Category Archives: Education

Parents responsible for arranging the necessary funds to provide higher education to their children are constantly on the lookout for new investment opportunities. It is important to add some of the best US stocks to your portfolio as they are profitable and have the proficiency for higher returns.  The top US stocks can prove to be big-time winners. The companies have shown themselves as capable and adaptable entities even during disruptions like Covid-19 and adverse market and economic conditions. They boast solid track records, strong fundamentals, high potential, and great profit returns. Best US stocks for Investing in 2022 1. Amazon With annual revenues and net income of $121.234 billion and $11.607 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022, Amazon (AMZN) is one of the best US stocks in the world.  The multinational company formed by Jeff Bezos has its fingers in several industries like cloud computing, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and digital streaming.  2. Microsoft Corporation Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, Microsoft (MSFT) is associated with the information technology industry. The public company traded on Nasdaq has several subsidiaries to its name like GitHub, LinkedIn, and Skype.  The $2.38 trillion market cap company boasts annual revenues and net income of $198.270 billion and $72.738 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks is at 10.300% and 27.412% respectively.  3. Alphabet Inc.  The holding company Alphabet Inc. (GOOG) is a technology conglomerate with revenues and net income of $278.139 billion and $72.016 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. Product lines include YouTube, Google Ventures, Google Search, Android Etc.  With a market capitalization in trillions, it is one of the best US stocks to buy because of sure and safe returns.  4. Apple Inc  Apple (AAPL) is a multinational tech company with innovative products (Apple Watch, Mac, iPhone) and services (Apple Music, iCloud, App Store) in its portfolio. As of June 2022, it is the biggest company in the world in terms of market capitalization which crossed $3 trillion.  Apple registered its revenues and net income of $387.542 billion and $99.633 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 12.907% and 32.407% respectively. 5. Nvidia Corp Nvidia (NVDA), a software and fabless company is a global leader in software, hardware, and artificial intelligence. It recorded revenues of $26.91 billion for the fiscal year 2021-22. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 39.858% and 65.733% respectively.  The public company is listed in the NASDAQ 100 and pays dividends four times every year. As cloud computing is in high demand across various industries the growth potential for higher returns is extremely positive.  6. Tesla Inc.  Tesla Inc. (TSLA), a public company traded on NASDAQ is associated with the designing and manufacturing of sustainable energy ecosystems and all-electric vehicles. The company crossed the market cap of $1 trillion in October 2021 and shows a remarkable trend of higher upward movement.  Tesla registered its revenues and net income of $67.166 billion and $9.516 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. The 3-month and 1-year forecast for its stocks are at 20.403% and 47.215% respectively. 7. Mastercard Mastercard (MA), listed in the S&P 500 Index and traded as Class A on the New York Stock Exchange, is associated with financial services. The multinational corporation registered its revenues and net income of $20.865 billion and $9.699 billion respectively for the year ending 30th June 2022. Mastercard offers its services to 210 countries all over the world (except Russia) through its debit, credit, and prepaid cards.  The company is known to process an estimated 3.6 trillion transactions every year. Mastercard is a favorite of investors as it has a dividend yield of 0.47% and distributes them consistently to loyal stockholders every quarter of every year.  If you are wondering where to buy the best US stocks then always choose a secured platform or credible investment counselors.  The wealth experts on the Edufund App offer solid recommendations to parents about the best US stocks to buy and fund their child’s higher education. They provide the opportunity for fractional investing as well as to own a piece of a global US company through transparent and secure means.  Investing across borders to create wealth for your child’s higher education is easy with no hidden charges, no commission, or brokerage fees to disrupt your equilibrium hence sign up and start earning returns in dollars! Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

After a severe decrease during the pandemic's second wave, education inflation has already been rising continuously. Although inflation in the industry was 0.63% in April 2021, it soared to 4.12% a year later, as academic establishments resumed across the country. Analysts claim this will rise more in the coming months due to the return to routine post-Covid and the increased reliance on tuition. The CPI index for education has been declining since June 2020, when the country was placed under severe lockdown owing to the epidemic. While it began to rise in May 2021, the increase was not particularly steep. Education Inflation is rising In India, education inflation is gradually increasing. According to National Sample Survey data, the cost of elementary and upper primary schooling increased more dramatically, rising by 30.7% and 27.5%, respectively, between June 2014 and June 2018. Higher education saw a lower percentage growth. While graduate degree prices increased by 5.8%, PG and higher course fees increased by 13.19 %. This was a period of growing CPI inflation in education. However, almost all higher education institutions were closed for over a year in 2020, immediately following the pandemic. While some universities recalled their academics and master's students after the initial wave passed, schools did not reopen fully until 2022.  Schools did not demand any additional costs aside from tuition fees from parents when online classes were being held. Some states had also asked schools to collect only a percentage of the original costs. Students did not choose any other school-related facilities at the time. Since everything has returned to normal, inflation in this industry is expected to grow. College prices soared over 4 decades Over the last four decades, college tuition has skyrocketed. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the yearly cost of attending a four-year college full-time in 1980 was $10,231 (including tuition, fees, room and board, and inflation adjustment). By 2019-20, the overall cost had risen to $28,775. Additional read: How to repay education loans faster? 180% increase College costs have risen across the board, but private non-profit universities are more expensive than public colleges. In 2019-20, a full-time student at a private non-profit institution paid $48,965, compared to $21,035 at a public college. Nevertheless, the trend has decreased since 2019. Based on the data from the college board, average tuition, fees, and room and board at private non-profit four-year schools fell 0.2% from 2019-20 to 2021-22. Prices fell another 1.7% between 2020-21 and 2021-22. During the same period, public four-year colleges' tuition followed a similar pattern. With this increase in college prices, the situation after 10 years will be higher with inflation added. The expected rise in tuition fees While food inflation increased by 9.62% between 2012 and 2020, school expenditures increased by 10%. College tuition fees in India have risen dramatically over the years. Below is some information on complete course fees for specific courses and how they are likely to grow in the next years, based on fee increases in previous years. Increased tuition fees in international universities Regardless of the coronavirus pandemic, several international colleges raised their tuition for 2022-2023. Tuition rates at the University of Pennsylvania will rise by 2.9%, while education at Arizona State University will increase by 5% for international students. Tuition costs for international students at all three University of Illinois campuses are expected to rise by 1.5 - 2.5% Education inflation after 10 years Inflation in education raises the expenses of students' basics, such as accommodation, food, and transportation, as well as tuition fees, making it even more essential for students to spend very little and earn however much further possible. With the overall cost of attending college increasing, students will most certainly have to take out more loans; also, these new loans will have higher interest rates than in previous years. For the 2022 - 2023 school year, the interest rate on a federal undergraduate loan has already climbed to 4.99%, up from 3.73% last year. As a result, education inflation after ten years will almost certainly be substantially higher than it is now. Watching unending tuition increase is discouraging parents & students and making them feel powerless in stopping it. However, as an informed consumer, you may make wise decisions to avoid paying more than you can afford. Conclusion  For many students, borrowing is the only means to pay for a college education. It can be tough to deal with these financial constraints in college. It is critical to have a financial plan in place to deal with inflation. FAQs What is education inflation? Education inflation is when the costs of education rise across the economy. The rate of education inflation in India is 10% which means that tuition fees and other education-related costs are What causes education inflation in India? There are several reasons that cause education inflation, such as government funding cuts, higher cost of living, tuition fees, administration costs, security, modern school infrastructure, and technological advancements. Why are tuition fees rising? The average cost of pursuing a degree in the US rose by 497 percent between 1986 and 2018. Tuition fees are rising due to high inflation, a growing demand for foreign education as well as a lack of governmental intervention, and the presence of private bodies in the education sector.

