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What is concentration risk in Equity funds? Let us explain! Have you heard of the saying “putting all your eggs in one basket”? It means that you are dedicating a large number of your efforts and financial or other resources to one thing and hoping for its great success. Similarly, in your investment portfolio, your eggs are your savings - the money bags and the sectors or themes or instruments are the baskets. When you put all your eggs in a particular sector, and if the market crashes down due to unforeseen market conditions, all your eggs go bad (in short – you lose all your money bags). This is a concentration risk. When you have invested a lot in a sector, most of your expected returns depend solely on that particular sector’s performance. The possibility of your returns getting derailed due to high dependency on a small set of factors - this unique risk is called concentration risk. Why is this risk important? When we invest, we invest for our future, and our long-term goals – retirement, children’s education, wedding expenses, and more. Suppose, you invest in a mutual fund that is supposed to earn you a 15% return. However, if the mutual fund invests only in the infrastructure sector – this fund could be impacted by a multitude of macroeconomic factors such as interest rates, price of fuel, currency appreciation/depreciation, etc. In the time period of 2007-12, the infrastructure index gave an annualized return of -3% when compared to Nifty, which earned its investors a return of 7-8%. This is when diversification becomes important. Your portfolio should consist of sectors that complement one other. For instance, when oil and gas prices are on the rise, the energy sector is outperforming the market. However, the infrastructure sector which uses energy as input, or any sector which utilizes oil and gas as an input in their production would see an increase in costs – a decrease in stock price. Hence, these would move in opposite directions. If you had stocks from sectors that are moving in the opposite direction, you would either benefit from the net upside (Sector 1 increase + Sector 2 decrease), or you would limit your downside. Some sectors such as steel have long business cycles – they tend to have a longer slump (of greater than 10 years) due to macroeconomic conditions such as lower demand or higher supply, etc. If one invests in these sectors, there is a high risk of your portfolio underperforming the market. Consider a fund that invests in oil, steel, and other metals (they are also available as commodity indices). Oil and metals typically see simultaneous ups and downs in market cycles – this would mean higher risk and a higher impact on the portfolio of the fund. Marco-economic correlation Debt funds are impacted by a change in interest rates. When the RBI policy announces an increase in interest rates, the prices of the funds start to plummet if they have invested in long-term bonds (which are impacted the most). Similarly, there could be sectors that are impacted by interest rate movements or GDP movements. When there is a declaration of a decrease in interest rates by RBI’s monetary policy, NBFCs could gain from this move. The banking sector could be affected by this move due to a crunch in the interest margin i.e., profit for the bank – as the interest rates climb up, the profit margin increases and vice versa. However, this could also mean that the banks are able to borrow from the RBI at a cheaper rate. Large companies with stable cash flows will find cheaper debt financing options, and hence their stocks could also be on the rise. Hence, if one had only invested in the Banking and Financial sector (BFSI), one would see a drop in their portfolio. When there is an increase in interest rates and if one had invested in the Auto and Real estate sectors - despite having invested in two sectors, the impact would be negative. Beware of these correlations and invest in sectors that are least similar, so that your eggs cushion your portfolio during economic volatility. FAQs What causes concentration risk? Concentration risk is a result of uneven distribution of exposures (or loan) to its borrowers. How can you prevent concentration risk? You can prevent concentration risk by diversification across sectors, rebalancing your portfolio or by selling your certain investments. What is concentration risk? Concentration risk refers to anticipated loss in investments due to investing in multiple funds with the same or similar investment strategy. The loss cannot easily be remedied and hence, investors are advised to avoid it. What is concentration risk limited to equity funds? No, concentration risk is not limited to equity funds. It is also present in debt funds and it is important to understand the sectors and areas of investment of each fund to avoid this risk. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

With the increasing cost of higher education, it is becoming increasingly difficult for students to pursue higher education. The high education cost has been one of the main reasons for worry amongst the students. To avoid losing opportunities, students often turn to financing their education via education loans.  But education loan isn’t always that simple. With procedural and interest rate variations, practically all banks and financial organizations provide education loans. The tricky part is figuring out the EMI. Some of these loans are given at a very high interest rate making them more expensive. Herein lies the importance of the education calculator, it enables you to make the best choices. It is important to know and calculate the EMI costs beforehand for what amount the loan is taken along with its interest rate and the repayment time/tenure.  Advantages of using an education loan calculator  One benefit of using an EMI calculator for student loans is that you can see the results right away. Using a loan calculator is very convenient. You may obtain your EMI by entering the loan amount, interest rate, and loan tenure without having to perform any complex calculations. Additionally, these EMI calculators are free and simple to use.  Benefits of education loan calculator  Let’s find out the benefits of education loan calculators:   Saves time and effort: People can easily know the EMIs they will be required to pay by using an education loan calculator. The need to invest your own time and effort for the interest EMI calculations is eliminated.  They are not required to spend time performing manual calculations. The calculator will show customers how much they would need to pay in EMIs when they enter the loan amount, interest rate, and loan tenure.  Results that are accurate: If one is not precise and careful with the numbers when calculating the EMI amount, there is always a chance for error. On the other hand, using education loan calculators guarantees precise outcomes.  Financial planning aid: Users can determine the amount they would be required to pay in the form of EMIs by entering important information about an education loan into the calculator. Knowing this is crucial since it helps them assess their financial situation and determine whether they can afford the loan and also helps them formulate a strategy for loan repayment.  Personalized calculations for EMIs: You can easily personalize your EMIs to your needs and establish your repayment schedules accordingly with the help of online EMI loan calculators. You can experiment with different numbers with the input variables to examine the several EMI alternatives accessible to you in order to choose the one that best suits your needs. You can choose the amount of your EMI, the length of time you want to repay your education loan, the banks that offer you the greatest interest rates, and repayment terms using these online loan calculators. Also read: What are the benefits of education loans in India?  Factors affecting interest rates on Education loan  Type of educational institution: Chances are that a lesser interest rate would be levied if the applicant had been accepted into one of the best colleges in India or overseas. In addition, banks might not demand collateral.  Gender: It has been noticed that most institutions provide female students with a lower interest rate than they do male students. The major goal of this is to inspire young girls to continue their studies and flourish in the classroom.  Credit history of parent or guardian: When a child applies for an education loan, the parent or guardian often serves as the guarantor. This is also the case when the student does not have a credit history the lender would require a family member or guardian to be the guarantor of the loan. In instances like this, it is vital for the guarantor to hold a good credit score so as to ensure that the loan application is not rejected.  A credit score of the applicant: The lender may be willing to offer a lower interest rate on an educational loan if the applicant himself or herself has a good credit score. The higher the credit rating, the lower will be the interest rate charged. Maintaining a score above 750 is always advised since the applicant will be regarded as a creditworthy customer.  This is why using an education loan calculator can be a benefit for those planning to take the loan. It helps you determine the final amount, personalizes your EMIs, and figures out the best course of action before making a life-changing commitment.   Finding the best education loan is tough but we can simplify it for you! Connect with our experts today to find the best and low-interest education loans for your child’s bright future. 

