Helb Student Portal Subsequent Loan Application: How to Apply

Discover the steps to apply for HELB student loans for the academic year 2024, including details on the application process, eligibility criteria, and loan awards.

As a student in Kenya, you’re likely aware of the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), an integral part of the Kenyan education system.

HELB plays a crucial role in empowering students by offering financial aid, making higher education accessible to everyone, irrespective of their financial situation.

Understanding this process is vital because education represents a substantial investment in your future.

Accurate information is key to obtaining the financial support necessary to pursue your studies without excessive stress.

Additionally, staying informed about the latest application procedures can save time and prevent common mistakes.

This guide will focus specifically on the subsequent loan applications for the academic year 2024/2025.

It’s essential for both returning applicants and those new to the process to comprehend how to manage these applications effectively.

Given the increasing tuition fees and living costs, a HELB loan can significantly impact many students’ lives.

Join us as we delve into the specifics of HELB student loans and demystify the process for subsequent loan applications.

This guide aims to be a reliable resource, enabling you to move forward with the necessary financial support for academic success.

Keep an eye out as we detail the intricacies of HELB student loans for 2024/2025, equipping you to manage your educational finances with ease.

Also read – Step by Step Guide to Applying for the UP Scholarship 2024

Understanding HELB student loans

The Higher Education Loans Board, known as HELB, transcends the role of a mere financial institution.

Inaugurated in 1995 through parliamentary legislation, HELB has emerged as a pivotal entity in Kenya’s educational landscape.

Functioning as a statutory body under the Ministry of Education, it aims to democratize access to higher education.

Its primary function is to support students enrolled in universities, colleges, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

Through the provision of student loans, bursaries, and occasionally scholarships, HELB strives to ensure that financial barriers do not thwart the educational aspirations of Kenyan students.

Also read – Study Loan for International Students: how to Apply and Get it

Types of HELB student loans offered

The Higher Education Loans Board in Kenya provides different categories of student loans that help the learners pursue higher education. Here are the main types available:

1. Undergraduate Loan

The target groups of this loan are students who join public or chartered private universities. The Loan targets students joining university directly from high school or are self-sponsored. The amount given normally ranges from Ksh 40,000 to Ksh 60,000 per academic year.

2. TVET Loan

This loan targets students pursuing Technical and Vocational Education and Training, attending programs accredited in recognized institutions offering Certificate, Diploma, and Higher National Diploma. The maximum amount a beneficiary can get is Ksh 40,000, with a split for tuition and upkeep.

3. Jielimishe Loan

Targeting employed students, the Jielimishe Loan targets those studying Professional Courses, Higher National Diplomas, Bachelor’s degrees, and postgraduate studies. The loan allows a borrow-up of 90% of the program fees paid, with a maximum limit of Ksh 600,000.

4. Civil Servants Training Revolving Fund

This facility is only made available to civil servants and their dependents. It facilitates training programs where they can borrow amounts ranging from Ksh 30,000 to Ksh 500,000.

5. KRA Staff Training Revolving Fund

Similar to the Civil Servants Training Fund, this loan is only reserved for employees of the Kenya Revenue Authority-KRA, enabling them to borrow a maximum amount of Ksh 500,000 for educational purposes.

Each of the loan types is for a certain educational need and circumstance, thus enabling a wide range of students to access financial support in their studies.

Eligibility for HELB student Loans

The HELB in Kenya has different eligibility that includes a number of documents required for the application processes. Eligibility in detail goes below.

1. Student Status

• The applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate course recognized at a public or chartered private university in Kenya.
• Those applying for certificate, diploma, or higher national diploma courses in accredited institutions.

2. Age Requirement

• If below the age of 18 years, attach a birth certificate to replace a national ID.

3. Educational Qualifications

• It must indicate the completion of secondary education, KCSE Index Number, and the year of examination.

4. Identification Documents

• A valid national ID card or Maisha Card; copies of parents’ national IDs or death certificates if the parents are deceased.

5. Bank Details

• Valid bank account or M-PESA number in applicant’s name for purposes of fund disbursement.

6. Photograph

• Current passport-size photo in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format.

7. Admission Letter

• A copy of the admission letter from the institution will be needed for verification of enrollment.

8. Sponsorship Documents

• For students who are sponsored in school, a letter of sponsorship must be shared.

Guide to Applying for Subsequent HELB student Loans

HELB has streamlined its application process to enhance user-friendliness.

The system is now accessible to both government-sponsored and self-sponsored students in public or private institutions for subsequent undergraduate loan applications.

Please note that this guide is specifically for second time and subsequent applications, not for first-time applicants.

1. Application Using the HELB Mobile App

The HELB Mobile App has transformed the loan application process into a more streamlined and accessible procedure.

