The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially opened applications for the 2026/27 Jielimishe Loan, giving employed Kenyans an opportunity to finance their studies while continuing to work.
The loan programme is designed for salaried learners pursuing university degrees, postgraduate courses, professional certifications and other approved higher education programmes. Through the initiative, eligible applicants can access financing of up to Ksh600,000 to support their education.
According to HELB, successful applicants will enjoy fast loan processing, an annual interest rate of 10 per cent, flexible repayment periods ranging from 12 to 48 months, and convenient monthly repayments made through employer payroll deductions. The loan also includes an affordable credit life insurance cover, offering financial protection to borrowers throughout the repayment period.
HELB has encouraged eligible salaried learners to submit their applications through its online portal as applications for the 2026/27 funding cycle continue.
The launch of the Jielimishe Loan follows the recent opening of applications for first-time undergraduate and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) loans and scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year. At the time, the board urged eligible students to apply early to avoid delays in processing their applications.
Unlike undergraduate and TVET funding, the Jielimishe Loan specifically targets employed individuals who want to advance their education, improve their professional skills or earn higher qualifications without leaving their jobs.
For borrowers with existing HELB loans, repayments are generally made through employer payroll deductions in line with the board's repayment guidelines. Keeping loan repayments up to date enables borrowers to qualify for HELB compliance certificates, while those who complete repayment of their loans can apply for loan clearance certificates.
HELB has repeatedly reminded borrowers of the importance of honouring their repayment obligations, noting that loan repayments replenish the revolving fund that finances education for future students across the country.
The Jielimishe Loan forms part of HELB's wider strategy to expand access to higher education by supporting learners at different stages of their academic and professional journeys, including those already in formal employment.
Eligible salaried learners can now submit their applications through HELB's online platform as the board continues receiving applications for the 2026/27 academic year.