Trying to figure out the average cost of sending your child for MS to the US? The cost of studying MS in the US comes to a total of about ₹76 lakhs - 1.1 crores. The total cost of completing an MS in the United States is constituted of both tuition fees and living expenses. Overview of costs of studying MS in the US The cost of an MS in the United States for Indian students throughout the program, including expenses made in India and the United States, is detailed below: Factors/ParameterAmount (in INR)GRE₹17,000TOEFL₹15,000Applications₹70,000 - 1,20,000Other Expenses During Applications₹10,000 - 15,000VISA Fee₹13,100SEVIS Fee₹17,600Airfares (one-way)₹90,000 - 1,20,000Tuition Fee₹65,00,000 - 90,00,000Living Expenses₹9,00,000 - ₹20,00,000Total₹76 lakhs - 1.1 crores These figures were calculated using a variety of assumptions, and individual costs may change. We have just summarised a few significant costs to estimate the average cost of studying abroad, focusing on the price of an MS in the US. How to save for your child’s MS in the US Here are several financial planning techniques that parents can employ to lessen the stress and increase the productivity of their child's MS in the US. By following these guidelines, you can help your child achieve their goals while also safeguarding your long-term financial stability. 1. Think about long-term financial planning before you start An early start to planning is crucial. Plans for your child's international education should be started as soon as possible. As a parent, you may need to make some sacrifices right now, so start analyzing your spending habits and cutting back on unnecessary expenses. Regularly set aside funds for your child's education. Additionally, consider other saving and investment choices. You must account for the greater cost of living in the US and incorporate this element into your plan from the start. 2. Keep exchange rates and inflation in mind For many years, the US dollar has consistently ranked among the strongest currencies in the world, with nearly all other currencies gradually depreciating in comparison to it. You should expect that your currency will also experience this in the future. No matter when you plan to send your child to the US for education, you must factor in inflation in your country and potential currency depreciation in your budget. By taking inflation and exchange rates into account, the EduFund College Cost Calculator may assist you in determining the average total cost you will need to send your child to the US for MS. Longer periods provide you more freedom to invest in risky assets like stock, which might help you in the long term to fight off the effects of inflation and fluctuation in exchange rates. 3. Find the most suited investment options Even though your child's journey to the US won't happen for several years, you might not be able to meet all of your child's future expenses by merely setting up an education fund with your current regular pay. Future living expenses will undoubtedly rise from current levels. If you want to decrease the impact of these possibly higher costs, you need to start looking for additional sources of funding straight away that are separate from your (and your partner's) salary income. As a result, you ought to research potential medium and long-term investment options that you may start pursuing right away. Recognize your ability for risk-taking and adjust your investments accordingly. In your hunt for mutual fund-based Systematic Investment Plans (SIP), academic investments, or savings plans particularly created for your child's MS in the US, EduFund’s financial experts can help. 4. Consult a specialist before investing or studying abroad The process of getting ready for education abroad is scary to the majority of people. Even if you start early, create a budget and a costing plan, and research the various investment options, you could still feel entirely unprepared despite having an action plan and strategy in place. If you're having trouble, talking to a professional can be a smart idea. With the help of our investment advisors and study abroad specialists, you may examine your options and develop a more detailed and useful approach. You might even come across fresh options that you weren't aware of or hadn't thought of before. Conclusion The practical costs of sending your child to the US for a master's degree in science can be confusing, but with systematic planning and a realistic outlook, you and your child can both gain over time from pursuing this desired goal. EduFund’s financial experts are constantly available for any assistance or advice you need. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Top-up loans are available for parents/students who have already taken out an education loan. Top-up loans can be obtained from the same bank where you previously obtained an educational loan.  What are Top up loans? The amount supplied to the borrower by a lending institution in addition to the current loan is referred to as a top-up education loan. When a borrower approaches a lender for financial aid to fund, say, higher education overseas, a specific amount is approved based on various parameters. If a borrower applies for a secured loan,' the lending institution will authorize the amount of the loan based on the value of the collateral, which could be land, property, or a fixed deposit, for example. This loan would receive a top-up loan based on the same/different property.  