The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has announced the opening of applications for the 2025/2026 academic year loans and scholarships, targeting undergraduate and TVET students, particularly those who completed their KCSE in 2024. This follows the release of the 2025 university and college placement results by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), enabling newly placed students to secure funding for their studies.
How to Apply for HELB Loans and Scholarships
First-Time Applicants: New students must apply through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal at www.hef.co.ke.
Continuing Students: Existing students can submit subsequent applications via the HELB mobile app or by dialing *642#.
Deadline: Applications close on August 31, 2025, so apply early to avoid delays before the September intake.
HELB emphasized the importance of early applications to ensure smooth processing. “The 2025-2026 First-Time and Subsequent Applications for Undergraduate & TVET Loans & Scholarships are now open. Apply via www.hef.co.ke for first-time applicants or dial *642# or use the HELB-App for continuing students,” the board stated in a public notice on Wednesday.
Supporting Education Through Government Funding
The loans and scholarships cover tuition and living expenses for students in public and private universities, as well as TVET institutions, under Kenya’s new higher education financing model. This initiative aims to make education accessible to all eligible students across the country.
KUCCPS Placement Results for 2025
On Tuesday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced that KUCCPS placed 310,502 students in various programs. Of the 244,563 candidates who qualified for degree programs, 201,695 applied for placement. Notably, nursing emerged as a top choice, with over 27,000 applicants at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) seeking diplomas and certificates.
Beware of Scams
HELB has issued a warning about fraudulent schemes targeting loan applicants. In a June 23 notice, the board cautioned students to be vigilant against individuals or messages claiming to assist with applications in exchange for money. Always use official HELB channels to avoid falling victim to scams.
Take Action Now
With the application window open, eligible students should act quickly to secure funding for the 2025/2026 academic year. Visit www.hef.co.ke for first-time applications or use the HELB app or *642# for continuing students. Stay informed and protect yourself from fraud to ensure a smooth application process.
0 Comments
Leave Your Comment