With over Kshs. 41 billion disbursed annually to support students, HELB remains a lifeline for those pursuing bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, certificates, and artisan courses. The 2025/2026 academic year brings new opportunities, with the application window for first-time and subsequent loans already open, closing on August 31, 2025. This article breaks down the HELB loan application requirements, eligibility, and tips to ensure a seamless process.
Who Qualifies for HELB Loans in 2025?
Before diving into the requirements, it’s essential to understand who is eligible for HELB loans. The eligibility criteria vary slightly for undergraduate and TVET students, but the core principles remain the same: ensuring financial support reaches those who need it most.
Undergraduate Loan Eligibility
HELB undergraduate loans are designed for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in public or chartered private universities within the East African Community. Key eligibility criteria include:
- Citizenship: Must be a Kenyan citizen.
- Institution: Enrolled in a public or chartered private university recognized by the Commission for University Education (CUE).
- Program: Pursuing a bachelor’s degree (Pre-University, Certificate, Diploma, or Postgraduate students are not eligible).
- Placement: Placed through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) or enrolled as self-sponsored, parallel, or Module II students.
- Need-Based Priority: Preference is given to needy students, including orphans, those from single-parent families, or households facing financial hardship.
TVET Loan Eligibility
HELB’s TVET loans support students in certificate, diploma, and higher national diploma courses at approved public universities, university colleges, national polytechnics, or TVET colleges under the Ministry of Education. Eligibility includes:
- Citizenship: Must be a Kenyan citizen.
- Institution: Enrolled in an approved TVET institution (check the Approved TVET Institution List for details).
- Program: Pursuing certificate, diploma, or higher national diploma courses.
- First-Time or Subsequent: Open to first-time applicants or those applying for subsequent funding based on program duration.
The Student-Centred Funding Model, introduced in 2023, categorizes students into four groups—vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, and less needy—using the Means Testing Instrument (MTI) to allocate scholarships, loans, and household contributions based on financial need. This ensures equitable funding, particularly for STEM students and those in TVET programs.
Key Requirements for HELB Loan Application 2025
To apply for a HELB loan, whether for undergraduate or TVET programs, applicants must provide specific documents and meet procedural requirements. Below is a detailed list of the HELB loan application requirements for 2025, applicable to both first-time and subsequent applicants.
General Requirements for Undergraduate and TVET Applicants
The following documents and details are mandatory for all applicants:
- Valid Email Address and Telephone Number: A personal email (preferably Gmail or Yahoo, as school emails may expire) and a Safaricom phone number registered in the applicant’s name for M-Pesa transactions.
- KCPE and KCSE Index Numbers and Year of Examination: These verify your academic history.
- Passport-Size Photo: A recent, colored photo in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format.
- National ID/Maisha Card: A PDF copy of both sides of the applicant’s National ID or Maisha Card.
- Bank Details or M-Pesa Number: A valid bank account or M-Pesa number registered under the applicant’s name and ID for loan disbursements (mandatory for KUCCPS-placed students).
- Parents’ National ID and Registered Telephone Number: For living parents, provide their ID numbers and phone numbers.
- Death Certificate (if applicable): A PDF copy of the parent’s death certificate if one or both parents are deceased.
- Birth Certificate (if a minor): A PDF copy for applicants under 18 years old.
- Two Guarantors’ ID Numbers and Phone Numbers: Guarantors can be parents or other individuals with valid IDs and registered phone numbers.
- Sponsorship Letter (if applicable): A PDF copy of the sponsorship letter if you were sponsored in secondary school.
Additional Requirements for Specific Cases
- KUCCPS-Placed Students: A copy of the admission letter and KCSE result slip/certificate.
- Self-Sponsored Students: Proof of enrollment in a recognized institution.
- TVET Students: Confirmation of enrollment in an approved TVET institution.
- Minors: Those under 18 must provide their KCSE index number, birth certificate, and waiting card (if they’ve applied for an ID).
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a HELB Loan
The HELB loan application process has been simplified in 2025 with the integration of the HEF portal (www.hef.co.ke) and the HELB Mobile App. Below is a step-by-step guide for first-time and subsequent applicants.
First-Time Undergraduate and TVET Loan Application
- Visit the HEF Portal: Go to www.hef.co.ke and create an account using your National ID or KCSE index number, a valid email, and a password.
