In a landmark development for education financing in Nigeria, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has officially opened its student loan application portal for the 2025/2026 academic session. This marks another major stride in the federal government’s commitment to providing accessible, interest-free financial support for students in public tertiary institutions across the country.
The announcement has sparked excitement nationwide, as thousands of students preparing for the new academic year can now begin applying for the government-backed student loan designed to ease the financial burden of tuition and living expenses.
Portal Opening Dates and Duration
NELFUND confirmed that the student loan application portal will officially open on Thursday, October 23, 2025, and remain accessible until Friday, January 31, 2026.
This three-month window provides ample opportunity for both fresh and returning students to submit their loan applications without unnecessary rush.
Students are strongly advised to apply early to avoid potential last-minute delays or system congestion as the deadline approaches.
Who Can Apply for the NELFUND Student Loan?
The NELFUND initiative is designed to cater to students in federal and state-owned universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and monotechnics. However, eligibility requires that both the student and their institution meet certain verification conditions before approval.
Below are the key categories of eligible applicants:
- Newly Admitted Students: Those who have just gained admission into any accredited public tertiary institution in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 session. They can apply using their JAMB Registration Number or Admission Number if they do not yet have a matriculation number.
- Returning Students: Those already enrolled in public universities or polytechnics with valid matriculation numbers are equally qualified to apply, provided their institutions have verified their student data with NELFUND.
Institutional Responsibility: Schools Must Verify Student Data
In line with the loan application guidelines, NELFUND has urged all tertiary institutions to promptly upload and verify their students’ details on the Student Verification Portal (SVP).
This includes information about both newly admitted and returning students. Institutions that fail to update their student data risk preventing their students from accessing the loan.
If an institution’s 2025/2026 academic calendar has not yet commenced, the management must formally write to NELFUND, presenting its approved schedule to ensure inclusion in the portal’s operational timeline.
Loan Features: Interest-Free and Student-Friendly
One of the most notable aspects of the NELFUND student loan is that it is completely interest-free — a feature that distinguishes it from traditional bank loans.
According to NELFUND’s framework, there are no hidden charges, processing fees, or collateral requirements.
The loan is purely designed to assist students with the financial responsibilities associated with tertiary education, such as tuition, accommodation, books, and other academic expenses.
Required Information for Application
Before beginning the application process, students are advised to have the following details readily available to ensure smooth registration:
- Full name (as it appears on JAMB or school records)
- Admission or matriculation number
- JAMB registration number (for new students)
- Institution name and department
- Personal details, including date of birth and state of origin
- Valid contact information
- Guarantor information, if required under the verification section
Applicants should also ensure that their National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) are valid and consistent with the name used in school documents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the NELFUND Student Loan
- Visit the official NELFUND student loan portal.
- Create a secure applicant profile by filling in your basic information.
- Select your institution type (University, Polytechnic, or College of Education).
- Provide your JAMB registration or matriculation number for identification.
- Upload necessary documents as outlined in the portal instructions.
- Review all details carefully before final submission to avoid errors.
- Submit your application and keep a record of your reference number for tracking.
Once submitted, applicants can monitor the status of their loan application through the same portal. Approval updates will be communicated directly to successful applicants.
Why This Development Matters
The reopening of the NELFUND student loan portal represents a significant boost to educational inclusion and equal opportunity in Nigeria. Many students who previously faced financial constraints can now pursue higher education without fear of dropping out due to unpaid fees.
It also reflects the federal government’s broader vision to strengthen human capital development, ensuring that no Nigerian student is denied access to tertiary education because of financial hardship.
By emphasizing transparency, digital application processes, and zero-interest repayment, the NELFUND scheme continues to set a new standard for student financial assistance in the country.
Important Reminder for Applicants
- The portal closes on January 31, 2026, and late applications will not be accepted.
- Students are advised to complete their application process early and confirm that their institutions have submitted the required verification documents.
- Applicants should ensure all uploaded information matches official school and national records to avoid disqualification or delay.
Conclusion
The opening of the NELFUND student loan portal for the 2025/2026 academic session is a major milestone in Nigeria’s education reform journey. It reinforces the government’s determination to empower students through affordable and accessible financial aid.
As the new session approaches, eligible students across the country are encouraged to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity. With the right documentation and timely application, thousands of Nigerian youths can look forward to a brighter and more secure academic future through the NELFUND student loan scheme.
