How to Repay HELB Loan in Kenya
Introduction
Repaying your HELB (Higher Education Loans Board) loan is an important part of completing your education journey. The good news is that repayment has become easier and more flexible over time. This article outlines all the legal, digital, and employer-based options available to you so you can repay smoothly and get your clearance.
The Easiest Way
Dial *642#
Select “Loan Repayment”
Enter amount and confirm via your chosen mobile money PIN
Step by Step Guide
Option 1: USSD (*642#)
Dial *642# on your mobile phone.
Log in or register if you have not done so before.
Select option for Loan Repayment.
Choose to pay via M-PESA (or the mobile money service shown).
Enter the amount you want to pay, then confirm using your mobile money PIN.
You will receive confirmation via SMS from HELB and eCitizen.
Option 2: HELB Portal / eCitizen Gateway / Mobile App
Go to the HELB website or open the HELB mobile app.
Navigate to the Self-Serve menu.
Select Loan Repayment → Make Payment.
Enter amount to pay.
Choose payment option (M-PESA, bank transfer, etc.).
Confirm and complete payment. Notifications will arrive from both HELB and eCitizen.
Option 3: Employer Check-Off / Payroll Deductions
If you are salaried, inform your employer that you are a HELB loanee.
Employer will deduct the repayment amounts from your salary as per HELB instructions.
Employer remits these deductions to HELB through the portal.
Option 4: Diaspora Payments
Use services like WorldRemit or direct bank deposit to a HELB account (e.g. KCB account number used for HELB).
Forward confirmation to HELB (via email) as required.
Important Notes & Tips
Repayment for undergraduate loans begins one year after completing studies or earlier if HELB recalls the loan.
If you overpay, HELB will refund the excess amount when you fill in the recovery enquiry form.
Once your loan is fully repaid, apply for a Clearance Certificate from HELB. Only HELB issues this certificate—not your employer.
If you are formally employed, monthly deductions should not exceed 25% of your basic pay.
FAQs
Q: What if I don’t have a job or am unemployed?
You can still make voluntary payments via USSD, the HELB portal, mobile money or bank deposit.
Q: What happens if I miss payments or default?
You may incur penalties and the loan may be negatively reported at the Credit Reference Bureau.
Q: How do I know how much I owe?
Log in to your HELB student portal or the self-service section of HELB’s site.
Q: Can I settle the loan in one lump sum?
Yes. If you have the funds, you can repay the entire outstanding balance and then apply for a clearance certificate.
Q: Can employer deductions stop automatically when loan is cleared?
Yes. Once you get the clearance certificate from HELB, notify your employer to stop the deductions.
