Are you dreaming of studying in Germany? It's no secret that Germany is a centre for high-quality education, and studying there may give you many chances. But the truth is higher education can be costly. Tuition fees, housing bills, and daily expenses can soon mount up.

Education Loans for Studying in Germany come in helpful in this situation. Whether you want to fund your undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD studies in Germany, an education loan can assist. What is the best part? You are not required to pay it in full at once. Education loans often provide numerous repayment choices that you may tailor to your financial circumstances.

Which Banks Provide Study Loans for Germany?

While scholarships and grants are open to all students, they may not be enough to support you. Hence, you get an education loan for studying in Germany to cover the cost related to tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. But which bank provides education loans for Germany?

But before identifying the bank, it is crucial to recognise the loan availability and understand that the conditions might differ based on the university you are following and your financial status. Some banks that provide education loans to students for studying in Germany are as follows: 

1. State Bank of India (SBI)

The SBI Global Ed-Vantage Scheme is intended to give financial help to Indian students interested in pursuing higher education overseas. The scheme offers loans of up to INR 1.5 crores, with no collateral required for loans of up to INR 40 lakhs. The loan covers a variety of expenditures, including tuition, housing, and travel.

Interest Rate

The Global Ed-Vantage Scheme's competitive interest rate fluctuates based on the loan amount and payback time. The interest rate for loans up to INR 7.5 lakhs is now about 11.15% (as of February 2023).

Loan Amount

The SBI Global Ed-Vantage Scheme provides loans ranging from INR 20 lakhs to INR 1.5 crores, based on the program's cost and other variables.

Repayment Period

The payback time is adjustable and can last up to 15 years, depending on the loan amount and other conditions.

2. HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank is one of India's biggest banks and a popular option for students wishing to fund their studies abroad. For students who want to study abroad, HDFC Bank offers a variety of education loans for Germany. The HDFC Bank Abroad Education Loan covers the cost of tuition, housing, travel, and other related charges.

Interest Rate

HDFC Bank's education loans, notably the Abroad Education Loan, provide attractive interest rates. The loan amount and other factors influence the interest rate.

Loan Amount

The HDFC Bank Abroad Education Loan ranges from INR 1 lakh to INR 20 lakh for studying abroad. Physical collateral is required for loans over INR 10 lakhs.

Repayment Period

The payback duration for the HDFC Bank Abroad Education Loan is adjustable and can last up to 15 years, depending on the loan amount and other criteria.

3. Axis Bank

Axis Bank is a central Indian bank that offers various financial services, including school loans for students who want to study abroad. This loan covers tuition, housing, travel, and other related charges.

Interest Rate

Regarding interest rates, Axis Bank's education loans are competitive. The interest rate is defined by the loan amount and other criteria.

Loan Amount

Axis Bank's Education Loan for Foreign Education provides loans ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 75 lakhs for international study. For loans up to INR 40 lakhs, there is no need for collateral. However, physical security is required for loans exceeding INR 4 lakhs.

Repayment Period

Axis Bank's Education Loan for Foreign Education has a variable payback duration that might last up to 15 years.

Process for Applying For an Education Loan

Applying for a student loan can be complex, but it can be a simple procedure with the correct knowledge and help. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you comprehend the application procedure for an education loan:

Step 1: Research and Select the Best Bank

 You must check the bank's interest rate, loan amount, payback period, and other aspects to shortlist the banks.

Step 2: Review the Eligibility Criteria

Check the bank's qualifying criteria to check whether you fulfil the requirements. Banks often ask for a verified admission offer from a recognised German university and have a co-applicant who can provide security for the loan. 

Step 3: Collect Documents

You must collect all necessary documentation for the education loan application, including proof of identification, residence, income, academic records, and an acceptance letter from the educational institution. 

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the education loan application form from the chosen bank provided with all the relevant information. Make sure to include all required documents with the application form. 

Step 5: Wait for Approval

The bank will handle your application and assess your eligibility after you submit the application form and required papers. Upon approval of your application, you will receive an offer letter explaining the loan amount, interest rate, payback duration, and other terms and conditions. 

Step 6: Pay Back the Loan

When you accept the loan, repay it according to the repayment schedule you decided upon with the bank. Regularly paying is critical to avoid late penalties and a decent credit score. 

