In Nigeria, the cost of higher education can be a significant barrier for many students. To address this challenge, the Federal Government established the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) under the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024. NELFUND aims to provide interest-free loans to eligible students, making tertiary education more accessible across the country (Nelf Portal).
What is NELFUND?
NELFUND is a government-backed
initiative designed to offer financial assistance to Nigerian students pursuing
higher education. By providing interest-free loans, NELFUND ensures that
students can focus on their studies without the burden of immediate financial
constraints.
Key Features of NELFUND Student Loans
- Interest-Free Loans:
Students benefit from loans without any interest charges, making repayment
more manageable.
- Flexible Repayment:
Repayment begins two years after completing the National Youth Service
Corps (NYSC) program, providing graduates time to establish their careers.
- Secure and Efficient Application: The
online portal ensures a safe and streamlined application process,
typically completed within 15 to 30 minutes.
- Wide Coverage: Loans cover tuition
fees and may extend to other educational expenses, depending on specific
guidelines.
How to Apply for a NELFUND Student
Loan
1. Visit the Official Portal: Navigate to the NELFUND Student Loan Portal.
2. Create an Account: If you're a new user, register by providing the
necessary personal and educational information.
3. Complete the Application: Fill out the loan application form,
ensuring all details are accurate and complete.
4. Submit Required Documents: Upload necessary documents, such as
admission letters and identification, as specified.
5. Await Verification and Approval: After submission, your application
will undergo verification. Successful applicants will receive notifications
regarding the disbursement of funds.
Important Dates
The application portal for the
2024/2025 academic session opened on February 22, 2025. Students are encouraged
to apply promptly to ensure timely processing of their loans.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a NELFUND student
loan, applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens (Nelf).
- Have secured admission into a public Nigerian
university, polytechnic, college of education, or vocational school.
- Meet other criteria as outlined in the Student
Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024.
NELFUND's student loan program
represents a significant step toward making higher education more accessible to
Nigerian students. By providing interest-free loans with flexible repayment
options, the initiative supports students in achieving their academic goals
without undue financial stress.
For more information and to begin your application, visit the NELFUND Student Loan Portal.

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