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Lowest Edu Loan Rates 2025

Which Bank has the Lowest Interest Rate on Education Loan?

Raghuvamshi Kanukruthi
Updated On:
May 8, 2025

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Lowest Education Loan Interest Rate 2025

Comparing education loan interest rates across various banks and NBFCs in India is essential for making informed financial decisions that align with individual needs and financial capabilities.

Analyze and compare interest rates from various lenders. Make informed decisions and optimize your financial resources to minimize long-term debt obligations.

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • The list of banks and NBFCs that provide the lowest interest on education loans. Compare the features and other charges.
  • The Interest rates on education loans range from 8% upto 16%. Check out the list of factors that you must keep in mind to grab the best interest rates.
  • Check the eligibility, documents, factors to consider and step by step process to apply for an education loan.

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Which Bank Provides Lowest Interest on an Education Loan ?

To answer the above question, let's have a look at the list of banks offering education loans with the most competitive interest rates. 

Education Loan Interest Rate Comparison

Bank of Baroda Education Loan Interest Rates

Bank of Baroda offers education loans with high loan amounts, zero collateral requirements for select schemes, and extended repayment tenures. It also provides special interest rate concessions for female students and those admitted to premier institutions.

Education Loan Schemes

Interest Rate (%)

Baroda Vidya Loan

12.50% p.a.

Baroda Gyan Scheme

11.40% - 13.05% p.a.

Baroda Scholar Loan

9.70% - 11.70% p.a.

Baroda Loan – Premier Institutions

8.15% - 9.95% p.a.

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Nil
  • Security: Required
  • Co-borrowers: Parents or guardians
  • Margin: 5% for loans above INR 4 lakh
  • Concession: 0.50% discount for female applicants

State Bank of India Education Loan Interest Rates

State Bank of India (SBI)  provides education loans with interest rate concessions for meritorious students and those availing of a loan under government subsidy schemes. The bank offers a unique SBI Scholar Loan Scheme for students admitted to top-tier institutes like IITs, IIMs, and NITs.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (% p.a.)

SBI Student Loan Scheme

10.15% - 11.15%

SBI Scholar Loan Scheme

8.15% - 8.90%

SBI Global Ed-Vantage Scheme

9.65% - 10.15%

SBI Skill Loan Scheme

10.65%

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: NIL charges for loan amount below Rs.20 lakh
  • Security: Up to Rs. 7.50 lakh: Co-obligation of a parent or guardian, no security needed.
  • Co-borrowers: Parents or guardians
  • Margin: Up to Rs. 4 lakh: No margin required.
  • Concession: 0.50% concession in interest for girl students

ICICI Bank Education Loan Interest Rates

 ICICI Bank facilitates quick loan approvals with minimal documentation and offers 100% financing for select institutions. It provides unsecured loans up to a higher limit, making it ideal for students seeking hassle-free funding for studies abroad.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (%)

ICICI Bank Education Loan

10.25% p.a. onwards

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Up to 2%
  • Security: Fixed deposit, property value, or existing loans
  • Co-borrowers: Parents or guardians
  • Margin: Nil for premier institutes; up to ₹20 lakh for others (Accepted as FD, scholarships, or initial fee paid)
  • Concession: I-SMART education loans for studies in Canada offer lower rates

Central Bank of India Education Loan Interest Rates

 Central Bank of India offers education loans under the Cent Vidyarthi Scheme, covering tuition fees, exam fees, and even living expenses for students. It also provides interest subsidies under government-backed schemes for economically weaker sections.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (%)

Cent Vidyarthi

8.30% - 11.50% p.a.

Cent Vidyarthi for Executive MBA

8.80% p.a.

Cent Skill Loan

11.15% - 11.20% p.a.

Cent Vidyarthi (IIMs & Reputed Management Institutes)

8.30% p.a.

Cent Education Loan

8.30% - 11.25% p.a.

