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Many students switch schools for 11th and 12th in India for multiple reasons. It could be because their schools don’t offer certain subjects or they wish to pursue an Arts or Commerce stream that their current school does not offer. Many students switch because their parents are moving, for better sports facilities at a different school or for a better teacher faculty. If your kid is shifting schools too then check out the best schools for 11th and 12th in India & their annual fees. 1. The Doon School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand: Established in 1935. The Doon School is one of India's most prestigious all-boys boarding schools. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and holistic development, it has a rich history of producing successful leaders in various fields. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 10-12 lakhs. 2. Welham Girls' School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand: Founded in 1957. Welham Girls' School is a renowned all-girls boarding school with a strong academic focus. It is known for its excellent infrastructure, experienced faculty, and emphasis on extracurricular activities. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 6-8 lakhs. 3. Mayo College, Ajmer, Rajasthan: Established in 1875. Mayo College is one of India's oldest and most prestigious all-boys boarding schools. It has a strong academic tradition and is known for producing leaders in various fields. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 8-10 lakhs. Apply for Education Loans 4. The Shri Ram School, Delhi, NCR: Established in 1988. The Shri Ram School is a highly regarded co-educational day school known for its progressive teaching methods and emphasis on holistic education. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 2-4 lakhs. 5. DPS RK Puram, Delhi, NCR: Established in 1972. Delhi Public School (DPS) RK Puram is one of the flagship institutions of the DPS Society. It offers a strong academic curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 1-2 lakhs. 6. The Bishop's School, Pune, Maharashtra:  Founded in 1859. The Bishop's School is a well-established co-educational school known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 1-2 lakhs. 7. Sanskriti School, Delhi, NCR: Established in 1988. Sanskriti School is a co-educational institution known for its focus on academics, cultural activities, and sports. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 1-2 lakhs. 8. The Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai, Maharashtra: Established in 1860. This school is one of Mumbai's oldest and most prestigious institutions, offering a comprehensive education and a strong emphasis on character development. Annual Fees: Approximately INR 3-4 lakhs. Also Read: How to choose the right board for your child? The aforementioned are some of the many schools, you can consider putting your children in. Remember, investing in your child’s education is as important as choosing the right school for your children. Select what is the best and most convenient school for your child and your pocket with our school cost calculator. Thus, it is important to choose the best schools for your child to ensure that they pass out with flying colors

Pursuing a Ph.D. from a prestigious international university has long been a dream for many Indian students. However, the high tuition fees and living expenses associated with studying abroad can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, there is a multitude of scholarships available for Indian students that can help turn this dream into a reality. In this blog, we will explore various Ph.D. abroad scholarships for Indian students, both fully and partially funded, that can ease the financial burden of studying abroad. Types of Scholarships in Abroad to Study Ph.D. Before delving into the specific scholarships, it's essential to understand the two main types of scholarship in Abroad for Indian students: Fully Funded Scholarships Fully funded scholarships cover all major expenses related to your overseas education.  Fully funded Ph.D. scholarships for Indian students typically include tuition fees, living allowances, study materials, travel expenses, and insurance. Partial Scholarships Partial scholarships, on the other hand, cover only a portion of your total study costs. These scholarships may provide funding for either tuition fees or living expenses, and the specific terms and conditions can vary significantly. Apply for Scholarship Ph.D. abroad with a scholarship for Indian students Now, let's explore some of the top scholarships available for PhD at abroad for Indian students 1. Commonwealth Scholarship Eligibility: - Citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country, refugee, or British-protected person - Financial need for studying in the UK - Age under 40 Amount/Expenses Covered: - Monthly stipend of €1,236 or €1516 (for London metropolitan area) - Airfare for first arrival and departure - Additional allowances and grants Duration: 3 years The Commonwealth Scholarship is awarded by the UK to outstanding students from Commonwealth countries. Approximately 800 scholarships are granted each year, providing recipients with an opportunity to study in UK universities without the burden of high tuition fees for the first three years of their program. 2. Destination Australia Program Eligibility: - Enrolled in a regional institution in Australia - No other sponsorships Amount/Expenses Covered:- $15,000 per year Duration: Maximum 4 years The Destination Australia Program offers scholarships to PhD scholars studying in Australian regional universities. In 2023, priority is given to courses aligned with the Australian Government's National Skills Priority List. 3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Eligibility: - Nomination from the institution - Exceptional academic merit - Research potential - Leadership skills Amount/Expense Covered: CAD 50,000 annually Duration: 3 years The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is available for doctoral scholars in various fields, including Health Research, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Recipients must display outstanding academic performance, research ability, and leadership skills. 