Loan for Education

Education Loan for Girl Students in India: Schemes, Eligibility & Application

By Tata Capital
07 January 2026
9 mins read
1694

Girl’s education is one of the major factors in the promotion of gender equality, economic growth, and social progress. Education not only gives young women the tools to achieve their goals, but it also has a significant impact on how future leaders get shaped.

In an attempt to reduce the academic disparity, the Indian government has collaborated with non-profits and financial institutions to introduce a number of education loan programmes aimed at empowering female students. Understanding the diverse range of education loan options available is essential for building a more equitable future for women in India.

So in this article we will explore different types of education loans for girl students available in India and their eligibility criteria.

Advantages of Education Loans for Women: Lower Rates, Subsidies & Offers

Understand the key advantages of education loan for girl students in India:

Lower Interest Rates
Many lenders offer a concessional interest rate on an education loan for women. This directly reduces the total repayment burden over the loan tenure.

Interest Subsidy Schemes
Under select government-backed schemes, education loans for girl students in India may qualify for interest subsidies during the study and moratorium period, easing financial pressure on families with limited income.

Reduced Processing Charges
Some banks and NBFCs waive or lower processing fees for education loans for girls, helping cut upfront costs at the time of loan sanction.

Flexible Repayment Structure
Extended moratorium periods and longer repayment tenures allow women borrowers to start repayment only after completing education and securing employment.

Encourages Financial Independence
An education loan for girl students enables women to invest in higher studies independently, supporting long-term career growth and financial confidence.

Types of Education Loans for Girl Students in India

The Indian government, in collaboration with non-profit organisations and financial institutions, provides a range of education loan schemes expressly intended to benefit female students. Here is a list of a few education loans for girls in India:

1. Pragati Scholarship Scheme

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) launched this scheme to empower female students pursuing technical education. It offers financial support to enable students to pursue further education in management, technology, and engineering-related sectors.

Eligibility criteria:

– Accessible to female students at AICTE-approved universities who are enrolled in their first year of diploma or degree programs, as well as those who are lateral entering in their second year.

– Candidates must be citizens of India.

– The family’s annual income shouldn’t be more than Rs. 8 lakh. For married candidates, the higher income of parents or in-laws will be taken into account.

2. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Yojana

This flagship initiative by the Government of India is focused on promoting the welfare of girl children across the country. The program’s objectives are to advance education, increase knowledge of girls’ rights, and enhance the effectiveness of welfare services for girls.

Eligibility criteria:

– Targeted at districts with low Child Sex Ratios (CSR).

– All girl children born in these districts are eligible for benefits.

– Parents and guardians of girls in these districts are encouraged to participate and avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.

3. Corp Vidya Scheme

This loan is provided by Corporation Bank, which helps women pay for their education at low interest rates and offers extra perks for studying overseas.

Eligibility criteria:

– Graduate and postgraduate degree programs, certificates, and authorised professional courses from approved Indian and international universities are eligible for loans.

– Programs offered by prestigious institutions such as IIMs, IITs, and other government-approved universities qualify for financial support.

– Research courses (PhD) and non-degree programs, including correspondence and certificate courses, are not eligible for loans under this scheme.

4. Vidya Lakshmi Loan

This collaborative initiative by the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Education, and Indian Banks Association aims to support students financially, especially those from lower-income families.

Eligibility criteria:

– The applicant must be an Indian citizen.

– The loan can be availed only once for either undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), or integrated courses.

– The candidate must be accepted into an accredited school, domestically or internationally. The institution should be authorised or recognised by a government agency.

5. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

A government-backed savings program called the SSY encourages parents to invest in their daughter’s future. It provides favourable tax advantages and interest rates.

Eligibility criteria:

– Up until the age of ten, a girl child’s parents or legal guardians can open an account on her behalf.

– A family may open up to two accounts, one for each girl child. A third account is permitted in cases of twins or triplets.

– A minimum deposit of Rs. 250 is required to open the account, and a maximum deposit of Rs. 1.5 lakh is permitted each financial year.

