Guide To Apply For NELFUND Student Loan In Nigeria 2025

What Is NELFUND?

NELFUND is a federal initiative aimed at enhancing access to higher education by providing financial assistance to students. The program is designed to support tuition fees, accommodation, and other educational expenses. The loans are interest-free and are repayable two years after completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, provided the borrower is employed.

Eligibility Criteria for NELFUND Loan

To qualify for the NELFUND student loan, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Citizenship: Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Admission Status: Must have secured admission into an accredited public or private tertiary institution in Nigeria.
Program Level: Applicable to students in undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational programs.
Academic Performance: Must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) as specified by the institution’s guidelines.
Financial Need: Demonstrate financial need through supporting documentation.

Required Documents for NELFUND Loan

Applicants should prepare the following documents before starting the application process:

Admission Letter: Proof of admission into a recognized tertiary institution.
National Identification Number (NIN): For identity verification.
Bank Verification Number (BVN): To facilitate financial transactions.
Bank Account Details: A commercial bank account is required.
Student Identification Card: Optional but may be requested by some institutions.

How to Apply for NELFUND Student Loan

Follow these steps to apply for the NELFUND student loan:

Visit the Official Portal: Go to www.nelf.gov.ng.
Create an Account: Click on the “Apply Now” button and register by providing your personal details.
Complete the Application Form: Fill in the required information, including your academic and financial details.
Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of the required documents.
Review and Submit: Ensure all information is accurate before submitting your application.

The application process is designed to be completed within 15 to 30 minutes. The portal is secure and user-friendly, ensuring a smooth application experience.

Application Deadlines for NELFUND Loan Nigeria

The application deadlines for the 2025 academic session are as follows:

Opening Date: March 1, 2025
Closing Date: June 30, 2025

It is advisable to apply early to avoid last-minute complications.

Loan Approval and Disbursement

After submission, applications undergo a verification process. Applicants will receive notifications regarding the status of their application. Once approved, loans are disbursed directly to the institutions on behalf of the students. In some cases, students may receive funds directly for personal expenses.

Repayment Terms

Repayment of the NELFUND loan begins two years after completing the NYSC program, provided the borrower is employed. The repayment rate is 10% of the borrower’s monthly income. For self-employed individuals, repayment is based on a self-assessed income. If a borrower is unemployed, repayment is not required until employment is secured.

Tips for a Successful Application

Apply Early: Submitting your application well before the deadline ensures ample time for processing.
Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all information and documents for accuracy to avoid delays.
Use a Valid Bank Account: Ensure your bank account is active and capable of receiving funds.
Monitor Application Status: Regularly check your email and the NELFUND portal for updates on your application.

Contact Information

For assistance or inquiries, you can reach out to NELFUND through the following channels:

Website: www.nelf.gov.ng
Email: support@nelf.gov.ng
Phone: 0800-NELFUND (0800-6353863)

Guide to Apply for NELFUND Student Loan in Nigeria 2025