Missed the HELB Deadline? Students Given Until September 21 to Apply for Funding

Students who missed the original deadline for government tertiary-education funding have received another opportunity to apply.

The Ministry of Education has directed the Higher Education Loans Board and Universities Fund to keep applications open until September 21, 2026.

The extension covers eligible first-time university students and TVET trainees. The ministry said some applicants may have missed the August 31 deadline because of circumstances beyond their control.

Approximately 789,422 applications had been received before the initial window closed. The government also says it has released Sh22.12 billion in first-semester funding for continuing university students and TVET trainees.

Applicants should confirm that their identification details, institutional information, and supporting documents are accurate before submitting. Errors or missing information can delay verification and processing.

The extension will provide relief to families struggling to raise fees and living expenses. However, applying does not necessarily mean money will be released immediately. Students should continue checking their application status and remain in contact with their institutions.

Universities and colleges should also avoid excluding eligible students while verified funding applications are being processed.

The new deadline is an important second chance—but students should not wait until September 21. Heavy traffic near the closing date could make online submission more difficult.