NELFUND Opens Student Loan Portal for 2025/2026 Academic Session

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has officially launched its student loan application portal for the 2025/2026 academic session, allowing students across tertiary institutions in Nigeria to apply for education financing to support their studies.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by NELFUND’s Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the application window will be open from Thursday, October 23, 2025, to Saturday, January 31, 2026.

How to Apply for the NELFUND Student Loan

NELFUND advised newly admitted students to apply using their Admission Number or JAMB Registration Number in place of their matriculation number. This ensures that even students who have not yet been assigned a matric number can access the loan portal and begin their application without delay.

The student loan program is designed to promote equal access to higher education and reduce the financial burden on students in federal and state-owned tertiary institutions. The fund will cover tuition fees, accommodation, and study materials, depending on the applicant’s financial needs and eligibility.

Tertiary Institutions Urged to Support Applicants

NELFUND appealed to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria to show understanding in enforcing registration and fee payment deadlines for students whose loan applications are still being processed.

The agency specifically requested schools to adopt temporary registration measures to prevent students awaiting disbursement from missing out on lectures or exams.

“Institutions are encouraged to show understanding in enforcing registration and fee flexibility deadlines for students awaiting loan disbursement,” the statement said.

Additionally, NELFUND advised institutions that have not yet commenced their 2025/2026 academic calendar to formally communicate with the agency and submit their approved academic timetable to ensure that loan scheduling and payment align with their academic activities.

Ensuring No Student Is Left Behind

The NELFUND student loan initiative was established to ensure that no Nigerian student loses access to education because of financial hardship. The government has emphasized that the fund will help bridge the gap between academic pursuit and financial capability, making it easier for bright students from low-income families to stay in school.

Students can visit the official NELFUND portal to apply, track their application status, and access additional information about the loan scheme, repayment plans, and eligibility criteria.

What Applicants Should Know

To successfully apply for the NELFUND loan, students are expected to:

• Have an active admission status in a recognized tertiary institution in Nigeria.
• Provide accurate personal and academic details during registration.
• Upload necessary documents such as admission letters, valid identification, and bank details for disbursement.

The NELFUND portal is user-friendly and secure, ensuring that applicants can complete their registration and submit their loan requests without difficulty.

Government Commitment to Education Financing

The student loan program is part of the federal government’s effort to boost human capital development through accessible and affordable education financing. Vice President Kashim Shettima recently reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting the girl-child education initiative and improving access to tertiary education for all Nigerians.

The government aims to make education loans a sustainable part of the nation’s financial system, helping to reduce dropout rates and promote national development through skilled and educated citizens.

Deadline for Application

Students are advised to complete their NELFUND loan applications before the January 31, 2026 deadline. Late applications may not be processed, and incomplete submissions may delay disbursement.

Tertiary institutions are also encouraged to keep their students informed about updates from NELFUND to ensure a smooth application and approval process.

Why This Matters

With the rising cost of tuition and living expenses in Nigeria, many students struggle to fund their education. The NELFUND student loan portal represents a lifeline for thousands of students who rely on financial support to continue their studies.

By expanding access to interest-free loans and encouraging institutional cooperation, NELFUND is positioning itself as a vital partner in Nigeria’s education reform. The initiative is expected to reduce financial exclusion in tertiary education and help more Nigerians achieve their academic dreams.

Important Notice

Institutions that fail to comply with the new directive to accommodate students awaiting loan approval risk having their students excluded from future disbursement cycles. NELFUND will continue to monitor and collaborate with institutions to ensure transparent and fair loan allocation.