Many students aim to pursue higher studies abroad because it gives them a chance to gain a world-class education, broaden horizons and build a global career. But the majority of Indians find foreign education too costly. There are a lot of expenses involved like living expenses, travel costs, insurance charges, etc. Due to this, many students doubt if they can really dream of overseas education?
You need not worry because an education loan can help you. It’s an important financial tool which is helping a lot of Indians to pursue higher education abroad. In this blog, we will study in detail how the education loan works.
What is an Education Loan?
An education loan is one kind of financial assistance that helps students cover their education costs. It includes tuition fees, examination fees, accommodation expenses, travel costs and other related costs. This reduces the financial burden of students and helps them focus on their studies.
Why Consider an Education Loan for Overseas Studies?
The cost of higher studies in a foreign country is much higher than studying in the home country. Hence education loans can be very helpful in making your study abroad possible. Here are some key benefits of taking an education loan for pursuing higher education abroad: –
● Better Quality Education
Through an education loan, you can get access to high-quality education in a foreign nation. The quality of education in foreign countries like the UK, US, Canada and Australia is very high. Students with the help of an education loan can get access to the best infrastructure and campus facilities.
● Higher ROI
The return on your investments is quite high compared to the investment you put in. Graduating from a top international college can get you a lucrative job offer from globally recognised companies at a higher package. Hence, applying for a loan is quite feasible.
● Financial Flexibility
An education loan helps students to manage their tuition fees and other study abroad expenses without affecting their personal savings. They can easily spread the entire cost over a long time through monthly EMI.
● Tax Benefits
An education loan also gives you the benefit of taxation. Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, interest paid on an education loan is eligible for tax deduction under Section 80E of the IT ACT. This will reduce the overall financial burden of the student.
Types of Education Loans Available for Studying Abroad
Here are the major types of education loans available for students for studying abroad: –
● Secured Loans
This type of education loan for abroad studies will require collateral. Loan applicants will have to present collateral like fixed deposits, property, or insurance policies, to get a loan. These loans are generally of a higher amount and have a low interest rate.
● Unsecured Loans
In this type of education loans there is no need for any collateral. This comes with a higher interest rate, and the eligibility criteria are also stricter. Here, the approval depends on the academic profile of the student, the co-applicant’s income and credit history.
● Loans by Foreign Banks and NBFCs
Certain foreign banks and NBFCs offer study-specific loans tailored for Indian students. These loans don’t ask for collateral and have less paperwork. This is a good option when you are unable to meet the eligibility criteria for loan from NBFCs & traditional banks.
What are the Basic Eligibility Criteria?
Here are the common eligibility criteria that loan applicants need to meet for an education loan for abroad studies: –
- The applicant should be an Indian citizen.
- The co-applicant (generally a parent, sibling, spouse or close relative) should have a stable income and a strong credit history.
- The minimum age of the applicant is expected to be 16 years, and the maximum age is expected to be 35 years.
- The loan applicant shall have a strong academic record.
What are the Documents Required?
Here are some of the key documents asked by lenders for an education loan for abroad studies: –
- Fully filled education loan application form.
- A valid passport for travel.
- A letter of confirmed admission from a recognised foreign university.
- Academic records of 10th, 12th and other degrees if applicable.
- Recent passport-size photographs.
- Scores of entrance exams like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, as needed.
- Identity and Address proof.
- Co-applicant or guarantor also needs to provide id proof, address proof and income proof.
Smart Tips to Improve Approval Chances
Here are some tips to help you improve loan approval chances: –
- Start exploring loan options 3-6 months before your admission cycle. Hence, you will have enough time to compare lenders, understand interest rates and collect documents.
- Build a healthy credit score by timely payment of existing loans and credit card bills. A good credit score can help you get faster loan approval.
- There are a lot of banks and NBFCs offering education loans for abroad studies. Compare their interest rates, processing fees and repayment terms before applying for a loan.
- Don’t just rely on an education loan. Combine them with scholarships, savings and part-time work. This can help reduce overall borrowing and financial stress.
Conclusion
Studying overseas can change your life, but this comes at a high cost. Due to this, many students and families hesitate about foreign education. But Education loans can help you access higher education abroad without sacrificing your savings.
An education loan covers all expenses from tuition fees to living expenses. It also offers flexible repayment options and comes with tax benefits. If you are planning for personal loan for abroad studies, then start planning in advance. This will improve the chances of loan approval.
Also Read: How to Use an Abroad Education Loan EMI Calculator to Estimate Your Monthly Payments?
