Financing university or college education in Kenya is managed through the Student-Centered Funding Model. Under this framework, financial support is delivered jointly by the Universities Fund (UF) for government scholarships and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) for loans and upkeep allowances.

Whether you are joining a university or a TVET college, here is everything you need to know about navigating the application process.

Key Details & Financial Breakdown:

  • Eligibility: Kenyan students placed in public universities or TVET institutions through KUCCPS can apply for both scholarships and loans. Students in private universities or self-sponsored programmes are eligible for HELB loans only.

  • Funding Split: The government uses a Means Testing Instrument (MTI) to categorize students into financial bands, awarding tuition scholarships (up to 70%), HELB tuition loans, and household balance requirements based on need.

  • Upkeep Allowance: In addition to tuition fees paid directly to your institution, HELB provides an upkeep loan paid directly to your bank account or M-Pesa to cover living expenses, books, and accommodation.

  • Repayment Terms: HELB undergraduate loans attract a low annual interest rate of 4%. Repayment officially begins one year after completing your studies.

What You Need to Apply:

  • A valid Email Address and a phone number registered under your name.

  • Your KCPE and KCSE index numbers and examination years.

  • A copy of your National ID card / Maisha Card (if under 18, you can register using your KCSE index number).

  • Your Admission Letter from your university or TVET college.

  • Parents’ / Guardians’ National ID numbers and active phone numbers.

  • Two guarantors’ ID numbers and phone numbers.

  • Your registered Bank Account details or M-Pesa number for upkeep disbursements.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

  1. Register: Visit the official portal at www.hef.co.ke and click Register to create your account.

  2. Verify Account: Activate your account via the email link, then verify your phone number with an SMS code.

  3. Complete Profile: Fill out your biodata, residence details, secondary education information, and parent/guardian details.

  4. Submit Request: Select Scholarship and Loan Application, fill in your guarantor and payout bank details, and accept the terms.

  5. Paperless Submission: Verify your details and click Submit. You will receive a serial number confirmation via SMS; no physical printing or submission is required.

Note for Continuing Students: Subsequent annual applications are fast-tracked via the HELB App or by dialing *642# on your mobile phone.

Tips for Success:

  • Apply Early: Open application windows usually close shortly after KUCCPS placements are finalized. Submit early to avoid last-minute portal downtime.

  • Ensure Correct Parent Data: The system cross-references national records to evaluate household need. Providing accurate income and family details ensures fair band placement.

  • Keep Your Phone Number Active: Your registered line receives critical disbursement alerts, SMS verification codes, and loan serial numbers.