Higher Education Funding
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a question below to view the answer.
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How can I apply for a Government scholarship, loan or bursary?
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Government-sponsored students who require financial assistance can apply for Government scholarships, loans and bursaries through the official Higher Education Financing (HEF) Portal.
Applications are made online through the HEF portal:
Students should apply when the relevant application window is officially opened and provide accurate information and the required supporting documents.
Important: Government funding is not automatic. Students are required to apply for consideration when the application window is open. -
When is the deadline for application for funding?
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The application dates and deadlines for Higher Education funding are determined by the Higher Education Financing (HEF) authorities and may change from one application cycle to another.
Students should regularly check the official HEF Portal for the opening and closing dates of the current application window.
Check the Current HEF Application Window
Important: Do not rely on previous application deadlines. Always confirm the current deadline from the official HEF Portal before submitting your application. -
How much will I be charged to apply for Government funding?
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There is no application fee for applying for Government higher education funding through the official HEF application process.
Beware of fraud: Do not pay anyone claiming to be able to process your HEF scholarship, loan or bursary application for a fee. Applications are submitted through the official HEF platform. -
I have not yet acquired a National ID card. Can I still apply for funding?
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Yes, eligible applicants who have not yet obtained a National ID may still be able to apply, depending on their circumstances.
For applicants below 18 years of age, the HEF application process allows the use of the KCSE index number together with the required supporting documents.
Applicants who subsequently obtain their National ID should update their details on the HEF Portal rather than creating a new account.
Important: If you initially applied using your KCSE index number and later obtain your National ID, update your existing HEF account with your ID details. -
How much funding will I receive after applying?
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The amount of Government funding a student receives is not the same for every student. Funding is determined based on the student's assessed level of financial need and the cost of the programme.
The Student-Centred Funding Model uses the Means Testing Instrument (MTI) to assess a student's level of financial need.
Depending on the assessment and eligibility, the student's education costs may be supported through a combination of:
- Government scholarships
- Government loans
- Household contribution
The amount allocated therefore depends on the student's assessed financial need and the applicable programme costs.
Note: Applying for funding does not guarantee a particular amount. Each student's funding allocation is determined through the applicable assessment process. -
How do I check the status of my HEF application?
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You can check the progress of your Higher Education Funding application, including your application status, funding allocation and disbursement status, through the HEF Student Portal.
Log in to your HEF account and follow the available options to view the status of your application and funding.
Tip: Keep your HEF account details and application information safely for future reference. -
Can I appeal my HEF funding allocation?
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Yes. Students who wish to have their scholarship or loan funding allocation reviewed can submit an online review or appeal through the HEF Portal.
The HEF funding model provides an online process through which students can request a review of their scholarship and/or loan allocation.
Note: Students should provide accurate information and any required supporting information when submitting a funding review or appeal. -
Where can I get help with my HEF application?
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If you experience difficulties or require clarification regarding your Higher Education Funding application, you can seek assistance through the official Government funding agencies or visit a Huduma Centre near you.
HELB Assistance
Telephone: 0711 052 000
Email: contactcentre@helb.co.keVisit a Huduma Centre
Students who require in-person assistance with their HEF application can visit the nearest Huduma Centre in their area. Huduma Centres have a HELB desk where students can receive assistance with their Higher Education funding applications and related enquiries.
You can also visit the official HEF website for additional information, application guides and frequently asked questions:
Important: Use only official HEF, HELB and Huduma Centre channels when seeking assistance with your funding application. Do not share your HEF password or other confidential account information with anyone.