HELB opens loan applications for first-time students
By Valerian Khakayi, July 10, 2026The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened applications for first-time students seeking financial support for the 2026/2027 academic year.
In a public notice issued on Friday, July 10, 2026, HELB invited eligible students joining universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to apply for undergraduate and TVET loans as well as scholarships.
“2026/2027 First-Time HELB Applications are NOW OPEN! Ready to start your higher education journey? Eligible first-time applicants can now apply for undergraduate and TVET loans and scholarships,” HELB stated.
The loans board urged students to submit their applications early and carefully follow the application guidelines to avoid delays in processing.
“Apply early and follow the application guidelines carefully,” HELB added.
The opening of the application window comes as thousands of students prepare to join universities and TVET institutions under the 2026/2027 academic year.
How to apply for loan
The funding is aimed at helping eligible learners meet the cost of higher education, including tuition and other education-related expenses.
Students applying for the first time are encouraged to ensure they provide accurate personal and academic information, upload all the required supporting documents, and complete the application process within the stipulated timelines.
Ensure you have your KCPE index number and year of examination and KCSE index number and year of examination. These details will be required during the application process.
Additionally, applicants must upload a recent passport-size photograph in JPG, JPEG or PNG format and have a clear copy of both sides of their National ID or Maisha Card.
Applicants who are still minors should upload a birth certificate in PDF format.
Helb further stated that during the application process, applicants will need either valid bank account details or an M-Pesa number registered under their National ID.
Students who received sponsorship while in secondary school should prepare a copy of the sponsorship letter in PDF format.
Applicants should have parents’ national ID numbers and parents’ registered mobile phone numbers and if a parent is deceased, applicants should upload a copy of the death certificate in PDF format.
Eligible students should complete and submit their applications through the Higher Education Financing portal at www.hef.co.ke.