The Ministry of Education has officially opened the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funding portal following the release of the latest university and college placement results by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).
If you have been placed in a public university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution for the September intake, you can now apply for government funding under the Higher Education Financing (HEF) model.
The funding package may include a scholarship, a student loan, and a bursary, depending on your financial needs. Since the application process is fully online, it is important to understand the requirements and complete your application before the deadline.
Documents You Need Before Applying
To avoid interruptions during the application process, prepare the following documents and information in advance:
- A valid National ID Card (for applicants aged 18 years and above) or your KCSE Index Number/Birth Certificate (for applicants below 18 years).
- Your official university or TVET admission letter.
- Your KCSE result slip or certificate.
- National ID numbers and mobile phone numbers of two guarantors.
- Your parents’ or guardians’ National ID cards, registered mobile phone numbers, and death certificate(s) where applicable.
- A valid email address and a mobile phone number registered in your name.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for HELB Funding
-
Step 1: Register on the HELB Portal
Visit the official HELB funding portal and create your account using either your National ID number or your KUCCPS login ID, which consists of your KCSE year followed by your index number.
-
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Once registered, log in and open the My Profile section. Carefully provide accurate information under the following sections:
- Personal information
- Home and residence details
- Educational background
- Institution details
- Parents’ or guardians’ financial information
Ensure all details are correct before proceeding.
-
Step 3: Upload the Required Documents
Upload clear and readable copies of all the requested documents, including your admission letter, identification documents, and any additional supporting documents required to verify your application.
-
Step 4: Apply for Scholarship and Loan Funding
- Navigate to the HELB/HEF menu and select the First-Time Undergraduate/TVET Scholarship and Loan Application.
- Fill in your bank account details, guarantor information, and any other required fields before submitting your application online.
- Once your application is successful, a confirmation PDF will be sent to your registered email address.
HELB Application Deadline
Students are advised to submit their applications as early as possible.
The application window closes on September 8. Late applications may not be considered, so avoid waiting until the last minute.
Important Things Every Applicant Should Know
Before submitting your application, keep these important points in mind:
- The application is completely free. Do not pay anyone to assist you with the process.
- Funding is awarded according to the government’s student-centred funding model, which assesses each applicant’s financial need.
- Eligible students may receive funding ranging from 30% to 70%, while the remaining amount is expected to be contributed by the student’s household.
- Students admitted to private universities or enrolled under parallel/self-sponsored programmes qualify for HELB loans only and are not eligible for government scholarships.
Need Help?
If you experience any challenges while applying, seek assistance through official HELB support channels or visit your nearest Huduma Centre for guidance.
Applying early gives you enough time to correct any errors and ensures your funding application is processed before reporting to your institution. Don’t wait until the deadline—submit your application as soon as possible.
