The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has announced that the funding model will be changed during the September 2025 intake.
Speaking on Thursday, July 17, HELB Chairperson Ekwee Ethuro stated that HELB utilised the New Funding Model to assess the financial capabilities of applicants.
He, however, revealed that changes are necessary to ensure the model accommodates the issues raised by Kenyans.
“We use the formula, which, given the concerns of Kenyans, is also being revised. Maybe this new academic year will still be the same formula, but the parameters must change so that we capture all the concerns that have been raised,” he said.
Ethuro assured 2024 KCSE candidates that everyone who applies for loans and scholarships will get funds.
He stated that HELB might issue the exact amount the students apply for due to internal assessments.
“We allocate funds to everyone. We will make our assessments of what you need using the current formula,” HELB said.
He said HELB will ensure that funds are allocated to all applicants who meet their requirements.
“For us, you apply, and we make sure that you are factored. This is why we talk about our requirements, but now you will be given a certain amount. So, we pay, especially in the first semester, so the second semester is what might become a challenge,” he said.
Money to be Sent in September
Ethuro said applicants can do the application online and submit it, after which they will receive an acknowledgement message.
Once they are done, the application will be verified, after which they will receive a message with the amount they have been allocated.
This is followed by a disbursement message, which is done in batches.
Also Read: Why 468,237 University and College Students Risk Missing HELB Funding in 2025
He stated that the applications are being processed as they are being submitted, but the disbursement will not be done until early September.
“Once your application is certified to be good, it is taken to the HELB finance office, waiting for the money. So, the moment we receive the exchequer, it is released. That is when you receive the message that your money has been disbursed,” he said.
He stated that the applicants will get the upkeep through their M-PESA since the Board is partnering with HELB.
Also Read: HELB Explains How Students Can Update National ID on Portal
Students to Miss Helb Funds
This comes after HELB CEO Geoffrey Monari said the HELB might not be able to fund new students for the September intake.
Monari said the Board does not have the funds to issue new student loans in 2025.
He said HELB projects a deficit of Ksh36.1 billion in the 2025/26 financial year, affecting 468,237 students.
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