6. Cent Vidyarthi

The Central Bank of India offers loans up to Rs. 10 lakh for education within the country and Rs. 20 lakh for education overseas. Low interest rates are maintained to guarantee student accessibility.

Eligibility criteria:

– The applicant must be an Indian citizen.

– The student must have been accepted into a reputable university in India or overseas for a higher education programme.

– Selection to this program must be gained through an entrance exam or merit-based selection process.

7. Vidhya Jyoti

This education loan, by the Indian Overseas Bank, is open to all female students. It includes a flexible repayment duration and a loan limit of Rs. 30 lakh for studies in India and Rs. 40 lakh for education abroad.

Eligibility criteria:

– The applicant must be a Person of Indian Origin (PIO), an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI), or a Non-Resident Indian (NRI).

– The student must have been accepted into a reputable university in India or overseas for a higher education programme.

– Applicants are selected based on merit through an entrance exam or other merit-based system.

Also, read – Step-by-Step Guide to the Education Loan Procedure 2026

Eligibility Criteria for Education Loan for Girl Students in India

Nationality
The applicant must be an Indian citizen to qualify for an education loan for girl students in India.
Age Requirement
Female students are generally eligible between 18 to 35 years, ensuring support during key higher-education years.
Educational Qualification
Completion of 10+2 or a recognised diploma is mandatory before applying for the loan.
Course Eligibility
The loan is available for graduation, postgraduate degrees, or PG diplomas in professional and recognised courses.
Institute Recognition
Admission must be secured in a listed, recognised, and accredited institution in India or abroad.
Basis for Loan Sanction
Sanction depends on pre-admission approval, entrance exam scores (such as GRE or GMAT), Class 12/HSC results, or confirmed admission.
Loan Amount
Funding can go up to ₹85 lakh without collateral and up to ₹2 crore with collateral, depending on eligibility.
Co-borrower Requirement
A close family member such as parents, siblings, spouse, grandparents, or uncles can act as a co-borrower.

Best Banks & NBFC Schemes for Female Students

Tata Capital offers tailored education loans for women designed to make higher education financially accessible for female students in India. These loans support both domestic and international courses, helping girls pursue degrees, diplomas, and specialised programs without upfront financial strain.

Key Benefits

Flexible Loan Amounts: Covers tuition, living expenses, travel and other academic costs, based on the course and institution.
Competitive Interest Rates: Designed to keep monthly repayments manageable, especially beneficial for women starting their careers.
Customised Repayment Options: Students get a moratorium period until after course completion and job placement, reducing early repayment pressure.
Quick Processing: Tata Capital aims for a fast and simplified application process with minimal documentation, which is helpful for students who need funds promptly.

Also, read – Facts you need to know about Education Loan

Interest Rates, Discounts, and Features of Women-Centric Education Loans

Tata Capital offers competitive interest rates for education loans, starting from 9.50% depending on the loan type and applicant profile. Pre-approved loan offers are available which can fast-track approval with minimal documentation and competitive interest terms if you qualify.

Key Features

High Loan Amounts: Up to ₹85 lakh unsecured and up to ₹2 crore secured for extensive study needs.
Flexible Tenure: Repayment terms can extend up to 13 years, allowing manageable EMIs.
Pre-Admission Sanction: Loans can be sanctioned before final admission, helping secure funds early.
Moratorium Benefits: Repayment typically begins after course completion plus a short grace period, supporting students financially while they study.
Coverage: Tata Capital’s education loans for girls cover tuition, accommodation, travel, books, and other educational expenses.
Flexible Repayment: You can plan EMIs based on income and career timing, with tools like the EMI calculator to estimate monthly payments.

These elements make Tata Capital’s education loans for girl students in India ideal for women looking to pursue their academic goals.

Documents Required for Applying for Girl Student Education Loan

Applicant (Student):

Proof of Identity
A copy of Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence.
Proof of Address
A copy of Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence.
Academic Documents
Copies of mark sheets, degree certificates, and entrance exam scorecards (if applicable).
Admission Proof
Confirmed admission letter, offer/acceptance letter, or I-20 (for studies in the USA).