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Nil
  • Concession: Special rates for female students

Bank of India Education Loan Interest Rates

Bank of India provides education loans with zero margin money for loans up to INR 7.5 lakh, meaning students do not need to contribute any personal funds. The bank also offers special benefits to students pursuing professional and technical courses.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (%)

Star Education Loan (India)

8.35% - 11.05% p.a.

Star Education Loan (Abroad)

9.95% - 11.60% p.a.

Star Vidya Loan

9.25% p.a. onwards

Star Progressive Education Loan

9.95% p.a.

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Nil
  • Security: NA
  • Co-borrowers: Parents or guardians
  • Margin: Nil for loans up to ₹4 lakh
  • Concession: Up to 1% discount for female students and those in professional courses

Punjab National Bank Education Loan Interest Rates

Punjab National Bank (PNB)’s PNB Udaan and PNB Pratibha schemes cater to students going abroad and those studying in India’s premier institutions. The bank offers higher loan limits and flexible collateral requirements based on the institute’s category.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (%)

PNB Saraswati (India & Abroad)

11.00% - 12.75% p.a.

PNB Kaushal

10.25% - 12.25% p.a.

PNB Pratibha

8.20% - 11.90% p.a.

PNB Udaan (Abroad)

9.25% - 12.75% p.a.

PNB Honhaar

11.25% - 12.75% p.a.

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Up to 1% for overseas studies
  • Security: Tangible collateral required for foreign education loans
  • Co-borrowers: Parents or guardians
  • Concession: 0.50% discount for female applicants & additional concessions for students with disabilities

Axis Bank Education Loan Interest Rates

Axis Bank provides education loans with pre-admission sanction, allowing students to secure a loan before confirming their admission. It also offers special forex services for students studying abroad and loan repayment flexibility.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (%)

Prime Domestic

13.70% - 15.20% p.a.

Prime Abroad

13.70% - 15.20% p.a.

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Up to 2%
  • Concession: Interest rate benefits for scholarship holders and specific courses

HDFC Bank Education Loan Interest Rates

 HDFC Bank is known for its fastest loan disbursal process, ensuring students get funding within days. It also offers tax benefits under Section 80E and allows repayment through a variety of flexible EMI options.

Loan Scheme

Interest Rate (%)

HDFC Bank Education Loan

10.25% - 14.75% p.a.

Key Features:

Loan Amount: Up to Rs. 150 lakh
•Processing Fee: Nil (for Indian education loans), up to 2% for others
Concession: Rate benefits for meritorious students and specific affiliated institutions

Union Bank of India Education Loan Interest Rates

Union Bank of India provides education loans with interest-free moratorium periods, enabling students to focus on their studies without worrying about repayments. It also extends exclusive benefits to students from weaker economic backgrounds under government subsidy programs.

Loan Scheme

Loan Amount

Interest Rate (%)

Processing Fee

Union Education Scheme

Up to ₹46.50 lakh

11.30% p.a.

Nil

Special Union Education Loan for Premier Institutes Abroad

₹7.50 lakh - ₹150 lakh

9.30% - 10.80% p.a.

Nil

Special Union Education Loan for Premier Medical Institutes

Up to ₹200 lakh

10.30% - 10.80% p.a.

Nil

Union Education - Skill Development Loan

Up to ₹1.5 lakh

10.80% - 12.55% p.a.

-

Key Features:

  • Processing Fee: Up to 0.50%
  • Concession: Reduced rates for meritorious students and female applicants

Canara Bank Education Loan Interest Rates

Scheme

Amount

Interest Rate

Vidya Turant

Up to Rs.50 Lakh (depending on institute)

9.25% - 9.85%

Vidya Shakthi

Up to Rs.7.50 Lakh

9.25%

Vidya Sahay

Up to Rs.1 Lakh

11.25%

Vidya Sagar

According to requirement

10.85% - 11.25%

IBA Skill Loan Scheme - Education Loans

Rs.5,000 to Rs.1.5 Lakh

10.65%

Key Features:

  • Loan Amount: No Collateral for loan upto Rs 7.50 Lakhs.
  • Processing fee: Nil

Indian Overseas Bank Education Loan Interest Rates

Indian Overseas Bank offers some of the best education loan schemes to support students from all backgrounds. With low interest rates and flexible repayment options of up to 15 years, these loans make higher education more accessible.

