Talanta
. 18th Jul, 2024, 5:14 PM
Understanding the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) in Kenya
What is HELB?
Kenya's Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is the government organization in charge of lending money to students who want to further their education. HELB makes sure that students have access to the money they need to finish their coursework and meet their academic objectives.
Is the HELB Portal Open for 2024?
Yes, the HELB registration for 2024 has begun, and the application portal is currently open. Students can access it at www.helb.co.ke to apply for loans and scholarships. The government announced that the portal would be accessible from June 18, 2024.
The New Funding Model for Higher Education
Kenya's new higher education finance model places emphasis on the financial needs of students and keeps funding and placement separate. Block money in the form of capitalization will no longer be provided to universities and TVET institutions. Instead, financial aid for students will be provided through household contributions, loans, and scholarships. This method ensures that every student gets the assistance they require based on their financial status.
How Much Does HELB Provide Per Semester?
According to the current Cost Sharing Policy, a student is required to pay Kshs. 50,000 per year to study at a public university. Out of this amount, HELB can award a maximum loan of Kshs. 50,000 and a bursary of Kshs. 8,000.
Who Does Not Qualify for a HELB Loan?
HELB loans are not available to pre-university, certificate, diploma, or postgraduate students.
Private College Students and HELB
HELB loans are also available to self-sponsored students at public institutions and students attending private universities. To be eligible for funding, they must apply using the platforms currently available.
For many Kenyan students, HELB is the key to pursuing higher education. Students are better equipped to make decisions and utilize all of the financial support that is available to them when they are aware of the financing model, loan amounts, and requirements for eligibility.
By Dorcas Kinya
