🏦 How to Apply for an HELB Loan in Kenya – Step-by-Step Guide (2025 Update)

Are you a Kenyan student seeking financial help for your university or college education? The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) provides government-funded loans that can ease your burden — and the best part is, you can apply for HELB online for free.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to apply for a HELB loan step by step, what you need, common mistakes to avoid, and FAQs answered.

📌 Why Apply for a HELB Loan?

• ✅ Covers Tuition Fees and Upkeep

• ✅ Low Interest Rates (4% per annum after graduation)

• ✅ Flexible Repayment Terms

• ✅ Accepted by all accredited universities and TVET institutions in Kenya

🧾 Requirements for HELB Loan Application

Before you start your application on the HELB Student Portal, make sure you have the following:

📄 For First-Time Applicants (Undergraduate or TVET):

• National ID card (your own)

• Admission letter from a recognized institution

• KCSE and KCPE index numbers and year

• Parent’s/guardian’s ID number and KRA PIN

• Copies of ID of two guarantors (must be employed or civil servants)

• Active personal email address and phone number

• Bank account (preferably in your name)

• Passport-size photo (clear and recent)

✅ Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a HELB Loan Online

Step 1: Visit the HELB Student Portal

Go to 👉 https://portal.helb.co.ke

Step 2: Create an Account

• Click “Register” if you’re a new user.

• Provide your ID number, email, and phone number.

• Set your password.

🔐 Tip: Use a secure email and a strong password — you’ll use this account throughout your course.

Step 3: Fill in Your Profile

Update your personal details, academic information, and contact information.

Step 4: Select the Appropriate Loan Product

Choose either:

• Undergraduate Loan (Direct Entry)

• TVET Loan (for diploma and certificate courses)

Step 5: Fill the Loan Application Form

Provide:

• Your school and course details

• Parent/guardian details

• Guarantors’ details

• Bank information (where loan will be disbursed)

🔍 Tip: Double-check KRA PINs and ID numbers — errors here delay approval.

Step 6: Download and Print the Form

After filling in everything, download the filled loan application form (usually PDF format).

Step 7: Sign and Get Endorsements

• Sign the form yourself

• Get signatures from your parent/guardian and two guarantors

• Visit your chief or commissioner of oaths for official stamping

Step 8: Submit to HELB

Drop the completed and signed form at any:

• HELB office at Anniversary Towers, Nairobi

• Huduma Centre with HELB services

• Or send by registered mail to:
  HELB, P.O. Box 69489-00400, Nairobi

🕓 It can take 2–6 weeks for HELB to process your application.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Wrong or missing KRA PINs

• ❌ Using inactive or incorrect email/phone numbers

• ❌ Not getting the required signatures

• ❌ Submitting after the deadline

• ❌ Failing to photocopy and keep a copy of the signed form

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I apply for HELB without a KRA PIN?
➡️ No. Both you and your parents/guarantors must have valid KRA PINs.

Q: Can I apply using my parent’s bank account?
➡️ No. HELB requires a bank account in your own name.

Q: Can I apply if I’m in a private university?
➡️ Yes — as long as the university is accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE).

Q: When should I apply for HELB?
➡️ Apply as soon as your institution gives you an admission letter. HELB typically opens applications once per intake.

Q: How do I check my loan status?
➡️ Login to HELB Portal → Click Loan Status

📎 Final Thoughts

Applying for a HELB loan is a big step toward securing your education and future. The process may seem lengthy, but once you’re approved, you’ll enjoy reduced financial stress throughout your studies.

💡 Share this guide with your friends who are applying for HELB in 2025 — and feel free to comment below if you have questions!