In the event of an unsecured loan, the sanctioned amount is determined by factors such as academic profile, particularly GRE Score, credit worthiness depending on the applicant's and co-credit applicant's history, sources of income, career prospects after completing higher education, and so on. Money is given to the borrower from this sanctioned amount when the borrower needs it. After reevaluating all previously analyzed elements, a top-up loan on this loan would be offered. Need for Top-up loans With life returning to normalcy post the pandemic, students who'd already put off traveling abroad for further education are now continuing their plans. Currently, the expense of such an education is out of this world. People who have children studying abroad or who want to send their children abroad for studies generally take out education loans to cover the costs of their studies. As a result, if you need extra cash, you could consider taking out a top-up loan to pay for your study abroad. With rising costs, it is common to see parents/students struggling financially. In this case, you can take out a top-up loan, over and above the loan already taken. Furthermore, because the bank already has your information, you will have an easier time getting loan approval. However, authorizing an additional top-up loan depends on the higher loan eligibility. The bank also considers the outstanding amount you may have as a borrower. The calculation for Top Up Education Loan  Let’s see this example, as a borrower when you were qualified for Rs 50 lakhs but chose a credit of only Rs 35 lakhs, you also had Rs 15 lakhs available to you. Furthermore, if you've already paid Rs 5 lakhs from the Rs 35 lakhs, your overall eligibility increases - and you are now eligible to obtain a loan of Rs 20 lakhs more. Institutions offering top-up education loan  Instead of going with your bank, you might check into other choices, including other banks, non-banking finance companies, and education financing firms, which may be able to provide you with a loan at a lower interest rate. If your current bank refuses to approve the increased money requirement, you could check into alternative banks, NBFCs, and education finance businesses. Furthermore, if your present bank declines your additional loan application, you could try to transfer your existing loan to a new loan company instead of accepting a new loan from the new bank. Remember that additional loan approval is subject to the bank's policies, and not all banks offer top-up loans. Conclusion Applying for an education loan to help pay for higher education abroad necessitates careful planning. It requires the borrower to arrive at a precise approximation of the tuition fee and a determined prediction of other expenses, such as the cost of living. However, a student may need to borrow more funds from a bank to make up the difference due to currency rate fluctuations or fee increases. FAQs What is a top-up education loan? A top-up education loan refers to the additional amount given by the lender on top of the regular lending amount. Can I get a top-up on an education loan? Yes, you can top-up your education loan with your bank. What is top-up loan eligibility? If it's a secured education loan, then the top-up is based on the value of your collateral, and if it's an unsecured education loan, then the amount is disbursed based on your relationship with the lender, your credit history, your academic profile and your repayment discipline.

Higher education has become a necessity in today's competitive environment. And the cost of quality education is increasing every year gradually. Many of us don't plan for such high college fees, and some of us cannot anticipate it. So, to pursue higher education, we need external funds, which can be funded by a loan from a financial institution. Now, the question arises of which loan we should go for, either a personal or education loan. Education loan is not so popular, whereas personal is known by most of the population. An education loan is best suited to meet the expenses of higher education as it is designed to meet the requirements of educational expenses. 1. Interest rates Education loan comes with lower interest rates. Generally, education loans have comparatively lower interest rates than personal loans. The interest on an education loan ranges from 6.85 - 11% annually, depending on various factors like the course you are applying for, college, etc. The interest rates on personal loans range from 10 - 17% annually. Please note that the range mentioned may change, subject to the change in interest rates. 2. Tax benefit When you pay the interest on an education loan, you can claim the deduction for the amount you are paying as interest and get the tax benefit under Sec 80 E of the Indian Income Tax Act. There is no upper limit for claiming the deduction. You can claim as high as you are paying. And you can claim it for a maximum of 8 years. There is no tax benefit on personal loan interest paid to the lender. 3. Loan amount You take an educational loan for as low as Rs 50,000 and as high as Rs 1.5 Crores, depending on the vendor. But the personal loan amount ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 50 Lac. However personal loan amount will wholly depend on the borrower's credit score. 4. Moratorium period This is the period when the borrower is temporarily exempted from paying the installments. The aim is to give students sufficient time to complete the course and find a job. This period is extended from 6 -12 months after completing the degree. The interest is charged on the loan amount as simple interest. In a personal loan, no moratorium period is applied (under normal circumstances). Conclusion Education loans have multiple benefits like a moratorium period, lower interest rates, etc., which personal loan does not possess. Considering an education loan over a personal loan could be the right choice FAQs Can I use personal loan for education? Yes, individuals can use a personal loan to finance their education expenses. The loan amount and the repayment tenure depends on your credit profile and your loan provider. What is the difference between an education loan and a personal loan?An education loan is a loan to finance your higher education while a personal loan is a loan used for servicing personal needs like buying a car, a world tour, covering your personal expenses and much more. A personal loan can be used for paying for education expenses but an education loan cannot be used for your personal expenses like marriage, a house or other miscellaneous expenses. An education loan can be taken only by a student and has benefits like a longer repayment tenure, competitive interest rates, a grace period and tax benefits. Should you take a personal loan for your higher education? It is not a wise choice to take a personal loan for higher education because a personal loan's ticket size is not big enough to cover all your education expenses. Personal loans have a repayment cycle that begins immediately unlike education loans where students can get a moratorium period while studying. Benefits like a longer repayment tenure, competitive interest rates, a grace period, and tax benefits make education loan feasible and an attractive option in the long run.