Worried you don’t have a good credit history to get an education loan for your children? With the increasing cost of higher education, it has become very difficult for students to pursue further education. Most financial institutions like banks assess a loan application on the basis of creditworthiness. Students don’t usually have a decent credit score making it difficult to get loans for higher education.   For students who are good at academics, this is where merit-based education loans come in. This new type of education loan program evaluates the students' profile and potential based on their academics or merits so that loans could be given on their future earning potential rather than their credit history.  The main purpose of education loans is to ensure that every student who wants to pursue higher education gets the opportunity to study and develop a sound career.   The merit-based education loans are easy to get once your profile qualifies for the loan and are solely given on the basis of a student’s merit and profile. These loans can be obtained digitally. Who is eligible for the merit-based loan program？  The eligibility for merit-based loans solely depends on the student’s academics and merits. To be eligible for these loans, the student must be excellent in their academics and merit. This would be evaluated by their individual profile. The loan would be approved once the academic excellence is established.  Eligibility criteria:   The applicant should be a resident of India who has secured admission to renowned colleges or universities in India and abroad.    The candidate should be within the range of 18 to 35 years at the time of taking the loan.   The applicant must be pursuing a graduate or postgraduate degree and a PG diploma.   He/she must have a confirmed admission in a college/university recognized by UGC/Govt./AICTE etc.   Candidates applying for full-time courses must have a co-applicant who can be the parent/guardian/spouse/parent-in-law (if married).  Which courses are this loan program applicable to?  Undergraduate Degrees and Diplomas (BA, BCom, BE, BEd, BSc, BBA, MBBS, B Tech, LLB.  Postgraduate Degrees and Diplomas (MA, M Com, MSc, M Res, LLM, MFA, M Ed, M Phil, MBA, MD, and others)  Ph.D. courses/Miscellaneous Doctoral Programmes.  Specialized Training Courses.  Furthermore, the lender will determine which courses are qualified for merit-based loans.   How does extending loans based on merit work?  Merit-based loans are given after examining a student's potential via the Employment Predictability Model which is an Artificial intelligence (AI) that examines the merits and academics of a student to test for their soft and hard skills so as to assess the student's employability in the future which will help the AI to decide if your profile is fit for a merit-based loan.  The assessment then predicts the future income of the students.  Then loans are sanctioned on the basis of your future employability score.  What are the documents required to apply for merit-based education loans?   Properly filled Loan Application Form   Letter of admission   Copy of 10th/12th mark sheet or latest education certificate   Statement of cost of study   2 passport-size photographs   PAN card and Aadhaar Card of the student and Parent/ Guardian   Driving License/Voter ID/Passport/Aadhaar Card (Copy of any one)   6 months bank account statement of the student or guarantor or co-borrower/Rental agreement/Ration card/Electricity Bill/Tel Bill/Gas Book (Copy of any one of these)   Income proof   Latest salary slips or Form 16 of the parent/ guardian/ co-borrower    Last 6 months' bank statement or updated bank passbook    Updated 2 years ITR (Income Tax Return with income computation) or Last 2 years IT assessment order of parent/guardian/co-borrower    Statement of the assets and liabilities of the parent/guardian/co-borrower  Is a merit-based loan right for you?  Students who want to pursue higher education & require financial support can apply for the merit-based loan program.   The loan program overlooks your family income and credit score and gives loans solely on the basis of the applicant’s merit.   Students who do not want to bother their parents for finance can seek a merit-based loan program for their higher education.  Top Indian Banks that offer merit-based education loans  State Bank of India  HDFC Bank  Axis Bank  Canara Bank  SBBJ  Union Bank  UCO Bank  Bank of Baroda  Punjab National Bank  Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC)  Merit-based loan interest rates in 2022 State bank of India6.85% p.a. to 8.65% p.aHDFC Bank 9.55% p.a. - 13.25% p.aCanara Bank 8.75% p.a. to 9.25% p.aUnion Bank of India6.80% p.a. to 10.05% p.aUCO Bank7.30% p.a. to 9.70% p.aBank of Baroda7.60% p.a. to 9.70% p.aPunjab National Bank6.90% p.a. to 9.55% p.aAxis Bank 13.70% p.a. - 15.20% p.a Merit-based loan EMI calculator   It is necessary to be aware of how much money you would have to repay once they acquire the merit-based loan. For this purpose, you can use Edufund to figure out the cost of repayment, how much your monthly payments would be, and how much the total cost of the loan would be. Enter a few loan-related factors such as the loan amount, tenure, interest rate, and processing costs to get an estimate of your equivalent monthly installment (EMI).   Need help finding the best education loans for your child’s higher education? Look no further, click here now to get started! TALK TO AN EXPERT FAQ What are the interest rates?  Various banks have their own interest rates on the loan amount. The interest rate is usually considered the sum of the base rate and markup. The base rate is usually around 8% to 10%. So, the interest rate depends on bank to bank, ranging between 6.85% and 15.20%. The interest rates are also dependent on the loan amount and the college or university in concern.  What are the courses covered under merit-based education loans?  Graduation, Post-graduation/Degree/Diploma courses from renowned colleges or universities approved by UGC/ AICTE/IMC/Govt. etc.  Regular Degree and Diploma courses conducted by leading autonomous educational institutes such as IIM, IIT, etc.  Educational disciplines include Engineering, Management, Medicine, Computer science, Pure Science, Architecture, Agriculture, Hotels and hospitality, Fine arts and design, etc.  Technical and vocational training courses such as aviation, air-hostess, shipping, nursing, teacher training, etc What are the expenses covered by merit-based education loans?  The merit-based loan covers the following expenses:  100% of the payable college tuition fees  Accommodation charges, if any  Books and equipment  Library fees  Examination fees  Traveling expenses for studying abroad, if any  Cost of two-wheeler  Other miscellaneous expenses necessary to ensure completion of the course  What is the loan quantum?  The quantum of merit-based loan are:  Up to Rs.10 lakh for studying in India  Up to Rs.20 lakh for studying abroad What is the time of loan approval?  