Are you a Nigerian student wondering whether the NELFund student loan has started paying out? Or maybe you’re asking, “How do I know if my NELFund application is approved?” You’re in the right place.
Right here on this page, we’ll answer all these questions — and more — with accurate, up-to-date information.
As Nigeria gradually rolls out its new education loan system, thousands of students across the country are searching for clear answers about NELFund — the Nigeria Education Loan Fund designed to provide tuition and upkeep support for eligible students in public tertiary institutions.
In this blog post, we’ll break it all down:
- What’s NELFund All About?
- Whether NELFund has started paying students
- How to check if your loan has been approved
- If the NELFund application is still ongoing
- And most importantly: Is there really a student loan system in Nigeria?
Let’s dive in.
What’s NELFund All About?
NELFund, short for the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, is a government-backed financial support scheme introduced to make higher education more accessible and affordable for Nigerian students.
It was established under the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2023, and officially began operations in 2024, with a full rollout in 2025.
The main goal of NELFund is simple:
To remove financial barriers that prevent students from completing their education.
With this loan, eligible students in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education can now:
- Pay tuition feeswith ease
- Receive upkeep supportfor feeding, transport, and books
- Focus more on studies instead of worrying about school bills
And here’s the best part:
You don’t start repaying the loan until after graduation — and only when you start earning.
How the NELFund Loan Works
If you’re wondering exactly how the NELFund student loan operates, here’s a simplified breakdown of everything it covers — so you know what to expect before applying:
| Feature | Details |
| Loan Type | Interest-free loan (No interest or compound charges attached) |
| Eligibility | Nigerian students enrolled in public universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education with a valid JAMB registration number |
| Coverage | Full or partial tuition fee support plus upkeep allowance (for feeding, books, transport, etc.) |
| Repayment | Begins after graduation, only when the beneficiary starts earning a minimum income from formal employment |
| Application Mode | Online via the official NELFund portal: https://nelf.gov.ng |
This isn’t just another government promise — NELFund is a real, active initiative and a game-changer for thousands of students across Nigeria who would otherwise struggle to afford higher education.
With no interest rates, no repayment until you’re employed, and easy online access, it’s one of the most student-friendly funding schemes Nigeria has ever introduced.
Has NELFund Started Paying Students?
Yes — as of 2025, NELFund has officially started processing and paying student upkeep loans.
According to the latest update from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund management, disbursement began in phases, starting with federal tertiary institutions. Eligible students who completed their applications correctly and met the criteria have started receiving notifications and payments.
So if you haven’t received payment yet, don’t panic. The rollout is ongoing and based on:
- Institution verification
- Confirmation of admission and matriculation numbers
- Cross-checking with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)
How Do I Know If My NELFund Loan Is Approved?
Once you submit your application via the NELFund portal, here’s how to check your approval status:
Step-by-Step:
- Log into your account on https://nelf.gov.ng using your email and password.
- On your dashboard, check the “Application Status”
- If approved, you will see a notification message confirming the amount and disbursement stage.
- You may also receive an SMS or email update from NELFund.
Tip:
Ensure your BVN, school details, and personal information are accurate. Incorrect data may delay your approval.
Is the NELFund Application Still Ongoing?
Yes — the NELFund application is still ongoing for eligible students in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.
As of July 2025, NELFund is accepting applications from:
- Undergraduate students in federal and state universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education
- Students with valid JAMB registration numbers
- Students who have been fully admittedand verified by their institutions
To apply:
- Visit https://nelf.gov.ng
- Click on “Apply Now”
- Fill in your personal, academic, and banking details
- Upload required documents (admission letter, school ID, etc.)
- Submit and wait for status update
Applications are processed on a rolling basis, so the earlier you apply, the better your chances.
Read: 10 Legitimate Loan Apps in Nigeria – that offer Instant loans
Is There Really a Student Loan in Nigeria?
Yes — Nigeria now has a government-backed student loan scheme, and it’s 100% real.
This initiative is managed by the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) and was created under the Student Loans Act signed in 2023. The goal is to:
- Provide financial support for tuition, upkeep, and other student needs
- Help students from low-income families access higher education
- Reduce student dropouts due to financial hardship
Key Features of the NELFund Student Loan:
- Upkeep Payments:Monthly or semester-based financial support
- No Immediate Repayment:Students repay only after securing a job
- Zero Interest Rate:The loan is interest-free — no hidden charges
- Income-Linked Repayment:Deductions begin only when the graduate earns above a certain income threshold
So yes, student loans in Nigeria are now real — and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions on NELFund
How much is the NELFund upkeep payment?
Currently, upkeep payments vary depending on program and institution, but students can receive between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000 per session for living expenses.
Can private school students apply?
No. For now, only students in federal and state public tertiary institutions are eligible.
Will I repay the money?
Yes — but only after graduation and once you start earning. There are no penalties or interest if you remain unemployed.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Opportunity
The NELFund student loan is a game-changer for education in Nigeria. For years, many brilliant students dropped out or struggled through school due to lack of funds. Now, there’s a system in place to support you — from tuition to daily upkeep.
If you’re a Nigerian student in a public tertiary institution, don’t sleep on this.
Visit https://nelf.gov.ng, apply, and take control of your academic future.
Related Posts: