The Federal Government has introduced the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) to support students in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. This loan covers tuition fees and, in some cases, upkeep allowance.
When I first heard about this loan how surprised about how straight forward this loan is compare to traditional bank loans in Nigeria, you don’t have to start paying back the money immediately.
Federal Government gives you grace to finish school start working and after few years before you can start paying the money back.
You just have to apply directly online, you don’t have to bring 2 guarantor, or start doing unnecessary documents neither do you need any collateral to get this loan just make sure you’re a full time student.
Key Takeaways
- Only full-time students in Nigerian public tertiary institutions can apply.
- Documents needed include NIN, BVN, admission letter, and JAMB details.
- Application is completed online through the NELFund portal.
- Tuition is paid directly to schools. Upkeep is optional.
- Repayment starts two years after NYSC or when you start earning.
Who Can Apply for NELFund?
To qualify for the Federal Government student loan, you must:
- Be a Nigerian citizen.
- Be admitted into a public university, polytechnic, or college of education.
- Be a full-time student.
- Have valid ID and bank details.
To be honest, I think Federal Government did well by excluding Private institution did very well this time, knowing fully that any individual that can afford to go Private University is not a middle class or did not come from a struggling family.
For instance, how much did Federal Government want to support private university student with, that will be enough to pay their school fee?
Anyways let’s continue
The Benefits of Online Learning Platforms: Flexibility, Accessibility, and Personalization
Documents Required
Before applying, ensure you have:
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Bank Verification Number (BVN)
- Admission letter and matriculation number
- JAMB registration number
- Student ID card
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for NELFund Loan
- Go to portal.nelf.gov.ng.
- Click Apply Now → Get Started.
- Confirm eligibility: “Yes, I am a Nigerian.”
- Select your institution and enter matriculation number.
- Verify details with JAMB or NIN.
- Create an account with email and password.
- Activate your account through the verification link in your email.
- Login and update:
- Contact details
- Educational details
- Bank details (BVN, account number)
- Click Request for Student Loan.
- Select loan type: tuition only, or tuition + upkeep.
- Upload documents (admission letter, student ID, invoice).
- Review and accept terms, including the Global Standing Instruction (GSI).
- Submit application.
- Track your application status by logging in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a guarantor for the student loan?
No. The loan does not require guarantors.
When does repayment start?
Repayment begins two years after NYSC or once you start earning income.
Can I cancel my loan?
Yes. You must contact NELFund via the official portal with a formal request.
Why NELFund is Important for Students
This initiative reduces financial pressure and helps students complete their education without dropping out. It’s also more flexible than private loans because repayment begins only after graduation.
This is a good development to education because I could remember a friend that forfeited his admission when we were in school because he could not afford his year 3 (300 level) school.
He had struggled with a lot of things tried to do side hustle in school but he could not afford to raise the money for school fee, when it comes to buying hand out, it’s also a problem.
but with the emergence of Federal Government loans for students now, any students from a low class family can now go to school, focus with their education because the blocker has been removed, can now graduate with ease before finally being requested to start paying back.
Conclusion
The Federal Government student loan (NELFund) is a practical solution for students seeking affordable education funding. By meeting the requirements and following the online application process, you can secure financial support for your studies.