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Education loan for study abroad India : It is a dream for most Indian university-goers to study in other nations, though it gets hard to handle the costs of studying and being there away from home. So, applying for an education loan allows you to achieve your aim while protecting your family’s finances.
In this guide, you will read about everything needed for getting a study abroad education loan in 2025 such as who can apply which documents are required, possible hidden expenses and the best banks to approach.
Why Take an Education Loan to Study Abroad?
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Covers full tuition fees
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Includes living expenses (hostel, food, insurance)
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Offers tax benefits under Section 80E
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Builds your financial independence and credit score
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Many banks offer moratorium periods (no EMI till you get a job)
Best Banks for Education Loans to Study Abroad (2025)
Bank Name | Max Loan Amount | Interest Rate (approx) | Processing Time |
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SBI Global Ed-Vantage | ₹1.5 Cr | 10.15% – 11.15% | 10–15 days |
HDFC Credila | No upper limit | 11% – 13% | 5–10 days |
Axis Bank | ₹75 Lakhs | 11.5% – 13% | 7–12 days |
Bank of Baroda | ₹1.5 Cr (Elite) | 9.9% – 10.5% | 10 days |
Punjab National Bank | ₹1 Cr | 10% – 12% | 10–15 days |
Remember: Private banks make things easier and processing takes less time, even though public banks give lower interest rates.
Eligibility Criteria
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A person who is an Indian citizen and aged 18 to 35
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Decision by the university to admit you
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A parent or guardian who has a steady income is also an applicant
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Your marks in your previous college degree should be at least 60%
Documents Required
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Official letter from the desired university in a foreign country
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These documents show your academic accomplishments from 10th grade through your graduation day.
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Passport & Visa
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Bank statements (last 6 months)
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Income proof of co-applicant
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Collateral documents (if loan > ₹7.5 lakh)
Collateral vs Non-Collateral Loans
Type | Loan Limit | Interest Rate | Required? |
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Collateral Loan | ₹20 Lakhs – ₹1.5 Cr | Lower (9.5%–11%) | Property, FD, LIC, etc. |
Non-Collateral | Up to ₹40 Lakhs | Higher (11%–13%) | Strong academic + co-applicant profile |
🎯 Pro Tip: If your course and university are in top-tier list (like USA/UK Tier-1), you may get a non-collateral loan easily.
Hidden Charges & Terms to Watch
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Processing Fee: 1% – 2% of loan amount
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Prepayment Penalty: Some banks charge it if you repay early
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Forex Fluctuation: Your loan amount is in INR; exchange rate may affect payout
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Insurance Add-on: Banks may push education loan insurance — optional but read carefully
Repayment Terms
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Moratorium Period: Course duration + 6–12 months
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Repayment Tenure: 10–15 years
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EMI Starts: After moratorium ends
💡 Smart Tip: Start paying interest during study (if possible) to reduce burden later.
Countries Covered by Indian Education Loans
Indian banks generally cover these countries:
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🇺🇸 USA
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🇨🇦 Canada
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🇬🇧 UK
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🇦🇺 Australia
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🇩🇪 Germany
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🇮🇪 Ireland
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🇸🇬 Singapore
Expert Tips to Improve Loan Approval Chances
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Maintain a strong academic record
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Choose government-recognized universities
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Ensure co-applicant has good credit score (750+)
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Provide extra documents like ITRs, property proofs
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Consider taking education loan insurance if required
How to Apply – Step-by-Step (Online or Offline)
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Compare loan offers online (use sites like Vidya Lakshmi or bank websites)
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Upload documents online or visit branch
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Get sanction letter within 7–15 days
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Disbursement done directly to the university account
Government Schemes You Can Avail
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Padho Pardesh (for minority students) – interest subsidy
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Dr. Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme – for SC/ST students
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Vidya Lakshmi Portal – One-stop platform for applying to multiple banks
FAQs – Education Loan for Study Abroad India
Q1. Can I get 100% education loan for abroad studies?
Yes, if collateral is provided or if you have strong academic & financial profile.
Q2. Is visa approval necessary before applying for a loan?
No, but some banks may disburse funds only after visa is granted.
Q3. Can I get loan without collateral?
Yes, up to ₹40 lakhs in some cases — especially from NBFCs and private banks.
Q4. Are interest rates fixed or floating?
Mostly floating, but some banks offer fixed options.
Q5. Can I prepay the education loan?
Yes, most banks allow it. Check for prepayment charges in your agreement.
Final Words
You should consider taking an education loan when studying abroad to avoid any money issues while advancing your education. Check out the various offers, examine the conditions and fill out the necessary forms with care.
Quick Summary
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Choose a trusted bank or NBFC
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Check loan limits, interest rates & hidden fees
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Start early — visa, admission, and financial planning go hand-in-hand
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Always read the fine print
Braj Verma is a resident of Rajgarh in Madhya Pradesh and is a content writer and freelancer by profession. He has a degree in Political Science from Barkatullah University, Bhopal. He has expertise in subjects like credit cards, banking, loan, insurance, political analysis and digital marketing.