Studying abroad is an experience that can improve language abilities and advance job possibilities. According to a recent HSBC study, parents all over the world appear to agree with this idea.  If you’re one of those parents then this page is for you. The article below will discuss the costs of sending your child to Singapore and how to manage their expenses. How much does studying in Singapore cost? Singapore is well-known for its excellent education and upholds high levels of education and learning. Studying in Singapore is generally less expensive than in other popular overseas study destinations. Let’s discuss the various costs of higher education in detail. Cost of school education in Singapore The price of education is determined by the kind of school or university your child is enrolled in. Also, it tends to depend on when you intend to send your child to school or university. When you send children to the pre-nursery classroom (18 months of age to two years), the monthly fee can range from as low as $256.80 for a half-day program to as heavy as $1,978.60 for a half-day program at some elite institutions.  Regarding your child's primary or secondary school education, there are approximately 70 international schools to choose from. Annual fees can range from $10,000 to $15,000, with a maximum of $40,000. You may also choose to enroll your child in one of Singapore's public schools. The annual fee for foreigners ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, roughly half the cost of such an international school. College tuition fees in Singapore vary based on the university and course your child attends, as well as your nationality. Tuition fees in Singaporean schools may be higher than that in neighboring countries. Let’s discuss the cost of higher education in Singapore.  Cost of college education in Singapore  A public university typically costs between SGD$ 8,000 and SGD$ 9,000/ year. However, this is the concessionary price. Non-subsidized and non-Singaporean students pay around SGD 10,000 or more. The government also subsidizes some programs in Singaporean schools, regardless of nationality. The government of Singapore provides a substantial tuition subsidy in the form of a MOE Subsidy. It is available to any eligible students. There are broadly two types of universities in Singapore: public and international university campuses. The government primarily supports public universities. As a result, they might provide identified students admittance at a lowered tuition fee. Certain universities charge international students more than local Singaporeans. Singapore's international and foreign universities and colleges are typically costlier than public university campuses. Best Singapore Universities Read More What is the cost of tuition fees at public universities in Singapore? We are comparing the tuition fees for one year for accounting and finance programs at six public-funded universities. For 2019, all tuition fees are in Singapore dollars and include local tax. Singapore's Ministry of Education (MOE) provides tuition subsidies (Tuition Grants) to international students attending local public colleges. Under this scheme, international students will be expected to find employment in Singapore-registered major corporations for a minimum of three years after graduation. As a result, overseas students (non-MOE subsidies) must pay an average of SGD$33,000 *3 = SGD$99,000 to finish an accountancy Bachelor's degree at a public university in Singapore. Other degree programs may take longer than 4 years and may cost more. Top 6 Scholarships in Singapore Read More What is the cost of tuition fees at international and foreign universities in Singapore? The table shown below provides a more detailed breakdown of tuition fees for a few institutions that offer accounting and finance-related programs: All tuition fees are the full course program fees in Singapore dollars for 2019, inclusive of local tax. As seen above, the international student tuition fees to complete a Bachelor's degree at a foreign and overseas university in Singapore range from SGD$ 51,840 to SGD$ 115,350, based on the type of course. Tuition for a master's degree ranges between SGD$ 46,080 and SGD$ 133,884. The cost of studying in Singapore varies according to the level of education. The cost of living varies according to individual living standards, but the average monthly fee for a student could range from SGD$ 1,000 to $3,000. Numerous private institutions are also very popular. Among the top names is INSEAD, a global management school with a campus in Singapore that allures international students from all over the world. Indeed, in the last decade, the country's growing education sector and geographic advantage have persuaded many foreign universities to establish campuses there. Among the well-known institutions are the Chicago Business School and the Technische Universität München, Asia. Conclusion Singapore provides quality education at a reasonable price, resulting in greater value for money. The universities are internationally recognized, have collaborations, and are founded on innovative pedagogy. Parents wishing to send their children abroad must start financial planning early on to support their children in the best. FAQs How much does it cost to send a child to school in Singapore? The cost of school education varies based on the type of school and the grade level. It can range from around $256.80 to $1,978.60 per month for pre-nursery, and annual fees for international schools range from $10,000 to $40,000. What are the tuition fees for college education in Singapore? Tuition fees for public universities typically range from SGD$8,000 to SGD$9,000 per year for local students, with higher fees for non-subsidized and non-Singaporean students. The government provides substantial tuition subsidies through MOE Subsidies. How much does it cost to study at international and foreign universities in Singapore? Tuition fees at foreign and overseas universities in Singapore can range from SGD$51,840 to SGD$115,350 for a Bachelor's degree and from SGD$46,080 to SGD$133,884 for a Master's degree, depending on the program. What is the average cost of living for students in Singapore? The average monthly cost of living for students in Singapore can range from SGD$ 1,000 to $3,000, depending on their individual living standards and choices. What factors make studying in Singapore an attractive option for international students? Singapore offers quality education at a reasonable price, with internationally recognized universities, innovative pedagogy, and geographic advantages. Many foreign universities have established campuses in the country, making it an attractive destination for students.

If your child is planning to pursue higher studies in any professional sphere, you will have to be financially ready to shell out anywhere from Rs. 4 - 5 lakhs to Rs. 70 - 80 lakhs, depending on the course, institution, and country of study.  You also need to keep in mind that the banks will discuss the loan amount only after your child’s admission has been confirmed by the institute. Hence it becomes important to have rough estimates to work with, to do your homework well in advance, and to understand what your loan eligibility is. Apply for Education Loans List of questions you should ask before taking an education loan 1. Understand your costs Compare the various institutes and their fees, hostel fees, and additional charges, if any. Step One is having a thorough grasp of the total expenses that you are likely to incur across the entire duration of the course. If you are looking at international universities, remember to add travel costs as well. So get that number, and allow for a 5% - 10% buffer for any unexpected expenses. Compare the costs of the few institutes that your child is considering. This will help you arrive at the right estimate while working out your expenses. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/woiuX0oE1YU 2. Check with the bank on what components of the total expenses the loan will cover Different banks have different parameters. Some loans will cover only tuition fees, others cover tuition and hostel fees. Some may even include your travel costs. Make sure you are well aware of what is being covered when discussing the loan amount. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/p2Bj4VgVHgQ 3. Find out what percentage of the total cost will be given as a loan That means the loan will not fund your full expenses. Usually, a bank will fund 80% of the tuition fees / total expenses. You will have to fund the other 20% as a down payment. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4lVk1mKqwaI 4. Check which courses and institutions are eligible for education loans This is an important consideration, as if your institute is not on the list, getting an education loan will be a challenge. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/TJ4qgFj46Uw 5. Check if your bank needs collateral Most nationalized banks in India and large private banks will require collateral that is 3-4 times in value of the loan you plan to take. Check what your bank is expecting. Additional read: Does education loan impact student loan interest rates? 6. Will the loan require a guarantor? This is a common practice, especially for overseas education loans. It is the bank’s way of assuring the loan is paid back. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/mW0VH10uH9I 7. Find out the loan repayment policy Education loans typically start repayment only after the course ends and the candidate starts work. Banks usually provide a grace of 6 months to one year post the course completion or till the time the candidate gets a job. Do note that this time period cannot be indefinitely extended even if the student is unable to find employment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EAyvncisU4 8. What is the loan tenure? The smaller the loan amount, the shorter the tenure.  This tenure will change subject to the changing interest rate of the loan, so you must track the rates on a regular basis. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fufyFB9aMQI 9. Is there a processing fee? This fee is usually a percentage of the loan amount. Check on this and see if you can get a waiver. If your loan amount is large, your processing fee will be large too, and you will have to arrange for this along with the down payment that you will have to make towards your part of the loan. Additional read: What are blue-chip stocks 10. How much of this education loan can I self-fund? If you start investing and planning well in advance, you can actually partially fund the cost of education. This is important as no loan is free money, you have to pay it back, and interest rates keep going up year after year. Check out the College Cost Calculator to see how much you need to spend and how you can save for the future cost of your child’s education.  With some smart planning and investment, you can actually reduce the education loan burden on your family. To know how you can do this, check out our link on savings and investments here. While you ask these questions before you take the education loan, you must also check out if your child is eligible for scholarships. Applying for these well in time and winning the scholarship will mean you will have to borrow that much less. After all, every rupee saved is a rupee earned. FAQs What should I consider before taking an education loan? Before taking an education loan, understand the total course expenses, what components the loan will cover, and how much of the total cost the loan will fund. What does an education loan typically cover? Education loans may cover tuition fees, hostel fees, and sometimes travel costs. The coverage varies between different banks and loan providers. How much of the total cost will an education loan cover? Most banks fund around 80% of the tuition fees or total expenses, requiring you to contribute the remaining 20% as a down payment. Are all courses and institutions eligible for education loans? Not all courses and institutions may be eligible for education loans. Ensure your chosen course and institute are on the list of eligible options. Does an education loan require collateral? Many banks in India and large private banks may require collateral, typically valued at 3-4 times the loan amount. Check your bank's requirements.