Scheme

Amount

Interest Rate

Education Loan - Vidyajyoti

Rs.7.50 Lakh to Rs.30 Lakh

12.55%

Vidya Suraksha

Up to Rs.7.50 Lakh

11.55%

Vidya Shresht

Up to Rs.30 Lakh

9.75% - 10.25%

IOB Scholar

Up to Rs.60 Lakh

11.55% - 12.55%

Skill Loan

Rs.5,000 - Rs.1.5 Lakh

11.05%

Key Features:

  • Loan Amount: Up to Rs.60 Lakh
  • ‍Processing Fee: Nil
  • Concession: Interest concession up to 0.50% to 1.50% for educational loans under the Vidya Jyothi and Vidya Suraksha Schemes.

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Read to learn more about the education loan eligibility and application process.

Education Loan Interest Rates of NBFCs

Your search for an education loan does not end with just banks. There are Non Banking Financial Corporations (NBFCs) that offer hassle free education loans to help the students achieve their educational aspirations. 

Here are some of the major NBFCs and their interest rates:

NBFC

Loan Amount

Interest Rate (p.a.)

Processing Fee

Repayment Tenure

Avanse Financial Services

Up to ₹60 Lakhs

12.5% - 13.5%

0.5% - 2%

Up to 12 years

HDFC Credila

Up to ₹80 Lakhs

11.5% - 13.5%

0.5% - 2%

Up to 12 years

Auxilo

Up to ₹50 Lakhs

12.5% - 13.5%

0.5% - 2%

Up to 10 years

InCred

Up to ₹65 Lakhs

12.5% - 13.5%

0.5% - 2%

Up to 10 years

Eduvanz

Up to ₹15 Lakhs

15% - 45%

Not specified

Up to 5 years

Propelld

Up to ₹50 Lakhs

12% - 14%

1% - 2%

Up to 10 years

Bajaj Finance

Up to ₹50 Lakhs

13% - 15%

1% - 2%

Up to 10 years

Shriram Finance

Up to ₹30 Lakhs

12% - 14%

1% - 2%

Up to 7 years

Muthoot Finance

Up to ₹25 Lakhs

11% - 14%

0.5% - 2%

Up to 10 years

Mahindra Finance

Up to ₹30 Lakhs

12% - 14%

1% - 2%

Up to 10 years

Note: The Information provided is based on data available as of March 2024 from reputable sources such as RBI and official bank websites. Processing fees and concession benefits may vary based on individual applicant profiles and loan terms. It is advisable to directly contact the respective banks for the most up-to-date and personalized details regarding education loan offerings.

An NBFC education loan is a great alternative for students who may not qualify for traditional bank loans. Non-Banking Financial Companies often offer quicker processing, flexible terms, and collateral-free options, especially for international education.

How to Get the Cheapest Education Loan in India? ‍

Education loan interest rates and eligibility conditions can vary widely from bank to bank. However, if you plan smartly, you can easily secure the cheapest education loan for your studies. Here’s how:

1. Explore Multiple Options

Before finalizing any bank or lender, do thorough research. Shortlist a few banks and compare their education loan offers. Talk to their loan officers to understand which one can provide you with the best interest rate and repayment terms.

2. Prioritize for a Secured Loan

If possible, consider taking an education loan against collateral, like property or fixed deposits. Secured loans often come with lower interest rates compared to unsecured ones, making repayment easier on your pocket.

3. Meet All Eligibility Requirements

Carefully check the loan eligibility criteria laid out by the bank. Ensure that you meet all the requirements, such as academic performance, admission to a recognized institution, and necessary documentation. Being fully eligible strengthens your case to negotiate for a better interest rate.

4. Check for Government Schemes and Subsidies

The Government of India and various state governments offer several education loan schemes and subsidies for students. These schemes sometimes cater to specific courses, fields of study, or economically weaker sections. Availing such schemes can help you get loans at subsidized or much lower rates.

