Nigerian Education Loan Fund Extends 2025/2026 Loan Application Deadline Again
By Momodu Favour
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced another extension of the deadline for student loan applications for the 2025/2026 academic session, days after the portal was initially scheduled to close on February 27.
The extension follows an earlier adjustment to the deadline and is aimed at giving more eligible students the opportunity to complete their applications.
However, the Fund did not disclose a new closing date, stating that further communication would be made after internal management decisions.
In a statement issued by its Director of Strategic Communications, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, NELFUND said the decision was informed by strong feedback from students and key stakeholders across the country, as well as a surge in applications and inquiries recorded in recent weeks.
The Fund explained that the extension is intended to accommodate institutions that are newly commencing their 2025/2026 academic session and those that have not yet submitted their verified student lists.
It also noted that some prospective applicants only became aware of the scheme during recent nationwide sensitisation engagements, necessitating additional time for them to complete the application process.
“In response to strong feedback from students and key stakeholders across the country, and in recognition of the surge in applications and inquiries, the Fund has approved some additional days to ensure all eligible students are given adequate opportunity to complete their applications, pending further management decisions and communications,” the statement read in part.
NELFUND further directed that institutions yet to commence the 2025/2026 academic session must submit an official request for extension, accompanied by their approved academic calendar, for consideration.
The student loan scheme, introduced by the Federal Government, is designed to provide financial support to eligible students in public tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The Fund said the latest extension underscores its commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that no qualified applicant is left out due to administrative or timing constraints.
Stakeholders are now awaiting further clarification from the agency regarding the new application deadline.
