The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has announced the opening of its application portal for the 2025–2026 academic year, inviting both new and continuing students to apply for financial aid.
In a public notice dated Wednesday, July 2, HELB called on eligible undergraduate and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) learners to submit their applications for student loans and scholarships. The agency emphasized the need for early submissions to minimize delays and last-minute problems.
Students applying for financial support for the first time are required to submit their applications through the official website of the Higher Education Financing portal: www.hef.co.ke. On the other hand, returning students—those who have previously received HELB funding—have the option to apply either by dialing the USSD code *642# on their mobile phones or by using the HELB mobile app, available on Android and iOS platforms.
“The application process for both new and returning students pursuing undergraduate and TVET studies is now officially open for the 2025–2026 academic year,” the notice read. HELB encouraged all qualified individuals to act swiftly, stressing that the application deadline is set for August 31, 2025.
This development comes shortly after the Ministry of Education released the placement results under the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), which allows 2024 KCSE candidates to learn which institutions and programs they have been assigned to.
HELB’s timely move ensures that students, particularly those from financially constrained backgrounds, can begin planning their higher education journeys without unnecessary delays. The loans and scholarships provided by HELB often make a critical difference for thousands of Kenyan youths pursuing further education.
It’s important for students to gather all necessary documents—such as copies of their admission letters, national ID or birth certificate, and academic results—early to facilitate a smooth application process.
The Higher Education Financing model introduced last year has continued to streamline the application and disbursement processes for loans and scholarships. By centralizing services through www.hef.co.ke, the government aims to improve transparency and accessibility to financial aid.
With the deadline looming, HELB has reiterated its call for early applications, urging students not to wait until the last minute. Applicants can also seek assistance from their institutions’ financial aid offices for guidance throughout the process.
