Concise Walk-through on How to Apply for a Subsequent HELB Loan for 2025/26

ELEVATION
18:30AM, June 4 2025
image of people in HELB offices image credit: local images

Subsequent HELB loan application is the process through which students request new disbursement of their HELB loans. This application is only possible if you were previously awarded a loan, i.e, you’re in your 2nd year or higher. If you are a continuing student who has never applied before, you MUST not do HELB subsequent application; instead, apply for HELB first time loan.

HELB applications are typically done once a year in line with Kenya’s financial and academic calendars.

Who qualifies for a subsequent HELB application?
- The most important qualification is previous disbursement, meaning you satisfied all requirements in the first-time application.
- Self-sponsored students can now apply for HELB, following recent rules revisions.

Two easy ways to proceed with subsequent HELB application online:

1. Using HELB App

Follow these relatively straightforward instructions for using the HELB App:
- Download the HELB App from Play Store App Store.
- Register your details, this might include Phone number, Email address, National ID, KRA pin, etc.
- Read and understand the financial literacy material — it’s mandatory. A given score is required to proceed.
- On the home screen, select “Apply Subsequent Products” then swipe up to “Get Started”.
- Select your application, for most, it’s the “Loan Application”.
- “Apply” on the next screen. A pop up confirming a successful application will be displayed.

Realize nothing is printed unless you’re not a Safaricom subscriber, in which case you’ll be redirected to forms, which must then be submitted to HELB offices. You can choose preferred payment option and also view and verify your details, any discrepancy can be detrimental.

2. Using USSD, *642#

The use of USSD is equally simple, but it requires airtime.
- Dial *642#
- Choose “Login” or “Register”.
- Provide your PIN
- Select “Loan”
- Select Application level and academic year
- Confirmation message will be sent upon completion.

HELB deadlines

The HELB portal is not open year-round. It only opens during specified periods. Applications received after the deadline may not be processed. Follow HELB updates on their official accounts. The system uses Batch systems to process the request hence first applicants are served first.

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes include:
1. Assuming that subsequent loans are awarded automatically after a first time application — you must reapply every year.
2. Traveling to Anniversary Towers for HELB subsequent application — Subsequent loans are applied for entirely online, unless there’s a serious issue.
3. Expecting to apply per semester. Funds are automatically disbursed in two tranches across an academic year.
4. Printing documents unnecessarily. Unless you’re not a Safaricom subscriber, there won’t be any need for physical documents.
5. Giving up after system failures — System-related issues like the App mulfunctions are temporary, try at different times.

For more information:

Phone: 0711052000
Email: contactcentre@helb.co.ke
FAQ: Check if your question is already answered here.



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