HELB, a state agency under Kenya’s Ministry of Education, provides low-interest loans and bursaries to students in public and private universities, as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the East African Community. Established to promote equitable access to higher education, HELB loans cover tuition, books, accommodation, and other essential expenses. With an interest rate of 4% per annum and a modest Kshs. 1,000 ledger fee annually, HELB loans are a cost-effective solution for Kenyan students.
Who is Eligible for a HELB Loan?
Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to confirm your eligibility. HELB loans are designed for specific groups of students:
- Undergraduate Students: Must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program at a public or chartered private university within the East African Community, either through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) or as self-sponsored, parallel, or Module II students.
- TVET Students: Must be enrolled in recognized TVET institutions listed by HELB.
- Exclusions: Pre-university, certificate, diploma, or postgraduate students are not eligible for undergraduate loans. However, HELB offers partial scholarships for Master’s and PhD students at accredited Kenyan universities.
The number of loans a student can access depends on the duration of their program, with first-time and subsequent applications available.
Key Dates for 2025/2026 HELB Loan Applications
For the 2025/2026 academic year, HELB has announced that applications for first-time undergraduate and TVET loans, scholarships, and bursaries are open. The deadline for applications is August 31. To avoid delays, students are advised to apply at least one month before their university or college opening date to allow sufficient processing time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a HELB Loan
The HELB loan application process is now fully digital, accessible through the HEF portal (www.hef.co.ke), the Universities Fund portal (www.universitiesfund.go.ke), or the HELB website (www.helb.co.ke). Below is a detailed breakdown of the process, ensuring you can apply seamlessly.
Step 1: Visit the HEF or HELB Portal
To begin, access the student portal via one of these websites:
Click on the “Student Portal” link, typically found in the menu bar. This portal is your gateway to loan applications, disbursement status, and account management.
Step 2: Create an Account
If you’re a first-time applicant, you’ll need to create an account. Here’s how:
- Select National ID or KCSE Index Number:
- With National ID: Choose “Yes” under “Do you have a National ID Number?” and enter your ID number (e.g., 12345678). Select “Kenyan Citizen” as the ID type, input your first name as it appears on your ID, and click “Validate.”
- Without National ID: Select “No,” then provide your KCSE Index Number, the year you sat for your KCSE exams, and the KUCCPS Programme Code from your admission letter. Click “Validate” to proceed.
- Enter Email and Password: Provide a valid email address you can access and create a secure password. Confirm both fields and verify you’re not a robot. If your ID or KCSE Index Number is found, complete the registration form with your full name and other required details.
- Email Verification: Check your email (including spam/junk folders) for an activation link. Click it to activate your account. If the link expires, request a new one via the portal.
Step 3: Log In to Your Account
Once your account is activated, return to the portal and log in using your email address and password. Check the “Remember Me” option for convenience on trusted devices. If you forget your password, click “Forgot Password?” and follow the reset instructions sent to your email.
Step 4: Complete Your Profile and Biodata
After logging in, update your profile with the following:
- Personal Details: Enter a valid telephone number registered in your name to receive a verification code. If the code expires, click “Resend” for a new one.
- Consent to Data Collection: Read the consent form explaining why HELB collects your data, then tick the checkbox to agree to the terms of use.
- Residence Details: Provide your current residence information and save to continue.
- Educational Background: Add details of your primary and secondary schools, including KCPE and KCSE index numbers and examination years.
- University/College Details: Input your institution’s details, including the program code from your admission letter.
Step 5: Provide Parents’ and Guarantors’ Details
- Parents’ Information: Enter your parents’ National ID numbers and registered phone numbers. If a parent is deceased, upload a PDF copy of their death certificate.
- Guarantors’ Details: Provide ID numbers and phone numbers for two guarantors, who can be your parents.
Step 6: Accept Loan Terms and Conditions
Review the loan terms, which include a 4% interest rate and a Kshs. 1,000 annual ledger fee. Tick the box to consent to data processing and accept the terms.
Step 7: Provide Payment Information
Choose your preferred payment method for loan disbursement:
- Bank Account: Provide valid bank details registered in your name.
- M-PESA: Enter a valid M-PESA number registered under your name and ID. HELB has partnered with Safaricom to disburse funds directly to M-PESA accounts via the HELB Mobile Wallet or M-PESA Mini App.
Step 8: Submit Your Application
Carefully review all entered information, as editing is not possible after submission. Click “Submit” to complete your application. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS with a serial number as proof of submission. A PDF version of your application will also be sent to your email.
Required Documents for HELB Loan Application
To complete your application, you’ll need to upload the following documents in the specified formats:
- Passport-size photo (JPEG/JPG/PNG)
- National ID/Maisha Card (both sides in PDF)
- Valid bank details or M-PESA number (registered in your name)
- KCPE and KCSE index numbers and examination years
- Parents’ National ID numbers and registered phone numbers
- Parent’s death certificate (if applicable, in PDF)
- Birth certificate (if applying as a minor, in PDF)
- Two guarantors’ ID numbers and phone numbers
- Sponsorship letter (if sponsored in secondary school, in PDF)
- Admission letter and KCSE result slip/certificate
- Bank ATM/card or Smart Card from your institution (for KUCCPS students)
Ensure all documents are clear, valid, and properly formatted as per HELB’s guidelines.
Applying as a Second or Subsequent Applicant
If you’ve previously received a HELB loan, the process for subsequent applications is simpler:
- Via HELB Mobile App or USSD:
- Download the HELB Mobile App from Google Play Store or dial *642#.
- Register using your phone number to generate a PIN. Ensure the number is registered in your name.
- Log in, accept the license agreement, and select the “Loans” tab.
- Choose your application level (Degree, Diploma, or Certificate) and academic year, then submit.
- Via HEF Portal: Log in to the portal, select “Undergraduate Second and Subsequent Scholarship and Loan,” and follow the prompts to update your details and submit.
Tracking Your Application Status
After submission, track your application’s progress on the HEF portal or HELB Mobile App. You’ll receive notifications on verification, award, and disbursement of tuition and upkeep funds. For assistance, contact HELB at contactcentre@helb.co.ke or call 0711052000.
Tips for a Successful HELB Loan Application
- Apply Early: Submit your application well before the August 31, 2025, deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
- Verify Details: Ensure all information and documents are accurate to prevent delays or rejections.
- Use Registered Accounts: Your phone number and bank/M-PESA account must be registered in your name.
- Check Email Regularly: Monitor your inbox and spam folder for activation links and updates.
- Seek Help if Needed: Contact HELB’s support team for technical issues or clarification.
Challenges and Solutions
Some applicants face issues like portal glitches or ID validation errors. For example, students without National IDs can use their KCSE Index Number, but those with only ID waiting cards may encounter difficulties. If the portal indicates your ID is activated on another device, contact HELB’s customer service immediately.
Why Choose a HELB Loan?
HELB loans empower Kenyan students to pursue higher education without financial strain. With low interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and a user-friendly online application process, HELB remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s higher education financing. The new Student-Centred Funding Model, introduced in 2023, ensures equitable support based on financial need, combining loans, scholarships, and household contributions.
Applying for a HELB loan in 2025/2026 is a straightforward process if you follow the outlined steps and prepare the required documents. By leveraging the HEF portal or HELB Mobile App, you can secure funding to support your academic journey. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or seeking subsequent funding, act early, verify your details, and stay informed to make the most of HELB’s financial aid. For more information, visit www.helb.co.ke or www.hef.co.ke, and take the first step toward empowering your educational dreams.