4. Friedrich Naumann Foundation for International Students Eligibility: - International student - Relevant research proposal - Academic merit - Financial need Amount/Expenses Covered: - €800 to €1200 per month Duration: Up to 3 years The Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship supports researchers in German universities. Annually, approximately 150 students benefit from this scholarship, making it a trusted resource among international research scholars in Germany.  5. AAUW International Women’s Fellowship Eligibility: - Female scholar of non-US citizenship - Full-time availability - Commitment to return to home country after studies - Preference for underprivileged candidates Amount/Expenses Covered: $50,000 for one year Duration: 1 year The AAUW International Fellowships provide support for women pursuing doctoral studies in US universities. Applicants are selected based on their research's relevance, quality, and potential impact on women and girls in their home countries.  6. Fulbright Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship Eligibility: - Recommendation letter from supervisor - Ongoing research - Registered for Ph.D. on or before Nov 01, 2021, in an Indian institution Amount/Expenses Covered: - J-1 Visa support - Monthly stipend - Round trip economy class travel - Allowances and affiliation fees Duration: 6-9 months The Fulbright Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship supports Indian scholars studying in the US, providing them with an opportunity to conduct research and gain practical experience in the country. 7. DAAD Scholarship Germany Eligibility: - Two years of work experience - Academic merit - German language proficiency Amount/Expenses Covered: - Tuition fees - Travel allowance - Health insurance - Spouse/child allowance Duration: 1 year The DAAD research grants aim to promote doctoral research projects and provide financial support to Indian students studying in Germany. Each year, 25 scholarships are available for Indian students. Top Ranked Ph.D. Universities to Study Abroad In addition to the above scholarships, there are also various college-specific PHD in abroad scholarships for Indian students. Here are a couple of notable options: 1. Yale University Scholarships Eligibility: - Excellent research project and Statement of Purpose - Academic merit and achievements - Entrance test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) Amount/Expense Covered: - Fully funded - Tuition fees - Living expenses Duration: 2-5 years Yale University offers a range of financial support options for PhD scholars, including University Fellowships, Teaching Fellowships, and more. These scholarships are available for various fields of study.  2. Gates Cambridge Scholarship Eligibility: - Pursuing a full-time postgraduate degree - Academic merit - Leadership skills - Commitment to societal betterment Amount/Expenses Covered: - Tuition fees - Living allowance - Economy airfare - Visa costs - Health surcharge In addition to the core benefits, Gates Cambridge Scholarships also provide additional funding opportunities for academic development, family allowances, fieldwork, and more.  3. Australian Govt Research Training Program International Scholarship (AGRTPS) at Flinders University Eligibility: - Enrolled in a postgraduate degree at Flinders University - Academic merit - Research training Amount/Expense Covered: - $28,854 per annum - Tuition fee - Living allowance - Overseas Health Care Cover Duration: 3 years This scholarship offers financial support to Indian students pursuing postgraduate degrees at Flinders University in Australia. With a limited number of scholarships available, competition is intense.  4. Presidents PhD Scholarships - Imperial College Eligibility: - Academic excellence - Research potential Amount/Expenses Covered: - Tuition fees - Living allowance Duration: 3.5 years Imperial College, London, offers the President's PhD Scholarships to deserving students pursuing a PhD. The scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a generous monthly stipend.  5. Stanford University Scholarships Eligibility: - Academic merit - Research potential - Financial need Amount/Expenses Covered: - Tuition fees - Monthly stipend Duration: 5 years Stanford GSE (Graduate School of Education) provides full scholarships for all Ph.D. programs for five years. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, research potential, and financial need. Conclusion These above-mentioned scholarships provide invaluable opportunities for Ph.D. abroad with scholarships for Indian students. By securing funding, students can focus on their research and academic goals without the financial burden. If you're considering studying abroad for your Ph.D. explore these scholarships and make your dream a reality. And for Indian parents planning for their child's future education, EduFund is a platform that can provide valuable assistance. EduFund helps parents calculate the future costs of college education and explore various investment options with the guidance of financial and educational experts. It offers a fantastic opportunity for parents to secure their child's educational future.  Log on to where you can find out various scholarships available for Ph.D. abroad for Indian students. Also, you have a chance to win scholarships worth ₹5Cr if you apply for any scholarship at EduFund now.  Do not miss this golden opportunity, apply now and save big for the future scholarship of your student