- Complete Your Profile: Fill in sections for Personal Information, Residence, Education, Institution, and Parents under the “My Profile” tab.
- Upload Documents: Upload all required documents (e.g., National ID, KCSE results, passport photo) in the specified formats.
- Select Loan Type: Navigate to the “Loan Application” tab and choose “First Time Undergraduate Scholarship and Loan” or “First Time TVET Scholarship and Loan.”
- Consent to Terms: Review and accept the personal data collection consent form and loan terms.
- Provide Guarantors and Bank Details: Enter guarantors’ details and bank/M-Pesa details for disbursements.
- Submit Application: Submit the form online (no physical submission required). A PDF version will be emailed to you.
- Track Status: Monitor your application status on the HEF portal or contact HELB at contactcentre@helb.co.ke.
Second and Subsequent Loan Application
For continuing students, the process is streamlined via the HELB Mobile App or USSD code (*642#):
- Download the HELB App: Available on the Google Play Store or use the M-Pesa Mini App.
- Register: Use your Safaricom phone number to generate a PIN, then log in.
- Complete Financial Literacy: Read the financial literacy guide and answer the questions.
- Select Loan Type: Choose “Undergraduate Subsequent Loan” or “TVET Subsequent Loan.”
- Fill and Submit: Complete the Loan Application Form (LAF) and submit. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS with a loan serial number.
- Non-Safaricom Users: Apply via the HELB Student Portal (www.helb.co.ke), print the form, and submit it to the HELB Student Service Centre at Anniversary Towers, Nairobi, or a Huduma Centre.
Application Tips
- Apply Early: Submit at least one month before the semester begins to avoid delays (deadline: August 31).
- Verify Details: Ensure names match your National ID or birth certificate to prevent verification failures.
- Use Reliable Contact Details: Avoid using school emails or phone numbers that may change.
- Check Bank/M-Pesa Details: Confirm they are registered in your name to avoid disbursement issues.
Loan Details and Disbursement
Undergraduate Loans
- Interest Rate: 4% per annum with a Kshs. 1,000 ledger fee per year.
- Amount: Up to Kshs. 37,500 per year, depending on need and program cost.
- Disbursement: Paid directly to institutions for tuition, with upkeep funds sent to the student’s bank or M-Pesa account.
- Repayment: Begins 12 months after graduation or immediately if earning over Kshs. 30,000/month.
TVET Loans
- Interest Rate: 4% per annum with a Kshs. 1,000 ledger fee.
- Amount: Varies based on course and need, with enhanced funding for TVET students in 2025.
- Disbursement: Similar to undergraduate loans, with funds split between tuition and upkeep.
- Repayment: Similar terms as undergraduate loans, with a focus on affordability.
Special Considerations
- STEM and Afya Elimu Fund: Priority funding for STEM students and those in medical training programs.
- Emergency Appeals: Available via the HEF portal with a Kshs. 5,000 fee (dial 64211#).
- 0% Interest Offer: Clear 40%+ of the principal within two years for a 36-month interest-free period (2025 special).
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Verification Failures: Ensure all names match official documents. Resubmit via the “Appeals” tab within 21 days if rejected.
- Family Member Loan Default: Address via the HEF portal’s “Appeals” tab.
- Delays in Disbursement: Confirm bank/M-Pesa details via 64222# or the HELB portal.
- Missed Deadline: Late applications may delay funding; contact HELB at 0701052000 for guidance.
Why HELB Loans Are a Game-Changer
HELB loans are more than just financial aid—they’re a gateway to opportunity. With a low 4% interest rate, flexible repayment terms, and additional bursaries for needy students, HELB ensures education is accessible to all. The 2025/2026 academic year brings enhanced support for TVET students and those in STEM fields, aligning with Kenya’s vision for equitable education and economic growth.
By understanding the HELB loan application requirements and following the outlined steps, you can secure funding to focus on your studies without financial stress. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a continuing student, act now to meet the August 31, 2025, deadline. Visit www.hef.co.ke or download the HELB Mobile App to start your journey toward a brighter future.
For further assistance, contact HELB at:
- Email: contactcentre@helb.co.ke
- Phone: 0701052000
- Physical Address: Mezzanine One (M1) Floor, Anniversary Towers, University Way, Nairobi
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 69489-00400, Nairobi, Kenya