Here’s a guide to navigating the HELB Mobile App:

• App Download: Get the HELB Mobile App from the Google Play Store.
  Registration: Sign up on the HELB Mobile App with your personal details such as name, phone number, email, national ID, and KRA PIN.
• Financial Literacy Form: Complete the financial literacy form to comprehend the loan’s purpose and your obligations.
• Loan Selection: Select the loan type that corresponds to your academic level and course.
• Update and Submit: Refresh your details as needed and submit your application. A confirmation message with your loan serial number will be sent to you.​​​

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2. HELB USSD Code (642#)

For those seeking an alternative method, the HELB student loan USSD code provides a convenient way to apply for your next loan. Here’s the procedure:

• Dial *642#: Use your mobile phone to dial *642# and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Choose Loan Application: Select the loan application option, then choose the Subsequent Loan.
• Agree to Loan Terms: Confirm your acceptance of the loan terms by choosing the corresponding option.
• Confirm Phone Number: Confirm your phone number and make a nominal payment of Kshs. 1 using your ID number as the account reference.
• Finalize Application: After confirming your details, proceed with the application process and complete your submission.

3. HELB Student Portal

The HELB Student Portal provides an online platform for handling loan applications and repayments. To use this service:

• Enter the Portal: Sign in to the HELB Student Portal with your credentials.
• Go to Loan Application: Find the loan application area and choose “Subsequent Loan.”
• Enter Necessary Information: Respond to the prompts and provide the required information correctly.
• Finalize Application: Fill out the application form and submit it via the portal.

Deadline for HELB student loan Applications

Circle the date! The deadline for the HELB subsequent undergraduate loan application for the 2024/2025 period is scheduled for September 30, 2024.

We recommend to apply early to prevent any last-minute rushes and possible technical issues.

• Undergraduate Scholarship, Loan & Bursary (First-Time Application): September 6, 2023
• Undergraduate Loan (Subsequent Application): September 30, 2023.

Also read – How to Use the African Bank Loan Calculator

Scholarships, Bursaries, and Loans

The Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal is currently open for scholarship, bursary, and loan applications for university students.

Government-funded scholarships and loans are now available to students who begin their university studies in the academic year 2023 and beyond.

Students who commence their university education prior to 2023 can still utilize the former government funding and Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) undergraduate loan application process.

Grants and scholarships will continue to be awarded based on the financial needs of the students, in a manner consistent with the previous HELB loan system.

Ensuring these documents are prepared and properly submitted is essential for a seamless application process.

Financial Literacy and Loan Management

Grasping financial literacy is crucial for effective management of your HELB undergraduate loan.

This loan is designed to cover key educational expenses such as tuition, books, stationery, accommodation, and living costs.

It is imperative for students to judiciously handle these funds, making sure they are spent for their designated purposes.

The HELB mobile app and portal offer tools and exercises on financial literacy to assist students in this regard.

Utilizing these resources can deepen your comprehension and promote the responsible use and management of the loan.

Loan Disbursement and Repayment

After your HELB loan application is approved, accessing the funds is simple, particularly with M-PESA integration. Here are the steps:

1. Download the M-PESA App from Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Huawei App Gallery.
2. Register and log in using your phone number that is registered with M-PESA.
3. Locate the HELB Mini App by navigating to the Education tab and selecting HELB.
4. Withdraw the funds by following the on-screen prompts to transfer them to your M-PESA account.

This method guarantees that the funds are easily available for your educational expenses.

Also read – Step-by-Step Guide to Using Blooket in 2024

Repaying the HELB student Loan

Repaying your HELB loan is just as important as the application process. Here’s the method to repay using M-PESA:

• Select ‘Pay Bill’: On your M-PESA menu, select the ‘Pay Bill’ option.
• Enter the Business Number: Input 200800 as the HELB business number.
• Account Number: Use your national ID number as the account number.
• Enter the Amount: Indicate the amount you intend to repay.
• Confirm the Transaction: Finalize the process by entering your M-PESA PIN.

Prompt repayment of the HELB undergraduate loan is not only a financial obligation but also a contribution to the fund, aiding future students in their academic pursuits.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Applying for the HELB student loan for the 2024/2025 academic year can be a seamless process with the right guidance.

Whether you are choosing to use the HELB Mobile App, the USSD code, or the Student Portal for the undergraduate loan, it’s crucial to follow these steps carefully.

Keep in mind, the subsequent loan aims to support your educational goals, making your academic pursuit financially manageable.

Seize the chance to secure your financial support – submit your application for the HELB student loan now and pave the way for a prosperous higher education journey.

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References

• kenyandigital.medium.com – How to Apply for HELB 2024/2025 Scholarships and Loans through the HEF Portal: Your Comprehensive Guide
• helsb.gov.zm – How to Apply Loans – HELSB

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