The approximate time required for the approval of the loan is 15 working days which is calculated right from the receipt date of the application. The receipt is the guarantee that the application is completed in all aspects What is the loan disbursement process?  The merit-based education loan is disbursed either in installments or in full payment keeping in account the number of funds to be disbursed along with the fee schedule as reviewed by the bank directly to the mentioned educational institute What is the education loan tenure?  The loan tenure for a loan of up to Rs.7.5 lakh and more is around 15 years. It is within this loan tenure, that the candidate applying for the loan has to complete all the repayment processes of the loan and so on before the last date What is the education loan repayment duration?  The ideal repayment duration of the merit-based loan is the sum of the course period and 1 year or 6 months after getting a suitable job, whichever is earlier.  Are there any charges levied for late payment of merit-based loan EMIs? In the case of late payment of EMIs, lenders do levy a penalty. Depending on the lender, the penalty that will be levied will vary Will I be able to pre-close the loan? Yes, you can pre-close the loan at any time during the loan tenure Who are the individuals that can be co-applicants in a merit-based loan?  The below-mentioned individuals can be co-applicants:   Grandparents  Parents-in-law  Spouse  Sister  Brother  Parents  Is it possible to increase the tenure of the loan?   In case the course is extended by the university, the tenure of the loan can be increased.

The affordable living expenses in Germany, a stable economy, high-class living, and numerous job opportunities make the country one of the premier destinations for quality education and successful careers.  The cost of living in Germany depends on the location of the university because some cities are relatively more expensive than others. It is important to be flexible if a student wants to thrive on a limited amount. The average living expenses in Germany for Indian students vary between 10,200 EUR – 12,000 EUR (nearly INR 8.1 lakhs – INR 9.5 lakhs) every year.  Students should be aware of their living expenses before traveling abroad as it is helpful in creating a budget for living expenses. The college cost calculator on the Edufund app is a blessing as it helps to get an estimate about the future living expenses besides the education costs and create a personalized financial budget based on needs and requirements. Semester contributions Most of the universities in Germany are state-run; hence the education cost is a bare minimum. Students, however, have to contribute between EUR 175 – EUR 250 (nearly INR 13,993 – INR 19,990) per semester for administrative fees and student amenities.  Students can also apply for a public transport pass or a semester ticket that costs between EUR 25 – EUR 200 (nearly INR 1,999 – INR 15,992) for six months, based on the type and location of the university. They will not have to pay for transport for the next six months.   Private institutions in Germany charge tuition fees, especially for non-EU citizens. Additional read: Education loan process for Germany Living expenses in Germany for Indian Students 1. Accommodation (average monthly cost) An important chunk of the living expenses goes towards accommodation costs, which depend on the location of the university and the type of accommodation the student prefers.  The preferred accommodations and their average cost per month are. 2. Food (average monthly cost) Students have access to restaurants and cafes on the university campus, where they can eat at discounted prices. For students that live off-campus, local street vendors and food trucks are an option.  The living expenses in Germany are manageable for Indian students as there are Indian stores that can provide ingredients to cook authentic food items. Students who have to rely on restaurants need to remember that eating out on a regular basis will prove expensive.  Self-cooking is the best way to manage funds because the cost of basic food and beverages is affordable.  Average costs on some of the common food items include. 3. Transportation  The daily public transport facilities in Germany cost around EUR 20 (nearly INR 1,599) and a monthly pass will cost EUR 200 (nearly INR 15,992). Students can apply for student passes or choose to move around via rented bicycles at a nominal fee. 4. Health insurance International students must have health insurance in Germany. Students who are studying degree programs are eligible for a public health insurance plan that costs between EUR 70 – EUR 80 (nearly INR 5,597 – INR 6396) per month. Whereas students above 30+ should have private health insurance that costs between EUR 400 – EUR 500 ((nearly INR 31,984 – INR 39,980) per month. 5. Utilities and Bills Students living off-campus have to pay for water, electricity, garbage, and heating. In some cases, the bill is included with rent, otherwise; it costs nearly EUR 29.42 ((nearly INR 2,352) for a kilowatt-hour. How to save more as an international student in Germany?  Keep a fixed budget for the month Studying abroad means, you will be away from your parent and you’ll be alone so you need to have a budget for everything.  Talk to locals  Talk to locals around you because they know that place more than you. They will tell you the best deals around you in restaurants, cafes, and all.  Cook for yourself Go to the local grocery market and cook for yourself. Eating outside daily can cost you way more than cooking for yourself.  Get a flatmate/roommate Sharing space and your accommodation mean that you will be able to cut costs. It will save you money. Staying alone in a flat or room means you will spend more. If you get a flatmate/roommate, the price of that place will be half. You will end up splitting utility costs as well.   Do a side hustle Earn money by doing some part-time jobs or a side hustle. By doing that you will learn and also earn extra for you.   Use public transportation or a bicycle Using public transport daily is the best way to save money in countries like Germany. Private cabs and rentals can be very expensive for students. If you live in a small town, then opting for a bicycle to roam the city is the most cost-effective method.   Go secondhand Cut costs wherever you can and the best way to do this is by opting for second-hand products. Suppose you need a bicycle, no need to get a new one! Buy it from a second-hand market or from someone who doesn’t want his/her bicycle anymore.  Save money wherever you can Cut off your unnecessary plans. There is Wi-Fi everywhere so instead of buying data plans use them. You should also unsubscribe from OTT subscriptions you are not using anymore. Or any auto-debit subscription that is not in active use.  