The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has released detailed instructions for students—particularly minors—on how to update their National ID information on the HELB portal, just weeks after opening its loan and scholarship application window for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The update is especially crucial for students who initially applied for HELB loans using their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) index numbers before receiving their National IDs.
According to HELB, applicants must not create a new account. Instead, they should log in to the portal using the credentials originally created with their KCSE index number.
Upon logging in, a pop-up window will prompt users to enter their National ID number and first name, exactly as it appears on the ID, and click “Validate.”
A confirmation message will follow, and users must then click on the "Register" tab to complete the process.
The directive is aimed at streamlining access to HELB services, as thousands of new students prepare to join tertiary institutions with the help of state financial aid.
HELB officially opened its application portal on July 2, 2025, providing a much-needed lifeline to many students across the country who depend on the fund to finance their education.
The portal is now accepting applications from both first-time and continuing students, including those pursuing undergraduate and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses.
First-time applicants must apply online via the official website at www.hef.co.ke, while continuing students can access services through the USSD code *642# or by using the HELB Mobile App.
The financial aid covers tuition and other education-related expenses, supporting HELB’s ongoing mission to make higher education accessible to all deserving students, regardless of economic background.
HELB has urged students to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute delays and ensure a smooth review process.
The board remains a key pillar in Kenya’s education sector, enabling thousands of students to pursue and complete their studies each year through loans and scholarships.
