HELB News & Updates – What Every Kenyan Student Should Know

If you’re looking for a loan to fund your studies, you’ve probably heard of HELB – the Higher Education Loans Board. It’s the government body that gives out loans to tertiary students across Kenya. In this guide we’ll break down the latest HELG announcements, how to apply, common pitfalls and what the recent policy shifts mean for you.

How HELB Works Today

HELB offers two main loan types: the undergraduate loan for diploma and degree courses, and the postgraduate loan for masters and PhD programmes. The loan covers tuition, accommodation, books and sometimes living expenses. You only start paying back once you graduate and earn a salary above a set threshold. The interest rate is fixed by the board and is usually lower than private lenders.

Recent Policy Changes You Can’t Ignore

In the last quarter HELB announced a new eligibility rule that cuts the maximum loan amount for private university students by 15 percent. The move aims to redirect funds toward public institutions, which have higher enrolment numbers. Another tweak: the repayment grace period is now three months shorter for graduates who earn more than Ksh 50,000 a month. These changes affect how much you can borrow and when you start paying back.

Many students wonder why the board is tightening rules. The short answer is budget pressure – the government wants to keep the loan fund sustainable. The longer answer involves data on default rates and a push to prioritize students in high‑need fields like engineering, health and teacher training.

Step‑by‑Step: Applying for a HELB Loan

1. Check eligibility. You need a valid admission letter, Kenyan ID, and a minimum GPA of 2.0 for most programmes.
2. Register online. The HELB portal opens 30 days before the academic year starts. Fill in the form, upload your documents and submit.
3. Wait for verification. The board reviews your academic record and financial need. This can take up to two weeks.
4. Sign the loan agreement. If approved, you’ll get a digital contract. Read the repayment schedule carefully before you sign.
5. Collect the funds. Money is usually transferred directly to your university’s account.

Tip: Keep copies of every document you upload. Missing paperwork is the #1 reason applications get rejected.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Missing the portal deadline is a big no‑no – the window closes fast and you’ll have to wait a year for the next round. Also, many applicants forget to update their contact details, so they miss important notices about approval or required documents. Finally, don’t underestimate the repayment clause. Some students think the loan is free money, but once you start earning, the board will send you a bill every month.

To stay on top of everything, set a reminder on your phone for the application opening date and check the HELB website weekly for updates. If you’re unsure about any step, the HELB help desk (email [email protected]) usually responds within 48 hours.

What the Future Holds for HELB

Experts say HELB might introduce a digital repayment app later this year, making it easier to track payments and avoid penalties. There are also talks of a new scholarship fund that will sit alongside the loan program, targeting students from low‑income families.

So whether you’re a fresh high‑school graduate or a postgraduate looking for funding, keeping an eye on HELB news can save you time, money and stress. Bookmark this page, come back for the latest updates and share the tips with friends who are also applying. Good luck with your studies – and may your loan journey be smooth!