FAQs How can international students save money in Germany? Here are some tips on how to save money in Germany: keep a maintained budget  Talk to locals  Cook for yourself   Get a flatmate/roommate  Do a side hustle  Get a bicycle  Go for secondhand  Save on your mobile bills  Is it expensive to live and study in Germany as an international student? In comparison to other countries and cities, Germany is one of the places which is less expensive. How much money can international students earn in Germany? You can earn around 450 euros (Rs 37,000) per month by doing part-time jobs. How much money do I need as a student in Germany? On average around 870 euros (Rs 71,000) for a month is all you need for your expenses. Conclusion Prestigious universities and reasonable living expenses in Germany make the country an excellent choice for studying abroad. If you are in a dilemma about the cost of living, then consult with the counselors on the Edufund app to know more about it in detail. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Education can be a costly affair not only in terms of tuition fees but also the add-ons like different gadgets for students only add to your cost of living alone. Electronic gadgets form an important part of such expenses but there are some gadgets to make your student's life easier. Being informed about which gadgets serve your educational needs can be helpful in deciding if you need a laptop or a smartphone. In the long run, you don’t want to make investments you might regret later. You also want to take note of the following gadgets as expenses to consider while applying for an education loan.  Gadgets for students 1. Smartphone or Tablet  Gone are the times when a mobile phone was solely seen as a source of distraction for students. These days a smartphone is one of the primary requirements. Be it, online classes, watching educational videos, accessing your email account, or simply surfing the internet, a smartphone is a go-to.  An alternative to smartphones is tablets which come with slightly bigger screens and better resolutions. For example, an iPad will have a higher aspect ratio than an iPhone. This means that the iPad will have more resolution and screen size than the iPhone. But it also means that an iPhone is more compact as a device as compared to an iPad. While purchasing either, you are required to make the right choice by weighing it against your requirements.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdwqQH0xkFw 2. Laptop or PC Unlike earlier, everything that can be accessed through a computer is also accessible through smartphones. However personal computers are favored over smartphones because of the experience they offer. A personal computer might comprise a monitor, CPU, keyboard, mouse, speaker, webcam, internal hard drive, and so on. Although these gadgets have to be purchased separately and can take up considerable space. But it is a good investment if you are a student because it creates a dedicated space for studying.   With laptops, the experience might not be as top-notch. Nevertheless, Macbooks are popular amongst students because of their compact design and the convenience of portability. A laptop works wirelessly and comes with a keyboard, built-in speakers, a web camera, and a touchpad in the place of a mouse. It is a brilliant investment especially if you are staying away from home for educational purposes.  3. External Hard drive  Nowadays every document you own can be saved up as a soft copy in cloud memory or your e-drive connected to your email account. This helps you take up less physical space with your studying materials. Even so, owning an external hard drive is a smart move if you want to be extra careful about preserving all of your materials.  An external drive allows you to access your documents easily without taking up much of your study space or the internal space on your device. All you have to do is connect the drive to your laptop or PC. Another attractive feature of an external hard drive is its portability.  4. Noise Cancellation Headphones  Headphones have existed as a wanted product in the market for a long time. One of the new features that have caused a terrific comeback for headphones is its noise cancellation. As the name suggests, noise-canceling headphones are meant to block out all of the external noise not only while listening to an audio clip but also during recordings or incoming and outgoing calls. The level of concentration a student can achieve is always considered a virtue that helps them excel in academics. Noise-cancellation headphones can help them attain that level of undivided attention which is also a requirement for online classes that have become the trend during the pandemic.  5. Printer  Even though many new and cool gadgets have flooded the market, printers shall never run out of fashion. If your subject or the academic course you have enrolled in requires you to get things printed regularly, going to a shop to get it done makes no sense.  Well-known brands like Epson, HP, Brother, Samsung, and Canon have introduced a range of budget printers to the market in recent years. By purchasing one of these, you would not only save up on your daily expenses but also preserve your precious time. In fact, having a printer at home can come in handy during emergency assignment submissions.   6. Electric Kettle & Emergency Lamp As a student, you might be required to pull all-nighters frequently. Even if that is not the case, staying up late might simply be part of your daily study routine. In such circumstances, gadgets that can make your life easier are electric kettles and emergency lamps.  Make yourself a cup of coffee or tea if you feel drowsy. You are no longer required to leave your study table to go to the kitchen as long as own an electric kettle. An emergency table lamp will come in handy if you are sharing your room with a fellow student or living in a dorm.   7. Kindle  Kindles will never run out of favor among students as long as academics is about gathering knowledge by reading books. A Kindle is an e-reader manufactured and sold by Amazon. One can read not only e-books but also e-magazines and other such digital content on this wireless gadget.  Call it a side effect of globalization, but nowadays students are required to keep moving from one location to another during different stages of their education. As such, a Kindle is an indispensable gadget - it is the alternative to carrying hard copies of bulky books. Moreover, it comes with cool features like a highlighting tool and sometimes a waterproof body. Dictionaries will be at your disposal while reading if you have them downloaded on your Kindle. You will not be required to carry a dictionary everywhere you go, as long as carry your books in your Kindle.    