PERCEPTION OF UNDERGRADUATE/UNIVERSITY STUDENTS ON THE ROLE OF NELFUND IN PROMOTING ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION IN UDUS

This study investigated undergraduate students’ perceptions of the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and its role in promoting access to higher education in Sokoto State, Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 200 final-year students at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, via a validated questionnaire (Cronbach Alpha = 0.79). Findings revealed very high awareness of NELFUND (mean = 0.90), with students demonstrating strong knowledge of its purpose, eligibility, and application processes. Students held positive perceptions of its potential to improve access (mean = 0.80), citing reduced financial barriers, lower dropout risk, and enhanced equity. Key benefits included the interest-free structure, post-graduation repayment, and support for academic focus and human capital development (mean = 0.78). However, significant drawbacks were noted (mean = 0.89), including complex procedures, transparency concerns, favoritism, repayment fears, and religious reservations. Students suggested sustained awareness campaigns, simplified processes, flexible repayment, upkeep allowances, and stronger institutional collaboration (mean = 0.78). The study concludes that NELFUND holds strong potential to expand access but requires administrative reforms to address barriers. Recommendations include intensified sensitization, streamlined applications, income-contingent repayment and direct university partnerships.