The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has released a crucial update for students who applied for loans before obtaining their National ID cards.
In a notice issued on Monday, July 21, HELB outlined how applicants who used their KCSE index numbers during the application process can now link their ID details to their loan accounts after receiving their ID cards.
In the official statement, HELB addressed the situation:
“Have you recently received your National ID after applying for a HELB loan using your KCSE index number? Now is the time to update your account with your ID details! Follow these easy steps to keep your loan profile accurate and active.”
Step-by-Step Process to Link Your National ID with Your HELB Account:
HELB has simplified the process for students who want to update their information:
- Login to your existing account on the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal. Use the same login credentials you used when applying with your KCSE index number.
- Once logged in, you’ll be prompted to enter your National ID number and your first name, exactly as shown on your ID card.
- Click on the “Validate” button to proceed.
- A pop-up message will confirm that your ID number has been successfully updated.
- Complete the process by clicking the “Register” tab.
HELB emphasized that creating a new account is not necessary—in fact, it’s discouraged.
“Do not open a new account. Just update the existing one that you initially created using your index number by adding your National ID details,” the agency advised.
HELB Applications for the 2025/2026 Academic Year Now Open
This directive comes just days after HELB officially launched the application window for undergraduate and TVET loans and scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year. The application process targets students who sat for their KCSE exams in 2024 and plan to join higher learning institutions in the coming academic year.
How to Apply:
- First-time applicants: Visit the HEF portal at www.hef.co.ke to submit your application.
- Continuing students: Use the HELB Mobile App or dial *USSD code 642# on your mobile phone to submit a subsequent application.
“The loan and scholarship application portal for the 2025/2026 academic year is now open. Both first-time and returning applicants for Undergraduate and TVET support are encouraged to apply,” HELB confirmed in its announcement.
KUCCPS Placement Results: Thousands of Students Matched to Institutions
HELB’s announcement came just a day after the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) released the placement results for the 2025 intake.
Out of the 244,563 students who qualified for degree programs, 201,695 submitted placement applications. In total, 310,502 learners were successfully placed in universities and colleges across Kenya.
Call to Action: Update Early to Avoid Loan Delays
With the loan application window now open, HELB is urging all applicants—especially those who had applied without an ID—to update their profiles immediately. Failing to update ID information could delay loan disbursement or create issues with account verification.
Students are encouraged to act fast to ensure their education financing is processed smoothly and without interruption.
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