8. External Batteries & Portable Chargers   Being a student means you will require safe-to-use and convenient gadgets to charge devices like your phone, laptop, tablet, speaker, and so on. A range of portable chargers has been developed in recent years by reputed companies to make life easier. The concept of clutch batteries or chargers that are the size of a clutch or purse is becoming increasingly popular in this era of digitization.    For students who depend on rigorous online activity as part of their academic curriculum, these allow them to charge their devices wherever they are. For charging devices iPhones, special external batteries like the Ubio Labs Shadow Series have been developed which are not only easy to carry but also stunning to look at. 9. Rocketbook Everlast smart reusable notebook  Rocketbook is a digital notebook for all those who love to write over typing. It is a useful and affordable gadget for students who have trouble taking notes on their laptops and need a notebook that can be reused and even used later to add transfer notes digitally.   It’s a popular and efficient product for college students, school students and even working professionals.    10. Anti-theft laptop bag   Want to protect your expensive laptop then get an anti-theft laptop bag to ensure maximum security for your gadgets as a student. It is an affordable bag. bag rucksack and helps you protect your precious belongings at school or college from theft.    11. External hard drive  An external hard drive is a must for every student. It helps you store all your data safely. If you are a student who uses a lot of storage on your laptop for photos, videos, college projects, or freelance work – this is the right gadget for you. It helps you protect your data from a virus on your laptop or in the event your laptop breaks down.   Hard drives come in different capacities and based on that; the product has different price points.     12. Laptop tray with fans  A laptop tray is a great addition to the list of gadgets students need. It cools down your laptop and ensures your work is not hindered because of an overheating laptop or sudden shutdown because of overuse. Make you get a laptop tray the size of your laptop.   These trays are portable and let you work on your laptop without any disturbance.     13. Folding Bluetooth keyboard  A folding keyboard is great for students who do not have a laptop. You can attach it to your phone or tablet and type away your notes or do-to lists. It's lightweight, easy to carry, and connects with your laptop, phone, iPad, or tablet with ease.   It is a great alternative for students who do not have to buy a laptop but need a writing keyword to type their assignments and projects.    14. Wi-Fi range extender  The Wi-Fi range extender is a great product for students. The Internet is man’s new best friend and a student’s savior during college. Good Wi-Fi can help you with your workload. A range extender can cover your entire house or apartment, you do not have to sit in a particular corner to get the best service.    15. Portable phone charger  Student hours are long and tiring. You may not always have a battery on your phone or a plug to charge it quickly. That’s when a portable charger comes in handy, you can charge your phone while traveling, during class, or in a car.   It is a must-buy gadget for students and working professionals.   Conclusion Choosing the correct devices to make your student's life easier should not be a taxing chore. Make sure to devote time to saving up beforehand for each investment. Having funds dedicated to such purchases and knowing what you should purchase can make your student's life not only easier but also fulfilling. FAQs Which gadget is best for students? Here are some gadgets for students that make their lives easier: Smartphone or Tablet Laptop or PC External Hard drive Noise Cancellation Headphones Printer Electric Kettle & Emergency Lamp Kindle External Batteries & Portable Chargers Rocketbook Everlast smart reusable notebook Anti-theft laptop bag External hard drive Laptop tray with fans Folding Bluetooth keyboard Wi-Fi range extender Portable phone charger Why are gadgets useful for students? Gadgets serve many purposes; they make our lives easier, help us stay connected with the world, and make significant life decisions. From helping with homework to traveling the world, gadgets are useful, for students for education, learning, and life experiences. What are some fun gadgets? Here are some fun gadgets for students: FitbitSmartphone or TabletLaptop or PCNoise Cancellation Headphones

The demand for education loans has increased in India due to rising costs, increased demand for foreign education, and the need for upskilling courses or executive programs to boost career growth. While student loans may seem scary, there are many benefits of education loans that you can avail of while financing your child's higher education!    Tax break   Tax exemptions are the most incredible benefits of education loans. Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act of India, the interest paid on education loans can be claimed as a deductible by the beneficiary. Tax benefits do not cover the principal amount of a loan but can be claimed when paying the interest amount. Parents can claim this deduction for the next 8 years from the start of payments after the moratorium period is lifted.    Moratorium period Education loan payments do not start the right way. Banks that offer education loans give you a period wherein you are not required to pay your EMI, which is called a moratorium period. T his period is generally for six months to 1 year; in exceptional circumstances, it can be more. This period is provided to help students find employment to start paying their loans without financial stress.     Attractive Interest rates   Educational loans have relatively low-interest rates than personal loans or house loans. Banks constantly compete to provide the best possible interest rates to students who need education loans. This gives students the advantage of shopping around for the best and most interest rates to reduce the final amount and quickly pay off their debt.    Zero collateral    Education loans do not require collateral in the form of an FD, land, bond, or other assets! Your child can get a collateral-free education loan to study abroad or in India. Banks assess requirements like the third-party guarantor, the parent's credit history, and your child's educational background to decide if your application is strong enough for approval. Banks also place heavy emphasis on the course and university your child is going to study.    Wide coverage   Contrary to popular belief, education loans provide blanket coverage. Education loans cover many payments like tuition fees, living expenses, and flights and help parents settle their child comfortably in a foreign land.    