The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has released the official application guidelines for students interested in accessing its loan scheme for the 2025/2026 academic session.
According to the Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the application window will be open from October 23, 2025, to January 31, 2026.
NELFUND advised institutions that have not commenced their 2025/2026 academic session to formally notify the agency and submit their approved academic calendars to enable scheduling flexibility.
The agency further explained that newly admitted students are to apply using their Admission Number or JAMB Registration Number in place of a matriculation number.
Here are the step to apply
1. Visit the official NELFUND website: Access the portal at nelf.gov.ng and click on the “Apply Now” button.
2. Begin registration: Select “Get Started” and respond to preliminary questions to confirm eligibility.
3. Verify educational details: Choose your institution from the dropdown list and provide your matriculation number to confirm that your school has submitted your data.
4. Authenticate with JAMB: Verify your profile by entering your JAMB details. Applicants whose National Identification Numbers (NIN) are not linked to JAMB can use their NIN for validation.
5. Create an account: Enter a valid email address, set a password, and activate the account via the verification link sent to your inbox.
6. Log in and complete your profile: Update contact, educational, and banking details — including BVN, bank name, and account number.
7. Apply for the loan: After logging in, click “Request for Student Loan” and specify whether funds are required for tuition, personal upkeep, or both.
8. Upload supporting documents: Applicants must upload a scanned copy of their admission letter. Additional documents, such as a student ID card or institution invoice, are optional.
9. Review and submit: Carefully read the loan terms, agree to the Terms & Conditions and Global Standing Instruction (GSI) Mandate, and click “Submit Application.”
10. Track application status: Applicants can monitor their progress in the “Loans” section of their dashboard. Notifications will be sent once a decision is made.
NELFUND urged applicants to ensure that all submitted information is accurate to prevent delays in processing their loan applications. Those whose applications are unsuccessful are encouraged to reach out to the Fund using the email address provided on its official website.
The agency also stated that for technical support or general enquiries, institutions can contact NELFUND via email at [email protected] or through its verified social media handles, @nelfund on X and Instagram, and Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND on Facebook and LinkedIn. The Fund’s official website remains www.nelf.gov.ng.