Everything You Need To Know About Education Loans For MSc Students

Vaishali Pandey
October 18, 2024

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Everything You Need To Know About Education Loans For MSc Students

Pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) is a valuable investment in your future, but the high costs of tuition, living expenses, and other academic fees can be challenging. Fortunately, education loans for MSc students provide the financial flexibility to pursue advanced technology, finance, and science studies. 

In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about these loans, including eligibility, interest rates, scholarships.

What Is An MSc Program?

MSc (Master of Science) is a postgraduate degree that provides advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in various fields, such as science, technology, engineering, business, and management. It is pursued after a bachelor's degree and is designed to deepen a student's knowledge in a specific area.

Top Lenders Offering Education Loan For MSc Students

Choosing the right bank or financial institution for your education loan for MSc students is essential. Each lender offers different education loans for MSc students with interest rates, loan amounts, and repayment options. 

Here's a comparison of the top banks and NBFCs in India:

Top Banks Offering Education Loan for M.Sc Students

Bank/Institution Maximum Loan Amount Interest Rate Processing Fees Repayment Tenure
State Bank of India (SBI) ₹1.5 crore 8.65% for secured loans 1% of loan amount Up to 15 years
HDFC Bank ₹1 crore (unsecured) Starting at 9.75% ₹10,000 + GST 10-15 years
ICICI Bank ₹50 lakhs Starting at 10% ₹5,000 + GST 7-10 years
Axis Bank ₹1 crore (secured) Starting at 9.25% 1% of loan amount 15 years

Top NBFCs Offering Education Loan for M.Sc Students

NBFC Interest Rate (p.a.) Loan Amount Repayment Period Processing Fee
Propelld 12.00%-15.00% Up to ₹50 lakh Up to ₹50 lakh Varies by profile
HDFC Credila 11.75% - 13.50% Up to ₹1 crore Up to 15 years 1% of loan amount
Tata Capital 10.99% - 12.99% Up to ₹50 lakh Up to 10 years Varies by profile
Cent Vidyarthi 10.65% - 11.25% Up to ₹10 lakh Flexible Nil
Union Education Scheme 11.30% Up to ₹46.50 lakh Flexible Nil
PNB Saraswati 10.75% - 12.00% According to requirement Flexible Nil

Selecting the right bank or financial institution for your education loan for MSc students ensures you get the best education loan for MSc students with interest rates and repayment terms. Let's explore the details of education loan for MSc students interest rate and how they vary for different loan types.

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Education Loan For MSc Students Interest Rate

Education Loan For MSc Students Interest Rate

The interest rate of education loans for MSc students significantly determines how much you'll repay. Here's a breakdown of education loan for MSc students interest rate based on different types of loans:

Loan Type Interest Rate Loan Amount Repayment Tenure Collateral Requirement
Secured Loan 8.05% - 11.75% Up to ₹2 crore 12 - 15 years Requires collateral (property, FD, etc.)
Unsecured Loan 10% - 13% Up to ₹1 crore 7 - 10 years No collateral required
Foreign Education Loan 9% - 12% Varies by country 10 - 15 years Collateral required for loans above ₹7.5 lakhs
Domestic Education Loan 8% - 10% ₹10 - 30 lakhs 7 - 10 years Collateral may be required for higher amounts

Next are some tips that can help you secure a lower interest rate on education loans for MSc students. 

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Tips To Secure Lower Interest Rates on your Education Loan

Reducing your education loan for MSc students interest rate can save you a lot over the loan tenure. Here's how you can get better rates on your MSc student education loan:

1. Choose Secured Loans

Offering collateral significantly reduces the interest rate, as the risk to the bank is minimized.

2. Maintain a Good Credit Score

A credit score above 750 is ideal for getting lower interest rates. Banks consider a high score an indicator of a good credit history.

3. Strong Co-applicant Profile

Banks may offer lower interest rates if your co-applicant has an excellent financial background. Their income and credit history also impact the loan terms.

4. Apply Early

Some banks offer interest rate discounts for students who apply early. Researching loan options beforehand ensures you can take advantage of these offers.

