Helsb Zambia: Facts - 2025.

What didn't you know about Helsb Zambia? In this post we will put together facts about the institution for your better understanding. The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) is a Zambian government agency responsible for providing financial assistance to students pursuing higher education. HELSB offers student loans and administers scholarships to support academic pursuits.

what is helsb

Helsb Zambia products

As mentioned above the institution's core purpose is to help students financially through student loans and scholarships. Here are products offered by helsb:


1. Student loans

The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) in Zambia provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education. The loans cover expenses such as tuition, accommodation, and allowances for meals, books, and projects. Repayment is required to begin within one year after completing your studies

How to apply for HELSB Zambia

To apply for a Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) loan in Zambia, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility Requirements

  • Being a Zambian citizen.
  • Having a full Grade 12 Certificate.
  • Being accepted into a public university or college in Zambia.
  • Demonstrating financial need.
2. Gather Required Documents

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, which generally include:

You will need:

  • Certified copies of your Grade 12 results and National Registration Card (NRC).
  • Admission letter from a recognized institution.
  • Parents’/guardians’ NRCs and proof of income (if required).
  • Affidavit (if necessary, for single-parent or orphan applicants).
  • Other documents as specified in the official call for applications.

3. Apply Online via the HELSB Portal

  • Register and create an account.
  • Fill in the application form with accurate details.
  • Upload all required documents in the correct format.
4. Submit Your Application
  • Review all details before submitting.
  • Ensure you receive a confirmation of submission.
5. Await Selection and Results
  • HELSB will review applications and publish a list of successful applicants.
  • You may be required to attend an interview or submit additional information.
6. Loan Agreement and Disbursement
  • If selected, sign a loan contract agreement.
  • Funds will be disbursed directly to your institution to cover tuition and other approved expenses.
7. Repayment Plan
  • After completing your studies, you must repay the loan according to HELSB’s guidelines.

🔹 Application Deadline: Always check the website or media announcements for the latest deadlines.

2. Scholarships

HELSB administers scholarships in collaboration with countries such as Algeria, China, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Morocco, Russia, Serbia, Tunisia, and Turkey. Currently, over 1,200 Zambian students are benefiting from these international opportunities.

Additionally, HELSB manages scholarships from the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for studies in the United Kingdom at the master's and PhD levels.

Application Process:

To apply for a HELSB scholarship:

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the specific criteria for the desired scholarship, including academic qualifications and any additional requirements set by the host country or institution.

  2. Prepare Required Documents: This may include certified copies of academic certificates, a study plan or synopsis detailing your preferred course and how it will contribute to Zambia's development agenda (200 words for undergraduates, 400 words for postgraduates), and a comprehensive medical examination report, including tests for HIV, TB, and Hepatitis B.

    helsb.gov.zm

  3. Submit Application: Follow the specific application guidelines provided by HELSB, which may involve online submission through their official website or physical submission to their offices.

Is helsb loan free?

Despite sounding free, Helsb loans are not free. Students who benefit from the product are required to pay back the amount of money plus interest. this payment is done by the student after competing their university and after being given a year as grace period.
Simply because the institution is headed by the government does not mean the financial assistance you get is for free. You are required to pay back for the maintaining the service to other students.

Quick facts about Helsb.

  • To access any helsb product; student loan or scholarships, you need to wait for the advertisement done publicly and through major academic institutions in Zambia. 
  • Some  students maybe given 100% bursary while others only qualify for a certain percentage. 
  • Students who score higher marks have higher chances of receiving 100% financial support by Helsb. 
  • The money offered by Helsb is used for tuition fees and  upkeep for students while in school and is paid monthly. 
  • The board sits regularly to revise the terms and conditions for the student loans therefore you may see increase in student's allowances.
  • Helsb loans are not free, you will be needed to pay back once you finish your academic period.
  • Being accepted by a higher learning institution is the first qualification to access helsb loan.
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