PSU… We heard a lot about this after our PM Narendra Modi gave a green signal about it during a discussion on the motion of no-confidence in the Council of Ministers and since then it has never looked back. We are observing all the PSU stocks are reaching new heights every day.  PSU are closely linked to the core sectors of the economy and have been successfully able to build a strong industrial base in the country. These undertakings are majorly covered by the Government of India. Since most of the entities are owned or backed by the Government of India, it does not have the credit risk. PSUs have a long-lasting presence in India. The sector contributes around 15% of India’s GDP.  The current total market cap of the PSU companies is more than ₹20 lakh crore. PSU contributes a good amount of money regularly to the government in the form of dividends, excise duty, customs duty, and corporate tax. PSU is majorly impacted by any changes in government policies.  The valuation of stocks in our favorite capital goods, healthcare, QSR and real estate sectors discount growth for the next few years and leave absolutely no room for any disappointments. We would have had to remove such stocks from our portfolio as it would not be correct to keep such stocks for a healthy portfolio.  As the late ‘Big Bull’ Rakesh Jhunjhunwala had predicted, it has been tough for investors to ignore PSU stocks in 2022 as several of them, spread across industries in railways, banks, and defense have turned multi-baggers.  Is it time to pause investing in small cap funds? Why is PSU undervalued?  PSU stocks often trade at undervalued prices due to government policies prioritizing public welfare over investor attractiveness. Unlike private companies, government-run enterprises are not solely profit-driven.  In this context, the State Bank of India (SBI) stands as the largest PSU bank, closely followed by Punjab National Bank (PNB). However, it's not just banks; PSUs across various sectors have shown profitability. LIC, the second most profitable PSU, recorded a net profit of ₹35,997 crore in FY23, marking a remarkable 773% increase from the previous year. Additionally, companies like ONGC, Coal India, NTPC, PFC, Power Grid, and REC Ltd. consistently report impressive profits year after year.  In aggregate, the 55 stocks within the S&P BSE PSU Index, spanning sectors such as finance, power, oil & gas, capital goods, metals & mining, transport, telecom, agriculture, and more, collectively generated a net profit of Rs 3.40 trillion in FY23. This trend is evident in the performance of the S&P BSE PSU - Total Return Index (TRI), which has experienced significant growth, especially since August 2020.  Note: Daily chart of S&P BSE PSU  Period: 01/01/2013 to 01/01/2023 (10 years)  Source: bseindia.com Comparison of BSE Sensex and BSE PSU Period BSE Sensex BSE PSU 22-09-2022 to 22-09-2023 (1 year) 11.65% 34.95% 22-09-2020 to 22-09-2023 (3 years) 20.49% 39.09% 21-09-2018 to 22-09-2023 (5 years) 12.36% 10.76% Indices: S&P BSE Sensex, S&P BSE PSU (Source: bseindia.com) Why does PSU make sense now?  The Indian government has implemented a robust strategy known as the "4Rs" to fortify Public Sector Banks (PSBs). This strategy focuses on transparently recognizing Non-Performing Assets (NPAs), efficiently resolving and recovering value from stressed accounts using clear legal processes, infusing capital into banks, and instituting reforms through the PSB Reforms Agenda.  Thanks to this comprehensive approach of recognition, resolution, recapitalization, and reforms, the percentage of non-performing assets in banks has reached its lowest point in a decade, standing at just 3.9% of total advances.  Source: ap.data.gov.in How should an investor take exposure to the PSU theme?  To play the PSU theme, investors have an option to evaluate PSU Mutual Funds.   Thematic Public Sector Undertakings (PSU) Mutual Funds are a type of investment where your money is combined with that of other investors. These funds then use this pool of money to buy shares in companies owned by the government. The special thing about these funds is that they don't just invest in one type of industry. Instead, they spread your money across different government-backed companies. In simple words, PSU mutual funds put your money into shares of government-backed companies. This way, your investment becomes like a mixed bag of different PSUs from different areas. This helps spread out the risk and can be tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals. As per rules by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), these thematic PSU funds have to put at least 80% of your money into stocks from public sector companies.   There are different schemes that follow the PSU theme and are available for investors to consider  Fund Name SBI PSU Fund Aditya Birla Sun Life PSU Equity Fund ICICI Prudential PSU Equity Fund Category Equity Equity Equity Category Thematic-PSU Thematic-PSU Thematic-PSU Fund Age 10 yrs 8 m 3 yrs 9 m 1 yrs 1 m Fund Size ₹ 679 crore ₹ 1,246 crore ₹ 1,474 crore Returns       6 months 38.50% 36.23% 27.11% 1 year 49.06% 49.17% 33.20% 3 years 38.32% 42.27% NA 5 years 16.11% NA NA Risk Measures       Standard Deviation  20.42 20.32 NA Portfolio Allocation       Equity% 91.84% 97.75% 91.63% Debt% 0% 0% 2.02% Sectoral Allocation       Top 3 sectors Financial (30.62%) Financial (31.02%) Energy (50.69%) Capital Goods (19.66%) Energy (29.65%) Financial (22.82%) Energy (19.48%) Capital Goods (12.37%) Materials (7.18%) Expense Ratio 1.34% 0.75% 0.51% Exit Load 0.50% 1% 1% Lock-in No Lockin No Lockin No Lockin Benchmark Index S&P BSE PSU TRI Min. Investment SIP ₹500  Lumpsum ₹5000 SIP ₹500 Lumpsum ₹500 SIP ₹100  Lumpsum ₹5000 Investment Horizon Good for long-term Good for long-term Mittal Kalawadia Anand Sharma Managed By Richard D'souza Dhaval Gala Mittul Kalawadia Anand Sharma Link SBI PSU ABSL PSU ICICI Prudential PSU  Note: Direct Plan and Growth options are considered for Returns Source: EduFund Research Who should invest in it?  Opting for thematic mutual funds can be an excellent choice if you want exposure to a diversified portfolio of public sector enterprises spanning various industries. By doing so, you can enjoy the advantages of diversification while unlocking the potential for optimal returns. Additionally, for risk-averse investors, allocating funds to PSU companies is a prudent move, given their generally higher safety profile compared to other thematic sectors.  Conclusion  Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are experiencing a significant uptrend due to anticipated government disinvestments aimed at meeting fiscal goals. Notably, several PSU banks are exploring capital raising to safeguard asset quality. It will be intriguing to observe the outcome and the sustainability of stock prices at these heights. These mutual funds offer an attractive option for investors seeking secure investment avenues for surplus funds. They help preserve your entire portfolio while delivering consistent returns.   Invest for your kid's future!

