Education Loan Vs Personal Loan: Which is Better for Students

Read on to learn about student loans vs personal loans for education, the costs that they can cover, and the advantages of a personal loan over a student loan.
Personal loan
5 min read
26 July 2023

In the journey of achieving our aspirations and fulfilling our life goals, financial support often becomes a critical factor. Whether it is pursuing higher education or addressing personal needs, loans have emerged as a viable solution for many individuals.

When pursuing higher education, students and their families often face the challenge of securing the necessary funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other education-related costs. Traditionally, student loans have been the go-to option, but in recent years, personal loans for education have emerged as a compelling alternative. In this article, we will explore the benefits of opting for personal loan over traditional student loans when financing higher education. We will also understand the cases in which the former can be a smarter choice

Difference between student loan and personal loan

1. Flexibility in fund usage:

One of the significant advantages of personal loans for education is the flexibility they offer in fund usage. Unlike student loans that are typically disbursed directly to the educational institution, personal loans provide students with the freedom to use the funds as they see fit. This enables students to cover a wide range of expenses beyond tuition fees, such as purchasing books, and laptops, or even covering living expenses during their studies. This versatility allows students the flexibility to cover costs of specific needs, making it a more convenient and adaptable financing option.

2. No Restriction:

While student loans might have limitations to qualify for financing, personal loans have no such restrictions. Students can use personal loans to attend any accredited university or college, whether it is in their home country or abroad. This freedom opens up a world of opportunities for students seeking quality education beyond the confines of their local area and encourages them to explore educational institutions that best align with their aspirations and goals. In fact, some student loans may not cover costs of long-term online courses. A personal loan for higher education can be a great alternative in such cases.

3. Faster application process:

The process of obtaining a personal loan is typically quicker and simpler than applying for student loans. Student loan applications often involve complex paperwork, and the approval process can be time-consuming. Personal loans have streamlined application procedures that can be completed swiftly. In situations where you need funds immediately, a personal loan may be a viable solution to avoid delays in starting one's education journey.

In conclusion, personal loans for education present several compelling advantages over traditional student loans. You need to research and compare loan options diligently to ensure you select the best fit for your financial circumstances. Responsible borrowing combined with a clear repayment plan will help you achieve your educational goals while minimising financial burdens in the long run.

Click here to apply for our personal loan for higher education and get funds in your bank account within 24 hours* of approval.

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Frequently asked questions

Which loan is best education loan or a personal loan?

Choosing between an education loan and a personal loan depends on your specific needs. Education loans typically offer lower interest rates and longer repayment periods tailored for educational expenses.

Is taking an education loan risky?

Taking an education loan involves certain risks, such as repayment obligations and potential interest accrual during the study period or after graduation.

Is education loan interest-free?

Education loans usually accrue interest, although there may be interest subsidy schemes or moratorium periods during the study phase.

Can I use a personal loan for education?

Yes, you can use a personal loan for education expenses.

Why is a personal loan better than an education loan?

A personal loan may be better than an education loan for certain individuals due to its flexibility in usage, quicker approval process, and lack of collateral requirements.

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