The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened loan applications for the 2025 academic year, targeting both first-time and continuing students enrolled in undergraduate and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

In a public notice released on Wednesday, August 6, HELB urged eligible students to apply early to avoid last-minute delays. The loan programme, a critical pillar of the government’s efforts to promote access to higher education, covers tuition, accommodation, and essential academic expenses.

As of August 6, a total of 554,620 students had already submitted their applications, signaling strong demand for financial support. HELB reminded applicants to use the official website or HELB app for submissions.

In a related development, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed that the disbursement of HELB loans for first-year students will begin on August 15, 2025.

Speaking in a press release dated July 31, Ogamba said the phased disbursement is designed to align with the reopening of universities and TVET institutions, ensuring students transition smoothly into academic life.

The Universities Fund has also commenced releasing the first-quarter scholarship funds under the student-Centered Funding Model (SCFM). So far, 129,403 university students and 60,976 TVET trainees have applied for scholarships and loans through the model.

The funding portal remains open for 2024 KCSE candidates placed by KUCCPS until August 31.

Ogamba urged all eligible students who haven’t yet applied to do so before the deadline.