Simple Guide to Apply for the NELFUND 2025/2026 Student Loan

Good news for Nigerian students dreaming of stress-free tuition! The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has officially opened its portal for applications for the 2025/2026 academic session. This means thousands of students can now apply for financial aid without needing to beg, borrow, or panic before exams.

According to the Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the application period will run from October 23, 2025, until January 31, 2026. So yes, procrastinators still have some time — but not too much. Institutions that haven’t started their academic year are advised to notify NELFUND and submit their calendars for scheduling convenience.

The agency also explained that new students can apply using their Admission Number or JAMB Registration Number instead of a matriculation number. This flexibility, NELFUND says, ensures all qualified students have equal access to the program.

For those ready to take the leap, here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:

1. Visit the official portal at nelf.gov.ng and click “Apply Now.”
2. Select “Get Started,” answer eligibility questions, and move on to registration.
3. Choose your institution from the dropdown and input your matric or admission number to confirm that your school has uploaded your details.
4. Verify your JAMB profile — or use your NIN if it’s not linked.
5. Create an account with a valid email, set a password, and confirm via the verification link.
6. Log in, update your personal, educational, and bank information (BVN included).
7. Click “Request for Student Loan” and select what you need the funds for — tuition, upkeep, or both.
8. Upload a scanned copy of your admission letter. Other documents like your school ID or fee invoice are optional.
9. Review your details, agree to the loan terms and GSI mandate, then hit “Submit Application.”
10. Track your application status on your dashboard and wait for notification once a decision is made.

NELFUND emphasized the importance of submitting accurate information to avoid processing delays. Applicants whose requests aren’t approved immediately are encouraged to reach out via the contact email provided on the official site.

For any technical issues or clarifications, institutions and students can contact NELFUND through their verified channels, including email at data@nelf.gov.ng or their official social media handles. And remember — the legitimate website is www.nelf.gov.ng. Anything else might just be a clever scam in disguise.

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