NELFUND & Student Loans in Nigeria 2026: How to Apply, Eligibility & Repayment

Please note

Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with NELFUND or the Federal Government. This is general information, not financial advice — apply only through the official portal (nelf.gov.ng / portal.nelf.gov.ng). Applying is free — no one legitimate charges a fee, and no agent can “guarantee” your loan. Amounts, terms and eligibility change — confirm the current details on the official portal.

NELFUND at a glance

What it is	Nigerian Education Loan Fund — interest-free (0%) student loan
Apply at	nelf.gov.ng · login portal.nelf.gov.ng
Covers	Tuition (paid to your school) + optional upkeep (~₦20,000/month)
Who	Nigerians in public tertiary institutions (federal & state)
Repayment	Starts 2 years after NYSC · 10% of income

How NELFUND works

You apply free on nelf.gov.ng once your school has uploaded your records. If eligible, NELFUND pays your tuition directly to your institution and (optionally) a monthly upkeep allowance to your bank account. It's a loan, not a grant — interest-free, repaid two years after NYSC.

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The money

Wider & safety

Need money you don't repay? See our grants guide and PTDF scholarships. Building a business? See the Youth Investment Fund. You'll need your NIN and a BVN to apply.

Frequently asked questions

What is NELFUND?

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund — the Federal Government's interest-free student loan scheme so no Nigerian student drops out of a public tertiary institution for lack of funds. It covers tuition (paid to your school) and an optional monthly upkeep allowance.

Is the NELFUND loan really interest-free?

Yes — it carries 0% interest, so you repay only the exact amount you borrowed. Repayment starts two years after you complete NYSC.

How do I apply for NELFUND?

Apply free on nelf.gov.ng: create an account, verify your JAMB/matric number and NIN, complete your profile, upload your admission letter, and request the loan. Only apply through the official portal.

Is NELFUND a grant?

No — it is a loan, not a grant, so it must be repaid (interest-free). For non-repayable funding, see our grants guide.

Independent guide, not affiliated with NELFUND, and not financial advice. Amounts and terms change — always confirm on the official NELFUND portal.