So, you're a Nigerian student dreaming of completing your education without stressing over school fees? You’re not alone—and guess what? There’s finally a solution made just for you! Thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, Nigerian students now have access to a student loan program that’s interest-free, easy to apply for, and managed by the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
If you’ve been hearing about the Tinubu Student Loan but aren’t sure how to go about it, this guide will walk you through everything—from who qualifies, to how to apply, and what to expect after.
Let’s dive in!
What’s the Tinubu Student Loan All About?
This loan was introduced under the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024, with a clear mission: help financially struggling students in public tertiary institutions get access to quality education without worrying about tuition.
That means if you’re currently in a federal or state-owned university, polytechnic, or college of education—and you need help covering your school fees—this loan is for YOU.
And yes, it’s interest-free! That’s right. You don’t pay any extra charges or interest on what you borrow.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Checklist)
Before jumping to the application, here’s how to know if you qualify:
- You must be Nigerian (no shortcuts here).
- You must be admitted into a federal or state-owned tertiary institution.
- You should demonstrate financial need (this isn't for the rich kids).
- You must maintain good academic performance.
You’ll also need to provide these documents:
- Your JAMB admission letter
- Your National Identification Number (NIN)
- Your Bank Verification Number (BVN)
So if you’re a legit student, and you’ve got these documents, you're already halfway there!
How to Apply – Step-by-Step
Here’s the fun part—how to actually apply. Don’t worry, it’s simpler than it sounds.
1. Visit the Official NELFUND Portal
Go to https://nelf.gov.ng. This is the only official site. Don’t fall for any “agent” asking for payment!
2. Click on “Apply Now”
You’ll see a big button saying “Apply Now.” Click it, then hit “Get Started.”
3. Confirm You're Nigerian
The portal will ask you to confirm you’re Nigerian. Just click “Yes, I am a Nigerian.” Boom—you’re in.
4. Fill in Your Educational Info
Enter your school name, course of study, year, and other academic details.
5. Upload Your Required Documents
Make sure your JAMB admission letter, NIN, and BVN are scanned and ready. Upload them one after the other.
6. Review and Submit
Double-check everything. Once you’re sure it’s all correct, click Submit.
That’s it. You’re done!
What Does the Loan Cover?
The loan covers:
- Tuition fees
- Other related education costs (depending on updates by NELFUND)
No need to pay interest. Repayment begins after graduation, and it’s based on your income level—so you only start paying back when you can afford it.
When Was the Loan Portal Launched?
The application portal officially opened on May 24, 2024, and the program is already up and running. As of early 2025, over ₦22.7 billion has already been disbursed to more than 215,000 students across 59 tertiary institutions.
If your school is one of them, you’ve got no excuse—go apply!
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Make sure your documents are clear – blurry scans can slow you down.
- Use a valid email address and phone number – you’ll get updates there.
- Apply early – avoid last-minute network stress.
- Keep checking your email or dashboard for updates on your application.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this is a great opportunity, and many students have already taken advantage of it. President Tinubu’s student loan program is a game-changer, especially for students who are eager to complete school but just don’t have the funds.
If you’ve ever worried about how to pay your school fees, this is your chance to breathe easy.
Visit nelf.gov.ng today and submit your application. Don’t wait!