With the cost of studying overseas rising higher, students dream of winning a scholarship that would cover their fees and overseas stay. But there are some truths about winning scholarships that you should be aware of if your child is planning to travel for studies abroad. There are several misconceptions surrounding winning scholarships such as your child needs to be straight. A student or athlete. However, there are many scholarships available for minorities, meritorious individuals, athletes, and many others. Apply for Scholarship Program The truth about winning scholarships 1. Only for the Meritorious Being a straight A-student is not enough to win a scholarship. While good grades do help, international universities look for the all-round development of the student when considering applicants for scholarships. 2. Extra-curriculars matter Scholarships for students with extracurricular achievements. There are separate scholarships for students with accomplishments in sports, theatre, music, art, and volunteering activities. Most Indian students are unaware of these options and miss out on going to a great university thinking that a lack of ‘A grades’ means no scholarship. 3. Minority Scholarships Check if you qualify for the many minority scholarships. These are usually categorized under gender, race, and sexual orientation. There is a lot of impetus being given to women in the STEM fields, and there are Scholarships for Asian students that your child may qualify for. So make it a point to explore the many options available out there today. 4. Different types of scholarships There are scholarships for students from every stratum of society, not just the economically backward. Do your research and see which categories of scholarships your child is eligible for. Apply for as many as you can. This will improve your chances of winning the scholarship. 5. Country-specific scholarships In most countries, universities offer government and private scholarships. In most cases, government scholarships are reserved for students of the said country. But if your country of origin has diplomatic arrangements that facilitate higher studies across borders, there may be scholarships reserved for you. Make sure you check these out. 6. Need-based scholarships Some colleges review need-based benefits for students who enroll under scholarships. This could mean that if you get a scholarship, you may be denied other need-based benefits at the university. This may make you rethink your scholarship application. But you don’t have to. If you are really in need of the money, present your case to the university and they often have the flexibility to sanction funds along with the scholarship if need be. 7. Competitive Don’t be put off by the effort required to apply for scholarships. Of course, you and your child will have to put in hours of research, meet the eligibility criteria, draft applications, send them out, follow up for confirmation of receipt, and submit a host of documents but you will find it is all worth it. The scholarship pay-out as the reward makes all the effort meaningful. Once your application is drafted, you can usually rework it slightly and apply to multiple colleges. So don’t shy away from the effort. You could save some serious money in the bargain. 8. Partial Funding Not all scholarships do not cover the cost of your entire study. This is one harsh truth of winning scholarships that people find out later in life most scholarships only cover a portion of your expenses. Some scholarships cover one-year tuition costs, some cover accommodation, and flight expenses while some may cover your books and research apparatus. Take the example of the Rhodes scholarship, it covers Oxford University course fees and gives an annual stipend. It does not cover the cost of your accommodation or living expenses.  While it would be great to win scholarships for study abroad, it is something you cannot count on. The parameters of the scholarships and academic and non-academic requirements of the universities are constantly being tweaked and upgraded. Keeping these variables in mind, it is important that you start saving for your child’s overseas education well in advance through various investment instruments. Some scholarships for Indian students Invest wisely and build an adequate education fund so that when your child finally does win the scholarship, it will be a delight and a bonus! You will have extra funds to use for other aspects of your child’s growth with what you would have saved. FAQs What should I do to win a scholarship?   To increase your chances of winning a scholarship, start by researching available scholarships and their eligibility criteria. Then, focus on maintaining a strong academic record, participating in extracurricular activities, volunteering, and writing compelling scholarship essays. Make certain that you meet all application deadlines and conditions.  Is it hard to get a scholarship in Canada?   Scholarships in Canada are available for both domestic and international students. The competitiveness of scholarships can vary, with some being highly competitive, while others are more accessible. To improve your chances, maintain good academic performance, research scholarship opportunities, and meet application requirements diligently.  Which scholarship has the highest amount?   The scholarship with the highest amount can vary significantly by country and institution. Prestigious international scholarships like the Rhodes Scholarship, Fulbright Scholarship, or Gates Cambridge Scholarship often offer substantial financial support for studies abroad. The specific amount can change from year to year.  Is there any chance to get a scholarship?  Yes, there are numerous scholarships available for various categories of students, including academic achievements, financial need, specific fields of study, and more. Your chances of getting a scholarship depend on your qualifications and how well you match the scholarship criteria. 

