HELB Loan Application 2023: A Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has played an instrumental role in shaping the education landscape in Kenya since its inception in 1995. HELB has helped break the financial barriers that prevent many Kenyans from pursuing higher education by providing loans, bursaries, and scholarships to aspiring students. If you're planning to advance your studies this year and wondering how to navigate the HELB loan application process in 2023, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through the application process step by step.

What is HELB and Why Should You Consider it?

HELB, established by an Act of Parliament, has made higher education accessible to countless Kenyans, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds. HELB opens doors for students to attend local TVET colleges and universities by providing loans, bursaries, and scholarships. It's important to remember that these loans must be repaid after one's studies as per the stipulated terms and conditions.

Who is Eligible?

HELB's financial assistance is reserved for more than just government-sponsored students. If you're a self-sponsored student pursuing a diploma course in a technical institution, you can apply for a HELB loan. Isn't that great?

HELB Loan Application Process: Registration and Requirements

To apply for a HELB loan, you must first register on the HELB portal. Here's your registration guide:

• Open a web browser on an internet-enabled device, preferably a computer.
• Visit the HELB loan portal.
• Click Register and enter the required information.
• Click Sign Up. An activation link will be sent to your email address.
• Access your personal email address and click on the activation link.
• Log into your account.
• Fill in your personal and residence details and click Save.

Voila! Your account is ready, and you can apply for a loan, bursary, or scholarship. But before you dive into the application, ensure you have these documents handy:

• A copy of your national ID card.
• A valid bank account.
• Your Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN.
• Your parent(s)/ guardian particulars.
• Your parent's death certificate (if applicable).
• Your admission letter to an educational institution.
• Copies of two guarantors' identification cards.
• Three colored passport-size photographs.

Your Path to HELB Loan Application

With the necessary documents in place, you're all set to apply. Follow these steps to complete the HELB loan application process:

• Log into your account on the HELB portal.
• Click 'Apply.' A list of different application forms will appear.
• Choose the relevant HELB loan application form for your needs.
• Fill in all the required fields on the form, ensuring all information is accurate.
• Download the completed form and print two copies.
• Ensure the form is filled correctly, signed, and stamped by the relevant authorities and guarantors.
• Sign the application form, and attach all the required documents.
• Send one copy of your complete application form with the documents to the HELB Head Offices or deliver it to the nearest Huduma Centre.

Remember, before you fill out an application form, ensure it's the right one for you. Various forms are available on the portal for different types of loans and scholarships. Check whether the loan is for undergraduate or postgraduate studies, for instance, or a TVET loan.

Upon Application: Loan Disbursement

After you have submitted your application, HELB will review it for completeness and authenticity. If all information and documents are satisfactory, your application will be approved. However, it's important to note that loan amounts vary based on individual needs and funding availability.

The loan amount will be disbursed directly to your educational institution upon approval. It is typically divided equally across the academic year to cover tuition and upkeep costs. A portion of the loan will be directly transferred to your bank account as upkeep money. Please note that this process can take a few weeks, so apply well before you need the funds.

Repaying Your HELB Loan

Repayment of HELB loans begins one year after completing your studies or within such a period as the Board decides to recall the loan, whichever is earlier. Remember, this is a loan, not a grant - so it must be repaid. The repayment will help fund future students' education, enabling them to pursue their academic dreams like you.

HELB loans attract an annual interest of 4% on the reduced balance. You can repay your loan through monthly installments or lump sum payments. Repayments can be made through various means, including direct bank deposits, standing orders, checks, mobile money payments, and through employers for salaried loan beneficiaries.

Contacts

If you need to contact HELB for further inquiries, use the contact details below.

• Physical Address: Anniversary Towers, 18th Floor, University Way.
• Postal Address: P.O. Box 69489 - 00400, Nairobi, Kenya.
• Telephone numbers: +254 711 052 000/ 020 2278000.
• General loan repayment queries: [email protected]
• Remittance (for employers): [email protected]
• Start payment: [email protected]
• HELB Statement queries: [email protected]

READ ALSO: How to Check HELB Loan Disbursement Status Online and USSD

Conclusion

HELB has transformed the education landscape in Kenya, empowering countless students to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams. The application process may seem daunting initially, but with careful preparation and a step-by-step approach, it's entirely manageable.

Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready, understand the application process, and remember to apply on time. A HELB loan can open doors to a bright academic future. All the best in your HELB loan application for 2023!