The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced a new deadline for students applying for its 2025/2026 student loan programme, extending the closing date from January 31 to February 27, 2026.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the Fund said the extension aims to give prospective applicants extra time to complete and submit their forms.
This is to ensure that no eligible student is excluded due to timing challenges during the application process.
Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, Director of Strategic Communications at NELFUND, explained that the extension was necessary because many students require additional time to prepare and finalise their application materials.
Speaking on the decision, NELFUND’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Akintunde Sawyerr, said the move underscores the Fund’s commitment to inclusivity and access to education.
“This extension reflects our commitment to inclusivity and access," he stated.
"We understand that some applicants may require additional time to complete their submissions, and this decision ensures that every eligible Nigerian student has a fair opportunity to benefit from the Fund.”
Students who are yet to apply, or those who started but have not completed their applications, are urged to make use of the extended deadline and ensure all required information is submitted on or before February 27, 2026.
NELFUND has encouraged applicants to follow its official communication channels for further updates and to contact the Fund via email or its verified social media platforms for any questions about the application process.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund was established to manage the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme, which provides interest-free loans to students in public tertiary institutions, helping them cover tuition fees and related school expenses.