Eligibility Criteria to Apply for an Education Loan to Study in Germany

If you are looking to apply for an education loan for studying in Germany, then you must meet the qualifying conditions established by the bank or financial organisation from which you intend to borrow. Here are some examples of standard eligibility criteria to be aware of:

1. Citizenship

You must be an Indian citizen to apply for a student loan in India.

2. Age

The lowest age to apply for an education loan is usually 18, while the maximum age restriction varies between banks.

3. Admission Offer

You must have a verified admission offer from a reputable German university or educational institution.

4. Co-Applicant

For education loans, banks often need a co-applicant, a family member or a spouse with a decent credit score and sufficient income. The co-applicant for a collateral-free loan must be a paid employee.

5. Academic Credentials

To enrol in a course, you must meet the prerequisites and have a good academic background. Banks will evaluate your financial situation and income to determine your capacity to repay the loan. You may be requested to submit evidence of payment, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements.

6. Collateral

If you ask for a loan over a specific amount, banks may need collateral such as real estate or assets to secure the loan. Banks will also examine your credit history to determine your creditworthiness and repayment capabilities.

List of Documents Required for an Education Loan to Germany

While applying for an education loan in Germany, you have to submit some essential documents. While the documents may vary from bank to bank, some of the generally required documents are as follows:

1. Admission Letter

You must submit a verified admission letter from a German university or academic institution.

2. Academic Documents

You must supply copies of your prior educational credentials and academic papers, such as mark sheets, certificates, and transcripts.

3. Identity Proof

You must provide a copy of your passport or other official identification document.

4. Address Proof

A copy of your address proof, such as your Aadhar card, voter ID, or utility bill, is required.

5. Income Statement

You must provide income documentation from your co-applicant, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements, to prove your ability to repay the loan.

6. Bank Statements

You must produce six months' worth of bank statements.

7. Passport-Size Photos

You must submit recent passport-size photos.

8. Documents for Collateral

If you are getting a collateral-based loan, you must give the necessary documents, such as property papers or documents related to the provided collateral.

Expenses Covered Under The Loan

When you take out an education loan to study in Germany, the loan amount covers a variety of educational and living expenditures. The following are some of the expenditures that are generally covered by an education loan:

1. Tuition Expenses

The loan pays the tuition fees the German educational institution levied.

2. Accommodation Expenditures

It covers lodging fees such as rent, security deposits, and other associated charges.

3. Travel Costs

It covers the to and from travelling costs from Germany, including airline, visa fees, and other travel-related charges.

4. Cost of Books and Equipment

The loan covers the cost of books, supplies, and other course-related study materials.

5. Personal Expenditures

The loan also covers your expenses in Germany, such as food, clothes, and other everyday living needs.

6. Insurance Costs

The loan also pays for the insurance the educational institution or the German government requires.

Repayment of Education Loan

After completing your studies, you must repay your loan on time to avoid penalties. Some of the ways the repayment of the education loan for studying in Germany are as follows:

Depending on the bank or financial organisation you pick, the payback time for an education loan might range from 5 to 15 years. Some banks may provide a grace period of up to 6 months following your course completion before you begin repaying the loan.

You can repay your school loan in Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs). The loan amount, interest rate, and payback period determine the EMI.

If you have extra money, you can repay your school loan early. Some banks may charge a penalty for early withdrawal, while others may not.

If you are having trouble repaying your education loan, you can ask your bank or financial institution to restructure it by modifying the EMI amount or the payback time. 

An education loan for studying in Germany is an excellent option to fund your higher education. An education loan can help you reach your academic goals without worrying about the financial load. Many banks and financial organisations offer reasonable interest rates, flexible repayment choices, and coverage for various fees.

However, before applying for an instruction loan, it is critical to understand the eligibility criteria, required records, and other terms and conditions. Start making plans today! You can also look into other loan options and choose the one that best suits your circumstances.

Still unclear about anything? Well, not to worry. Contact AECC and get your queries answered today! AECC is one of the world's leading educational consultancies, with versatile expert professionals ready to help you with any queries you may have. Contact us so we can be of assistance to you in your journey to achieving your dream.

FAQs