HELB Subsequent Loan Application
If you are a continuing university or TVET student who has previously received a HELB loan or scholarship and need funding for another academic year, you can make a HELB subsequent loan application through the available HELB digital channels.
A subsequent loan application is different from a first-time HELB loan application. It is intended for students who have already received HELB funding and are continuing with their studies. HELB describes this as a Second and Subsequent Application, meaning a student can apply for the second, third, fourth or other subsequent funding depending on the duration of their programme.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, HELB announced that subsequent loan applications opened on 1 June 2026, with continuing students able to apply through USSD *642#.
This guide explains what the HELB subsequent loan application means, who can apply, how to apply using *642#, the information you need, the loan payment options, and what happens after submitting your application.
What is HELB Subsequent Loan Application?
A HELB subsequent loan application is an application made by a continuing student who has previously received a HELB loan and wants to apply for funding for another academic year.
For example, if you received a HELB loan during your first year at university and are now progressing to your second year, you can make a subsequent loan application when the application window opens. The same principle applies when progressing to subsequent years of your programme.
HELB officially distinguishes between:
- First-time application – for students applying for HELB funding for the first time.
- Second and subsequent application – for students who have previously been awarded a loan or scholarship and are applying again during their studies.
Therefore, if you have already benefited from HELB funding and are continuing with your course, you generally need to use the subsequent application process rather than registering as a completely new applicant.
Is HELB Subsequent Loan Application Open?
For the 2026/2027 financial year, HELB announced that the subsequent loan application opened on 1 June 2026. The Board stated that continuing students could apply through USSD *642#.
Application windows and deadlines can change from one academic year to another. Students should therefore check the official HELB website and announcements before submitting an application.
The important point is that a previous HELB loan does not automatically mean that you will receive another year’s funding. You still need to submit a subsequent application during the relevant application window.
Who Can Apply for a Subsequent HELB Loan?
The subsequent application is intended for students who have already been awarded HELB funding and are continuing with their studies.
This can include eligible students pursuing undergraduate programmes and TVET programmes. HELB’s undergraduate loan information specifically states that students who were awarded a scholarship and/or loan in the previous academic year may apply for a second and subsequent application.
Similarly, HELB’s TVET loan information states that students awarded a scholarship and/or loan in the previous academic year may make a second and subsequent application.
The exact funding product available to you depends on your programme and the applicable HELB funding arrangements.
How To Apply for HELB Subsequent Loan Using *642#
One of the most convenient ways to make a subsequent loan application is through the HELB USSD service.
According to HELB’s student FAQs, the basic USSD process is:
Step 1: Dial *642#
Using your mobile phone, dial *642#. The service is designed to allow students to access HELB services without necessarily needing a computer.
Step 2: Select the Login Option
From the menu displayed on your phone, select the option for Login. You will need to use the PIN associated with your HELB services.
Step 3: Enter Your HELB PIN
Enter your PIN when prompted. This allows the system to authenticate you and provide access to the services available on your account.
Step 4: Select the Loan Application Option
After logging in, select the option relating to loan application. This takes you to the relevant loan application services.
Step 5: Choose Your Level of Study
Select the appropriate level of study from the options provided. Depending on your programme, this may include options such as:
- Degree
- Diploma
- Certificate
HELB’s published USSD instructions state that applicants should choose their application level before proceeding.
Step 6: Select the Academic Year
Select the relevant academic year for which you are applying. For example, if you are applying for funding for the 2026/2027 academic year, ensure that you select the corresponding academic year when it is presented by the system.
Step 7: Follow the Prompts to Complete the Application
Continue following the instructions displayed on your phone. The exact wording and sequence of USSD menu options can change when HELB updates its systems, so it is better to follow the menu presented on your phone rather than relying solely on an old screenshot or guide.
HELB Subsequent Loan Application Using the HELB Mobile App
Students can also use the HELB Mobile App where the applicable subsequent loan service is available. HELB’s current guidance explains that students should register using a mobile number registered in their own name.
The HELB app registration process requires the student’s first name as it appears on the National ID, National ID number and a valid email address.
For an undergraduate subsequent loan application, the published process includes:
- Download or update the HELB Mobile App.
- Register using your phone number.
- Ensure the mobile number is registered in your name.
- Complete the registration details.
- Open the Loans section.
- Select Degree.
- Select Undergraduate Subsequent Loan and tap Apply.
