There has been growing interest and confusion surrounding Ghana's "No Fees Stress" initiative. Many have questioned whether this support is a loan or a grant. Let’s set the record straight.
It’s Not a Loan
The "No Fees Stress" program is not a loan scheme. Students who benefit from this initiative are not expected to repay any amount in the future. This clarification is vital, especially for families concerned about hidden financial obligations.
Why It Exists
The policy is designed to ease the financial burden on first-year students who have recently gained admission into public tertiary institutions across the country. Its goal is to either fully or partially cover academic user fees for the 2024–2025 academic year.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
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Be enrolled as a first-year student.
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Have gained admission to a public tertiary institution—this includes universities, colleges of education, and nursing training colleges.
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Be pursuing either a diploma or degree program.
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Have been admitted in the 2024–2025 academic year.
How to Apply
Eligible students can apply by visiting the official application portal at nofeestress.sltf.gov.gh. The process involves:
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Filling out an online form with accurate admission information.
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Submitting the completed form.
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Awaiting verification from your institution to confirm your admission status.
Official Announcement
On May 12, 2025, the government announced that the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) would manage the process of reimbursing academic user fees for all eligible first-year students under this initiative.
This program is a significant step toward accessible tertiary education in Ghana, and understanding its true nature helps more students benefit from it without unnecessary concerns.