For a while now, many students who applied for the NELFUND loan in the 2023/2024 academic session have been left hanging. Some are still waiting for alerts from their banks, others believe the money is being delayed, while a few think the government has completely stopped the program.
If you’re one of those applicants, here’s the reality of what’s happening and, more importantly, what you can do next.
The Problem Students Are Facing
Unpaid Applications
Thousands of applicants from the 2023/2024 session never got any Upkeep disbursement.
Misinformation Everywhere
Some people say banks are holding the funds, while others claim payments are still being processed. The truth is, no one has been given clear information.
Silence from Official Channels
With little or no communication, students are left confused, anxious, and unsure of what steps to take.
The Clarification
Here’s what has now become clear:
✅ The 2023/2024 applications have been abandoned.
✅ NELFUND is now focusing on the 2024/2025 academic session.
✅ If you applied last session and haven’t been paid, it’s unlikely anything else will come from it.
It’s not the easiest news to accept, but knowing the truth will help you plan better.
What You Can Do Moving Forward
Reapply for the 2024/2025 Session
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Get your updated school documents ready (admission letter, ID, or course details).
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Make sure your bank details are correct and match what you’ll use in your application.
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Once the portal reopens, submit a fresh application under the new session.
Stick to Verified Information
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Follow only the official NELFUND website and verified social media handles.
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Don’t rely on WhatsApp forwards or unverified blogs — they often cause more confusion.
Prepare a Back-Up Plan
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While waiting for approval, consider other ways to support yourself, like cooperative loans, part-time jobs, or family assistance.
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That way, your academics won’t be put on hold while you wait.
Questions Students Often Ask
Why was 2023/2024 abandoned?
Most likely due to restructuring and the start of a new funding cycle.
Will pending applicants still get paid?
No. Payments have now shifted to the 2024/2025 session.
What if I already received part of the loan?
If you got a first disbursement, you may continue receiving subsequent ones. If you never got anything at all, you’ll need to reapply.
A Word of Encouragement
It’s normal to feel disappointed after waiting so long without results. But don’t give up.
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You’re not the only one — thousands of students are in the same situation.
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A new opportunity is here — the 2024/2025 session gives you another chance.
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Staying consistent matters — the system is new, and it will take persistence to benefit fully.
Think of this as a fresh start, not a dead end. Reapply with the right details, keep your eyes on official updates, and your effort will eventually pay off.
Final Takeaway
The truth is simple: NELFUND is no longer processing 2023/2024 applications for now. The best way forward is to reapply under the 2024/2025 academic session.
Don’t let the frustration of the past hold you back. Get your documents ready, wait for the new portal to open, and go for it again. With patience and determination, you’ll get the support you need to keep pushing your education forward.
