The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced the opening of its student loan application portal for the 2025/2026 academic session, scheduled to run from Thursday, October 23, 2025, to Saturday, January 31, 2026.
Director, Strategic Communications, NELFUND, Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, announced this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
The Fund reminded institutions to update and upload the verified records of both returning and newly admitted students on the NELFUND Student Verification Portal, as this step is essential for students to successfully apply and benefit from the scheme.
‘NELFUND appreciates the continued cooperation of tertiary institutions nationwide and seeks their further collaboration to ensure a smooth and inclusive loan process for all eligible students,’ the statement added.
Oluwatuyi in the statement noted that to support a seamless rollout, institutions are advised to note the following:
‘Item Details / Action Required
Portal Opening Date Thursday, October 23, 2025; Portal Closing Date Saturday, January 31, 2026.
‘Eligible Students Returning and newly admitted students of accredited tertiary institutions; Student Identification Fresh students may apply using either their Admission Number or JAMB Registration Number (in place of Matric Number).
‘Institutional flexibility: Institutions are encouraged to show understanding in enforcing registration and fee payment deadlines for students awaiting loan disbursement.
‘Special Notice: Institutions that have not yet commenced their 2025/2026 academic session should formally write to NELFUND with their approved academic calendar for scheduling flexibility.’
NELFUND further appealed to all institutions to consider temporary registration measures for students whose loan applications are being processed to ensure that no student loses access to education due to financial constraints.