The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened its portal for loan and scholarship applications for university and TVET students for the 2025/2026 academic year. This move aims to support students in financing their higher education and promote inclusive access to learning opportunities across Kenya (1; 3).
Application Details and Deadlines
Key Dates
- Application period: Now open until August 31, 2025
- Target applicants: University and TVET students in need of financial assistance (1; 3).
How to Apply
- Visit the official HELB portal at helb.co.ke
- Complete the online application form
- Submit the necessary documents, such as admission letters and identification, as required (1).
Important Tips
- Ensure all information provided is accurate
- Apply early to avoid a last-minute rush
- Check for updates and notifications on the portal regularly (3).
Focus on Inclusive Education
Targeting Needy Students
HELB is expanding its reach by collaborating with teachers and educational stakeholders to identify students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative aims to:
- Support marginalized students who may not have access to traditional application channels
- Promote inclusive higher education by reaching out to students in underserved communities (2).
Role of Teachers
- Teachers are now actively involved in identifying and recommending needy students for financial aid
- This approach helps HELB ensure that aid reaches those who need it most (2).
Recent Developments and Future Plans
Increased Funding and Support
- HELB has reiterated its commitment to supporting more students and improving the application process to make it more accessible (3).
Broader Impact
- The initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader goals of increasing access to higher education
- It also supports the government’s efforts to reduce dropout rates due to financial constraints (1).
Conclusion
Now that HELB has opened its portal, students are encouraged to apply for HELB loans and scholarships by August 31, 2025. The new collaborative approach with teachers and educational institutions aims to ensure that financial aid reaches the most deserving students, fostering a more inclusive and equitable higher education system in Kenya (1; 2).
FAQs
1. Who is eligible to apply for a HELB loan?
To qualify for a HELB loan, applicants must be Kenyan citizens with an admission letter from a recognized university or TVET institution. Both first-time and continuing students pursuing undergraduate programs are eligible. Postgraduate and certificate-level students are generally not eligible for undergraduate loans (4; 8).
2. How do I apply for a HELB loan for the first time?
First-time applicants should visit the official HELB portal at www.helb.co.ke or download the HELB mobile app. They need to register an account using their National ID or KCSE index number, provide personal and academic details, upload required documents such as admission letters and identification, and then apply online (4; 5; 6).
3. What documents are required when applying for a HELB loan?
Applicants must provide a valid email address, telephone number, KCPE and KCSE index numbers, passport-sized photo, copy of National ID, admission letter, parents’ or guardians’ ID and contact details, birth certificate (if a minor), two guarantors’ IDs and contacts, and a sponsorship letter if applicable (4: 6; 8).
References
- Eastleigh Voice. (2025). HELB opens loan and scholarship applications for university, TVET students until August 31. Retrieved July 3, 2025, from https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/university%2Bstudents/173233/helb-opens-loan-and-scholarship-applications-for-university-tvet-students-until-august-31
- Education News. (2025). HELB turns to teachers to identify needy students, drive inclusive higher education. Retrieved July 3, 2025, from https://educationnews.co.ke/helb-turns-to-teachers-to-identify-needy-students-drive-inclusive-higher-education/
- The Star. (2025, July 2). HELB opens portal for loans and scholarships applications. Retrieved July 3, 2025, from https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-07-02-helb-opens-portal-for-loans-and-scholarships-applications
