As thousands of students prepare to join universities and colleges across the country, many are turning to the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) for financial assistance. HELB offers loans, bursaries, and scholarships to eligible Kenyan students in recognized institutions. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the HELB application process and what applicants should expect.

What is HELB?

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is a government agency established to provide financial support to Kenyan students pursuing higher education. This support primarily comes in the form of loans, but HELB also offers bursaries and scholarships depending on eligibility and funding availability.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for a HELB loan, applicants must:

• -Be Kenyan citizens;

• -Have secured admission to a recognized institution (public or private universities, colleges, or TVET institutions);

• -Demonstrate financial need;

• -For subsequent loans, be in good standing with HELB in previous applications.

HELB loans are available to students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and technical/vocational training (TVET).

How to Apply – First-Time Applicants

Students applying for a HELB loan for the first time must complete the following steps:

1. Create an Account

Visit the official HELB website at www.helb.co.ke and register through the Student Portal.

2. Fill in the Online Application

Log into the portal and complete the online loan application form. Required documents include:

• -A copy of the applicant’s national ID

• -A copy of the admission letter

• -KCSE result slip or certificate

• -National IDs of the parents or guardians

• -Bank account details

• -A recent passport-sized photo

• -Death certificate if one or both parents are deceased

3. Print and Sign the Form

After submitting the form online, applicants must download and print it. The form should be signed by:

• -Two guarantors (must be employed and Kenyan citizens)

• -A Commissioner for Oaths (usually a lawyer or magistrate)

4. Submit the Application

The completed form should be delivered to the HELB offices at Anniversary Towers in Nairobi or submitted through selected Huduma Centres countrywide.

Subsequent Applications

For students who have previously received a HELB loan, the process is simpler. They need to:

• -Log into the HELB portal;

• -Choose “Subsequent Application”;

• -Update any necessary information;

• -Submit the application online.

There is no need to print or physically submit any documents for subsequent applications.

Loan Amount and Disbursement

The loan amount awarded varies depending on the applicant’s financial need, level of study, and other criteria. On average, students receive between Ksh 35,000 and Ksh 60,000 per academic year. The funds are typically disbursed in two installments:

• -Tuition fees are paid directly to the institution;

• -Upkeep funds are sent to the student’s bank account.

Application Period

HELB usually opens its application portal between May and August every year. Students are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute issues and ensure their applications are processed in time for disbursement before the academic year begins.

Final Note

HELB remains a vital resource for many Kenyan students who may not otherwise afford higher education. Students are advised to follow the application instructions carefully, ensure accuracy in their documentation, and check HELB’s official platforms for updates and deadlines.