Scholarships and Bursaries are financial awards offered to students interested in pursuing their education. Various guidelines and conditions are attached to their application which makes them both similar and dissimilar to each other.  In this article, before discussing the differences between scholarships vs bursaries, let us go through the definitions of a bursary and scholarship to get a clearer picture of them.  What are Scholarships? Scholarships are non-repayable financial assistance offered to students to encourage talent. It can be both merit and need-based and is usually offered to a specific category of students. Scholarships are also country-based and are offered to students who want to study abroad in specific countries.  Scholarships cover educational costs (like tuition fees), and costs of living (like maintenance, accommodation, transportation, etc.).  What makes you an ideal candidate for a scholarship? Read More What are Bursaries? Bursaries are financial aid offered by colleges, universities, foundations, or governments to students for their education. These are meant for students who belong to low-income households and are unable to meet their educational expenses. Bursaries are need-based and not merit-based. It covers the living costs of the student in a specific year. Apply for Scholarship Key differences between Scholarships vs. Bursaries The key differences between scholarships vs. bursaries based on various parameters are as follows- 1. Financial status The financial status of a student is not necessarily taken into consideration while awarding the scholarships, whereas the opposite is true for a bursary as it is given to students facing financial difficulties in paying their education fees.  2. Purpose The purpose of the scholarship is to provide financial aid to students who are gifted in terms of talent or an area of expertise so that the funds can promote their education. The purpose of offering bursaries, on the other hand, is to offer financial support or monetary funds to students who are unable to pay their education fees.  Thus, the purpose of scholarships is to boost skills and bursaries are to avoid financial struggles.  3. Types There are different types of scholarships like merit-based scholarships, talent-based scholarships, and merit-cum-need based scholarships whereas bursaries are only need-based financial supports. 4. The offering Party The scholarships and bursaries are offered by schools, universities, governments, or third parties like a foundation. In the case of scholarships, the third party is usually interested in promoting talent, whereas, in the case of bursaries, it is to help the recipient avoid financial problems.  5. Offered to Scholarships are based on the academic performance of the student or achievements in specific categories like music, sports, etc., or based on need. Bursaries are offered only based on need so that the students can pay the education fees and continue with their studies.  6. Area of consideration The main area of consideration while awarding scholarships is the merit and skills of the student whereas the financial status is the primary area of consideration while offering a bursary.  7. Paying back Scholarships are non-refundable awards offered to students with exceptional talent. If the student does not agree to the terms and conditions of the offered scholarship then he has to pay back the money at a later period.  Some bursaries claim a specific percentage of the offered fund once the student gets a job and starts earning. If the student cannot complete the education or has to leave it midway he will have to pay back a specific percentage of the offered bursary that he has received for that specific year.  8. Related conditions Specific conditions are attached to both scholarships and bursaries and the students have to follow them at all costs. When the student is offered a bursary, he has to agree to work for the offering party for a specific time.  The primary condition of a scholarship is that the student will have to maintain exemplary grades. Only sometimes does the scholarship require the student to work for the organization offering the scholarship.  9. Benefits The benefits offered under scholarships vs. bursaries vary to a great extent. Scholarship often covers the entire or a part of tuition fees along with a discount on maintenance costs, transport expenses, and the cost of books. Bursaries on the other hand offer monetary aid to cover education expenses and sometimes include one-off payments for meeting living costs.  The education cost calculator on the EduFund App helps to get an estimate of the future education so that the student can know the scholarship or bursary amount that will be sufficient to meet his requirements.   FAQs What is a Scholarship? The scholarship is financial aid given to students mainly on academic merit. Sometimes, it is also given on the basis of gender, needs, field of study, race, or economic background. What is a Bursary? A bursary is an amount of money given to a student by an educational institution to pay for their studies. How often do I get a Bursary? Bursaries are usually offered to students for one academic year and they need to re-apply every year till they finish the duration of their studies. How many bursaries can I get? Some Bursaries cover tuition fees either fully or partially. Others might cover living costs and some might also provide assistance for a specific purpose, for example, to purchase expensive equipment required for your education. What is the difference between a Scholarship and a Bursary? The primary difference between a Scholarship and a Bursary is that a Scholarship is offered to students based on academic merit and Bursary is offered to students who need monetary assistance for their education.

