Students in rural/ semi-urban areas can easily apply for education loans from Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). These banks are emerging as a reliable option for aspiring students, even for students planning to study abroad. They offer competitive interest rates, simplified processes, and personalised loan schemes. Let’s explore the benefits, eligibility, interest rates, and other details of securing education loans from RRBs.
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What are Regional Rural Banks?
Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) are financial institutions in India. They offer banking and credit services to rural and semi-urban areas. Created under the Regional Rural Banks Act of 1976, RRBs were designed to bridge the gap between urban banking systems and the underserved rural population.
Over time, their offerings have expanded to include education loans, making higher education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Also Read: Learn about how much education loan you can get without collateral. Explore financing options for higher education without pledging assets like property.
Education Loans from Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
You can easily apply for education loans from Regional Rural Banks. Popular RRBs like Kerala Gramin Bank, J&K Grameen Bank, Mizoram Rural Bank, Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank, etc. offer education loans specifically designed to support students pursuing higher education both in India and abroad.
The loans require 15% of the loan amount to be contributed as the margin money. Some banks also charge processing fees starting from 0.25% of the loan amount up to 1-2%. Loans above INR 4 Lakhs usually require collateral; the value must be sufficient to cover the loan amount.
| Maximum Loan Amount | Up to 20 lakhs |
| Interest Rates | 10% to 13.60% p.a |
| Repayment Tenure | 10 to 15 years |
| Eligibility Criteria | Indian citizens, collateral is required for loans above INR 4 Lakhs, co-applicant is needed. |
| Benefits | Interest subsidies, tax benefits under Section 80E, and special concessions for girl students. |
| How to Apply | Check eligibility, gather documents, and submit an application at the bank branch or online portal. |
Education Loan Amount from RRBs
The maximum amount of loan you can get from Regional Rural Banks depends on various factors. The amount ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 20 lakhs. These loans are designed to cover various expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, and other educational expenditures.
You can apply for education loans without collateral only up to INR 4 lakhs. Loans up to INR 7.5 lakhs require a third-party guarantee having net worth to cover the loan amount or equitable mortgage of landed property with sufficient value. Loans above INR 7 lakhs require you to pledge collateral with the RRB.
| Regional Rural Bank | Maximum Loan Amount |
| Kerala Grameen Bank | Upto INR 20 lakhs; subject to Course cap |
| J&K Grameen Bank | Up to INR 20 lakhs |
| Assam Gramin Vikash Bank | Up to INR 15 lakhs |
| Karnataka Grameena Bank | Up to INR 100 lakhs |
| Madhyanchal Gramin Bank | Up to INR 20 lakhs |
| Mizoram Rural Bank | Up to INR 20 lakhs |
| Chaitanya Godavari Grameena Bank | Up to INR 50 lakhs |
| Chhattisgarh Rajya Gramin Bank | Up to INR 20 lakhs |
| Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank | Up to INR 20 lakhs |
| Baroda Gujarat Gramin Bank | Need-based finance p to INR 20 lakhs |
| Prathama UP Gramin Bank | Need-based finance is subject to the repaying capacity of the parents/students with a margin |
| Saurashtra Gramin Bank | Need-based finance |
| Andhra Pradesh Grameena Vikas Bank | Up to INR 20 lakhs |
Rural Regional Bank Interest Rates on Education Loans
The interest rates on education loans from Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) range from 9.50% to 13.60% per annum, depending on the bank and specific loan terms. Understanding these interest rates is crucial for you to plan your educational financing options.
