The Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) has announced the imminent closure of applications for the government’s “No Fees Stress” policy, a fee waiver initiative aimed at alleviating the financial burden on level 100 tertiary students in Ghana. The deadline for submissions is July 31, 2025, marking the end of the application period for the 2024/2025 academic year. This decisive step is crucial for several reasons, primarily to facilitate the timely processing of reimbursements to eligible students. Closing the application window also allows the SLTF to shift its focus towards preparing for the comprehensive implementation of the No Academic Fee Policy slated for the upcoming 2025/2026 academic year. This transition signifies a move towards a more permanent and structured approach to addressing tertiary education costs.
The “No Fees Stress” policy, implemented for the current academic year, has served as a bridge towards the broader No Academic Fee Policy. It has provided financial relief to a significant number of first-year students, enabling them to pursue their tertiary education without the immediate pressure of tuition fees. The SLTF’s announcement, disseminated through a statement signed by Obeng Agyenim Boateng, Head of Corporate Communications, underscores the importance of adhering to the deadline. The statement explicitly urges eligible students who have not yet applied to do so promptly via the designated online portal: https://nofeesstress.sltf.gov.gh. This underscores the SLTF’s commitment to ensuring that all qualified students benefit from the policy before it transitions to the next phase.
The government’s commitment to accessible and affordable tertiary education is evident in the implementation of these policies. The “No Fees Stress” initiative represents a significant step towards reducing financial barriers for students entering higher education. By covering academic fees for level 100 students, the government aims to create a more equitable playing field, allowing students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue their educational aspirations. The transition to the No Academic Fee Policy for the subsequent academic year signals a further commitment to expanding access and affordability in the tertiary education sector.
The progress made under the “No Fees Stress” policy, as revealed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, highlights its impact. According to the Minister, a substantial 175,094 students have accessed the application portal, demonstrating the high demand for this financial assistance. Of these, 60,756 applications have been successfully validated, and 40,233 students have already received their reimbursements. This efficient processing of applications and disbursement of funds showcases the SLTF’s commitment to ensuring timely support for students. Furthermore, an additional 151,492 students have completed their applications, indicating the continuing reach and impact of the policy.
The SLTF’s emphasis on the July 31 deadline underscores the importance of timely application submission for students seeking to benefit from the “No Fees Stress” policy. By adhering to this deadline, eligible students can ensure their applications are processed within the current academic year framework. Delaying applications beyond this point may jeopardize their eligibility for reimbursements under this specific policy. The closing of the application window is a necessary administrative step to facilitate the transition to the upcoming No Academic Fee Policy. This transition will represent a broader and more permanent implementation of government support for tertiary education financing.
The implementation of the “No Fees Stress” policy and the upcoming No Academic Fee Policy reflects the government’s dedication to enhancing access to tertiary education. These initiatives aim to mitigate the financial constraints that often prevent students from pursuing higher education, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. By easing the financial burden of tuition fees, the government strives to create a more inclusive and equitable tertiary education landscape, enabling a wider range of students to access and benefit from higher learning opportunities. The ultimate goal is to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to national development and improve their individual prospects.