Debt mutual funds make investments in fixed-income assets such as government securities, commercial paper, corporate bonds, and treasury bills, among others. Let’s examine the best debt investment options in India. What are debt mutual fund investments?  Debt mutual funds make investments in fixed interest-earning securities like certificates of deposits and treasury bills. A debt fund's principal goal is to build wealth by earning interest income and steadily increasing the invested capital. During the time that investors remain invested in the fund, the underlying assets produce a fixed rate of interest.  A debt fund's fund manager makes investments in assets depending on those assets' credit ratings. When debt security seems to have a better credit rating, it has a better possibility of making regular interest payments as well as principal repayments when the investment term expires. Additionally, the fund manager adjusts his investing strategy per the general changes in interest rates. Who should invest in the best debt mutual funds?  Investors who are risk-averse and not ready for equity exposure might choose debt funds. Debt funds generate wealth for investors with little to no risk. These funds are also focused on steady revenue. Debt funds are often held by investors for a short- to medium-term time horizon. Your investing horizon should be taken into consideration when selecting a debt fund.  For a short-term investor who often keeps their excess cash in a savings account, liquid funds might be a good option. Much like savings bank accounts, liquid funds allow withdrawals at any time and offer bigger returns in the amount of 7% to 9%. Dynamic bond funds can be the best choice if you ever need to ride the volatility of interest rates. With a medium-term investment horizon, these funds can provide more returns than a 5-year bank FD. Factors to consider for Investors  1. Fund goals Debt funds diversify their portfolio of different securities to maximize returns. They will behave predictably. Debt funds are available to conservative investors for this reason.  2. Fund Category  Further subcategories of debt funds include monthly income plans (MIPs), liquid funds, dynamic bond funds, fixed maturity plans (FMPs), GILT funds, income funds, credit opportunities funds, short-term funds, and ultra-short-term funds. 3. Risks Interest rate risk, credit risk, and liquidity risk are all factors that might affect debt funds. The movement in overall interest rates may cause changes in the fund's value. The issuer could miss a payment deadline for interest and principal. When there is no demand for the fund management to liquidate the underlying security, liquidity risk is there. 4. Cost To manage your investment, debt funds carry an expense ratio. No fund house may charge more than what the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has determined as the maximum. 5. Investment Horizon For liquid funds, 3 months to a year investment horizon is suitable. You may want to look into short-term bond funds if you have a longer time horizon, like two to three years. 6. Financial Objectives Debt financing can be utilized for several purposes, including generating extra income or enhancing liquidity. Additional read: How does rating impact debt funds? How should best debt mutual funds be evaluated? 1. Fund returns Over the long term, such as three, five, or ten years, you need to search for stable returns. Select mutual funds that consistently outperformed benchmark and rival funds throughout a range of periods. To get results, keep in mind to evaluate the fund performance that corresponds to your investment horizon. 2. Funds history Select investment fund companies with a proven track record of reliable performance. Make sure they have a minimum of a five to ten-year history of reliability. 3. Expense ratio It displays the percentage of your money that is used to manage the fund. A larger take-home return results from a reduced spending ratio. Select a fund with a lower expense ratio that has the potential to perform better. 4. Financial ratios To analyze a fund, you can utilize financial ratios such as the standard deviation, Sharpe ratio, alpha, and beta. Compared to a fund with a lower beta and standard deviation, a greater beta and standard deviation fund are riskier. To find investments that offer larger returns for each additional unit of risk taken, search for funds that have a higher Sharpe ratio. Top 10 best debt mutual funds in India You must examine a fund from several angles before choosing it. The best debt funds can be found using a variety of quantitative and qualitative criteria depending on your needs. Your financial objectives, level of risk tolerance, and investment horizon should also be considered. Disclaimer: This is not investment advice. Please use it for education purposes only. Investing in debt funds can frequently become challenging. Before starting it’s always good to understand the financial risks and benefits involved in any investment. FAQs Which debt fund gives the highest return in India?   The return on debt funds in India can vary based on factors like interest rates and market conditions. It's challenging to pinpoint a specific fund that consistently offers the highest return, as returns fluctuate over time. Investors should consult with financial advisors and research different funds to make informed decisions.  Which type of debt fund should I invest in?   The choice of debt fund depends on your investment goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Common options include liquid funds for short-term needs, ultra-short-term funds for slightly longer durations, and dynamic bond funds for more flexibility. Consult with a financial advisor to determine the most suitable debt fund for your specific requirements.  How can I get a 20 percent return on investment in India?   Achieving a consistent 20 percent return on investment in India can be challenging and typically involves higher risk. To pursue such returns, you may consider investing in equities or high-risk assets, but it's essential to have a well-structured investment plan and risk management strategy. For personalized advice, speak with a financial advisor.  Which type of debt funds give the highest return?   Debt funds' returns depend on various factors, including the type of bonds they invest in, their duration, and market conditions. Generally, longer-term and riskier debt funds, such as credit risk funds or long-term gilt funds, have the potential for higher returns but come with increased risk. 

