How to Get GETFund for a Student in Ghana — A Comprehensive Guide

The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) is one of the most critical government interventions aimed at improving access to quality education across Ghana.

Established in 2005 under Act 693, the GETFund provides financial support for both public and private educational institutions, including students who require assistance with tuition and other academic-related expenses.

For many students in Ghana—especially those from low-income families—GETFund can be a lifeline that enables them to pursue tertiary education without the burden of high tuition fees.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to get GETFund as a student in Ghana, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and tips for maximizing your chances of approval.

🎓 What is GETFund?

The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) is a government-established fund designed to support education at all levels—from basic education to tertiary institutions. The fund is sourced primarily from a 2.5% levy on the Value Added Tax (VAT) collected nationwide.

GETFund supports various aspects of education, including:

Construction and maintenance of school infrastructure
Provision of teaching and learning materials
Scholarships and bursaries for students
Support for research and innovation

In the context of tertiary education, GETFund plays a significant role in financing the Student Loan Scheme, which helps students pay for their university or polytechnic education.

📚 Who Qualifies for GETFund Support?

While GETFund itself does not directly award scholarships to individual students, it finances the Student Loans Scheme managed by the National Student Financial Aid Authority (NaSFA). Therefore, when people refer to “getting GETFund,” they usually mean applying for a student loan funded by GETFund.

To qualify for a GETFund-supported student loan, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a Ghanaian Citizen: Only citizens of Ghana are eligible.
Admitted into a Public Tertiary Institution: You must have secured admission into an accredited public university, polytechnic, or college of education.
Pursuing a First Degree or Equivalent Program: The loan is typically available for first-degree programs or equivalent qualifications.
Not Previously Benefited from the Scheme: If you’ve already received a full loan for a degree program, you may not be eligible for another unless upgrading to a higher level (e.g., Master’s).
Financial Need: While not always strictly enforced, applicants from low-income households are prioritized.

✅ How to Apply for GETFund-Supported Student Loan in Ghana

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a student loan funded by GETFund:

Step 1: Secure Admission

Before applying, ensure that you have been officially admitted into a public tertiary institution in Ghana. This includes universities like the University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and others, as well as polytechnics and teacher training colleges.

Step 2: Register for NaSFA Online Portal

Visit the official website of the National Student Financial Aid Authority (NaSFA) at https://nasfa.gov.gh.

Create an account using your personal details and valid email address.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Personal information (name, date of birth, etc.)
Academic records (WASSCE/SSSCE results, admission letter)
Contact information
Guardian or referee details
Bank account details (for disbursement)

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Scan and upload the following documents:

National Identification Card or Birth Certificate
WASSCE/SSSCE Results
Admission Letter from the tertiary institution
Proof of residence (optional but recommended)
Parent/Guardian ID (if applicable)

Step 5: Submit and Wait for Review

Once your application is complete, submit it and wait for NaSFA to review and verify your details. This process may take several weeks.

Step 6: Attend Interview or Verification (if required)

Some applicants may be contacted for an interview or further verification, especially if there are discrepancies in the submitted documents.

Step 7: Receive Approval and Disbursement

If approved, the funds will be disbursed directly to your institution to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other approved expenses.

💡 Tips for a Successful GETFund Loan Application

Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Start your application as soon as you receive your admission letter.
Double-Check Your Information: Ensure all data entered is accurate to avoid delays or rejection.
Use Valid Email and Phone Number: NaSFA communicates updates via SMS and email.
Keep Copies of All Documents: Always keep digital and physical copies of your uploaded files.
Follow Up Regularly: Check your portal regularly for updates or additional requirements.

🧾 What Does the GETFund Loan Cover?

The GETFund-supported student loan typically covers:

Tuition fees
Hostel accommodation (where applicable)
Feeding allowance
Learning materials (books, stationery, etc.)
Other approved academic expenses

Note: The exact amount disbursed depends on the institution and the student’s financial need.

🔁 Repayment of GETFund Loan

Repayment begins after graduation and is income-based. Key points about repayment include:

Repayment starts six months after graduation
Monthly repayment is 10% of gross monthly income
No interest is charged during study period
There is a repayment grace period for unemployed graduates

You can repay your loan through banks, mobile money platforms, or the NaSFA portal.

📞 Where to Seek Help

If you encounter challenges during the application process, you can contact NaSFA through:

Website: https://nasfa.gov.gh
Email: info@nasfa.gov.gh
Phone: +233 302 936 888 / +233 302 936 890
Social Media: Follow @NaSFA_GH on Twitter and Facebook

Additionally, many tertiary institutions have NaSFA help desks where students can seek guidance.

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is GETFund a scholarship?

No, GETFund itself is not

What are the sources of funds for GETFund?

To be admitted to a recognized postsecondary program in Ghana, you must be a Ghanaian. You need to have a current Ghana Card Number, which is free to obtain at specific GRA offices.

What is the mission of GETFund?

The goal of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) is to improve the standard of education in Ghana by guaranteeing that all children have access to basic and postsecondary education.

Who is the head of the Ghana Education Trust Fund?

he Management and Staff of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) officially welcomed Mr. Paul Adjei as he began his tenure as Administrator.

Q2: Can I apply for GETFund if I’m studying in a private university?

Currently, GETFund-backed loans are only available for students admitted into public tertiary institutions in Ghana.

Q3: Do I need collateral to get a GETFund loan?

No, the GETFund-supported student loan is collateral-free and based on financial need and academic admission.

Q4: Can I apply if I’m already in school?

Yes, current students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply, though priority is often given to freshers (newly admitted students).

Q5: What happens if I drop out or defer my studies?

You should inform NaSFA immediately. Your loan status may be reviewed, and repayment terms could change.

Q6: How long does the application process take?

It typically takes 4–6 weeks , depending on the volume of applications and verification processes.

Q7: Can I use the loan to pay for accommodation outside campus?

The loan covers hostel accommodation within the institution. For off-campus housing, you may need to make alternative arrangements.

Q8: Are there any exemptions from repaying the loan?

There are no full exemptions, but income-based repayment ensures that students only pay what they can afford.

Q9: Can I apply for more than one loan?

Students are eligible for one loan per degree level unless upgrading to a higher qualification (e.g., from Bachelor’s to Master’s).