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Eligibility Criteria for Education Loans

Eligible Courses

  • Full-time Courses: Undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and technical programs from recognized institutions (India and abroad).

  • Part-time Courses: Accepted if offered by reputed institutes.

  • Vocational Courses: Skill-based programs are increasingly covered.

Eligible Institutions and Admission Proof

  • Recognized Institutions: The course must be from a government-approved or accredited college/university.

  • Admission Letter: A confirmed admission letter is mandatory for loan approval.

Other Requirements

  • Indian Citizenship: The applicant must be an Indian national.
  • Age Limit: Must be 18+ or apply with a co-applicant (like a parent/guardian).

No Collateral Required. Approval Based on Student Potential. Check Your Eligibility

Documents Required for Education Loan 

Fueling your academic dreams with an education loan requires navigating some paperwork. But fret not! This section will equip you with the knowledge to conquer this step.

Comprehensive list of documents needed for education loan applications

  • Identity & Address Proof: Photocopies of PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Passport (if applicable), and your residence proof (utility bills, rental agreement).
  • Academic Documents: Class 10th and 12th mark sheets, acceptance letter from your chosen institution, and course fee structure.
  • Financial Documents: Bank statements for the past 6 months, income tax returns of your guardian/co-applicant (if applicable).

The documents required for education loan usually include academic records, admission proof, identity and address proof, income documents of the co-applicant, and collateral papers if applicable. Having these ready can speed up the loan approval process significantly.

How to Calculate Your EMI for Education Loans? 

To calculate your EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) for an education loan in India, use the formula:

EMI =   [P x R x (1+R)^N]/[(1+R)^N-1]

Where 

P = Principal Amount

R= Rate of Interest

N= Number of years for repayment (in months)

You can also use the EMI calculator to calculate your EMI details easily. 

Example: Mr. X borrowed an education loan of ₹10,00,000 for a tenure of 10 years at an interest rate of 10% per annum. Using the Propelld Education Loan EMI Calculator, the EMI for his loan comes out to be 

Your monthly EMI is

₹104640.38

Your Principal Amount is

₹1000000.00

Your total interest is

₹46403.81

Your total amount is

₹1046403.81

For an accurate EMI calculation based on your loan details, visit the Propelld Education Loan EMI Calculator.

Factors to Consider While Taking an Education Loan

There are several factors to consider while taking an education loan: 

1. Interest Rates: Compare rates offered by banks and financial institutions.

2. Loan Amount: Determine the total cost of education and the amount needed

3. Repayment Options: Check flexibility in repayment schedules and EMI options.

4. Collateral Requirements: Understand if collateral or a guarantor is needed.

5. Processing Fees: Consider one-time fees for processing the loan application.

6. Moratorium Period: Verify if there's a grace period before repayment begins.

7. Loan Tenure: Choose a tenure that suits your financial situation.

8. Prepayment Charges: Know if there are penalties for early repayment.

9. Credit Score: Ensure your credit score meets the lender's requirements.

10. Loan Disbursement: Confirm how and when funds will be disbursed.

Explore Education loans at zero interest and how they are usually offered under specific government subsidy schemes for eligible students. These schemes aim to ease the financial burden by covering the interest during the study period or offering full interest waivers under certain conditions.

Choosing the right education loan is crucial for achieving your academic goals. At Propelld, we offer tailored education loan solutions with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment plans.

Why Propelld?

The following are the primary benefits of Propelld.

Particulars Details
Max Loan Amount 50 Lakhs
Collateral Not Required
Moratorium Available
Processing Time 10 Times Faster than Banks
Disbursal Time 7 Days
Approval Rate Higher than Other Banks
Special USP Marks Based Approval
% Financed 100% of Fees

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FAQs on Lowest Interest Rate on Education Loans

Are there any banks offering interest-free education loans in India?

While truly interest-free education loans are rare, some government schemes and subsidies like the Central Sector Interest Subsidy Scheme offer effective interest relief for qualifying students. Research and application specifics are crucial for availing such benefits.

