The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced that the application window for its 2025/2026 academic session student loan scheme will open on October 23, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026.
According to a statement by NELFUND’s Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to students in tertiary institutions across the country, in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education.
Oluwatuyi advised institutions that are yet to commence their 2025/2026 academic session to formally notify NELFUND with their approved academic calendars to enable scheduling flexibility and proper data synchronization.
He added that fresh students are required to apply using their Admission Number or JAMB Registration Number in place of a matriculation number.
Application Process
NELFUND outlined a step-by-step procedure for eligible students to complete their loan applications via its official portal.
Applicants are to:
1. Visit the official website – Go to [www.nelf.gov.ng](http://www.nelf.gov.ng) and click “Apply Now.”
2. Begin registration – Select “Get Started” and answer preliminary questions to confirm eligibility.
3. Verify educational details – Choose the institution from the dropdown list and enter the matriculation number to confirm that the school has submitted student data to NELFUND.
4. Authenticate with JAMB – Validate the profile using JAMB details. Applicants whose National Identification Number (NIN) is not linked to JAMB may use their NIN for verification.
5. Create an account – Provide a valid email address, set a password, and activate the account through a verification link sent via email.
6. Complete profile – Log in and update personal, educational, and banking details, including BVN, bank name, and account number.
7. Apply for the loan – Click on “Request for Student Loan” and specify whether the funds are required for tuition, personal upkeep, or both.
8. Upload documents – Upload a scanned copy of the admission letter. Additional documents, such as a student ID card or institution invoice, may also be submitted.
9. Review and submit – Carefully read the loan terms, agree to the Terms and Conditions and the Global Standing Instruction (GSI) Mandate, then submit the application.
10. Track application status – Monitor progress through the “Loans” section of the dashboard. Notifications will be sent once a decision is made.
NELFUND cautioned applicants to ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid delays in processing. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to contact the Fund through the official email address provided on its website.
