HELB has updated its loan and bursary amounts for 2026. Many students are unaware of the bursary component, which does not require repayment. Here is the complete guide to applying, repaying, and avoiding a CRB listing.
What Is HELB and Who Qualifies in 2026
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) provides financial assistance to Kenyan students enrolled in public and private universities and TVET institutions. Both Kenyan citizens and permanent residents qualify. You do not need to be from a poor family to apply—all students can apply, but amounts vary by need.
New HELB Loan Limits for 2026
| Category | Minimum | Maximum | Repayment Required |
| University Loan | KSh 35,000/yr | KSh 60,000/yr | Yes, after graduation |
| TVET Loan | KSh 20,000/yr | KSh 40,000/yr | Yes—after graduation |
| Bursary Component | KSh 8,000/yr | KSh 15,000/yr | No—free money |
The bursary component is separate from the loan. It is awarded based on financial need and does not need to be repaid. Always apply for both.
Documents Required Before You Apply
- National ID (yours and both parents)
- KRA PIN
- An admission letter from your university or TVET institution
- Parents’ or guardians’ bank statements or KRA returns
- Fee structure from your institution
- Passport-size photo
How to Apply for HELB Loan Online Step by Step
- Go to helb.co.ke
- Click on Student Portal and register if you are a new applicant
- Log in with your National ID and password
- Click “Apply for Loan and Bursary.”
- Fill in your personal, academic and family financial details
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your application
- Track your application status on the portal
How Long Does HELB Take to Disburse
HELB typically takes 4-8 weeks to process applications after the deadline. Funds are disbursed directly to your university account or your personal bank account depending on the institution’s arrangement. Always confirm with your university finance office.
HELB Repayment — When It Starts and How Much
Repayment begins 12 months after your last disbursement or when you complete your studies, whichever comes first. If you are employed, your employer deducts HELB repayments directly through check-off.
| Monthly Salary | Monthly HELB Repayment |
| Below KSh 25,000 | KSh 1,000 |
| KSh 25,001 – KSh 50,000 | KSh 1,500 |
| KSh 50,001 – KSh 100,000 | KSh 2,000 |
| Above KSh 100,000 | KSh 2,500+ |
What Happens If You Default on HELB
- HELB lists you with CRB within 90 days of missed payments
- Your employer may be contacted and compelled to deduct from your salary
- Your academic transcripts and certificates may be withheld by your university
- You may be barred from accessing other government services
HELB Bursary vs HELB Loan—Know the Difference
Many students apply for the loan but forget to fill in the bursary section of the same application. The bursary is free money—it comes from government and donor funds. Always fill in both sections when applying. You will not be penalised for applying for the bursary, whether or not you qualify.
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