Student Loans

🚀 One-Stop Guide: HELSB Student Loan Application Process (NRC to Final Submission)

This is your comprehensive, step-by-step guide to applying for the HELSB Student Loan online. We walk you through every critical stage, from creating your account and uploading documents to paying the K100 fee and achieving final submission.

November 10, 20254 minutes readBy Estudy Team
🚀 One-Stop Guide: HELSB Student Loan Application Process (NRC to Final Submission)

Phase 1: Account Creation and Sign-Up (Steps 1-3)

The application process begins with creating your personalized account on the official HELSB e-Portal. This account will be your command center for your loan application.

Step 1: Create Account Details

Visit the HELSB Portal: https://portal.helsb.gov.zm and click 'New on our platform? Create an account'. Fill in the following details accurately: NRC (Your valid National Registration Card number), Your Name (Your full name as per NRC), Phone (Valid ZM (+260) phone number), Email (Valid email address), Access Pin (Choose a 6-digit PIN, which must be exactly 6 digits), and Confirm Pin (Re-enter the 6-digit pin). After entering details, click Next.

Step 2: Upload Profile Picture

On the 'Profile Information' screen, you must upload a clear, recent photo of yourself. Unclear images will result in application rejection. File Requirements: [Format: PNG or JPEG] [Maximum Size: 8MB]. Click Next to proceed.

Step 3: Select Account Type and Submit Registration

The final step in account creation is on the 'Select Plan' page. Select account type: Choose 'New Student' (Seeking loan or scholarship award). Review the Terms and Conditions and click 'Accept'. Finally, click 'Submit' to complete your account registration. (A secret PIN will be sent to your email address/phone number as confirmation.)

Phase 2: Login and Data Input (Steps 4-7)

Once your account is created, log in to begin filling out the mandatory sections of your application.

Step 4: Sign In and Verification

Use your newly created credentials to log in and secure your account: Sign In by entering your USERNAME (NRC, Email, or phone number) and PIN (The 6-digit pin). Navigate to the Registration section and use the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to you to Verify Phone and Email. This step is crucial for future communication.

Step 5: Registration

You will see this dashboard telling you to register in order to apply. Please click Register Now

Step 6: Verification Check

Ensure both your phone number and email address are verified before clicking the green button labeled "Click to register".


Step 7: Fill in Personal Information

Accurately fill in your personal details, including but not limited to: Full Name, NRC, Date of Birth, Contact Details, District of Residence, and Disability status (if applicable).

Step 8: Provide Guardian / Next of Kin Information

You must provide comprehensive details for your primary guardian or next of kin. This information is critical for establishing socio-economic vulnerability. Please provide the following:


  • Full Name
  • NRC
  • Relationship to applicant
  • Gender
  • Occupation
  • Phone Number
  • Address

Step 9: Enter Academic Information

Provide your academic qualifications as required by the HELSB criteria: Select and provide details of your Last School, Exam number, and results per subject. Enter results (e.g., Grade 12 certificates or tertiary qualifications). If GCE results are considered, indicate the first school and first year when you wrote your G12 exams.

Step 10: Attachments

Please upload the following documents:


  • Your certified National Registration Card
  • Your guardian's National Registration Card
  • Your statement of results
  • Any other supporting documents

Phase 3: Documentation and Submission (Steps 8-11)

The final phase involves uploading supporting documents and authorizing the application fee.

Step 11: Attach Required Documents

Upload clear and certified supporting documents. Ensure all files meet the specified size and format (usually PDF or JPEG): Certified NRC (front and back), Certified Guardian's NRC, Certified Academic Transcripts (Attach GCE and Grade 12 Certificate on one document if applicable), Acceptance Letter (if applicable), Certified Disability Certification (if applicable), Passport photo (does not need to be certified), and Other supporting documents for vulnerability proof.

Step 12 & 13: Apply for the Loan and Pay Fee

The final steps secure your application submission: 1. Apply for the Loan: Go to the 'Loan Application' section, select the University you want to apply to, fill in the required fields, and review your application. 2. Pay K100 Application Fee: Enter your Airtel mobile number. A prompt will appear on your phone to enter your PIN to authorize the payment. Fee: ZMW 100.00 (Non-refundable). Once payment is successful, your application is submitted.

Step 14: Await Application Updates

Your process is complete. Regularly monitor your application status. You will receive updates via your dashboard and through the verified email/SMS. Be Guided Accordingly.

#HELSB#Loan Application#Student Loan#Online Guide#How to Apply
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