For many Ugandan families, getting a child into university is only half the battle. Paying tuition for three, four or five years is the real struggle, and every year bright students defer or drop out because the fees are simply out of reach.
The government student loan scheme exists to close that gap. It pays tuition and some other academic costs for eligible students, who repay after they finish and start earning. This guide explains who qualifies, what the loan covers, how to apply for the 2026/27 academic year and what repayment really looks like.
Who runs the student loan scheme?
The scheme was created under the Higher Education Students Financing Act, 2014, and was originally managed by the Higher Education Students Financing Board (HESFB). Under the government's rationalisation of agencies, the Higher Education Students Financing (Amendment) Act, 2024 moved the work into the Ministry of Education and Sports, where it is now run by the Higher Education Students Financing Secretariat.
Most people still call it "HESFB" or simply "the students loan scheme", and the process for applicants is broadly the same. Applications are made online through the Integrated Loan Management System (ILMIS). Always use the official links published by the Ministry of Education and Sports, not links shared on social media.
Who is eligible?
Requirements can change from one call to the next, so read the official call for applications carefully. In general, you must:
- Be a Ugandan citizen with a national ID or other proof of citizenship.
- Have been admitted to an accredited undergraduate diploma or degree programme at a participating, recognised higher education institution.
- Be studying one of the priority programmes on the approved list.
- Show financial need.
- Meet any age limit in the call. Recent calls have set an upper age limit of around 35 years.
The scheme mainly targets first-year students. The Secretariat has at times also accepted some continuing students, so check whether this year's call covers you if you are already in a programme.
Which courses qualify?
The loan mostly funds science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programmes. The approved list usually includes areas such as medicine and other health sciences, engineering, agriculture, ICT and computer science, and science education. Students with disabilities may apply for either science or humanities programmes. The full list of approved diplomas and degrees is published with each call, so confirm your exact course and institution are on it before you apply.
What the loan covers, and what it does not
The loan pays academic costs directly to your institution. It covers:
- Tuition fees
- Functional fees
- Research fees
- Aids and appliances for students with disabilities
It does not cover accommodation, feeding, transport, medical costs, scholastic materials or other personal expenses. You and your family still need a plan for these, which for a student in Kampala can add up to a significant sum each semester.
How to apply for the 2026/27 student loan
The call for 2026/27 applications opened in late May 2026, with a closing date of 25 July 2026 at the time of writing. Deadlines are sometimes extended, but do not count on it. Here is the usual process:
- Secure your admission. You need an admission letter for an approved programme at a participating institution.
- Gather your documents. Typically: admission letter, national ID, academic certificates and result slips (UCE, UACE or equivalent), birth certificate, a recent passport photo and proof of payment of the application processing fee. Some calls also ask for a sketch map of your home location and supporting documents on your family's circumstances.
- Pay the processing fee. A small, non-refundable fee is charged. Use only the payment method stated in the official call.
- Create an account on ILMIS. Register with a working email address and phone number that you will keep for years. You will need them for communication and later for repayment.
- Fill in the form honestly. Enter personal, academic and family financial details. Upload clear scans of every document.
- Submit and save proof. Download or screenshot your submitted application and keep the reference number.
- Follow up on results. Successful applicants are published by the Ministry and communicated through institutions, usually some weeks after the deadline.
How applicants are selected
Demand is far higher than the money available. In recent years, the number of applicants has been far higher than the number of loans awarded. Applications are scored on factors such as academic performance, household background and need, disability, regional balance, gender and other equity considerations. A complete and accurate application gives you the best chance.
How repayment works
The loan is not a grant. At the time of writing, the main repayment terms published by the scheme were:
- Grace period: repayment starts 12 months after you complete your programme.
- Value retention fee: 7% per year, charged on the reducing balance. This works like interest and keeps the value of the money for future students.
- Repayment period: up to twice the length of your course, plus the grace period. A three-year degree could therefore be repaid over about six years after the grace period.
- Employer deductions: once you are employed, your employer is expected to deduct repayments from your pay and remit them. Self-employed graduates arrange repayment directly.
- Early repayment: paying early, especially before the grace period ends, reduces or avoids the charges.
Loans can be cancelled for falsified documents, dismissal from the institution, academic failure or other breaches, and you may then be asked to repay what was spent. Keep the Secretariat informed of changes in your contacts and employment.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying for a course that is not on the list. If your programme or institution is not approved, your application will fail however strong it is.
- Blurry or missing uploads. Scan documents clearly and check every page before submitting.
- Leaving it to the last week. The portal gets slow near the deadline, and payment confirmations can take time.
- Paying "agents" who promise a loan. No one can guarantee you a place. Apply yourself through the official portal.
- Forgetting non-tuition costs. Plan for rent, food and transport from the start.
- Ignoring the loan after graduating. Charges keep building on unpaid balances. Talk to the Secretariat early if you cannot pay.
Frequently asked questions
When does the 2026/27 student loan application close?
At the time of writing, the closing date was 25 July 2026. Check the Ministry of Education and Sports for any extension or changes.
Does the student loan pay for accommodation?
No. It covers tuition, functional fees, research fees and aids for students with disabilities. Accommodation, food and personal costs are your responsibility.
Can I apply if I am studying a humanities course?
Generally only if you are a student with a disability, since the scheme mainly funds STEM programmes. Check the approved list in the current call.
What interest is charged on the student loan?
The scheme charges a 7% per year value retention fee on the reducing balance, with repayment starting 12 months after you finish your course.
Can I apply to a private university?
Yes, if the university is a participating institution and your programme is accredited and on the approved list.
Get advice from an education adviser
Choosing the right course, preparing a strong application and planning how to pay for everything the loan does not cover can feel overwhelming. If you want a second pair of eyes on your plans, book a verified education or career adviser on The Quick Consult for a short call and go into the application with confidence.