When we talk about education inflation, most statistics focus on foreign education. Yet, with the privatization of schools in India and the competitive nature of local universities, education inflation is bourgeoning in India, too.   Education costs grew faster than the food and healthcare inflation between 2012 and 2020. While food and healthcare inflation rose at 9.62% and 8%, respectively, education inflation grew by 10% every year during the mentioned period.   This is extremely scary given the lack of awareness around education costs among parents. The scariest bit is that even the pandemic had no effect on the rising education costs. The cost of education grew both in India and abroad during and post the pandemic. According to a survey conducted by the Indian government, education inflation rose by 4.12% in India after the pandemic.  In countries like the UK and the US, education inflation rose to 10%, touching an all-time high. This has impacted the fee structures of colleges and living costs in these countries. According to a survey by The National Centre for Education Statistics, the average fee for a 4-year degree program in the US was around Rs.25,22,000 in 2010-2011 and it has increased to Rs. 29,91,000 for the year 2020-2021.  There is an assumption among parents that education costs can be taken care of when the child is ready for school or college. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Here are a few examples of the increase in college education in India and abroad:   The tuition fees of undergraduate courses at (the Indian Institute of Technology) IITs doubled (from Rs.90,000 to Rs.2 lakhs) post the hard-hitting pandemic in 2021.   According to data from the Unified District Information System for Education, approximately 39% of students aged 20-24 dropped out of college to help their families increase their household income.   Many Australian universities increased their tuition fees for arts and humanities courses by 113% between 2020 and 2021.   The average cost of attending a four-year college or university in the US rose by 497% between 1985-1986 and 2017-2018 academic years, which is more than twice the rate of annual inflation in the same period.   Post the pandemic, many overseas universities hiked their college fees for 2022-2023.   The total cost of education for an undergraduate program at Harvard University for one academic year has increased from Rs.65,38,000 in 2021-2022 to Rs.68,15,000 in 2022-2023. Understanding the Phenomena of Education Inflation Read More What makes it worse is the many hidden charges that can push the education budget up further. Take, for instance, the cost of exam registration fees. It has seen an approximate 6.7% hike in the last year. The hike in the cost of transport, food, and student accommodation contributes to the overall increase in education costs.   The tuition fees of colleges in India have seen a major rise in the past few years. Here is some data on how course fees of specific courses may increase in the future based on the rise in fees over the past few years.  The cost of an MBA in 2020 was 31 lakhs; the estimated cost of an MBA in 2030 is 61 lakhs.     The cost of an MBBS in 2020 was 50 lakhs; the estimated cost of an MBBS in 2030 is 80 lakhs.     The cost of Engineering in 2020 was 16 lakhs; the estimated cost of Engineering in 2030 is 40 lakhs.     The cost of Hotel Management in 2020 was 2.4 lakhs; the estimated cost of Hotel Management in 2030 is 4.78 lakhs.  Important factors responsible for education inflation 1. The rising cost of amenities The hike in the cost of food, accommodation, transport, and other living expenses is crucial to the cost of education.   2. Increase in the number of educators As the number of universities and colleges grows by the day, the need for educators has increased too. This is another key factor in the rise in education costs.   3. The rise in demand for higher education Higher education is not an option anymore but a necessity. It plays a major role in an individual’s financial success and growth.   Given the education inflation, it’s imperative for parents to plan ahead and save for their child’s education. It’s the most effective way they can support their child’s dream by sending them to a quality university. FAQs What are the changes in the education system in India? Ans. Changes in the Indian education system have been ongoing and multifaceted. Some notable changes include the introduction of digital learning platforms, the emphasis on skill-based education, increased access to online education, and the revision of curriculum and examination patterns to reduce stress on students. What is the concept of the new education policy? Ans. The New Education Policy (NEP) is a comprehensive reform introduced in India. Its key concepts include the promotion of a multi-disciplinary and flexible curriculum, the establishment of a 5+3+3+4 school education structure, an emphasis on early childhood education, a focus on skill development and vocational training, and an increased use of technology in education. The NEP aims to transform the Indian education system to make it more inclusive and globally competitive. What are the educational trends? Ans. Educational trends in India include the rise of online and blended learning, a growing emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, personalized learning through adaptive technology, a shift towards competency-based education, and an increased focus on holistic development, including mental health and well-being of students. What are the changes in education in India? Ans. Changes in education in India encompass various reforms and initiatives aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education. These include the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), a focus on experiential learning, the promotion of vocational education, and efforts to bridge educational disparities. