How To Apply HELB Loan For The First Time in Kenya

Starting college or university can be exciting, but paying tuition and other education costs can be challenging. 

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) helps eligible students by providing affordable loans, bursaries, and scholarships for higher education in recognized Kenyan institutions. 

This guide explains how to apply HELB loan for the first time, the eligibility requirements, documents needed, application process, loan categories, processing time, and repayment information to help you complete your application successfully.

How To Apply HELB Loan For The First Time

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) was established in 1995 to support students pursuing higher education in Kenya and within the East African Community. First-time applicants can apply online through the HELB portal before submitting the signed application and supporting documents for verification.

Types of HELB Loans

HELB offers different loan products depending on the applicant's level of study.

Direct Entry Students (DES) Loans

These loans are available to students joining public or private universities directly from high school through KUCCPS placement or as self-sponsored students.

Key features include:

Salaried Students Loans

These loans target employed undergraduate and postgraduate students who can repay while studying.

The loan attracts an interest rate of 12% per annum and is repayable within 48 months.

First Time HELB Application Requirements

Before beginning your application, ensure you have the following documents:

• One coloured passport-size photograph.
• University admission letter.
• National ID card.
• Bank account details.
• KRA PIN certificate.
• Parents' details and supporting financial documents.
• Copies of parents' national ID cards.
• Copies of guarantors' national ID cards.
• Copies of guardians' national ID cards where applicable.
• KCSE result slip.
• Death certificate or certified burial permit if the applicant is an orphan.
• Medical report from the District Medical Officer for applicants with disabilities.

Required Signatures

Your application form must contain the following signatures and stamps before submission:

• Applicant's declaration signature.
• Applicant's signature on the loan agreement.
• Advocate's or Magistrate's signature and official stamp.
• Guarantor's signature.
• Parent's or guardian's signature.
• Priest, Pastor, or Kadhi's signature and stamp.
• Commissioner for Oaths or Magistrate's signature and stamp for guarantors.
• Local Chief or Assistant Chief's signature.

Step by Step Guide to Apply for a HELB Loan

Follow these steps to complete your first HELB loan application:

1. Visit the HELB online portal.
2. Create a new HELB account using your name, ID number, email address, and password.
3. Activate your account through the email link sent to your registered email.
4. Log in to the HELB portal.
5. Select First Time Undergraduate Loan or the relevant loan category.
6. Complete all required sections accurately.
7. Save your application after every step.
8. Print two copies of the completed application form.
9. Obtain all required signatures and official stamps.
10. Attach all supporting documents.
11. Sign the completed forms.
12. Submit the application at HELB Anniversary Towers or your nearest Huduma Centre.

HELB Loan Processing Time

HELB normally processes first-time loan applications within one month. Processing may take longer if:

• Required documents are missing.
• Information provided does not match official records.
• Signatures or supporting documents are incomplete.

Applicants should ensure every section is completed correctly to avoid delays.

HELB Loan Repayment

Undergraduate loan repayment begins within one year after completing your studies.

Important repayment information includes:

• Failure to repay attracts a monthly penalty of KSh 5,000.
• Borrowers can make a minimum monthly repayment of KSh 1,500 to avoid the penalty.
• Timely repayment helps maintain a good credit record and supports future students through the revolving loan fund.

HELB Contact Information

Students requiring assistance can contact HELB through:

Applying for a HELB loan for the first time is straightforward when you prepare all the required documents and follow every application step carefully. 

Completing the process accurately increases your chances of faster approval and ensures you receive financial support to continue your higher education without unnecessary delays.