The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened applications for subsequent loans and scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year, giving continuing university and TVET students an opportunity to secure funding for their studies.
Students have been encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible, as timely applications may increase the chances of receiving upkeep funds sooner once disbursements begin.
Unlike previous years when many students relied on cyber cafés, the application process can now be completed conveniently using a mobile phone.
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How to Access HELB Services
Students without Okoa Jahazi should dial:
*642#
Students with Okoa Jahazi should dial:
*334#
Steps to Follow
- Select Lipa na M-Pesa
- Choose Government Services
- Select HELB
Students who have previously registered with HELB can simply log in using the PIN they provided during registration.
For New Users
Students who have not registered with HELB should:
- Select Register
- Enter their National ID Number
- Provide their ID Serial Number
- Follow the registration procedure to complete account setup
How to Apply for the 2026/2027 Funding
After logging in:
- Select Subsequent Loan Application
- Choose Option 1: Loan and Scholarship
Important Notice
Students have been advised not to apply for Scholarship Only or Loan Only. Instead, they should select Option 1: Loan and Scholarship, which allows them to be considered for both funding opportunities.
Education stakeholders have urged eligible students not to wait until the last minute, noting that early applications help facilitate timely processing and disbursement of upkeep funds.
With the portal now officially open, thousands of continuing students across Kenya are expected to begin submitting their applications for financial support ahead of the new academic year.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the simplified mobile application process and complete their submissions as soon as possible.