- Read the application tutorial.
- Go through the financial literacy guide.
- Select Get Started.
- Verify your phone number and National ID details.
- Read and accept the loan terms and conditions.
- Answer the financial literacy questions.
- Review the results and proceed.
- Select your preferred loan payment option.
- Select Request Loan to view and verify your loan details.
- Select Submit to complete the application.
Once the application has been successfully submitted, HELB states that a pop-up confirmation will appear and a loan serial number will be displayed. Students should keep this information for future reference.
How To Apply for TVET Subsequent HELB Loan
TVET students can also make a subsequent application through the HELB channels provided for TVET funding.
When using the HELB Mobile App, the relevant route is under the Loans section, where TVET students can select Certificate/Diploma and then choose the option for the TVET second and subsequent loan.
The application process includes registration, verification of the student’s details, acceptance of the loan terms and conditions, completion of the financial literacy questions, selection of the preferred payment option, reviewing the loan request and submitting the application.
The exact options shown can depend on the student’s programme and the funding product available to them.
What Do You Need for Subsequent Loan Application?
A subsequent HELB application is generally simpler than preparing a first-time application because the student already has an existing HELB record.
However, you should make sure that your account and personal information are accurate and that you can access the phone number associated with your HELB account.
HELB’s published application information lists information such as a valid telephone number and email address among the details used for loan applications. For the mobile application, HELB specifically notes that the telephone number should be registered in the student’s own name.
It is therefore advisable to have access to:
- Your registered mobile phone number
- Your HELB PIN
- Your National ID details
- Your valid email address
- Your current institution and programme information
- Your preferred loan payment method
If HELB requests additional information during your application, provide it through the official HELB platform.
HELB Subsequent Loan Payment Options
During the application process, you may be required to select how you would like your applicable upkeep payment to be made.
The instructions shown in the HELB information graphic accompanying this guide identify two payment options:
- Mobile Money
- Bank Account
The HELB Mobile App guidance similarly states that applicants select their preferred loan payment option before requesting and submitting the loan application.
HELB has also introduced mobile-wallet functionality that allows beneficiaries to access their upkeep funds through supported mobile channels.
It is important to provide payment information that belongs to you and matches the requirements of the HELB system.
- What Happens After You Submit the Subsequent Loan Application?
Submitting the application does not necessarily mean that the money will be deposited immediately.
After you submit your subsequent application, HELB processes the application and determines the applicable funding and disbursement.
One of the most important things to do after applying is to keep your application confirmation and loan serial number. HELB states that a confirmation SMS containing the loan application serial number serves as evidence that you applied. The Board also states that applications are paperless and students do not need to print and submit a physical application form.
You may subsequently receive notifications concerning your loan award and, where applicable, the disbursement of tuition, upkeep or bursary funding.
- Do You Need to Print the HELB Subsequent Loan Application Form?
No. HELB states that its applications are paperless and that students are not required to print a physical application form. After completing the application through the applicable portal or mobile application, the confirmation SMS and loan application serial number serve as evidence that the application was submitted.
This is important because students should not assume that they need to print, sign and physically deliver an old-style application form unless HELB specifically instructs them to do so.
- Is There a Fee for Subsequent HELB Loan Application?
No. HELB states that it does not charge a fee to access the loan application service. Students should be cautious if someone asks them to pay money simply to submit a subsequent loan application.
Use official HELB channels and avoid giving your HELB PIN or other confidential account information to another person.
- What If Your Phone Number Is Not Registered in Your Name?
This is an important issue for students using the HELB Mobile App. HELB states that the mobile number used for the application should be registered in the student’s own name. The Board specifically notes that a mobile number not registered in the student’s name will not allow the applicant to proceed with the application.
If you are experiencing problems because the number is registered under another person’s name, resolve the mobile registration issue before attempting the application again.
HELB Subsequent Loan Application vs First Time Application
Although both processes are used to obtain HELB funding, they are intended for different applicants.
| First Time HELB Application | Subsequent HELB Application |
|---|---|
| For students applying for funding for the first time | For students who previously received HELB funding |
| Requires first-time applicant registration and information | Uses the student’s existing HELB record |
| Applies when the student has not previously been awarded the relevant funding | Applies when the student is continuing with their programme |
| More extensive initial registration may be required | Usually focuses on requesting funding for the new academic year |
| Submitted during the first-time application window | Submitted during the subsequent application window |
HELB officially identifies these as separate types of applications.
