The Definitive Guide to Higher Education Financing
Your complete guide to the 2024/2025 Student-Centred Funding Model.
The system has changed. Before, the government gave money to universities directly. Now, funding follows the student. Admission through KUCCPS does not guarantee financial aid. Every student must apply through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal to be assessed based on their financial need.
This new Student-Centred Funding Model (SCFM) is why the application is so detailed and asks for family financial information.
1. Government Scholarship (The Grant)
- Managed by: The Universities Fund (UF).
- What it is: Free money from the government to cover part of your tuition. It does not need to be repaid.
- Who gets it: Only students placed by KUCCPS into Public Universities.
2. HELB Loan (The Credit)
- Managed by: The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
- What it is: A loan that you must repay after graduation, with interest. It covers the rest of your tuition and gives you money for upkeep (living expenses).
- Who gets it: All undergraduate students in public universities, private universities, and TVETs can apply.
Your level of need is assessed and you are placed into one of five bands. This band determines how much you pay versus how much the government covers.
- Band 1 (Vulnerable): Household pays 5% of tuition.
- Band 2 (Low Income): Household pays 10% of tuition.
- Band 3 (Lower Middle): Household pays 20% of tuition.
- Band 4 (Middle Income): Household pays 30% of tuition.
- Band 5 (High Income): Household pays 40% of tuition.
The assessment isn't just about income. It also looks at the schools you attended, orphan status, disability, home county (ASAL), and the number of siblings in school.
Government-Sponsored (KUCCPS Placed) Students
If you were placed by KUCCPS in a Public University or TVET, you are eligible for both the Scholarship and the Loan. You must select the "First Time Undergraduate Scholarship and Loan" option on the portal.
Self-Sponsored & Private University Students
If you are in a private university or a parallel program, you are eligible for the HELB Loan only. You cannot get the government scholarship. Your family will need to cover the remaining tuition fees.
Applicants Under 18 (Minors)
You can apply using your KCSE Index Number and Birth Certificate. However, you will need a bank account to receive upkeep money, which may require a guardian to co-sign.
Scan these documents to your computer or phone before you start the application on www.hef.co.ke. It will save you a lot of time.
- Your National ID (both sides). Use your Birth Certificate if you are a minor.
- Your University/College Admission Letter.
- Your parents' National IDs (both father and mother).
- A Death Certificate for any deceased parent (this is mandatory to prove it).
- IDs for two different guarantors.
- A copy of your ATM card or bank statement showing your name and account number.
- A color passport-size photo.
- The phone number you use must be registered in your own name.
Step 1: Go to www.hef.co.ke and click "Register".
Step 2: Register using your National ID. If you are under 18, use your KCSE Index Number.
Step 3: Activate your account via a link sent to your email.
Step 4: Log in and verify your mobile number with the OTP sent to you.
Step 5: Fill in your personal details, education history (including admission number), and family/parent details.
Step 6: On the dashboard, select the "2024-2025 First Time Undergraduate Scholarship and Loan" product.
Step 7: Enter details for your two guarantors and your personal bank account.
Step 8: Read and accept the terms, then click "Submit". You will receive an SMS with a Loan Application Serial Number. Save it!
Important: The process is paperless. You do not need to print anything unless the final screen specifically tells you to.
A guarantor is someone who agrees to be legally responsible for your loan if you fail to pay it back. Your parents can be your guarantors.
The new system is digital. When you enter your guarantor's ID and phone number, they will receive an SMS notification. You must use a phone number that is registered under their name.
How You Get the Money
- Tuition Money: The scholarship and tuition loan are sent directly to the university. You will never handle this money.
- Upkeep Money: This is sent directly to your personal bank account or M-Pesa for your living expenses.
- Warning: Upkeep funds are often delayed. Make sure you have enough money for your first month of campus before you report.
How You Pay It Back
- Repayment starts one year after you finish your studies.
- Interest is charged at 4% per year.
- There is a Ksh 5,000 penalty for every month you fail to pay after the one-year grace period.
Other Financial Aid Opportunities
Look beyond government funding to maximize your support.
Most, if not all, county governments and constituencies offer bursaries to needy students from their locality. These are awarded based on need and academic merit.
How to Apply: Physically visit your local Ward/MCA office or the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) office to pick up application forms. Deadlines vary, so start checking early.
Many companies (like Equity Bank, KCB, Co-operative Bank) and foundations offer scholarships for high-achieving, needy students. These are often very competitive.
How to Apply: Keep an eye on newspaper announcements and company websites right after KCSE results are released. Examples include the Equity Wings to Fly and KCB Foundation scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common problems and questions.