Applying for a HELB Clearance Certificate online is a simple process done through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) Portal or the eCitizen portal. The steps differ slightly depending on whether you were a loan beneficiary.
Online Application Steps
- Register or Log In: Visit the HEF Student Portal and log in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, click “Register” to create one using your National ID number.
- Access Self-Service: Once logged in, navigate to the “Self-Serve” tab on the main dashboard.
- Request Certificate: Click on the “Clearance Certificate” or “Compliance Certificate” option
- Verification: You may be required to provide your phone number to receive a verification code (OTP) via SMS to proceed.
- Download: If you have cleared your loan (or never took one), the portal will generate the certificate immediately. Click “Get Certificate” to download it in PDF format for printing.
Key Considerations
- Non-Loanees: The certificate is free of charge and is usually issued instantly.
- Loanees (Repaying): If you are currently repaying your loan, you will receive a Compliance Certificate.
- Loanees (Cleared): If you have finished paying, you can request a Clearance Certificate. There may be a processing fee (historically around Ksh 1,000 for beneficiaries), though recent updates on the HEF portal have streamlined several free services.
- Alternative Platforms: You can also access these services via the HELB Mobile App or by dialing *642#.
If you face any technical difficulties, you can contact the HELB Contact Centre at 0711052000 or email contactcentre@helb.co.ke.
Are you applying as a non-beneficiary (never took a loan) or have you recently completed your loan repayment?
