How to Apply for a HELB Loan as a First-Time Applicant: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Apply for a HELB Loan as a First-Time Applicant

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) provides financial assistance to undergraduate students studying at Public or Chartered Private Universities within the East African Community. This loan is only available to students pursuing a Bachelor's Degree and is not applicable to those in pre-university, certificate, diploma, or postgraduate programs. The loan attracts an interest rate of 4% per year and a Ksh 1,000 annual ledger fee. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a HELB loan as a first-time applicant.

Types of HELB Loan Applications

There are two main types of undergraduate loan applications:

• First-Time Application: For students applying for the HELB loan for the first time.
• Second & Subsequent Application: For students who have previously received the loan and are applying for subsequent disbursements based on their program duration.

Note: The loan can be awarded up to four times for a four-year program or five times for a five-year program.

Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time HELB Loan Application

1. Visit the HELB Student Portal Go to the HELB website or visit hef.co.ke to access the student portal. Once there, click on the “Register” button to create an account.

2. Provide Your Identification Information Enter your National ID number. If you do not have a National ID, you can use your KCSE index number.

3. Set Up Your Account Enter a valid email address and password, then click “Register.” Once your account is created, check your email (including your spam or junk folder) to activate your account.

4. Verify Your Phone Number After activating your account, log in and provide a valid telephone number. A verification code will be sent to your phone. If the code expires, you can click the “Resend” button to receive a new one.

5. Complete Your Profile Fill in your profile details, update your biodata, and give consent for the collection of your personal data. Make sure you read and agree to the consent form.

6. Submit Your Loan Request After filling in all necessary personal details, submit your scholarship or loan request. Accept the loan terms and conditions to continue.

7. Update Guarantor Information Provide details of your guarantors, including their ID numbers and contact information.

8. Provide Payment Information Enter your bank details or valid MPESA number for loan disbursement.

9. Submit Your Loan Application Once all fields are complete, submit your application for review.

Required Documents for Undergraduate Applications

To complete your application, you will need the following:

• A valid email address and phone number.
• KCPE and KCSE index numbers with the year of examination.
• A passport-size photo (in jpeg/jpg/png format).
• A copy of your National ID or Maisha card (both sides in PDF).
• Valid bank details or a registered MPESA number in your name.
• Parents' National ID and registered telephone number.
• A copy of the death certificate (if parents are deceased).
• Your birth certificate (if applying as a minor).
• Two guarantors' ID numbers and registered telephone numbers.
• A copy of your sponsorship letter (if sponsored in secondary school).

Managing Your HELB Loan

Once disbursed, students are advised to manage their HELB loans prudently. The funds should be allocated towards tuition, books, stationery, accommodation, and subsistence.

Applying as a Second or Subsequent Applicant

If you have received a HELB loan before, you can apply for subsequent loans using the following methods:

• Dial *642# on your mobile phone.
• Download the HELB Mobile App from the Google Play Store.
• Use the MPESA Mini App.

By following this guide, you can easily apply for a HELB loan and secure financial aid for your undergraduate studies. Ensure all your information is accurate to avoid any delays in processing your application.