The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has opened applications for university and TVET students seeking financial support for the 2024/2025 academic year. This comes soon after the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) finalized student placements.
HELB announced that students admitted to higher learning institutions can now apply for both government scholarships and loans. The process is fully online via the Higher Education Financing (HEF) Portal.
The support targets first-year students joining universities and TVET institutions under government sponsorship. Under the new model, the government has split funding into scholarships and loans to promote fairer allocation based on students’ needs.
HELB explained that it will assess applicants using a Means Testing Instrument (MTI), which reviews several socioeconomic factors. It will categorize students as vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, or less needy. Vulnerable students will qualify for 100% funding through a mix of loans and scholarships.
Applicants must provide personal, academic, and financial information on the HEF portal. They also need to upload scanned copies of key documents, such as their admission letter, national ID or birth certificate, and identification for parents or guardians. Orphans and vulnerable students may need extra documents like a letter from the chief or a recognized institution.
HELB urged students to apply early to avoid delays in receiving funds. Once approved, tuition fees will go directly to institutions, while upkeep funds will reach students via bank accounts or mobile wallets.
This financing effort supports the government’s larger goal of expanding access to higher education and ensuring value for public funds. The combined loan and scholarship model aims to remove financial roadblocks for students from underserved areas.
The government pledged to improve transparency and responsiveness in education funding. Officials believe this approach will reduce household financial strain and increase inclusivity in the sector.
HELB has digitized the entire application process, eliminating paperwork. It also set up a helpdesk to assist students with technical issues.
Students should double-check their information before submission. Errors or incomplete forms may lead to disqualification or require resubmission.
