The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened applications for first-time loans and scholarships for students joining universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions during the 2026/2027 academic year.
In a public notice issued on Friday, July 10, HELB invited eligible first-time applicants to submit their applications through its online portal.
“2026/2027 first-time HELB applications are now open. Eligible students joining universities and TVET institutions can now apply for undergraduate and TVET loans and scholarships,” the board announced.
HELB encouraged applicants to complete the process early and carefully follow the application guidelines to avoid delays or errors.
The latest announcement comes just days after the board opened applications for Undergraduate Subsequent Loans for continuing students in universities and colleges.
Earlier this week, HELB urged eligible continuing beneficiaries to apply through the online portal before the application deadline.
The board had also advised prospective applicants to prepare the necessary documents ahead of the application window to ensure a smooth process.
Documents required for first-time HELB applications
According to HELB, first-time applicants should have the following:
- A valid email address and mobile phone number.
- KCPE and KCSE index numbers together with the examination years.
- A recent passport-size photograph in JPEG, JPG or PNG format.
- A copy of a National Identity Card or Maisha Card showing both sides.
- Bank account details or an M-Pesa number registered under the applicant’s national ID.
Applicants who are below the age of 18 will be required to upload a birth certificate in PDF format.
Students who received sponsorship during their secondary education must also attach a copy of their sponsorship letter in PDF format as part of the application.
HELB said applicants should ensure all required information and supporting documents are accurate before submitting their applications to avoid processing delays.
