Can an education loan be transferred to another bank?
Yes, you can transfer an education loan to another bank. The process is known as education loan balance transfer and is quite common.
The primary reason is to secure a lower interest rate with a new lender. When you negotiated an education loan as a student, you had to accept the rate the bank gave you. But since you are employed, it is easier to refinance with a lower interest rate.
If you feel that you are paying too much interest, it is a good move to consider an education loan transfer.GradRight can help you transfer your education loan balance to a new lender in a simple, transparent, and hassle free manner.
What are the benefits of transferring my education loan?
Lower Interest Rates You will receive a lower interest rate. On a large loan, this translates to a saving of several lakhs over a few years.
Better Repayment Terms The new lender might offer novel features such as income-linked payment. You would also likely receive a longer tenure.
Improved Customer Service If you studied abroad with a loan from a bank, you might want to shift to another institution for better service. There is less hassle and greater clarity in every step.
Consolidate Loans A new lender also allows you to consolidate loans. Maybe you have credit card debt and an auto loan besides the education loan. A new loan package brings together all these and lets you make a single payment each month.
What is an NOC or No Objection Certificate for an education loan balance transfer?
Though you may want to transfer your education loan, your current lender might disagree. There may have been payment disputes, delayed payments, multiple renegotiations, and other problems.
The fresh lender likes to be assured that the previous lender has no objection to your loan being transferred. A certificate to this effect is therefore necessary.
What documents are required for transferring an education loan?
You need to submit multiple documents for an education loan transfer. Though the process varies between banks, here is a general checklist:
Completed education loan balance transfer form
Passport-size photos
PAN card of the applicant
Aadhaar Card of the applicant
Bank statements for the past six months
Salary slips or other proof of income for the past year
Previous education loan agreement
No objection certificate from the previous lender
Proof of completion of a degree
Proof of ongoing EMI repayment
Will transferring my education loan affect my credit score?
When you transfer an education loan, initially, your credit score might dip by 10-20 points. Any new credit activity, such as applying for a credit card, does the same. However, a few months of regular repayment would restore your previous score.
The consolidation of multiple loans into a fresh new loan will also lower the average age of credit, which has a positive impact.