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Studying abroad is becoming the norm with thousands of Indian students applying to foreign universities every year. The reason behind the trend is better job opportunities, global exposure, and a chance to enter the international workforce. But studying abroad can be expensive, from tuition fees to living costs the expenses can pile up quickly and scare any parent. That is why here is a list of countries under 50 lakhs for your child’s master that you can consider!  1. Ireland  Ireland tops the list of countries under 50 lakhs for your child’s master. The country is home to some top-notch universities offering diverse programs, scholarships, and post-study work visas to earn back in Euros! Ireland offers incentives like shorter courses – one-year programs, flexibility in curriculum to take up part-time jobs, and placement opportunities. The cost of studying master's in Ireland can range from Rs. 30 – 45 lakhs, and students can opt for cheaper accommodation like homestays, shared rooms, and dorms to reduce living expenditure and work during free time to make up for the cost. There are many scholarships, fee waivers, and government incentives that can help your child stay within the budget even in a foreign country!  2. Singapore   Singapore is another brilliant destination to consider if your child is on a budget. The average cost of studying in the country is 50 to 55 lakhs. There are amazing part-time job opportunities to keep up with the living expenses of studying and living in the country. Singapore can be more expensive, especially when compared to other Asian countries. Singapore is a go-to place if your child wants to study STEM courses and build a career in a similar field. Another great incentive to apply to Singapore from India is that its top universities recognize popular entrance exams like JEE and GATE as a part of the application process!    3. Netherlands  The Netherlands is an unexplored destination and at the top of countries under 50 lakhs for your child’s masters! Higher education in the Netherlands is subsidized to make it affordable and accessible to a majority of students. The tuition fees vary based on the course your child chooses but the average cost of attendance is generally between Rs. 6 - 15 lakhs. The application process is simple and similar to the UK or USA registration process. The country is great if your child is on a budget, wants to explore different European countries while studying, and wants to send your child to a safe country.   Additional read: Can your child do an MBA in Canada for under 40 lakhs? 4. Germany Germany is famous for offering tuition-free college experience. While that may be true for some degrees and some qualified students, it is not uniform. Public universities charge mandatory semester fees (Rs. 8 to 30k) to students while private universities charge tuition fees that can go up to Rs 1 to 2 lakhs per semester. The monthly cost of studying in Germany is somewhere between Rs.60 to 70k depending on where your child is staying and their daily expenses. While Germany is not cheap, it is cheaper to pursue a master's in comparison to countries like the UK, USA, or Australia. 5. Hungary  Hungary is one of the countries under 50 lakhs for your child’s master. The country is home to nearly 35,600 international students and offers tuition fees in the range of Rs. 2 to 3 lakhs. Technical courses like Medicine and Engineering may cost more than the average tuition fees. The cost of living in the country is similar to that of Germany, it can cost anywhere between Rs. 60k to 70k to live in the country.      If you and your child are on a budget then these countries under 50 lakhs for masters are a great alternative. They offer quality education, quality life as well as global exposure. With saving and budgeting, you can easily take care of this cost and uplift your child’s future!  FAQs Which country is the cheapest to do a Master's for Indian students? There are some countries that are affordable for Indian students for masters such as Germany, Russia, Ukraine, Hungary, Netherlands, Singapore, Norway, and Ireland. Which country is the cheapest to study for international students? There are many countries that are considered cheap for international students. Some of them are Germany, Russia, Ukraine, Hungary, Netherlands, Singapore, Norway and Ireland. Can I study abroad for 20 lakhs? Yes, it is possible to study abroad in 20 lakhs. There are many post-diploma courses and short-term courses for 6 months or 1 year that can cover your fees and cost of living.