NAIROBI, Kenya – The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has issued a directive to students who created portal accounts before turning 18, urging them to update their existing profiles with national ID details instead of registering new accounts.
In a notice released on Friday, July 11, HELB said the update applies to students who signed up for the portal using their KCSE index numbers while still minors. Now that they have national ID cards, they must revise their account information accordingly.
“Do not create a new account. Simply update the one you opened using your index number with your national ID details,” the board advised.
Got your ID after applying for the HELB Loan with your KCSE index number? It’s time to update your account! Follow these simple steps to keep your details up to date.
Upon logging into the portal with their original credentials, users will receive a pop-up prompt guiding them through the ID update process.
Students are required to enter their ID number and first name exactly as printed on the card, then click ‘Validate’ and proceed to ‘Register’ to finalise the process.
HELB warned that opening a new account instead of updating the existing one could result in errors, delays, or disruptions to loan and scholarship applications.
The board also addressed recent technical issues faced by applicants for the September 2025 intake, especially those encountering error messages on the HELB mobile app.
“Seeing an error that your National ID is already activated on another device? Don’t worry! Just send us a direct message with your registered phone number and National ID, and we’ll assist,” HELB assured.
Applicants are encouraged to follow instructions precisely and use official support channels, including social media, to resolve any problems and avoid disruptions in the processing of financial aid.