Co-applicant:

Proof of Identity and Address
A copy of Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence.
For Salaried Co-applicant
Form 16, recent salary slips, salary account bank statements, and Income Tax Returns (ITR).
For Self-Employed Co-applicant
Business bank account statements, GST registration details, and Income Tax Returns (ITR).

Also, read – How is Interest Calculated on Education Loans?

Education Loan Repayment, Subsidies & Application Process for Girl Students

Loan Repayment, Moratorium & Subsidy Benefits for Girl Students

The majority of lenders offer a grace period that allows female students to concentrate on their education without having to worry about making loan repayments. Each institution may have a different grace period duration. You are expected to start repaying after this time. However, you can also make payments before the grace period expires.

Also, read – Courses Eligible for Education Loan in India

Step-by-Step Application Process for Education Loan for Girls

1. Compare various education loan schemes available and check their eligibility criteria

2. Register and fill out an application form

3. To complete the application process, provide documents for verification, including proof of enrollment in accredited schools, educational credentials, and KYC (Know Your Customer) paperwork.

4. Make sure you meet all the conditions and are aware of the specifics of the loan for which you are seeking.

Conclusion

Education loans are essential to the empowerment of female students in India because they allow them to follow their academic goals. A variety of government programs and initiatives give prospective female scholars access to customised financial assistance that meets their particular requirements.

Understanding the different types of education loans and their eligibility criteria can lead to more informed decisions and a promising future. For those seeking student loans, visit the Tata Capital website or download the app today.

Tata Capital provides comprehensive education loan solutions designed to meet diverse needs.

FAQs

What is the best education loan scheme for girl students in India?

The best education loan for women depends on the course, institute, and funding needs. Lenders like Tata Capital offer flexible education loans for women with high loan amounts, competitive interest rates, and repayment options suited for domestic and overseas studies.

Are there special interest rates for women on education loans in India?

Some banks and NBFCs provide concessional interest rates or limited-period discounts on education loans for women, which helps reduce the overall cost of borrowing.

Can girl students apply for education loans for study abroad?

Education loans for girl students are available for overseas education, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other academic costs, subject to eligibility and institute recognition.

What are the required documents for an education loan for female students?

Documents usually include identity and address proof, academic records, entrance exam scores, admission confirmation, and income documents of the co-applicant.

Are there any government subsidies for girl students on education loans?

Under select central and state schemes, eligible girl students from economically weaker sections may receive interest subsidies during the study or moratorium period.

Do education loan schemes for girls require a co-applicant or guarantor?

Most education loans require a co-applicant, usually a parent or close family member, to support repayment and eligibility assessment.

How does repayment and moratorium work for girl student education loans?

Repayment generally starts after course completion, along with a moratorium or grace period, allowing students time to secure employment before EMIs begin.

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Education Loan for Girl Students in India: Schemes, Eligibility & Application

Advantages of Education Loans for Women: Lower Rates, Subsidies & Offers

Types of Education Loans for Girl Students in India

1. Pragati Scholarship Scheme

2. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Yojana

3. Corp Vidya Scheme

4. Vidya Lakshmi Loan

5. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

6. Cent Vidyarthi

7. Vidhya Jyoti

Eligibility Criteria for Education Loan for Girl Students in India

Best Banks & NBFC Schemes for Female Students

Interest Rates, Discounts, and Features of Women-Centric Education Loans

Documents Required for Applying for Girl Student Education Loan

Education Loan Repayment, Subsidies & Application Process for Girl Students

Step-by-Step Application Process for Education Loan for Girls

Conclusion

FAQs

What is the best education loan scheme for girl students in India?

Are there special interest rates for women on education loans in India?

Can girl students apply for education loans for study abroad?

What are the required documents for an education loan for female students?

Are there any government subsidies for girl students on education loans?

Do education loan schemes for girls require a co-applicant or guarantor?

How does repayment and moratorium work for girl student education loans?

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