The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has officially opened its online portal for student loan applications for the 2025/2026 academic session. The portal, accessible via https://portal.nelf.gov.ng/, will enable Nigerian students to conveniently apply for financial assistance to support their tertiary education.

According to a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday by Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, Director of Strategic Communications at NELFUND, on behalf of the Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the application window will run from Thursday, October 23, 2025, to Saturday, January 31, 2026.

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Key Details for the 2025/2026 NELFUND Student Loan

• Portal Opening Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
• Portal Closing Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
• Who Can Apply: Returning and newly admitted students of accredited tertiary institutions across Nigeria
• Application Link: https://portal.nelf.gov.ng/
• Student Identification: Fresh students can apply using either their JAMB Registration Number or Admission Number

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Commitment to Inclusive Access to Education

Mr. Sawyerr expressed appreciation to tertiary institutions nationwide for their continued collaboration and support in ensuring a smooth, transparent, and inclusive loan process. He urged institutions to update and upload verified student records on the NELFUND Student Verification Portal, emphasizing that accurate data is crucial for timely and successful loan disbursement.

He further called on universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to exercise flexibility in enforcing registration and fee payment deadlines for students awaiting loan disbursement, to ensure no student loses access to education due to financial difficulties.

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Special Notice to Institutions

NELFUND advised that institutions yet to commence their 2025/2026 academic session should submit their approved academic calendars to the Fund. This will help align loan disbursement schedules with institutional timelines. Additionally, schools are encouraged to offer temporary registration to students awaiting loan approval, ensuring uninterrupted access to learning.

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NELFUND’s Ongoing Commitment

NELFUND reaffirmed its mission to make higher education accessible and affordable for every Nigerian student. Through its ongoing partnership with tertiary institutions, the Fund continues to streamline its processes to make student loan access faster, fairer, and more efficient.

For technical support or inquiries, institutions and students can reach NELFUND through the following official communication channels:

• Email: [email protected]
• X (Twitter): @nelfund
• Instagram: @nelfund
• Facebook & LinkedIn: Nigerian Education Loan Fund – NELFUND
• Website: www.nelf.gov.ng