What do education loans typically cover, and how do repayment terms vary?

Education loans in India usually cover tuition fees, books, equipment, and living expenses. Repayment terms can vary significantly, with grace periods extending from the course completion date and repayment durations up to 10-15 years, depending on the bank and loan amount.

What should I do if my education loan application is rejected?

If your education loan application is rejected, first understand the reasons behind the rejection. Then, explore options with other banks or NBFCs, improve your creditworthiness or consider having a co-applicant. Additionally, seek advice on structuring your application more effectively or consider alternative financing options.

How to get 0% interest education loan?

You cannot get an Education Loan at a 0% interest rate. However, you can still fulfil your aspirations to study at a prestigious education institute by taking an Education Loan at low-interest rates. You can also consider taking a Personal Loan for your education fees in some cases.

How to pay an education loan without interest?

If you want to know how to pay an education loan without interest, here is a tip for you. If you land a good and high-paying job after you graduate, speak to your lender and change the schedule of repayment of education loan. Opt for a higher volume of EMI so that the loan tenure gets shortened.

Are there any banks offering interest-free education loans in India?

No, truly interest-free education loans are rare. However, schemes like the Central Sector Interest Subsidy Scheme provide relief on interest during the study period for eligible students from economically weaker sections.

What expenses does an education loan cover?

An education loan typically covers tuition fees, examination fees, books, hostel expenses, travel expenses (for studying abroad), lab equipment, project work, and sometimes even laptops or uniforms.

What is the eligibility criteria for an education loan?

  • Applicant must be an Indian citizen.

  • Must have secured admission to a recognized institute.

  • Should meet the age, academic, and sometimes credit score requirements of the lender.

Which bank gives an education loan with the lowest interest rate?

Banks like SBI, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, and Punjab National Bank often offer some of the lowest education loan interest rates through government-backed schemes. Rates vary based on the course, institute, and applicant profile.

What is the moratorium period in an education loan?

The moratorium period is a repayment holiday during which students are not required to repay the loan. Typically, it lasts for the course duration plus 6–12 months after completing the course.

What do education loans typically cover, and how do repayment terms vary?

Loans cover education-related expenses like tuition fees, living costs, and books. Repayment terms vary — generally starting after the moratorium and spanning 10–15 years, depending on the loan amount.

How to get a 0% interest education loan?

While you cannot get a 0% interest loan directly, you can benefit from interest subsidy schemes offered by the government. Also, choosing a secured loan or negotiating based on your credit profile may help you get the lowest possible interest rate.

How to pay an education loan without interest?

One way is to repay quickly. After graduation, if you secure a well-paying job, opt for higher EMIs and a shorter tenure. This reduces your interest burden significantly.

What should I do if my education loan application is rejected?

Understand why it was rejected — it could be due to low academic scores, insufficient collateral, or weak financial background. You can:

  • Apply to other banks/NBFCs.

  • Add a co-applicant or guarantor.

  • Strengthen your academic/financial profile.

  • Explore alternative funding like scholarships or personal loans.

Can I get an education loan without collateral?

Yes, many banks offer unsecured education loans up to a certain amount (usually ₹7.5 lakh). For higher loan amounts, you may need to offer collateral.

Do education loans cover study abroad programs?

Yes, education loans cover international education, including travel, visa fees, living expenses, and insurance, provided the course and university are recognized by the bank.

Is a co-applicant mandatory for an education loan?

For most education loans in India, having a co-applicant (parent/guardian/spouse) is mandatory, especially if the student does not have an independent income.

Can I start repaying my education loan during the course?

Yes, you can. Paying the interest portion during the course period helps in reducing the total loan cost after graduation.

What documents are needed for an education loan?

Typically, you will need:

  • Admission letter from the institute

  • Mark sheets (10th, 12th, graduation)

  • Income proof of co-applicant

  • Address and ID proofs

  • Collateral documents (if applicable)

Are there any tax benefits on education loans?

Yes, under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, you can claim tax deductions on the interest paid on your education loan for up to 8 years.

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