According to a Times of India survey, single mothers head 4.5% of Indian households. Moreover, over 7% of parents are single and solely responsible for their child’s expenses. With education inflation pushing the cost of education over the roof, here is how single parents can save for higher education so that their child’s future is secure.   1. Proper budgeting  First tip on how single parents can save for higher education is Budgeting! It is extremely important for both the parent and the child. Your finances may suffer if you do not keep a track of when and where are you spending. Moreover, if you follow proper budgeting then it will help you track your monthly cash flow and analyze where you need to spend less.   You should set aside money for all your necessities as soon as you get your monthly amount. You must remember that if you follow proper budgeting and start saving early, it will help you gather a good corpus for your child.  2. Budget child expenses  The second tip is a tip on how single parents can save for higher education by budgeting child expenses! It’s important to track your child’s expenses as well. As a parent, you want to give the best to your child but it should not be beyond your monetary means. If you are a single parent responsible for pick and drop then try carpooling! Try to cut back on expenses where you can save and ensure your child gets the best of opportunities!    If you are choosing a school for your child, make sure that you make a list of them and then choose the one which provides good education and which fits your budget. Do not go for high-end schools just for the sake of the name. Make sure it’s in the neighborhood so that you don’t have to spend more money on transportation and your child can get home sooner to relax!  3. Create an emergency fund  The third tip is tip of how single parents can save for higher education is by creating an emergency fund! Emergency funds prove to be extremely handy in certain situations. If an unexpected circumstance comes up, it might as well take away all your savings which will be detrimental to your financial planning. Hence, you should focus on gathering an emergency fund for you and your child which should cover 12 to 24 months of living expenditure. It should also include loan EMIs. You have to be vigilant enough regarding any event which may come up and suck your savings. Make sure that you use this amount wisely and constructively.  You can build up an emergency fund in just three steps:  Decide the Size of the Emergency Fund  The thumb rule to generate an emergency fund is to focus on saving a corpus amount that can cover your expenses for more than 6 to 12 months.  Identify Highly Liquid Savings Product  Some of the common options for creating a contingency fund will include liquid or money market funds, short-term debt funds, savings bank accounts, floating rate funds, and so on.  Proper Financial Planning  In the final step, you have to make sure that you set aside a portion of your monthly income for generating this emergency fund. You should go for an automated procedure by setting up a SIP in a liquid fund or alternative debt fund.  4. Establish bank limits  Another tip is to set bank and credit card limits! Avoiding debt is the initial basic step that is crucial for saving up for your child. Next, you need to make sure that you are not spending more than what is required. For this purpose, you can set a limitation on your bank account. In such a scenario, you need to have a proper discussion with your child over the needs and the expenses involved.   The discussion should be candid or transparent with proper financial concerns, boundaries, and needs.   5. Invest wisely  The last tip is a tip on how single parents can save for higher education is to invest wisely. Investing in wise options is quite essential for single parents. Risk factors can lead to the demolishment of the generated corpus for your child’s education. Hence, you should invest in equity and mutual funds only if you have 10 to 15 years left for your child’s higher education. You can go for public provident funds which assure you a basic amount of interest for the amount that you put in.   There are recurring and fixed deposits in which you will get an interest based on what has been fixed by the bank. Moreover, you have options such as gold ETF where you can invest in gold.   While investing in gold ETF, make sure that you do not invest in the physical form of gold. These investment options will work really well if start with them as early as possible.  FAQs What are some practical strategies for single parents to save for their child's higher education? Single parents can save for higher education by creating a budget, exploring government aid, starting a monthly SIP to save for their child's education, and seeking scholarships and grants. How can single parents balance saving for education with other financial responsibilities? Single parents can strike a balance by setting clear financial goals, creating a budget, and prioritizing saving for education alongside other essential expenses. Can single parents benefit from education-focused scholarships and grants? Yes, many scholarships and grants are available specifically for single parents. Research and apply for these opportunities to help reduce the financial burden of education. How can single parents involve their children in the process of saving for higher education? Single parents can teach their children about financial responsibility and the importance of education by involving them in discussions about saving, setting financial goals, and exploring scholarship opportunities together. Are there community resources or organizations that provide support for single parents saving for higher education? Yes, some community organizations and non-profits offer financial literacy programs and support for single parents seeking to save for their child's education. Research local resources for assistance.

