HELB TVET Loans Applications Process
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) provides loans and bursaries to Kenyan students pursuing Certificate, Diploma, and Higher National Diploma courses in selected public universities, university colleges, public national polytechnics, and approved TVET colleges under the Ministry of Education.
The loans seeks to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other academic-related expenses.
First Time Applicant
To apply as a first-time applicant, one needs to visit the HELB website to create an account, log in, select the appropriate TVET First Time Loan Application Form, read the literature or watch the videos on financial literacy, participate in the brief exercise online, and fill the loan application form.
Two copies of the duly-filled TVET Loan Application Form are then printed and signed by relevant authorities.
Attach all the necessary documents, as per the checklist. Also fill one copy of the Loan Application Form and present at any of the Huduma centers nearest to the applicant or HELB Student Service Centre.
Applicants need to attach a copy of their admission letter from the institution, a copy of their National Identification Card, KCSE result slip or certificate, copies of their parents’ National ID Cards or death certificate, copies of both guarantors’ National ID Card, a copy of the applicant’s Bank ATM/Bank card, and one recent colored passport size photograph of the applicant.
Repayment
Repayment of the TVET loan starts within one year of completing studies or within such a period as the Board decides to recall the loan, whichever is earlier.
However, one can make voluntary payments before or after completing studies to reduce the loan balance. HELB charges 4% interest per annum and are repayable up to a maximum of 48 months.
In conclusion, HELB has played a vital role in enabling students from all walks of life to access higher education and pursue their dreams.
With their financial assistance, the enrollment rate in universities and colleges in Kenya has significantly increased. However, students should prudently manage their HELB loans to cater for tuition, books, stationery, accommodation, and subsistence.
They should also ensure timely repayment of the loan to avoid penalties and blacklisting.
HELB TVET Loans Applications Process