HELB Opens 2025–2026 Loan and Scholarship Portal for University and TVET Students
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened its portal for loan and scholarship applications for the 2025–2026 academic year, offering critical financial support to thousands of Kenyan students entering or continuing their studies in universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
The portal opened on July 1, 2025, and will remain accessible until August 31, 2025, giving students a two-month window to apply for funding.
In a statement, HELB encouraged two categories of students to apply. First-time applicants—primarily new students placed by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS)—are required to submit their applications through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal at www.hef.co.ke.
Meanwhile, continuing students can apply for subsequent loans and scholarships by dialing *642# on their mobile phones or using the HELB Mobile App, available on Android and iOS platforms.
The loans and scholarships are designed to cover tuition fees and upkeep expenses for both government-sponsored and self-sponsored students in public and private institutions. This effort is part of the government’s student-centered funding model, which ensures that no deserving student is denied access to higher education due to financial limitations.
This year’s application cycle follows closely after a recent reopening of the loan window for Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) students. After being excluded from the 2023–2024 funding model, KMTC students were re-integrated into the system following a Ksh 500 million allocation by the National Treasury. This move underscored the government’s renewed commitment to equitable access across all post-secondary institutions.
HELB has also warned students and guardians to remain vigilant against fraudsters who might attempt to exploit the loan application process. The agency emphasized that all applications must be made through the official portals and advised students to avoid individuals or platforms claiming to offer guaranteed loan approvals or application services at a fee.
With the August 31 deadline in place, HELB is urging applicants to prepare the necessary documents early. This includes personal details, national ID or birth certificate, KCSE index number, admission letters, and—for continuing students—previous loan details. The timely submission of accurate applications is crucial to ensure disbursements are made in time for the upcoming academic intake in September.
