The 2026 list of Institutions Eligible for HELB and Government Scholarships is out, and it changes how Kenyan students plan for university and college education. The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service has released an updated eligibility framework that clearly shows where government scholarships apply and where only HELB loans are available.
The list confirms strong state backing for public universities and TVET institutions, while private universities receive limited support. This classification helps students and parents make smart, informed choices before applying.
Institutions Eligible for HELB and Government Scholarships in 2026
KUCCPS has confirmed that 42 public universities and the Open University of Kenya qualify for both government scholarships and HELB loans. This decision places public universities at the centre of government-backed higher education financing under President William Ruto’s administration.
Students admitted to these institutions benefit from two major advantages. They receive reduced tuition through government scholarships. They also access HELB loans for upkeep and additional costs. This combination lowers the financial burden on families and improves access to university education across the country.
Public universities eligible for both HELB and government scholarships
Below is a summary table highlighting some of the key public universities on the eligibility list.
| Category | Institutions |
|---|---|
| Fully Eligible Public Universities | University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, Moi University, Egerton University |
| Technical Universities | Technical University of Kenya, Technical University of Mombasa |
| Regional Universities | Maseno University, Pwani University, Maasai Mara University |
| Special Entry | Open University of Kenya |
Other institutions on the list include Multimedia University of Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Chuka University, Kibabii University, Kisii University, Machakos University, Meru University of Science and Technology, and Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology.
In total, the list covers universities across all regions, ensuring fair geographic distribution and access.
Private universities eligible for HELB loans only
KUCCPS has also listed 30 private universities as eligible for HELB loans only. Students admitted to these institutions do not qualify for government scholarships.
This means learners in private universities must rely on HELB loans, personal funding, or institutional bursaries to meet tuition costs. While HELB loans still provide relief, the absence of government scholarships makes private university education more expensive.
Key points for students considering private universities include
- HELB loans cover part of tuition and upkeep
- Government scholarships do not apply
- Students should confirm fee structures before accepting placement
This classification pushes students to weigh cost against preference when choosing institutions.
TVET colleges and training institutions eligibility explained
The 2026 framework strongly supports technical education. KUCCPS has confirmed that 272 public TVET colleges under the Ministry of Education qualify for both government scholarships and HELB loans.
This move aims to boost enrolment in skill-based training and address unemployment by promoting practical education.
At the same time, 153 public colleges under other government ministries and Kenya Medical Training Colleges qualify for HELB loans only. These institutions remain critical in health, security, and specialised training but operate under different funding models.
There is also a third category. 35 university-level TVET institutions appear on the list but do not qualify for either government scholarships or HELB loans. Students applying to these institutions must seek alternative financing options.
Summary of TVET eligibility
- 272 Ministry of Education TVET colleges
- Eligible for scholarships and HELB
- 153 colleges under other ministries and KMTC
- Eligible for HELB loans only
- 35 university-level TVET institutions
- Not eligible for either
This structure shows the government’s priority on skills development while maintaining budget discipline.
Why the 2026 HELB eligibility list matters for students and parents
The Institutions Eligible for HELB and Government Scholarships list plays a critical role during placement and application. It helps families avoid costly mistakes. It also ensures students select institutions that match their financial capacity.
KUCCPS designed the classification to improve transparency. Students now know in advance whether they will receive scholarships, loans, or both. This clarity supports better planning and reduces dropouts linked to financial stress.
Parents should review eligibility before approving applications. Students should confirm funding status before accepting placement offers.
Government increases HELB funding for 2025/2026
The release of the 2026 eligibility list follows a major funding boost. The government increased the HELB annual budget from Ksh36 billion to Ksh41 billion for the 2025/2026 cycle.
This Ksh5 billion increase supports the student-centred funding model. It allows more learners to access loans and scholarships.
Funding allocation includes
- Ksh13 billion for student tuition
- Ksh16.9 billion directed to the Universities Fund for scholarships
This investment strengthens public universities and TVET institutions while expanding access to higher education.