Additional read: Does education loans cover living expenses Cashback on Refundable Deposits   Education loans cover refundable deposits your child may have to pay during their university application process. This is not a feature offered by every education loan provider. It also depends on the loan amount and whether your loan is collateral free or dependent. Do check with your bank if you have the facility to get your money back on refundable deposits.   Secure your retirement savings   Another benefit of an education loan is that you do not have to use your savings for your child's education. If you do not have enough savings or investing stored, especially for schooling, then opt for an education loan that covers your tuition fees. The education loan amount you should be going for should be 25% of your child's total expenses. For example, if the cost is Rs. 50 lakhs, then your loan amount should be Rs. 12 to 13 lakhs.   An education loan can help you ensure quality education for your child and keep your retirement savings intact for the rainy day.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gTQkdePOWM Helps build Credit   One of the tremendous benefits of education loans is that it helps with credit building. Your child may want to buy a house in the future in a foreign country, and having a good credit history can accelerate that process. If you want your child to settle in a foreign country, then ensuring they have a good credit history is essential. Education loans can help them build a credit history with regular payments. This shows the financial institutions that you are a safe bet and trusted client for future loan applications.     A significant benefit of education loan is that it helps parents support their child's dream and build their future. Education loans are convenient if your child plans to go abroad or opt for an expensive degree in India. They provide financial support to those in need of immediate funds. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Due to a lack of funding, many students are unable to pursue quality education. As a result, students who desire to continue higher education, especially at universities abroad, choose to take out an education loan. In this blog we have discussed how can you save money and study by choosing the best education loans in India. Top banks for education loans in India Mentioned below is the list of top banks in India with interest rates for education loans: Best education loans in India Following are the best education loan in India you can opt for your children's further studies: 1. SBI education loan Additional read: Does education inflation impact student loan interest rates? 2. HDFC bank education loan 3. Punjab national bank education loan 4. Axis bank education loan What are the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for an education loan? One must be an Indian citizen who has been admitted into an institution or university that is recognized by a competent body in India or overseas.  The candidate must have successfully finished senior high school.  Even before a student has been admitted to a university, certain banks may provide a loan. Although certain banks may do so, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines specify that there are no higher age restrictions.  The banks want additional paperwork including the institution's acceptance letter, fee schedule, and Class X, XII, and graduation (if applicable) mark sheets.  It's also necessary to have the co-applicants income documentation, such as pay stubs or income-tax returns (ITR). Is collateral required for financing the loan? Banks will contribute up to 100% of the loan, depending on the amount. For loans up to Rs. 4 lakh, no margin money is now necessary. The candidate is required to provide 5% of the required funding in order to study in India.  On the other hand, the required margin money for abroad studies increases to 15%. Loans beyond Rs 7.5 lakh may also require collateral from the banks. Financial institutions do not require any collateral or third-party guarantees for loans up to Rs 4 lakh.  For loans between Rs. 4 lakh and Rs. 7.5 lakh, a third-party guarantee is necessary. A security deposit is needed for loans that are more than Rs 7.5 lakh. When a loan application is granted, the banks transmit the money straight to the institution or university in accordance with the fee structure. What is the process of repayment? The person who takes out the loan for their schooling is in charge of paying it back. Repayment usually starts once the course is over. Additionally, some banks allow you a grace period of six months or a year after you graduate from school before you are required to repay your loan.  Normal repayment terms range from 5 to 7 years, however, they can potentially be extended. Over the course of the loan's payback tenure, the bank assesses a standard interest rate. By paying basic interest during the course, the student's equivalent monthly installment (EMI) burden for future repayments is decreased. How to apply for an education loan? You can visit the Education Loans page on the EduFund website and fill up a simple form. You will get all the details, along with guidance from experts in the field. Taking out a loan may seem terrifying, but if the student is dedicated and makes the most of the opportunity, it will undoubtedly pay off in the long term. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Education loans for the USA have become a necessity because the cost of studying abroad is incredibly expensive. Every year Indian students travel to the USA to pursue their education at the top universities. Only some of them manage to arrange the funds, as the rest of them have to rely on education loans.  Several banks and NBFCs in India are offering education loans to interested students at reasonable rates to study in the USA.  It is essential to note that most banks do not provide 100% money for funding overseas education as 10% of the total amount has to be arranged by the aspiring student. Before applying for the loan, students should check the website of the desired university and know about the living expenses and fee structure to determine the actual amount they will need. They can use the loan eligibility calculator on the EduFund app to get a better idea about the amount they would be eligible to receive from a bank. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gTQkdePOWM Education loans for the USA offered by banks  HDFC Bank Education Loan for Foreign Education – The scheme offers tax benefits, and the maximum loan amount offered is INR 20 lakhs. Oriental Bank of Commerce Education Loan for Study in India and Abroad – The loan amount depends on the fee structure of the university. SBI Student Loan Scheme – The maximum loan amount offered under this scheme is INR 1.50 crore, repaid within 15 years. Collateral is a must if the loan amount is more than INR 7.5 lakhs. Education loans for the USA offered by NBFCs Credit – the loan is offered at a floating rate of interest for 10 years. Avanse – interest rates are floating, and the processing fees are between 1 – 2% of the loan amount. Global Student Loan Corporation – this scheme does not require a co-signer. Eligibility of education loan for the USA The applicant must be a citizen of India. The co-applicants must be Indian citizens. The applicant must be 18+ years and above. Confirmed admission to a credible university in the USA. Strong academic record. Banks give preference to students studying technical or professional courses. Documents required to apply for an education loan Properly filled the application form. Admission letter from the university. The estimated cost of study. ID proof of the applicant and co-applicant. Address proof. Passport-size photographs. Income proof. Passport copy. School and university mark sheet. Documents of the qualifying exams like TOEFL, GMAT, etc. Foreign exchange permit letter. A brief statement of the assets and liabilities of the co-borrower/ guarantor/parents. Expenses covered under the education loan Tuition fees. Hostel fees. Caution fees. A refundable deposit and building fund. Laboratory, library, and examination fees. Cost of uniforms, books, instruments, and equipment. Cost of laptop if required. Traveling expenses. Insurance premium if applicable. Other expenses like projects or study tours. Repayment of education loan The terms of repayment of the education loan for the USA start after six months or one year once the borrower has secured a job or their course is complete, whichever comes first.  Tax Benefits Loan applicants can claim tax benefits and deductions only on the interest paid for seven consecutive years and not the principal loan amount under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act.  Additional read: Education loan for studying in Canada Factors to keep in mind before applying for the education loan Finalize the course and the university where you want to study.  Check the appropriate website to know about the required amount. Factor in all the expenses. Get an estimate of the total loan amount you will require. Make a list of required documents. Select a guarantor or a co-signer. Estimate the time of disbursement. How to apply for an education loan  The process of securing an education loan is time-consuming, so it is advisable to apply at the earliest possible moment.  Visit the representative of the financial institution. Check whether the study course is recognized as valid. Compare the loans provided by different banks and NBFCs based on the following parameters. Interest rate. Processing fees. Tenure or loan processing time. Expenses that are included in the education loan. Loan margin. Repayment terms. Start the education loan process immediately after submitting the application form for admission to the university.  Apply for the education loan at least three months before the date of the visa interview, as it takes time to process the education loan.   Conclusion An education loan from the USA is the best possible alternative for students who are unable to procure the required funds or scholarships for their studies in an overseas country. It helps to overcome the financial barrier of funding.  Our experts on the Edufund app can help with loan schemes up to 1 crore both in the USA and India so that you can make an informed choice. Choose from banks and NBFC partners where you do not require collateral for an amount up to INR 75 lakhs. The loan rates are low, and there are no hidden charges for a hassle-free loan approval process. 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.

There are collateral vs. non-collateral education loans in India. If you have decided to take a loan to fund your child’s further studies securing one is important to advance your child's future. As you do your research and try to figure out which loan is better for your child, it is important for you to keep several parameters related to collateral in mind https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Icp7ASAGrjw What is a collateral education loan? Collateral is typically property that you give to the lending bank as security against the loan you are taking. The larger the education loan, the greater has to be the value of the collateral. This works as a reassurance to the bank in case the borrower is unable to repay the loan. What is a non-collateral education loan? When the lender issues an education loan without any security, it is known as a non-collateral loan. In this kind of loan, the bank considers the student’s academic track record and the financial track record of the co-borrowers. Now a lot of parents debate over which of these is a better loan format. The fact is both types of loans serve a purpose. Apply for Education Loans As a co-borrower, you will need to analyze the features of both loan types and choose the one that works better for your situation. ParticularsCollateralNon-CollateralCost of loan7-9% per annum11-14% per annumHow much loan can you getUp to 90% of collateral value, can even go up to Rs. 1.5 crUsually limited toRs.50 lakhsTenure of RepaymentUp to 15 yearsLimited to 10 yearsRepayment periodUsually after 1 year, of course, completion/start of the jobAfter 6 months of job completion, immaterial whether the student has got a jobFlexibilityThe interim grace period before the loan is to be repaid can be extended on request if the student is unable to find employmentThe interim grace period before the loan is to be repaid can be extended on request if the student is unable to find employmentDocumentationExtensive paperwork, with a confirmation of admission to the institute of your choiceMinimal paperwork and admission confirmation requiredProcessing feesA percentage of the loan amountA percentage of the loan amount, but these can be negotiatedProcessing timeAnywhere from 30 to 45 days depending on the documents submitted. The due diligence done to verify the ownership of the collateral is quite stringent10-15 days if all your documents are in order: admission confirmation, the credit history of co-borrowers, credit scores, etcWhat can be offered as collateralProperty with no liabilities, fixed deposits, stocks, bonds, etc- Both collateral v/s non-collateral loans have much to offer the customer. While on paper, a collateral loan definitely makes a lot of financial sense, everyone may not be able to manage the collateral of large properties or other instruments that the bank may require as security. So it helps to review all the options in the market and pick the one that works best for your specific situation. Whether you opt for one or the other, there are a few thumb rules you absolutely must keep in mind when applying for an education loan.  