5. Negotiate with the Lender

You can negotiate a better rate, especially with multiple offers from different lenders. Platforms like WeMakeScholars can help you do this.

This article might be a help for you: How to Apply for Education Loan in India- Complete Process

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Education Loan For MSc Student: Repayment Plans

When considering an education loan for a Master of Science (M.Sc) degree, understanding the repayment plans is crucial. Below is a table summarizing common repayment options available to students, including moratorium periods and typical tenure:

Repayment Plan Description Moratorium Period Repayment Tenure
Standard Repayment Plan Fixed monthly payments calculated based on loan amount and interest rate. Course duration + 6-12 months 5 to 15 years
Partial Interest Payment Borrowers pay only the interest during the moratorium period. Course duration + 6-12 months 5 to 15 years
Full Interest Payment Borrowers pay full interest during the moratorium period. Course duration + 6-12 months 5 to 15 years
Step-Up Repayment Plan Payments start lower and increase over time as income is expected to rise. Course duration + 6-12 months Up to 15 years
Extended Repayment Plan Longer repayment period resulting in lower monthly payments but higher total interest. Course duration + 6-12 months Up to 20 years

Key Features of Repayment Plans

1. Moratorium Period 

Typically includes the duration of the course plus an additional grace period of 6-12 months, allowing graduates time to secure employment.

2. Flexible Options

Many lenders offer various plans tailored to the borrower's financial situation, including options for partial or full interest payments during study.

3. Prepayment Options 

Most lenders allow borrowers to make prepayments without penalties after a certain period.

Choosing the right repayment plan is key to managing your finances after graduation. Now, let’s dive into some practical tips for handling your education loan repayments effectively.

While you’re at it, its a good idea to plan the loan better by checking your EMIs with Education Loan EMI Calculator

Tips For Managing Repayments of Education Loan

Managing the repayment of an education loan can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, it can be manageable and stress-free. Here are some practical tips to help you stay on top of your loan payments and avoid financial strain in the future.

1. Start Repaying Interest During the Moratorium

If your financial situation allows, pay off the interest during the moratorium period. This will reduce the overall loan amount significantly when repayment begins.

2. Choose a Longer Tenure Initially

Opting for a more extended repayment period can ease the financial burden, especially early in your career. You can prepay the loan later if your income increases.

3. Use Loan Calculators

Always use an education loan EMI calculator before selecting your loan to understand how much you'll pay monthly.

4. Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, the interest paid on an education loan is eligible for tax deductions, reducing your taxable income.

5. Opt for Step-Up Repayment Plans

Some banks offer step-up repayment plans, in which the EMI increases over time as your income grows, allowing you to manage payments more effectively.

By following these repayment strategies, you can reduce the burden of your education loan and focus on building your career. Now, let’s explore why education loans are essential for MSc students and how they can make higher education more accessible.

Why Are Education Loans Essential For MSc Students?

An MSc degree leads to better career prospects and specialized roles, but the cost of pursuing this postgraduate degree can be huge. Whether seeking an MSc in India or abroad, the expenses can include tuition, accommodation, books, and travel. Here's a look at the costs:

Location Tuition Fees (₹) Living Expenses (₹) Total Estimated Cost (₹)
India ₹12-15 lakhs ₹2-3 lakhs per year ₹15-20 lakhs
USA ₹30-70 lakhs ₹8-16.5 lakhs per year ₹40-85 lakhs
UK ₹25-35 lakhs ₹6-10 lakhs per year ₹40-50 lakhs
Australia ₹20-40 lakhs ₹14.3-19.3 lakhs per year ₹34.3-59.3 lakhs

Given these high costs, securing an education loan for MSc students is critical.

Benefits of Education Loan for MSc Students

Here are some key benefits of taking an education loan for MSc students:

1. Covers Comprehensive Expenses

Education loans cover tuition fees and other expenses, such as accommodation, travel, books, and even living expenses, so students can manage their finances while studying.

2. Flexible Repayment Options

Many education loans have flexible repayment terms so students can repay over several years. This reduces the financial burden and gives more time to repay the loan.