Investing in all asset classes and all categories of investments is not the right way to create your portfolio, especially if you’re starting with a small investment amount. This causes a significant overlapping of assets and over-diversification, leading to reduced and inefficient returns in the portfolio. How can you choose the right investment option that generates returns to help you meet your objectives with reasonable volatility? Do you want to know about the power of diversification? What is diversification? Diversification is the first and the most critical aspect of investing. Diversification is an investment strategy that involves investing in a mix of instruments to reduce risks and maximize portfolio returns. Mutual funds provide the best form of diversification. They offer exposure to multiple assets (stocks or debt) within a single fund. Moreover, there is a mutual fund for every investor with varying risk appetites and investment objectives. Advantages of diversification Diversification itself is one of the advantages of investing in Mutual funds. The main advantages of diversification are: - Minimize risk: Diversification in a portfolio reduces the overall risk of a portfolio. With proper diversification, there is a considerable reduction in the volatility of investment holdings. Creates a cushion: When diversified optimally, your portfolio can efficiently absorb significant, unpredictable market corrections without causing much loss to your portfolio. Better risk-adjusted returns: Diversification is not done to maximize risk solely. For example, if two portfolios generate the same percentage of returns, the diversified portfolio here takes less risk and has low volatility compared to the other portfolio. Compensating effect: The primary purpose of diversification is to prepare for all market conditions. So, when the market is highly volatile, in a well-diversified portfolio, even if one instrument has significant losses, the other instrument (for diversifying) would be chosen in such a way that it still generates returns to a certain extent to compensate for the losses incurred. Additional read: Why you should geographically diversify your portfolio? Why should you diversify? The first rule of investing is that "you should not put all eggs in one basket, " meaning you should not invest all your savings in one instrument. The primary purpose of diversification is that if one investment instrument in your portfolio tanks, the other having a negative correlation may rise, thereby reducing the overall portfolio loss. Common ways of diversification? Asset allocation can happen in several ways. Some common strategies used for portfolio diversification are: - 1. Different asset classes A portfolio should have a good balance between different asset classes as all would have a different impact when the market takes significant turns. For example, to compensate for the volatility seen in equity investments, one can invest in debt-based instruments or gold to hedge market risks. 2. Different instruments You can diversify into different instruments within the same asset class. While investing in equity mutual funds, you could choose between market cap funds like blue chip funds, mid-cap or small-cap funds, or even index funds for proper diversification. 3. International diversification Geographical diversification also helps maximize the portfolio's risk-adjusted returns. Investing in USD can take advantage of the currency movement and hedge over the currency risk. Different and diverse. What is the difference? One common mix-up investors get into is thinking that investing in different mutual funds is equivalent to diversifying. But different doesn’t necessarily mean diversifying. Even if you invest in different funds, those funds may have the same or similar holdings. This causes overlapping of asset allocation in one portfolio. Diversification does not happen when a factor similarly affects the holdings of both funds. Lastly, we’d say that holding a well-diversified portfolio is much better and more beneficial than just being invested in a single asset that is considered to be safe. In the end, just investing and generating returns is not enough. You should ensure that whatever you're saving is being optimally allocated so that your investments generate returns efficiently and effectively. Also, review your investments periodically to check whether or not they are in line with your goals and objectives. FAQs What is diversification? Diversification is an investment strategy that involves investing in a mix of instruments to reduce risks and maximize portfolio returns. Mutual Funds provide the best form of diversification. Why should you diversify? The primary purpose of diversification is that if one investment instrument in your portfolio tanks, the other having a negative correlation may rise, thereby reducing the overall portfolio loss. This strategy can help you minimize risk and protect your overall investment and capital from loss. How can I diversify my portfolio? As an investor, the best way to diversify is to distribute your investments across different asset classes. For example, to compensate for the volatility seen in equity investments, one can invest in debt-based instruments or gold to hedge market risks. A combination of these investments can help you weather the storms of bull and bear markets easily.

Education inflation impacts student loan interest rates, however, this impact is not direct or uniform. In inflationary times, the chances of high-interest rates are feasible because the need to cut demand in the market is high.  1. Education inflation rises faster than the standard economic inflation This means that if the standard inflation in the country of your choice is at say, 5% - 6%, in the education segment it can easily go up to 8-9%. This is observed extensively in the education costs in Western countries. The reason: excessive growing demand v/s fixed supply. With this trend here to stay at least for the next decade, you would do well to consider its impact on the education loan that you are planning for your child. 2. Understanding the variables in student loans There are two factors to be considered for student loans: a. whom are you taking the loan from; b. What kind of a loan are you taking? Whom are you taking the loan from You can take an education loan from government organizations or nationalized banks in India, or you get one from private organizations: private banks or private funding/finance companies. With interest rates in the first category being lower, these loans are usually more difficult to obtain, as there are several eligibility criteria, including a pre-selected list of institutions for which they will issue the loans. These are the top-rung institutes of any country and not every international student will qualify for the same. Also, they have extensive paperwork. So the application and approval processes in these lenders are comparatively slower. On the other hand, the private players have a larger pool of institutions for whom they will grant loans, and often their eligibility criteria are less stringent. But their interest rates are higher and over the long tenure of the education loans, even small differences in the interest rates can compound and snowball into large amounts. What kind of interest rate are you opting for: you can choose between fixed interest rates and variable interest rates. It is important to note that in India, fixed rates rise slower than variable rates; but they definitely rise. So do not be misled by the term ‘fixed’. 3. How does all of this impact your child’s education loan? Inflation means less purchasing power: Well, as inflation grows, and interest rates go up, your child’s purchasing power gets limited as salaries do not keep pace with inflation. This puts stress on repayment funds. Missing education loan payments affect the individual’s credit score: This is a serious implication and must be explained well to the child. While the temptation to miss the monthly payments is high, the young adult must be disciplined to make the necessary payments on time. Refinance the education loan: This is a good way to revise the loan terms, especially as most lenders offer waivers when education loans are transferred. This allows the student to negotiate payment terms that are more suitable to his / her current financial situation. And yes, these loans can be refinanced several times.  Start a side hustle: If the primary salary is not enough to cover the loan payments and expenses comfortably, the student should consider taking up a side hustle. This will help ease the pressure, and ensure the loan is being regularly paid up. 4. Save during the study years and pay up the loan at the earliest While this may seem contrary to the idea of taking a loan, this really is the financially smart thing to do. If you are taking the education loan for your child’s undergrad studies, you will typically have these four years of grace before repayment starts. As a family, you must plan your savings and investments in such a way that by the time your child graduates, a considerable corpus is ready to pay up. This may mean foregoing luxuries and living on a budget for your child during the college years, but it is the fastest way to get your child out of debt. Why do block payments help? Changing market dynamics and growing inflation push your loan repayment amounts ever higher with increased interest rates, extended tenures, and so on. Starting your life with so much liability puts a lot of restrictions on your child’s early career. Instead, putting money away, investing in mutual funds or the stock market, and building a solid corpus with expert guidance from EduFund can give your child a confident start in their career. Choose well, and don’t let the education inflation turn your child’s future into a whirlwind of merely getting out of education loan debt. Plan the finances well, and let your child really fly up to the skies of success. DisclaimerIf you are taking an education loan from a lender in another country, make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations that apply to student loans in that country. FAQs How does education inflation impact student loan interest rates? Education inflation tends to drive up student loan interest rates, causing a significant impact on repayment. What are the variables to consider for student loans? Two key factors are the lender (government or private) and the type of interest rate (fixed or variable). How does education inflation affect a student's purchasing power? As inflation rises and interest rates increase, a student's purchasing power diminishes due to slower salary growth. What options are available for managing education loan payments? Options include refinancing the loan, starting a side hustle, and saving during the study years to pay off the loan early. Why is saving during the study years a financially smart choice for education loans? Saving during the study years can help build a corpus to pay off the loan, ensuring a debt-free start to a child's career despite rising inflation and interest rates.

