Students Urged to Confirm New University Fees & Apply for Funding
Effective September 1, 2025, both new and continuing university students in Kenya must confirm their updated tuition fees and reapply for government support through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal.
Students are now required to check and confirm their household contribution on the HEF portal. PHOTO/HELB
Steps for First-Year Students
New university students must access the HEF portal and verify their Household Contribution. After submitting their application, they will receive a financing package breakdown, which includes:
- Government scholarship allocation
- HELB loan amount
- Personal contribution (Household Contribution)
Only after settling the household contribution can students proceed with their registration and access university services.
Continuing Students Must Also Reapply
Continuing students who are already receiving government funding are required to reapply for the 2025/2026 academic year. Universities have warned that failing to reapply will lead to withdrawal of support. Reapplication is mandatory and should be done via the HEF portal or by dialing *642# on any mobile phone.
Government Slashes University Fees
In a statement released on July 31, 2025, the Ministry of Education announced a major reduction in tuition fees across all public universities. This move, part of the Student-Centered Funding Model, aims to enhance accessibility and affordability of higher education in Kenya.
According to Higher Education Principal Secretary Beatrice Inyangala, the funding model considers the financial needs of students, with support offered through a mix of scholarships, loans, and personal contributions.
University Portals Updated for September Intake
Public universities have been directed to update their admissions and financial portals in readiness for the September 2025 intake. This marks the second year under the new student-centred model, replacing the blanket subsidies previously applied to all students.
The model targets learners from low-income and vulnerable households, ensuring that funding is directed where it’s most needed while also supporting the long-term sustainability of institutions.
“This bold step reaffirms our commitment to ensuring affordable, accessible, and quality university education,” said PS Inyangala in a letter to Vice Chancellors.
