How to apply for a HELB Loan as a First Time Applicant

Pursuing higher education in Kenya is a significant investment, and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) offers financial support to students enrolled in public or chartered private universities within the East African Community. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the HELB loan application process for first-time applicants.

Eligibility Criteria

Before initiating your application, ensure you meet the following criteria:

• Institution Type: Enrolled in a public or chartered private university within the East African Community.
• Admission Status: Placed through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) or as a self-sponsored, parallel, or Module II student.
• Program Level: Pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Note that pre-university, certificate, diploma, or postgraduate students are not eligible for this loan.

Loan Details

Understanding the loan specifics is crucial:

• Interest Rate: The loan attracts an interest rate of 4% per annum.
• Ledger Fee: A ledger fee of Kshs. 1,000 is charged annually.
• Application Timing: It’s advisable to apply at least one month before your institution’s opening date to allow ample time for processing.

Application Process for First-Time Applicants

Follow these steps to successfully apply for a HELB loan:

1. Account Creation

Visit the HELB website at www.helb.co.ke to access the Student Portal. Click on “Create an account” to register. You’ll need your National ID number and a valid email address.

2. Financial Literacy Module

After account creation, log in and select the Undergraduate First-Time Loan Application Form (LAF). It’s mandatory to read the provided financial literacy materials or watch the related videos and complete the accompanying exercise.

3. Form Completion

Fill out the loan application form online with accurate personal and academic details.

4. Document Preparation

Print two copies of the duly filled Loan Application Form. Ensure the forms are appropriately filled, signed, and stamped by the relevant authorities.

5. Required Attachments:

Attach the following documents:

• A copy of your National ID card.
• Copies of your parents’ National ID cards or death certificates if deceased.
• Copies of both guarantors’ National ID cards.
• A copy of your admission letter and KCSE result slip or certificate.
• A copy of your bank ATM or bank card (for government-sponsored students only).
• A copy of your institution’s smart card.
• One recent colored passport-size photograph.

6. Submission

Submit one copy of the completed application form and attachments to any of the following Huduma centers: Bomet, Bungoma, Chuka, Eldoret, Embu, Garissa, Nairobi GPO, Kakamega, Kericho, Kilifi, Kisii, Kisumu, Kitale, Kitui, Lodwar, Machakos, Makueni, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang’a, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Nyeri, Taita Taveta, Thika, and West Pokot. Alternatively, you can submit it to the HELB Student Service Centre on Mezzanine 1, Anniversary Towers, University Way, Nairobi.

NOTE: Keep a complete copy of the Loan Application Form for your records.

Important Considerations

• Data Privacy: Ensure you read, understand, and consent to the data privacy statement provided during the application process.
• Loan Management: Once disbursed, manage your HELB loan prudently to cover tuition, books, stationery, accommodation, and subsistence.

For a visual walkthrough of the application process, consider watching the following tutorial:

By adhering to this guide, first-time applicants can navigate the HELB loan application process effectively, ensuring they secure the necessary funding for their higher education journey.

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