The US is one of the most expensive countries to pursue further studies. With the rupee falling against the dollar and the annual increase in the tuition fees at US universities, this dream of studying in the USA is slowly slipping away for most Indian students. But not all hope is lost; if you are planning to send your child to the USA for a master's, then here is a list of US scholarships for MS courses your child should apply for!  List of US scholarships for MS courses   Scholarships are a great way to fund your child’s higher education and ease the financial burden on you as a parent. Scholarships are monetary rewards given to students based on their academic performance, financial need, or ethnic background. The reward given by each scholarship varies from university to university and may not be uniform for all awardees. (Some awardees may be eligible for a higher reward than others)  Apply for Scholarship US scholarships for MS course 1. Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships  Fulbright Nehru Masters Fellowship is for Indian students who wish to study in the USA for their master's. The program offers scholarships to students studying a wide range of courses like Arts and Culture, Economics, Environmental Studies, Higher, Journalism and Mass Communication, Public Administration, Urban, and Regional Planning & Gender Studies at select universities and colleges.   The fellowship is offered for one or two years and provides J-1 visa support, round-trip economy class air travel from a fellow’s home city to the USA, funding for tuition and fees, living costs, and accident and sickness coverage.   2. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships  Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarships offers meritorious students full and partial scholarships as interest-free loans to study abroad or in India. Students who have an excellent academic background and want to pursue postgraduation must apply for these loans and interest-free scholarships on the official website. Students can win financial rewards as well as mentor guidance to help them build a unique career.   3. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship  The Aga Khan Foundation provides scholarships to pursue masters and PhDs to meritorious scholars from developing countries. Scholarships function as 50% grant and 50% loan rewards. Scholarships are awarded for full-term courses and not for short-term courses. The scholarships are a helping hand to those who cannot financially support themselves throughout college.   Students get assistance with tuition fees and living expenses. The scholarships do not cover travel costs while funding for Ph.D. courses is limited to 2 years of study. Since the program covers 50% grants and 50% loans, the interest charged on a 50% scholarship is 5% (less than the average loan interest rate in India).  The payback period is five years and starts six months after the study period. The loan scholarship requires a guarantor to co-sign and provide reassurance.   4. Generation Google Scholarship  Generation Google scholarships is an initiative by the tech company, Google to sponsor students who wish to study in Canada and USA. The scholarships are meant for students who wish to pursue computer science degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Students receive around $10,000 (for those studying in the US) or $5,000 CAD (for those studying in Canada) for the year. The scholarship is given on the basis of diversity, equity, and inclusion, demonstrated leadership, and academic performance.  5. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship  The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation scholarship is offered to students to study in North America or Europe. It’s given to students who display exceptional talent in their field of choice. It covers a host of costs like tuition, one-way travel, and living expenses of more than US $100,000. During the interview process, students are required to provide financial proof to cover their course. This is a mandatory requirement for selection.   The list of US scholarships for MS courses for Indian students is one way to finance your child’s US dream. Apply for an Unsecured Loan to Study in USA FAQs Is it easy to get a 100% scholarship in the USA? No, it is not. The USA is a highly competitive study destination and millions of international students apply for similar courses. You must have an exceptional academic record and a brilliant portfolio in your chosen field to bag 100% scholarships for studying in the USA. What are some fully funded scholarships for the USA for Indians? Yes, several scholarships like Inlaks Scholarship and Fulbright Scholarship, are specifically available for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. Is the USA costly to study in? Yes, the USA is considered one of the most expensive countries to study in. In 1980, the price to attend a four-year college full-time was $10,231 annually including tuition, fees, room and board, and adjusted for inflation according to the National Center for Education Statistics. By 2019-20, the total price increased to $28,775. That’s a 180% increase.

