With HELB disbursements underway, students can check their loan status online to confirm whether their upkeep funds have been released.
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has started disbursing funds to eligible students for the 2026/2027 academic year, leaving many students checking whether their upkeep has already been released.
For students who applied for funding, the easiest way to confirm the status is through the HEF Student Portal, where applicants can track their loan application, allocation and disbursement status.
How to check your HELB loan status
- Visit the HEF Student Portal.
- Log in to your account.
- Check your loan information to see whether your funding has been allocated.
- Check the disbursement status to confirm whether the funds have been released.
HELB’s official guidance says students can track their application, allocation and disbursement through the student portal.
How to access HELB upkeep through *642#
Students can also use HELB’s USSD service by dialling *642#.
For upkeep that has already been credited, HELB says students can log in, select Withdraw Funds, choose Upkeep, enter the amount they want to withdraw and complete the transaction.
How do you know if the money has reached you?
HELB distinguishes between tuition and upkeep payments. Tuition fees are sent directly to the student’s institution, while upkeep is credited to the student’s registered bank account or mobile money account.
For students using M-Pesa, HELB says a confirmation SMS is sent when funds are deposited.
What if my loan has been allocated but I haven’t received the money?
An allocation does not necessarily mean the money has already been deposited.
Students whose loans have been allocated but whose disbursement is still pending should monitor their status and allow the payment process to be completed. They should also ensure that their registered bank or mobile money details are correct and match their National ID details.
As the 2026/27 disbursement process continues, students can use the HEF Student Portal and HELB’s official self-service channels to monitor their loan status.