This overview will explore the interest rates from various RRBs, helping prospective borrowers make informed decisions about their education loans.
| Regional Rural Bank | Effective Interest Rates |
| Kerala Grameen Bank | 10.50% to 13.60% p.a |
| J&K Grameen Bank | 10.95% to 12.20% p.a |
| Assam Gramin Vikash Bank | 9.55& to 10.05% p.a |
| Karnataka Grameena Bank | 12% p.a |
| Madhyanchal Gramin Bank | 11.50% to 13% p.a |
| Mizoram Rural Bank | 10 % p.a |
| Chaitanya Godavari Grameena Bank | 11.25% to 12.75% p.a |
| Chhattisgarh Rajya Gramin Bank | 10.40% p.a |
| Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank | 11% p.a |
| Baroda Gujarat Gramin Bank | 10.30% p.a |
| Prathama UP Gramin Bank | 10% to 12% p.a |
| Saurashtra Gramin Bank | 9.60% to 10.60% p.a |
| Andhra Pradesh Grameena Vikas Bank | 9.50% p.a, subject to revision from time to time |
Also Read: Discover the step-by-step process of securing an education loan. From application to disbursal, learn how to navigate the education loan journey.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for education loans from Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria designed to ensure that the loans are granted to deserving candidates. The criteria relate to nationality, age, academic qualification, and admission via entrance or merit.
- The applicant must be an Indian national.
- The loan is available for students pursuing higher education in approved courses, both in India and abroad.
- Many banks prefer meritorious students, which may require proof of academic performance or entrance exam results.
- Some banks have age restrictions, typically requiring applicants to be within a certain age range (e.g., 18 to 35 years).
- A co-applicant, usually a parent or guardian, is often required to secure the loan.
Documents Required
When applying for an education loan from Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), prospective borrowers must submit a specific set of documents to facilitate the approval process. These documents serve to verify the applicant’s identity, financial stability, and academic eligibility.
Generally, the required documentation includes personal identification and address proof, alongside educational certificates like mark sheets and admission letters from recognized institutions. Check out the list of documents required for education loans from RRBs.
- Aadhar card, passport, or voter ID.
- Utility bills or rental agreements.
- Mark sheets of 10th and 12th grades, graduation certificates (if applicable), and entrance exam results.
- Admission letter or offer letter from the educational institution.
- Income certificates of the applicant and co-applicant (parents/guardians).
- Recent bank statements of the applicant and co-applicant for the last 6 months.
- If applicable, documents related to any collateral offered against the loan.
How to Apply for Education Loans from RRBs?
Applying for an education loan from Regional Rural Banks involves several steps:
- Research and Select a Bank: Compare different RRBs to find one that offers favourable terms and conditions for education loans.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents as outlined above.
- Visit the Bank Branch or Online Portal: Depending on the bank’s facilities, you can either visit the nearest branch or apply through their online portal.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the education loan application form with accurate details.
- Submit Your Application: Submit your application along with all required documents to the bank.
- Loan Processing: The bank will review your application, conduct necessary verifications, and decide on your loan eligibility.
- Loan Approval and Disbursement: Upon approval, you will receive a sanction letter detailing the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment terms. The funds will be disbursed as per the agreed schedule.
This was all about education loans from Regional Rural Banks. By understanding these eligibility criteria, required documents, and application procedures, students can navigate the process of obtaining education loans from Regional Rural Banks more effectively.
To learn more about education loans, the best bank accounts for students, forex, banking experience for global students, or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your experience with studying abroad.
FAQs
Yes, students can apply for education loans from Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) specifically for studying abroad.
The maximum loan amount varies by bank, typically ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 20 lakhs, depending on the specific RRB.
Interest rates for education loans from RRBs generally range from 9.50% to 13.60% per annum, depending on the bank and loan amount.
Applicants must be Indian citizens pursuing approved higher education courses, with a co-applicant often required, especially for loans above INR 4 lakhs.
You need to submit identity proof, address proof, academic records, admission letters, income certificates, and recent bank statements.
To apply, research suitable RRBs, gather required documents, fill out the application form, and submit it either online or at a bank branch.
Collateral is typically required for loans exceeding INR 4 lakhs; the value must be sufficient to cover the loan amount.
Yes, benefits may include interest subsidies, tax benefits under Section 80E, and special concessions for girl students.
The processing time can vary but typically takes about 30 days or more, depending on the bank’s verification procedures.
Yes, many RRBs offer interest subsidies for eligible students, particularly those from economically weaker sections or pursuing specific courses.
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