India has the world’s highest proportion of parents (over 88%) who want to send their child abroad for post-graduate studies. The UK tops the list of desirable destinations for Bachelor’s and Master’s, but before you start planning.  Questions to ask before sending a child to the UK 1. Which course is the best for your child?  First and foremost, you should sit with your child and understand his or her goals and aspirations. Proper communication is extremely important in this phase to gain clarity. Knowing which course your child takes to take can help you and them prepare better. You can create an education fund that helps them finance their dreams and the child can work towards gaining the skills and scores needed to get admission.   For example, if your child is interested in getting a seat for Engineering at the University of Cambridge, he or she must know that there are only 780 seats available. Hence, there is tough competition to get admission to engineering. Apart from that, he or she will have to get certain certificates like BTEC National Extended Certificate, Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate, and so on. All of this requires proper decision-making and planning to get admission there. There is also the average cost of studying in Cambridge that will go up by the time your child lands up there! 2. Which university is right for my child?  Selecting one particular university can be a tough task. The United Kingdom has universities providing degrees in all types of fields. Once you are done deciding on the field of education, start searching for universities that offer your particular domain of interest.   For example, if your child wants to get a degree in medicine, some of the good universities are as follows:  University of Oxford  King’s College London  Imperial College London  University of Edinburgh  University of Glasgow  Instead of medicine, if your child is interested in getting a degree in management, there are various universities providing education in that domain such as:  University of Manchester  University of Oxford  University of Leeds  University of Bath  University of Bradford  3. Is my child eligible to get admission to the desired university in the United Kingdom?  This is one of the most important questions you need to ask before sending your child to the UK and zeroing in on a university. Conduct thorough research on the eligibility criteria for getting admission to that particular university. Note that the eligibility requirements might be different for international students.   Suppose your child is interested in getting a management degree from the University of Manchester, then he or she needs to have a first or upper-second-class honors degree from an equivalent overseas university. If your child is planning their bachelor's then check if their school board is eligible for admission. There are other requirements like taking an English language test whose report has to be submitted. Note that this report will be valid only for two years.  4. What is the educational expense and cost of living in the United Kingdom?   The universities of the United Kingdom provide the best education, and related facilities, and bring with them a bunch of opportunities. Hence, of being so rich in quality, the cost of education in the universities situated there can be a little high. Students belonging to the country have to pay lesser than international students. If your child is going for a lecture-based course, then the tuition fees will range somewhere between Rs 11,30,000 to Rs 36,00,000 based on the course.  Suppose your child wants to get a degree in medicine from the University of Oxford, the tuition fees will range somewhere around Rs 36,00,000. Moreover, the cost of living and accommodation also adds up to the overall cost. It has been mentioned in the latest UK Visa requirements that the student needs to have the least amount of Rs 80,000 - 90,000 at all times in their bank accounts.   5. How to prepare financially to send my child to the United Kingdom for higher education?  If you have decided that you will send your child abroad for higher education, then it is best to start saving and investing as early as possible. Education has been on the rise for the past two decades. To counter that, you must invest a certain amount in various forms of investment such as equity, mutual funds, gold ETF, public provident funds, and so on.   All of these investments will help you to reduce the sudden burden of paying a huge amount as fees to the universities. Moreover, you will not have to borrow loans from banks. Hence, it is advisable to start financially planning way before your child has to get college admission.  FAQs What is the average cost of studying in the UK for an undergraduate? The average cost of studying in the UK is anywhere between £20,000 to £38,000 per year. The cost of studying is higher for international students because there is no cap on tuition fee increases due to increasing inflation rates. Why is the UK a good choice for higher education for my child? The UK is a great choice for higher education for your child because it is home to some of the best universities, and it offers shorter-duration courses and permanent residency. Its main language is English which means that Indian students can easily adapt and flourish in the country. How can I save for my child's UK university? The best way to save for your child's university is to start a SIP in any mutual fund (with annualized returns of nearly 12%). By saving just Rs. 10,000 monthly via SIP, you can save up to 50 lakhs in 15 years. Check out the EduFund App to start your SIP.

Post-pandemic online master’s degrees have become extremely popular. If you have applied for an online degree and are finding it hard to pay the fees, then here are some merits and demerits of opting for a personal loan for an online master’s degree!  From top universities like Harvard University, Oxford University, the University of Edinburgh, and Johns Hopkins University to online platforms like Coursera and SkillShare made accessibility to quality education easier and a great way to upskill. While some are free, there are some that charge a heavy fee. Depending upon the course, the average cost of an online master’s degree can go up to $29,000 (Rs. 23-24 lakhs).   This can be tough to finance independently as most banks do not offer education loans are not offered for online degrees. Some banks like Axis Bank do offer education loans for an online master’s degree. But space is still limited. Maximum banks and financial institutions only sanction education loans that require students to study on campus, and online degrees are not covered by them. Thus, if you are short on expenses, then you can opt for a personal loan for your online master's degree.   What are the merits of opting for a personal loan for online master’s degrees?  1. Zero Collateral   Personal loans are called unsecured loans and they do not require collateral from the borrower to sanction their claims. It is easier to get a personal loan as banks do not need you to give land, shares, or other bonds as collateral to claim. The approval largely depends on your credit scores, income history, and general eligibility or worthiness in terms of repayment. If the bank feels that you are not capable of repaying the loan, they are likely to reject the application.   2. Easy Sanctions  Personal loans verify the candidate’s worthiness, credit history, and financial stability. If you can provide an assurance to the bank that you are able and willing to repay then the banks are likely to sanction your loan faster. In terms of personal loans without collateral, your relationship with the bank, income stability, and financial background comes in handy for easy sanctions.   3. Easy Disbursals  Some banks disburse funds within seconds! Once your loan is approved and accepted, the banks can wire the money to your account immediately. Most personal loans and their lenders pride themselves on immediate and easy disbursements so that the borrower can finance their immediate needs faster. It may not be the case for all types of loans as each has its own processing period.   What are the demerits of opting for a personal loan for online master’s degrees?  4. High-Interest Rates  Interest rates vary from bank to bank and to lender. Personal loans are by nature unsecured which means the chances of getting a high interest rate may be higher. Beware of the interest rates, try to consult multiple banks before starting the application process. Having a good relationship with a bank and a financial history can help you.  5. Stress of Repayment   The stress of repayment is associated with every loan and is not exclusive to personal loans. Most borrowers struggle with repayment and may find it overwhelming at times. Having a stable income or savings can help you with the process of repayment. The cumulative interest rates and rising prices can make the job tougher but not impossible.  6. Eligibility Rigidity  Since most personal loans are unsecured, they focus largely on your credit score and financial history to sanction it. This can be a merit and demerit because a low credit score could jeopardize your application approval and make it tougher for you to gain the amount you want. Applicants are scrutinized more closely and any flaw could delay the process.    These are some merits and demerits of opting for a personal loan for an online master’s degree! An informed and well-rounded decision can help you pick the right path and help you secure a brighter future. FAQs Can you take an education loan for online degrees? Axis Bank offers education loans for online courses and executive courses that further your career. However, most banks do not offer education loans for online programs. Is it wise to take a personal loan for higher education? If you have the capacity to repay your loan on time then you can consider but it's wise to opt for an education loan for education purposes because it is made for meeting your education requirements. Should you opt for a personal loan in lieu of an education loan? No, education loans and personal loans are not the same. They can not be interchanged. Personal loans have a shorter repayment tenure, higher interests, and no moratorium period, and the loan amount offered may not be efficient enough to cover all your education expenses.