3. Moratorium Period

Most loans have a moratorium period, which means you can start repaying the loan after you complete your course. This allows you to get a job before you start making payments.

4. Lower Interest Rates Compared to Personal Loans

Education loans have lower interest rates than standard personal loans, making them more affordable in the long run. Since they are designed for students, they are also more cost-effective.

5. Boosts Career Opportunities

An MSc degree can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries. Taking an education loan lets you focus on your studies and set yourself up for a successful career without immediate financial burden.

Since an MSc degree is expensive, education loans provide financial support to make higher education possible and affordable. The following section will show the eligibility criteria for MSc students applying for education loans.

Doesn't sound convincing yet? Do check out: Is Education Loan Worth It? Key Advantages & Consideration

Eligibility Criteria For Education Loan For MSc Students

To get an education loan for MSc students, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by banks and financial institutions. These criteria are to ensure that students and co-applicants can manage the loan. Below is the detailed eligibility criteria:

Eligibility Factor Details
Academic Performance A minimum of 60% in undergraduate studies. Some banks may ask for GRE/GMAT scores for students studying abroad.
Admission Confirmation Must have an offer letter from a recognised university for an MSc program.
Co-applicant’s Financial Profile A co-applicant with a stable income is required to secure better loan terms. The co-applicant can be a parent or guardian.
Collateral (for Secured Loans) Collateral like property, fixed deposits, or insurance is usually required for loans exceeding ₹7.5 lakhs.
Loan Margin Some banks require a loan margin of 5-15%. This means that part of the education cost is borne by the student.

Meeting the eligibility criteria will increase your chances of getting an education loan for MSc students. Once you are eligible, the next thing to consider is the education loan for MSc students interest rate, which will determine the total cost of the loan. 

Here’s something you don’t want to miss: Education Loan Repayment Rules in India 2024

Comparison Between Education Loans For MSc In India And Abroad

When choosing an education loan for MSc students, the loan structure, interest rates, and repayment terms can vary significantly depending on whether you're studying in India or abroad. 

Below is a detailed comparison between education loans for an MSc in India and education loans for an MSc abroad:

Criteria Education Loan for MSc in India Education Loan for MSc Abroad
Loan Amount ₹10-30 lakhs Up to ₹1.5 crore, depending on the country and university
Interest Rates 8% - 10% 9% - 12%, depending on the lender and destination country
Collateral Requirement May be required for loans above ₹7.5 lakhs Typically required for loans above ₹7.5 lakhs
Repayment Tenure 7 - 10 years 10 - 15 years
Expenses Covered Tuition fees, books, project fees, living expenses within India Tuition fees, living expenses, travel, insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses
Processing Time 1-2 weeks 2-4 weeks
Moratorium Period Course duration + 6-12 months Course duration + 12 months
Loan Margin 5-15% (student pays a portion of the fees) Typically 15%, but varies based on the lender
Documentation Requirements Admission letter, academic records, KYC documents, co-applicant details Admission letter, visa, GRE/GMAT scores, co-applicant financial details, and KYC documents
Disbursement Process Disbursed directly to the institution or student’s account Disbursed directly to the foreign institution or to the student’s account for living expenses

Now that we've covered the education loan in India and abroad, let's move on to the step-by-step process of applying for an education loan for MSc students.

Application Process For Education Loan For MSc Students

Applying for an education loan for MSc students can be smooth if you follow the proper steps. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you secure your loan:

Step Description
Step 1: Research Lenders Compare different lenders based on loan amounts, interest rates, repayment terms, and processing fees. Use platforms like Propelld for assistance.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Ensure that you meet the lender's eligibility criteria, including academic and financial requirements, and check if collateral is required.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents Collect documents like academic transcripts, admission letters, co-applicant financial details, and KYC documents.
Step 4: Submit Application Submit your loan application online or in person, along with all the necessary documents.
Step 5: Wait for Loan Sanction The bank will review your application. For unsecured loans, approval can take 2-4 days. For secured loans, it may take up to 15 days.
Step 6: Sign Loan Agreement Once your loan is approved, sign the loan agreement and complete the necessary formalities to disburse the loan amount.

