To receive government scholarships and HELB loans for the 2026/2027 academic year, you must complete your application through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal.
Funding is allocated based on your household’s financial need, as determined by a student-centered assessment.
Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your application is submitted correctly and on time.
1. Quick Checklist: What You Need
Before starting your application, ensure you have clear digital copies (PDF or JPEG) of the following:
For the Student:
- National ID Card (Mandatory for those 18+. If under 18, use your Birth Certificate).
- KCPE & KCSE Index Numbers and the year of the exam.
- University/College Admission Letter.
- Passport-sized photo.
- Personal Email & Phone Number: The phone number must be registered in the student’s name to receive loan funds via M-Pesa.
For the Parents/Guarantors:
- Parents’ National IDs (Both mother and father, if alive).
- Death Certificate (If one or both parents are deceased).
- Two Guarantors’ ID Numbers: Required for the loan component.
- Sponsorship Letter: If you were a beneficiary of a scholarship in high school (e.g., Elimu, Wings to Fly).
2. Step-by-Step Application Process (2026)
Step 1: Account Creation & Activation
- Visit the Official HEF Portal: www.hef.co.ke.
- Click on “Student Portal”.
- Register using your National ID number (or KCSE Index if you are a minor).
- Activate Account: A verification link will be sent to your email. You must click it to log in.
Step 2: Profile Completion
- Biodata: Enter your personal details and current residence.
- Education: Fill in your Primary and Secondary school history.
- Institution: Input your university or college placement details as provided by KUCCPS.
Step 4: Financial & Family Background
- Fill in your parents’ income and employment details accurately. The system uses these “proxy indicators” to determine your funding level.
- Provide the Two Guarantors’ details and phone numbers.
Step 5: Final Submission
- Navigate to the “Scholarship/Loan” tab.
- Select the “First Time Undergraduate/TVET Scholarship and Loan” option.
- Accept the Terms and Conditions and submit. No physical forms are required for the new model; it is 100% paperless.
3. Understanding the Funding Levels | Bands
For the 2026/2027 cycle, the government assesses students into “Bands” based on household income. The more vulnerable the student, the higher the scholarship.
| Category | Scholarship % | Loan % | Household Pays |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band 1 (Vulnerable) | 70% | 25% | 5% |
| Band 2 (Extremely Needy) | 60% | 30% | 10% |
| Band 3 (Needy) | 50% | 30% | 20% |
| Band 4 (Less Needy) | 40% | 30% | 30% |
| Band 5 (Least Needy) | 30% | 30% | 40% |
4. Pro-Tips for Students & Parents
- Dial *642#: This is the official USSD code for HELB. Use it to check your application status or withdraw upkeep funds once disbursed.
- Phone Registration: If the student’s SIM card is registered under a parent’s ID, the HELB system will flag it, and the loan will not be paid. Ensure the SIM is in the student’s name.
- Bank Account: Upkeep (pocket money) is paid directly to the student’s bank account or mobile wallet. Ensure the account is active.
5. Important External Links
- HEF Official Portal: www.hef.co.ke
- HELB Official Site: www.helb.co.ke
- KUCCPS Portal: students.kuccps.net
- eCitizen Services: www.ecitizen.go.ke
Need Help?
For technical issues or “Verification Failed” messages:
- HELB Contact Center: 0711 052 000
- Email: contactcentre@helb.co.ke
- Physical Support: Visit any Huduma Centre or the HELB offices at Anniversary Towers, Nairobi.
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