NELFUND Extends Student Loan Portal as Applications Surge
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal following a nationwide surge in interest. This move ensures that all eligible students have adequate time to complete their applications.
Why the Extension Was Announced
NELFUND’s Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, confirmed that the portal, originally set to close on February 27, 2026, will now remain open for additional days. The extension responds to high demand generated by the Fund’s ongoing awareness campaigns across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
“The Fund has approved some additional days to ensure all eligible students are given adequate opportunity to complete their applications,” Oluwatuyi stated.
The extension particularly targets:
- Students needing extra time to apply
- Prospective applicants informed through recent outreach
- Institutions that have just begun their 2025/2026 academic session
- Schools yet to submit verified student lists
About the NELFUND Student Loan Scheme
Established under the Nigeria Student Loan Scheme, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in April 2024, NELFUND provides interest-free loans to students in public tertiary institutions. The loans cover tuition fees and living expenses, aiming to remove financial barriers and expand access to higher education.
Since applications opened in May 2024, the Fund has received 1.69 million applications and disbursed ₦183.8 billion to beneficiaries. Students repay the loans only after completing their education and securing employment, making the scheme sustainable and student friendly.
How to Apply and Become a Beneficiary
- Check Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a public tertiary institution and meet NELFUND’s academic and financial criteria.
- Access the Portal: Visit the official NELFUND Student Loan Application Portal.
- Complete the Application: Fill out personal, academic, and financial details accurately.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide necessary verification from your institution.
- Await Approval: NELFUND will review submissions and notify successful applicants.
Institutions that have not yet started their academic session should submit an official extension request with their approved academic calendar.
This extension reinforces NELFUND’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and accessible education financing. Eligible students are encouraged to complete their applications promptly to take full advantage of this life-changing opportunity.
