How To Apply For HELB TVET Loan in Kenya

Students pursuing technical and vocational education in Kenya can access affordable financial support through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). 

The HELB TVET Loan helps learners enrolled in approved Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions cover tuition and related education costs.

Whether you are taking a Certificate, Diploma, or Higher National Diploma course, this guide explains how to apply for HELB TVET loan, the eligibility requirements, required documents, loan repayment terms, and approved institutions.

How To Apply For HELB TVET Loan

The HELB TVET Loan is available to students studying at approved Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions across Kenya.

Eligible institutions include:

• National Polytechnics.
• Technical Training Institutes (TTIs).
• Technical Training Colleges (TTCs).
• Vocational Training Centres (VTCs).

The loan attracts an interest rate of 4% per annum and an annual ledger fee of KSh 1,000.

How To Apply for a HELB TVET Loan as a First-Time Applicant

Follow these simple steps to submit your application:

1. Visit the HELB Student Portal through the HELB website.
2. Create a student account if you are a new applicant.
3. Log in using your registered credentials.
4. Select the TVET First Time Loan Application Form (TLAF).
5. Complete the online application form accurately.
6. Print two copies of the completed application form.
7. Have the forms signed and stamped by the relevant authorities.
8. Attach all the required supporting documents.
9. Submit one complete copy at:
   • The nearest Huduma Centre, or
   • HELB Student Service Centre, Mezzanine One, Anniversary Towers, Nairobi.
10. Keep the second signed copy for your records.

HELB TVET Loan Application Requirements

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:

• Admission letter from the TVET institution.
• Copy of the applicant's National ID card.
• KCSE certificate or result slip.
• Copies of parents' National ID cards or death certificates where applicable.
• Copies of both guarantors' National ID cards.
• Copy of the applicant's ATM card or bank card.
• One recent coloured passport-size photograph.

Ensuring all documents are complete helps speed up the application process.

HELB TVET Loan Repayment

Loan repayment begins:

• One year after completing your studies, or
• Earlier if HELB recalls the loan.

Borrowers may also make voluntary repayments before completing their studies to reduce their outstanding balance.

Loan Repayment Terms

Making early repayments can reduce your loan balance and help you avoid future repayment pressure.

Approved TVET Institutions by HELB

HELB finances students enrolled in numerous approved TVET institutions across Kenya.

Some of the approved institutions include:

National Universities Offering TVET Programmes

• Co-operative University of Kenya
• Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
• Machakos University
• Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology
• Meru University of Science and Technology
• Murang'a University of Technology
• Technical University of Kenya
• Technical University of Mombasa

National Polytechnics

• Eldoret National Polytechnic
• Kabete National Polytechnic
• Kenya Coast National Polytechnic
• Kisumu National Polytechnic
• Kisii National Polytechnic
• Kitale National Polytechnic
• Meru National Polytechnic
• Nyeri National Polytechnic
• Sigalagala National Polytechnic

Technical Training Institutes and Colleges

HELB has approved more than 130 Technical Training Institutes and Vocational Colleges across the country, including:

• PC Kinyanjui Technical Training Institute
• Nairobi Technical Training Institute
• Rift Valley Technical Training Institute
• Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf
• Thika Technical Training Institute
• Coast Institute of Technology
• Friends College Kaimosi
• Sang'alo Institute of Science and Technology
• Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology
• Siaya Institute of Technology

Students should always confirm that their institution appears on the latest HELB-approved TVET list before submitting an application.

HELB Contact Details

Students seeking assistance can contact HELB through the following channels.