Interest-Free Student Loan Scheme Application 2026 – 11th Intake
Interest-Free Student Loan Scheme 2026 – 11th Intake
Applications for G.C.E. A/L 2023, 2024 & 2025 Students
Applications are invited for the Interest-Free Student Loan Scheme (IFSLS) for Selected Degree Programmes – 11th Intake conducted by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education (Higher Education Division).
Students who sat for the G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination in 2023, 2024 or 2025 and satisfy the applicable eligibility requirements may apply.
IFSLS 2026 – Key Details
Application Dates
| Details | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Opening Date | 17 August 2026 |
| Application Closing Date | 27 September 2026 |
Official Advertisement
| Sinhala Advertisement | View Advertisement |
| Tamil Advertisement | Pending |
| English Advertisement | Pending |
| Student Handbook (PDF) | Pending |
What is the Interest-Free Student Loan Scheme?
The Interest-Free Student Loan Scheme (IFSLS) is a Government-supported higher education financing scheme implemented by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.
The scheme is designed to expand higher education opportunities for eligible Sri Lankan students by allowing them to follow approved degree programmes at participating non-state higher education institutes.
Under the scheme, the Government bears the interest applicable to the student loan during the applicable loan period.
Who Can Apply?
Students who sat for the G.C.E. A/L Examination in 2023, 2024 or 2025 may apply for the 11th Intake, provided they satisfy all eligibility requirements and the entry requirements of their preferred degree programme.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
Available Degree Study Areas
Approved degree programmes under the IFSLS are offered across several major higher education subject streams.
Maximum Student Loan Amount
The maximum course-fee loan available depends on the selected degree programme, subject stream and duration. The highest applicable loan limit under the scheme is Rs. 1,500,000.
Maximum Loan Limits for 4-Year Degree Programmes
| Subject Stream | Maximum Loan |
|---|---|
| Engineering | Rs. 1,500,000 |
| Science – Biological / Biomedical / Chemical | Up to Rs. 1,200,000 |
| Physical Science / Biotechnology / Engineering Technology / ICT | Up to Rs. 1,000,000 |
| Management & Commerce | Up to Rs. 900,000 |
| Humanities & Social Sciences | Up to Rs. 800,000 |
Optional Stipend Loan
Eligible selected students may also obtain an optional interest-free stipend loan to assist with expenses during their study period, subject to the applicable conditions of the scheme.
Student Loan Repayment
| Details | Repayment |
|---|---|
| Total Loan Period | 12 Years |
| Interest | Borne by the Government subject to scheme conditions |
| Grace Period | 1 Year after completing the degree |
| 4-Year Degree | 84 Equal Monthly Instalments – 7 Years |
| 3-Year Degree | 96 Equal Monthly Instalments – 8 Years |
Higher Education Institutes
The official 11th Intake advertisement displays degree programmes offered through approved participating higher education institutions, including:
Important Conditions for Selected Students
✔ Students are required to enter into the necessary agreements with the Ministry and the lending bank.
✔ Students are expected to maintain the academic standards required under the scheme.
✔ Students are required to maintain the required attendance during the degree programme.
✔ Degree programmes should be completed within the stipulated duration, subject to the conditions of the IFSLS.
IFSLS Student Handbook
The official Student Handbook should be read carefully before completing the online application.
It normally provides detailed information on available degree programmes, institute-specific courses, entry qualifications, required A/L subjects, programme duration, course fees, loan amounts and other important conditions.
How to Apply for IFSLS 2026
Join our WhatsApp group and follow our channel for the latest student loan, university, course and examination updates.
Join WhatsApp Group Follow WhatsApp ChannelFrequently Asked Questions
Direct link to official source