The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has opened applications for the 2026/2027 Jielimishe Loan, giving salaried learners an opportunity to access financing for higher education and professional development.
In a notice issued on Thursday, August 6, HELB announced that eligible applicants can borrow up to Sh600,000 to support their studies.
“HELB 2026/27 Jielimishe Loan application for salaried learners is now open. Take the next step in your career with the Jielimishe Loan,” the board said.
The loan targets employed learners seeking to advance their education through diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate or professional courses.
How much can applicants borrow?
According to HELB, successful applicants can access financing of up to Sh600,000 depending on their eligibility and programme of study.
The board said the loan comes with a 10 per cent annual interest rate and offers flexible repayment periods ranging from 12 to 48 months.
“Enjoy quick loan processing, flexible repayment period of 12–48 months, competitive interest rates, and financing of up to Sh600,000,” HELB said.
How to apply for the Jielimishe Loan
Applicants are required to submit their applications through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) Portal.
To apply:
- Visit the Higher Education Financing Portal.
- Log in using your account credentials or create an account if you are a new applicant.
- Select the Jielimishe Loan option.
- Complete the online application form with the required personal, employment and academic details.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Review the application and submit it through the portal.
HELB advised applicants to ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Who is eligible?
The Jielimishe Loan is designed for salaried learners seeking financial support to pursue further education and career advancement.
Eligible applicants are expected to meet HELB’s requirements and apply through the official financing portal during the application window.
HELB expands education financing
The launch of the Jielimishe Loan applications comes just days after HELB opened applications for 2026/2027 Partial Postgraduate Scholarships targeting Kenyan students pursuing master’s and PhD programmes.
The scholarships are available to students enrolled in public and private universities recognised by the Commission for University Education (CUE).
Successful master’s students will receive Sh200,000 spread over two years, while PhD students will receive Sh450,000 payable over three years.
To qualify, applicants must have attained at least a Second Class Upper Division in their undergraduate studies and possess a valid admission letter for a STEM or agriculture-related programme.
HELB also requires applicants who previously benefited from its loan programme to have either cleared their outstanding balance or be actively servicing their loans before applying for the postgraduate scholarships.
The board encouraged eligible salaried learners to submit their Jielimishe Loan applications early to avoid last-minute delays.
