NELFUND Extends Student Loan Application Deadline Amid Rising Nationwide Demand

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has approved an extension of its Student Loan Application Portal following a surge in nationwide interest driven by its ongoing sensitisation campaign.

The Fund had earlier issued a reminder that the application portal would close on February 27, 2026. However, in response to growing awareness, increased applications and appeals from students and stakeholders, management approved additional days to allow more eligible applicants to complete the process.

Reasons for the Extension

According to NELFUND, the extension is designed to accommodate:

Students who need extra time to complete their applications

Prospective applicants who only recently became aware of the scheme during sensitisation outreaches

Institutions just commencing their 2025/2026 academic session

Institutions yet to submit their verified student lists

Speaking on the development, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to expanding access to tertiary education financing.

He noted that the sensitisation campaign conducted across the six geopolitical zones significantly boosted participation and public awareness.

“Our sensitisation efforts across the six geopolitical zones have significantly increased awareness and participation. In line with our mandate to expand access to tertiary education financing, we have approved an extension to ensure all eligible students have a fair and equal opportunity to apply,” Sawyerr said.

Conditions for Institutions

NELFUND emphasised that institutions which have not yet commenced the 2025/2026 academic session must formally apply for an extension. Such requests must be accompanied by the institution’s approved academic calendar for consideration.

Students were urged to utilise the extended window to complete their applications through the official NELFUND portal before the final closure date, which will be communicated after further management review.

The Fund reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable student financing solutions aimed at removing financial barriers to higher education in Nigeria.

For inquiries, students and institutions can contact NELFUND via email at info@nelf.gov.ng or through its official social media platforms and website.