By following these steps, you can ensure a seamless application process for your education loan for MSc students. However, even after securing a loan, you might still question the terms and conditions, repayment, and other related aspects. Now, let's look at the scholarships provided for MSc students.

Minimal Documentation. Higher Chances of Approval. Easy Online Processes. Check Your Eligibility. 

Scholarships For MSc Students

While education loans for MSc students cover most academic expenses, scholarships offer a way to reduce the financial burden further. Many universities and government bodies provide scholarships specifically for MSc students. Here's a list of some of the top scholarships available:

Scholarship Eligibility Amount Offered
HEST Scholarship Indian students planning to study abroad Up to ₹3 lakhs
Education Future International Scholarship Indian students studying abroad ₹2-10 lakhs
UQ Economics Scholarship Indian students pursuing economics-related MSc programs Full tuition fees
Bond Business School Postgraduate Bursaries Students pursuing MSc in business or finance 25% off tuition fees
University of Manchester India Scholarship Indian students accepted into MSc programs ₹5 lakhs

While scholarships can help reduce your load, they are highly competitive. So it's always good to have an education loan for MSc students as a backup in case you don't get a scholarship.

An education loan for MSc students is a financial savior, allowing you to study without immediate financial burden. By knowing the eligibility criteria, getting lower interest rates, and choosing the right repayment plan, you can have a smooth financial ride throughout your academic life. Scholarships also provide additional financial assistance, reducing the overall cost of your education.

If you're ready to take the next step in your academic journey, explore your education loan options for MSc students today. Secure your future, one loan at a time.

Propelld supports your academic goals with flexible, student-friendly loan options.

Why Propelld?

The following are the primary benefits of Propelld.

Feature Details
Max Loan Amount50 Lacs
CollateralNot Required
MoratoriumAvailable
Processing Time10 Times Faster than Banks
Disbursal Time7 Days
Approval RateHigher than Banks
Special USPMarks Based Approval
% Financed100% of Fees

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Faqs About Education Loan For MSc Students

What is the interest rate for education loan for MSc students?

The interest rate on an education loan for MSc students ranges from 8.5% to 13%, depending on whether it is secured or unsecured.

Do I need collateral for an education loan for studying abroad?

Collateral is required for loans above ₹7.5 lakhs, but many banks offer unsecured loans up to ₹1 crore.

Can I apply for an education loan without co-applicant?

Most banks require a co-applicant, especially for higher loan amounts. The co-applicant is usually a parent or guardian with a stable income.

How long is the moratorium period for education loans?

The moratorium period typically covers the course duration plus 6-12 months, allowing you to begin repayment after securing a job.

Can I prepay my education loan?

Yes, most banks allow loan prepayment without penalties. This can reduce the total interest burden over the loan's tenure.

What expenses are covered by an education loan?

An education loan covers tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, books, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Is work experience required to apply for an education loan?

Work experience is not mandatory but can improve your chances of loan approval, especially for higher loan amounts.

How can I reduce the interest rate of education loans for MSc students?

Offering collateral, maintaining a high credit score, and choosing a solid co-applicant can help secure lower interest rates.

Can I get a loan with bad credit?

A bad credit score can lead to higher interest rates on MSc students' education loans or loan rejection. But having a co-applicant can help.

What is the loan margin for an education loan?

Some lenders require a loan margin, meaning the student pays a percentage (5-15%) of the total amount, and the loan covers the rest.

How long does it take to process an education loan?

For unsecured loans, approval takes 2-4 days; for secured loans, it takes up to 15 days for sanction.

Are there tax benefits for repayment of education loans?

Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, interest paid on an education loan is eligible for tax deductions.

Can I apply for an education loan while I am still in my final year of undergraduate?

Yes, you can apply for an education loan if you have received an offer letter from a recognised university for the MSc program.

Is there a maximum loan amount for studying abroad?

Most banks offer loans up to ₹1.5 crore for students pursuing MSc degrees abroad.

What documents are required for applying for an education loan?

Required documents include academic records, proof of admission, co-applicants income proof, KYC documents, and collateral documents (if applicable).

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