations
• Missing application or CUAT deadlines
• Paying partial fees instead of full required amounts
• Submitting incomplete O’Level results
• Falling for “agent” scams promising admission for a fee
• Applying for medicine, pharmacy, or law at Covenant (they don’t offer these)

For more comparison resources, the Babcock University Cut-Off Mark Guide and the Rhema University School Fees For Nursing Guide explain how other top Christian-based private universities handle their admission and fee structures.

Covenant University Hostel Accommodation 2026

Hostel accommodation at Covenant University is included in the all-inclusive package, which is one of the major selling points. Every student lives on campus — Covenant does not allow off-campus accommodation. Here’s what to expect:

Hostel Type	Status
Male Hostels (Daniel Hall, Peter Hall, John Hall)	Included in all-inclusive fees
Female Hostels (Esther Hall, Mary Hall, Deborah Hall)	Included in all-inclusive fees
Postgraduate Hostels	Included in postgraduate fees
Premium Single Rooms (Optional Upgrade)	Additional ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 yearly

Each hostel room typically accommodates 4-6 students with modern bunk beds, study desks, wardrobes, fans, and shared bathrooms. The hostels have 24/7 power supply, water supply, security, and Wi-Fi access. Students must follow strict rules regarding curfew, visitors, electronics, dress code, and behaviour.

Important to note: Covenant University does NOT permit off-campus living. All students must reside in university hostels for the duration of their programme.

Frequently Asked Questions About Covenant University

Is Covenant University a federal or private university?

Covenant University is a private Christian university owned by Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel) under Bishop David Oyedepo. It was founded in 2002.

What is the general JAMB cut-off mark for Covenant University in 2026?

The general cut-off mark for Covenant University in the 2026/2027 academic session is 200 — the same as Nigeria’s top federal universities like UI, OAU, UNIBEN, and UNILAG.

Can I get into Covenant University with a score of 200?

Yes, but only for less-competitive courses like Sociology, Public Administration, English Language, and French. For Petroleum Engineering, Computer Science, or Accounting, you’ll need scores above 240.

Does Covenant University conduct Post-UTME?

Yes — Covenant University conducts the Covenant University Aptitude Test (CUAT), which is mandatory for all applicants. This includes a computer-based test and possibly an interview for shortlisted candidates.

How much is Covenant University acceptance fee for 2026?

The acceptance fee at Covenant University is between ₦200,000 and ₦300,000, payable shortly after admission. Confirm exact figures from the official portal.

How much is Covenant University school fees for 2026?

The all-inclusive school fees at Covenant (tuition + accommodation + feeding) range from ₦950,000 to ₦1,350,000 per session, depending on your course. Engineering, Architecture, and Computer Science cost more than Arts and Social Science programmes.

Does Covenant University offer Medicine?

No — Covenant University does NOT currently offer Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, or Law. If your goal is one of these careers, consider Babcock University, federal universities, or other private universities with these programmes.

Is hostel accommodation guaranteed?

Yes — accommodation is mandatory and guaranteed for all students. Covenant doesn’t allow off-campus living. Your hostel cost is included in the all-inclusive fees you pay each session.

How is Covenant University aggregate score calculated?

Covenant uses a custom aggregate formula combining your JAMB UTME score and your CUAT (Covenant University Aptitude Test) result, with weights determined internally. Strong performance in both is essential.

Why is Covenant University so expensive?

Covenant charges all-inclusive fees that bundle tuition, accommodation, feeding (3 meals daily), basic materials, and leadership training. The fees also support the university’s high-quality facilities, 24/7 power supply, world-class lecturers, and stable academic calendar — meaning no ASUU strikes ever.

Can non-Christian students apply to Covenant University?

Yes, non-Christian students can apply and are welcome at Covenant. However, all students must attend mandatory chapel services, accept the university’s Christian-based code of conduct, and participate in faith-based leadership development programmes.

What is Covenant University most known for?

Covenant is most known for its excellence in Engineering (especially Petroleum), Computer Science, Architecture, Business Administration, Accounting, Economics, and its disciplined leadership training programme. It consistently ranks as Nigeria’s #1 private university.

Final Word On Covenant University 2026 Admission

Covenant University stands as Nigeria’s #1 private university for good reason — academic excellence, stable academic calendar, world-class facilities, faith-based holistic education, and strong leadership development. For families who can afford it, Covenant offers an investment in quality education that pays off for decades through alumni network, global opportunities, and strong career outcomes.

For the 2026/2027 academic session, the general cut-off mark is 200, but realistic admission scores range from 220 to 290 depending on your chosen course. Take the CUAT screening seriously — it carries significant weight in Covenant’s admission process. Ensure your O’Level subject combinations match your intended programme, and make Covenant your first choice on JAMB.

Budget around ₦1,400,000 to ₦1,800,000 for your first session, including all-inclusive package, acceptance fees, personal upkeep, and miscellaneous expenses. Engineering and Architecture students should plan for higher figures due to additional design and software costs. Compared to federal universities like UI or BUK, Covenant is significantly more expensive — but you’re paying for an environment without ASUU strikes, stable infrastructure, and a structured Christian-based academic environment.

For the latest verified updates, always confirm current cut-off marks, school fees, CUAT dates, and admission information directly from the official JAMB portal and Covenant University’s admissions page before applying, as figures may change slightly between sessions.

Whether you’re targeting Petroleum Engineering at Covenant’s renowned College of Engineering, Computer Science, Accounting, or any other programme, your admission success depends on three pillars: academic preparation, CUAT performance, and timely application. Covenant doesn’t just admit students — they admit future leaders. Earn your place.

Good luck with your 2026/2027 Covenant University admission — may you walk through those iconic Canaan Land gates as an admitted Covenant University student before the year ends!