In January 2026, the Ministry of Education finalized the list of 43 public universities and colleges eligible for both government scholarships and HELB loans.
This dual-funding eligibility is only for students placed through KUCCPS into these institutions. The system ensures that students from different financial backgrounds can access higher education support while promoting fairness through a structured funding model.
List of eligible public universities
The eligible institutions include well-established universities, regional and technical universities, and specialized colleges. Some of the key established universities are the University of Nairobi (UoN), Kenyatta University (KU), Moi University, Egerton University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), and Maseno University. Regional and technical universities include Chuka University, Rongo University, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), Technical University of Kenya (TUK), Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), and Pwani University. Specialized institutions eligible for dual funding are Open University of Kenya, Bomet University College, and Alupe University. The full list of 43 institutions can be accessed on the HELB website or KUCCPS portal.
How the 2026 funding model works
Funding is no longer automatic but is guided by the Student-Centred Funding Model (SCFM). The SCFM uses a Means Testing Instrument (MTI) to categorize students into five financial bands based on household income and ability to pay. The funding breakdown works as follows:
- Band 1 (Most Needy): Government scholarship covers 70%, HELB loan 25%, family contribution 5%
- Band 5 (Least Needy): Government scholarship covers 30%, HELB loan 30%, family contribution 40%
It is important to note that students in private universities are only eligible for HELB loans, not government scholarships.
How to apply for dual funding in 2026
Applying for government funding is a fully paperless process conducted through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal. To ensure you receive both the government scholarship and HELB loan, follow these steps:
Core requirements
Before starting, gather the following digital documents in PDF or JPEG format:
- Identification: National ID or Maisha Card (both sides) or KCSE Index Number if under 18
- Academic info: University admission letter and KCSE result slip/certificate
- Family details: Parents’ National IDs and their registered phone numbers
- Guarantors: IDs and phone numbers for two people (can be parents)
- Photo: Recent passport-size photo
- Bank/payment: Valid bank account or Safaricom M-PESA number registered in your name
Step-by-step application process
Register on the HEF Student Portal using your National ID or KCSE Index Number and activate your account via the email link. Complete all biodata sections, including Personal Information, Residence, Education, and Parents, and upload all required documents. Read the financial literacy materials and complete the brief portal quiz, which is mandatory before the loan application becomes active.
Next, navigate to the Loan Application tab and select First Time Undergraduate Scholarship and Loan (or TVET equivalent). Enter your guarantor and payment details, carefully review all information, and click Submit. A confirmation PDF will be sent to your email.
Application timelines
The portal is currently open for January 2026 intakes, with a general deadline typically around March 2026. Applications for the September 2026 intake usually open in July and close around August 31, 2026.
Important warnings and tips
Do not apply as a self-sponsored student if you are government-placed in a public university, as this may disqualify you from the scholarship. Ensure that the phone number provided is registered under your own National ID to avoid disbursement failures. No physical forms are required in 2026 unless there is a specific error that must be corrected, such as mismatched personal details.
The 2026 dual-funding model ensures equitable access to higher education by combining scholarships, loans, and family contributions based on need. By carefully preparing digital documents, following the step-by-step HEF portal process, and meeting eligibility requirements, students placed in public universities through KUCCPS can successfully secure funding for their studies. Early and accurate application increases the likelihood of receiving both government scholarships and HELB loans without complications.
