The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has warned students and parents against fraudsters operating fake WhatsApp groups that claim they can facilitate first-time loan applications at a fee.

In a public advisory on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, HELB cautioned applicants not to fall victim to scammers exploiting the ongoing first-time loan application process by promising assistance in exchange for money.

“Beware of fake WhatsApp Groups purporting to be able to assist students with the HELB First Time Loan application at a fee. Don’t be conned. Always check HELB’s official pages for accurate information,” the board said.

Rely on verified channels

HELB urged students to rely only on its verified communication channels for updates and application guidance, stressing that legitimate information is available through its official platforms.

The board also encouraged applicants to follow its official WhatsApp channel for timely announcements and verified information, as it steps up efforts to protect students from online fraud.

The warning comes amid increased interest in higher education financing, with thousands of students expected to apply for HELB loans ahead of admission to universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

HELB portal opens

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) officially opened applications for first-time loans, scholarships and bursaries for the 2026/2027 academic year on July 10, 2026.

HELB urged eligible first-time applicants to submit their applications early and carefully follow the prescribed guidelines to avoid delays in processing.

“2026/2027 First-Time HELB Applications are NOW OPEN! Ready to start your higher education journey? Eligible first-time applicants can now apply for undergraduate and TVET loans and scholarships. Apply early and follow the application guidelines carefully,” HELB said.

According to the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal, applicants must have an official admission letter from the university or TVET institution where they have been placed before submitting their funding applications.

Applicants are required to register on the Higher Education Financing portal using their personal details before completing the online application.

They will also need documents including a valid national ID, KCPE and KCSE examination details, a passport-size photograph, parents’ identification details, bank or M-Pesa information, and guarantor information, among other requirements.