The Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB) has officially opened the loan application window for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The application window was launched today, June 19, 2026, by HESLB Executive Director Dr. Bill Kiwia during a press briefing held in Dar es Salaam. According to Dr. Kiwia, the loan application process will run until August 31, 2026.
Speaking to journalists, Dr. Kiwia said the opening of the application window goes hand in hand with the launch of four official guidelines for the provision of loans and grants for the 2026/2027 academic year.
“These guidelines have been prepared to help applicants understand the qualifications, criteria and procedures for accessing loans and grants. We strongly advise students to read and follow all instructions before starting their applications through the Online Loan Application and Management System (OLAMS),” said Dr. Bill.
The guidelines launched include those for undergraduate students, diploma students, postgraduate diploma students in legal practice, and the Samia Scholarship grants.
Dr. Kiwia further emphasized that applicants must ensure they use the correct Form Four index number when applying for a loan. The same index number must also be used when applying for admission to higher learning institutions.
He also reminded applicants to verify their birth certificates or parents’ death certificates, for those who have lost their parents, through RITA or ZCSRA and obtain verification numbers before submitting their applications to HESLB.
In addition, applicants aged 18 years and above are required to submit their National Identification Number (NIN) when filling in the loan application forms. However, Dr. Kiwia assured applicants who have not yet reached the age of 18 that they will still be allowed to proceed with their applications even if they do not have a NIN.
HESLB will also continue using the Residential Address System, known as NaPA, to identify applicants, their parents and guarantors. This is aimed at improving efficiency and ensuring the accuracy of the information submitted.
Regarding the Samia Scholarship grants, Dr. Kiwia said that 1,000 students who perform best in science combinations in the 2026 Form Six national examinations will benefit from the government-funded scholarship programme.
“As in previous years, the Government will continue to recognize and support high-performing students in science subjects through the Samia Scholarship programme,” he said.
HESLB has also assured students that support services will be available through its customer service centre from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every day throughout the application period.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Kiwia urged students not to wait until the last minute to submit their applications.
“There is enough time to apply for a loan. We urge applicants to use this period wisely by filling in correct information and uploading all required documents so they can complete their applications within the given time,” he said.
The loan application window for the 2026/2027 academic year will remain open for 73 days, starting June 19, 2026, and will officially close on August 31, 2026.