If you have plans to take an education loan to fund your child’s higher studies, start saving from the early years. Borrowing money should be your backup for the shortfall in your funds. Do not make overseas education plans with the money you can borrow. Financial conditions can change at any point in time, and having your own funds will give you the confidence you need to guide your child to the career option of their own choice. Once you have taken an education loan, your priority should be to save money and pay back the amount as soon the possible. Interest rates and rising inflation rates make the amount of your loan repayment variable, and it is easy to get stuck in the debt trap if you do not have a clear repayment strategy. Help your child enter the adult world with as little debt as possible and encourage good financial discipline from the early days. This will stand him/her in good stead in adult years. Last but not least, once you have identified the loan that works for you, do due diligence, read the small print, ask questions, and then go ahead and take it. Let this loan be just the stepping stone to a great life that is planned for your child as he/she steps into a whole new world of global studies and learning.  Do not let a lack of funds hold your child back. With a little planning and discipline, you will find several tips to plan your finances well and secure a future for your child’s higher education. FAQs What is the main difference between collateral and non-collateral education loans? The primary difference is that collateral education loans require an asset as security, while non-collateral loans don't require any asset. Collateral loans may offer lower interest rates, while non-collateral loans are unsecured. What assets can be used as collateral for education loans? Common assets used as collateral include property, investments, or even a vehicle. The exact types of assets accepted can vary between lenders. Do non-collateral education loans have higher interest rates? Non-collateral education loans often come with higher interest rates because they carry more risk for the lender, as there's no collateral to secure the loan. Are there any advantages to taking a collateral education loan? Yes, collateral education loans typically offer lower interest rates, higher loan amounts, and may be easier to qualify for, especially if you have valuable assets to pledge. Can I switch from a non-collateral to a collateral education loan later on? It may be possible to refinance or convert your non-collateral education loan into a collateral loan if you have assets to pledge, but the terms and feasibility will depend on your lender's policies.

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.

Financial planning is extremely important so that you have great fortunes in the latter half of your life. If an individual plans his or her finances well enough, then a good corpus can be generated out of it. However, some financial mistakes can make financial planning harder. These mistakes may not be intentional but can be harmful! 5 financial mistakes to avoid at all costs 1. Spending unnecessarily  Most people do not plan their budgets well. It is a thumb rule that everyone should do their monthly budget planning as soon as they get their monthly income. You can keep aside money for necessities like school fees, ration, electricity bills, rent, and so on.   Apart from these things, there are certain miscellaneous costs that are also extremely important. You should keep a tentative amount for that as well. Make sure that you do not spend unnecessarily. If you do go overboard, try to cut off funds in different domains of requirement. Mistakes to avoid while investing in the US Market Read More 2. Paying off debt through savings  This is considered to be one of the biggest blunders committed in the finance domain. People get a mortgage of 15%, and the return of the savings plan is just 7%. So, people think that it is a good plan to pay off all the debts from the interest that is recovered through savings. You should never be doing that because if an individual takes money from their savings account, then they will tend to lose the interest that is earned by compounding. Furthermore, they will also incur a penalty for taking out money from a retirement fund or fixed deposit. 3. Ignoring the credit score  Ignoring the credit score is the next big mistake that people tend to commit. If you maintain a good credit score, it can help you save a lot of money on interest rates. Furthermore, maintaining a good credit score makes it easier to get a loan, and can fetch better rates of interest when you are buying a personal asset or getting a personal loan.   Inculcate a habit of checking your credit score every six months so that you can have a stable and progressive portfolio. Make changes according to the credit scores that are being offered. Common Investing Mistakes to Avoid Read More 4. Not saving for child education  With the growing rate of education inflation, if you miss out on saving and investing properly for your child’s education, then it might prove to be a heavy burden for you later. Hence, you should make sure that you are setting aside a certain amount every month that is invested in your child’s higher education. Moreover, the pandemic has also led to an increase in tuition fees of colleges in India and abroad.   If you start investing early enough, you will be able to generate a good corpus for your child’s higher education which will ensure no financial burden on him or her. 5. No savings plan for retirement  Retirement is a phase of a person’s life where he or she lives on what has been earned and invested until now. Hence, it is a crucial thing to plan and save wisely for retirement. It is best to start saving as early as possible. If you are still young and earn less income, then start small but be consistent and disciplined. Start a SIP for Rs. 100 or a PPF account. The earlier you start, the bigger the amount that you will be able to generate.   Furthermore, 15% to 20% of your annual income should go to retirement. This will make sure that you have a good future once you retire and you do not have to work anymore.  These are some financial mistakes to avoid if you want to secure a fine future for your family!   FAQs Why is financial planning important for parents? Financial planning ensures a secure future, especially in the latter years of life, and helps create a substantial corpus. What is the biggest blunder when paying off debts using savings? The mistake is using savings with lower returns to pay off high-interest debts, leading to loss of interest and possible penalties. Why should you pay attention to your credit score? A good credit score saves money on interest rates, facilitates loans, and offers better interest rates for personal assets and loans. Why is it crucial to saving for your child's education? Rising education costs can create a significant financial burden. Saving for higher education ensures a stable financial future for your child. What's the importance of a retirement savings plan? Planning and saving for retirement are essential to ensure financial security during retirement. Starting early and being consistent in savings is vital for a comfortable future.