The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially launched its loan and scholarship application portal for the 2025–2026 academic year, offering much-needed financial support to thousands of Kenyan students pursuing higher education. In an announcement that has been met with relief and optimism, HELB confirmed that both first-time applicants and continuing students can now apply for education loans and scholarships through various platforms.
This year’s application process is guided by the Student-Centred Funding Model (SCFM)—a framework built around the principle of “Leaving No Student Behind.” The model ensures fair and needs-based funding, especially for students from disadvantaged and marginalized backgrounds.
Application Platforms: Online Portal, USSD, and HELB App
HELB has provided multiple avenues for loan application to make the process accessible to all students, regardless of their access to internet-enabled devices.
1. For First-Time Applicants
Students applying for HELB support for the first time must submit their applications online through the official Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal:
👉 Visit: www.hef.co.ke
The platform guides applicants through steps that include personal details, academic records, parental background, and household income—data that helps determine the level of financial support needed.
2. For Continuing Students
Students who have previously received HELB support can renew or update their applications through:
- USSD Code: *642#
- HELB Mobile App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
These mobile-based options are particularly helpful for students with limited access to computers or internet cafés.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025/2026 HELB Application?
HELB invites applications from students who are:
- Enrolled in public and private universities, as well as TVET institutions recognized by the Ministry of Education and TVETA.
- Pursuing undergraduate, diploma, or certificate programs.
- In need of financial aid to cover tuition, accommodation, transport, books, and other educational expenses.
Importantly, the SCFM ensures that funding is needs-based, with assessments done using household income data, family background, and academic performance.
Key Message: “Tumefungua Portal Sasa” – Apply Now!
HELB has emphasized urgency and early action by prominently featuring the message “Tumefungua Portal Sasa” in all official communications. This call to action is aimed at encouraging students not to wait until the last minute, as system overloads and documentation delays have been common during previous application cycles.
Alongside this message, HELB has also adopted the student-friendly tagline:
“Come Vile Uko, Tutakusort!”
This reflects the agency’s renewed commitment to inclusive funding, signaling that even students from low-income or informal backgrounds should feel confident in applying.
Understanding the Student-Centred Funding Model (SCFM)
Launched in 2023, the Student-Centred Funding Model is a radical shift from the traditional approach to education financing. Under this model:
- Funding is allocated directly to students, not institutions.
- Applicants are assessed and grouped into categories based on their socioeconomic background.
- Those with the highest need receive full scholarships and loans, while others receive a graduated mix of support based on their capacity to contribute.
This model is powered by the HEF portal, which harmonizes data from HELB, Universities Fund, and the Ministry of Education, ensuring a transparent and data-driven funding mechanism.
How to Apply for HELB Loan 2025/2026: Step-by-Step Guide
For First-Time Undergraduate and TVET Applicants:
- Visit www.hef.co.ke.
- Register an account using your National ID or Birth Certificate number.
- Fill in personal details and family background information.
- Upload supporting documents (e.g., admission letter, parents’ ID, KCSE certificate).
- Submit application online.
- Download the acknowledgment slip for your records.
For Continuing Students:
- *Dial 642# or open the HELB Mobile App.
- Log in using your registered number or HELB account credentials.
- Follow prompts to renew your loan application.
- Confirm and submit the details.
- Receive confirmation SMS or email.
Important Reminders for Applicants
- Deadline: HELB has not yet specified a final deadline, but students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
- No fees required: Application for loans and scholarships is free of charge.
- Do not submit multiple applications: Duplicate applications may result in disqualification.
- Ensure accuracy: Any false information may lead to penalties or cancellation of the loan/scholarship.
Why HELB Funding Matters
HELB plays a critical role in Kenya’s higher education ecosystem, supporting over 100,000 students annually with loans and bursaries. These funds make the difference between dropping out and completing school for many students.
With rising tuition fees, economic challenges, and increased enrollment, the need for reliable student financing is greater than ever. The 2025/2026 HELB application season comes at a crucial time when the cost of living has soared, and families are grappling with limited incomes.
Final Word: Don’t Miss Out on HELB 2025/2026 Loan Applications
If you are a student pursuing post-secondary education in Kenya, the 2025–2026 HELB loan and scholarship application window is your chance to secure much-needed financial support. Whether you’re joining university for the first time or are a continuing student, take advantage of the Student-Centred Funding Model and apply now.
Remember:
- ✅ First-timers → apply at www.hef.co.ke
- ✅ Continuing students → dial *642# or use the HELB App
- ✅ Apply early to avoid delays
- ✅ Use accurate and verified documents
“Tumefungua Portal Sasa – Come Vile Uko, Tutakusort!”