Common Problems When Applying for a Subsequent HELB Loan
1. Using the wrong mobile number
If your mobile number is not registered under your name, you may encounter difficulties when using the HELB Mobile App.
2. Forgetting your HELB PIN
The USSD process requires you to log in using your PIN. If you cannot remember it, use the official HELB recovery or support channels rather than asking an unofficial third party to access your account.
3. Applying outside the application window
A subsequent loan application is only available when HELB opens the relevant application window. Always confirm the current opening and closing dates before assuming that the service is unavailable because of a technical problem.
4. Entering incorrect information
Check your details carefully before submitting the application. Incorrect information can create problems during processing.
5. Losing the confirmation message
Do not delete your application confirmation immediately after applying. Keep the SMS containing your application serial number because it provides an important record that the application was submitted.
How to Know Whether Your Subsequent Loan Application Was Successful
There is an important difference between submitting an application and being awarded funding. When you successfully submit the application, you should receive confirmation that the application has been submitted. HELB states that a confirmation SMS with a loan application serial number is evidence that you applied.
The actual award and subsequent disbursement are separate stages.
Therefore, receiving an application confirmation does not by itself mean that the full loan amount has already been awarded or disbursed. Students should monitor official HELB communication for information about awards and disbursements.
How Much Will You Receive From a Subsequent HELB Loan?
There is no single amount that every student receives.
The amount awarded can depend on the applicable funding arrangements, the student’s assessment and the relevant loan product. Students should therefore avoid relying on another student’s loan amount as an indication of what they will receive.
HELB’s undergraduate loan information also advises beneficiaries to manage their loans prudently and use the funds for education-related needs such as tuition, books, stationery, accommodation and subsistence.
Important Tips Before Applying for Subsequent HELB Loan
Before starting your application, make sure that:
- Your mobile phone is working and has network coverage.
- Your mobile number is registered in your name.
- You can access your HELB account or PIN.
- Your National ID details are available.
- Your email address is accessible.
- You know your current level of study.
- You select the correct academic year.
- You carefully read the loan terms and conditions.
- You select the correct payment option.
- You verify the information before submitting.
- You save the confirmation SMS and loan serial number.
Most importantly, use official HELB channels rather than unofficial websites or individuals claiming that they can guarantee a loan award.
Frequently Asked Questions About HELB Subsequent Loan Application
1. What is a subsequent HELB loan?
A subsequent HELB loan is funding requested by a student who has previously received HELB funding and is continuing with their studies. HELB refers to this as a Second and Subsequent Application.
2. How do I apply for a subsequent HELB loan?
You can apply through the available HELB channels, including USSD *642#. HELB also provides subsequent loan application functionality through its mobile application and other supported digital channels.
3. Can I apply for a subsequent HELB loan using my phone?
Yes. The *642# USSD service allows students to access the subsequent loan application service using a mobile phone.
4. Do I need to print the subsequent loan application?
No. HELB states that its loan applications are paperless and that applicants do not need to print a physical application form.
5. Is the HELB subsequent loan application free?
Yes. HELB states that it does not charge a fee to access the loan application.
6. Can TVET students apply for a subsequent HELB loan?
Yes. HELB provides a second and subsequent loan application route for eligible TVET students.
7. What should I do after submitting my application?
Keep the confirmation SMS and loan application serial number. Then monitor official HELB communication for information about the award and disbursement of your funding.
8. Does applying guarantee that I will receive a HELB loan?
No. Submitting an application confirms that you have applied; it is not the same as confirmation of an award or disbursement.
The HELB subsequent loan application is designed to make it possible for continuing students who previously benefited from HELB funding to request funding for another academic year. For the 2026/2027 academic year, HELB announced that subsequent applications opened on 1 June 2026, and students can access the service through *642#, among other supported digital channels.
The basic USSD process involves dialling *642#, logging in with your PIN, selecting the loan application option, choosing your level of study and academic year, and following the prompts displayed on your phone. Students using the HELB Mobile App can similarly access the relevant subsequent loan product, complete the required verification and financial literacy steps, choose their preferred payment option and submit the application.
After applying, remember to save your confirmation SMS and loan serial number. Most importantly, use official HELB channels, do not pay anyone simply to submit your application, and check HELB’s latest announcements for application windows and deadlines.