HELB confirmed that students will no longer be grouped into bands when receiving financial support. Instead, allocations will now be determined by two key factors:

• -The actual cost of the student’s academic programme.

• -The individual’s assessed level of financial need.

The cost of each programme is established by data collected directly from universities and colleges, ensuring real-time accuracy.

Use of the Means Testing Instrument (MTI)

To determine financial need, HELB will rely on the Means Testing Instrument (MTI), a scientific method that uses proxy indicators to measure a student’s socio-economic situation. This will ensure allocations are fair and aligned with individual financial realities.

Impact on Student Fees and Upkeep

HELB explained that the total fees payable by students will now be provided by their respective institutions. Students are urged to check their institution’s websites for exact details.

For upkeep support, each student will receive an amount unique to their financial need assessment outcome. This marks a shift from the standardised upkeep allocation model previously in place.

Reduction in Upkeep Allocations for Some Students

HELB also addressed concerns regarding reduced upkeep allocations for certain students. According to the loans board, this reduction is directly tied to the government’s move to lower overall university programme costs. With tuition fees reduced, upkeep allocations have been adjusted to reflect the new structure.

Recent Government Disbursement

This announcement follows the government’s release of Ksh9.4 billion to support 309,178 university students. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed that Ksh5.7 billion would go toward tuition fees, while the balance would be used for upkeep support.

HELB has urged students to log into the HELB portal to confirm their applications and access their specific allocation details.