HELB Hints at Opening First-Time Loan Application Portal, Lists Eligibility Requirements

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has asked students planning to apply for a first-time loan to begin preparing the required documents ahead of the opening of the application portal.

In a statement dated July 6, HELB said the countdown to the opening of first-time loan applications had begun, urging prospective applicants to get their requirements ready.

“The countdown is on! First-Time Applications are opening soon! Getting ready now can make your application process much smoother. Stay tuned to our official channels for updates,” HELB stated.

HELB Announces First-Time Loan Applications Opening Soon, Shares Checklist

To help students avoid delays once the application window opens, the education board provided a checklist of documents that first-time applicants will need.

Also Read: Common Mistakes That Cause HELB Loan Delays or Rejection

Among the requirements are:

• A valid email address and mobile number registered under their national ID.
• KCPE and KCSE index numbers, together with the respective examination years.
• A recent passport-size photograph in JPEG, JPG or PNG format.
• A copy of their National ID or Maisha Card (both sides).
• Valid bank account details or an M-Pesa number registered under the applicant’s ID.
• A birth certificate in PDF format for applicants who are minors.
• A copy of a secondary school sponsorship letter in PDF format, where applicable.

HELB also outlined the information required from parents and guarantors before the application process begins.

According to the board, applicants will need their parents’ national ID numbers and registered mobile phone numbers.

However, in cases where a parent is deceased, a copy of the death certificate in PDF format will be required.

In addition, applicants must provide the ID numbers and registered mobile phone numbers of two guarantors.

Common Mistakes That Cause Loan Delays or Rejection

During applications, many students make mistakes which can lead to delays or the rejection of their HELB loan applications.

One major reason for HELB loan delays is submitting the wrong personal details. Some applicants enter names, ID numbers, KCSE index numbers, or birth dates that do not match government records.

Also Read: HELB Contacts: How to Get Help on Loans and Scholarships

HELB checks this information with agencies like KRA and examination boards. Also, providing wrong details about parents or guardians, including their jobs and income, can cause issues.

According to HELB, applications can be rejected if a student is enrolled in a program or institution that HELB does not recognise.

Additionally, incorrect bank account information is another common cause of delays. Issues can arise if the bank account name does not match the applicant’s records or if students provide inactive account details.

The board further revealed that submitting fake documents or altered certificates can lead to immediate disqualification and possible legal consequences.

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HELB announces its first-time application portal will open soon and urges students to prepare key documents early to avoid last-minute rush and delays. PHOTO/ HELB