Features of Canara Bank Unsecured Education Loans
- Collateral-Free Financing: One of the standout features of Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans is the absence of collateral requirements for loans up to ₹7.5 lakh. This makes the loan accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds who may not have assets to pledge. By eliminating the need for property, fixed deposits, or other securities, Canara Bank ensures that meritorious students can focus on their education without the stress of arranging collateral.
- Generous Loan Amount: Canara Bank offers unsecured education loans up to ₹7.5 lakh, which is sufficient to cover a wide range of educational expenses. For students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or diploma courses in India, this amount can cover tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other essentials. For international studies, the loan can support a portion of the costs, making it a viable option for students aiming for global education.

- Flexible Repayment Tenure: Canara Bank provides a flexible repayment tenure of up to 10 years for unsecured loans up to ₹7.5 lakh, excluding the moratorium period. The moratorium period includes the course duration plus an additional 6 months to 1 year, allowing students to secure employment before commencing repayment. This extended repayment period ensures that monthly installments (EMIs) are affordable, aligning with the financial capabilities of young professionals.
- Comprehensive Expense Coverage: The unsecured education loan covers a broad spectrum of
educational expenses, ensuring students have the financial support needed for a
holistic academic experience. Covered expenses include:
- Tuition and examination fees
- Hostel and accommodation charges
- Cost of books, equipment, and study materials
- Travel expenses for international studies
- Insurance premiums for the student (if applicable)
- Miscellaneous expenses such as laptops or other study tools
- No Margin for Loans Up to ₹4 Lakh: For unsecured loans up to ₹4 lakh, Canara Bank does not require any margin money, meaning the bank finances 100% of the approved loan amount. For loans above ₹4 lakh, a nominal margin of 5% for studies in India and 15% for studies abroad is applicable. This feature reduces the upfront financial burden on students and their families, making education more accessible.
- No Processing Fees: Canara Bank does not charge processing fees for its unsecured education loans, making it a cost-effective option for students. This eliminates additional expenses during the loan application process, ensuring that the entire sanctioned amount is utilized for educational purposes. For students opting for the Vidya Turant scheme, processing fees are explicitly waived, further enhancing affordability.
- Moratorium Period Flexibility: The moratorium period for Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans is structured to provide financial relief during the study phase. Repayment begins after the course duration plus a grace period of 6 months or 1 year (whichever is earlier), allowing students ample time to secure employment. During the moratorium, no EMI payments are required, although interest accrues, which is later capitalized into the loan amount.
- Eligibility for Interest Subsidy Schemes: Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans are eligible for the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) Scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Vidyalaxmi (PM-Vidyalaxmi) Scheme, subject to specific criteria. Under the CSIS, students from economically weaker sections with an annual parental income of up to ₹4.5 lakh can avail of full interest subsidies during the moratorium period for professional and technical courses. This feature significantly reduces the overall cost of borrowing for eligible students.
- Support for Diverse Courses: The unsecured education loans support a wide
range of courses, including:
- Undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in India and abroad
- Professional and technical courses approved by UGC, AICTE, or government bodies
- Courses at premier institutions like IIMs, IITs, NITs, and other top-tier universities
- Skill development and vocational training programs aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF)
- Simplified Application Process: Canara Bank offers a streamlined application process for unsecured education loans, which can be initiated online through the bank’s e-Beckon portal or the Vidya Lakshmi Portal. Alternatively, students can visit a nearby branch for offline applications. The process requires minimal documentation, including KYC documents, proof of admission, academic records, and income proof of co-applicants (if applicable). The bank’s prompt processing ensures quick approval and disbursement, enabling students to meet academic deadlines.
- No Prepayment Penalties: Borrowers can repay their unsecured education loans early without incurring any prepayment penalties. This feature provides flexibility for students who secure high-paying jobs or receive financial support, allowing them to clear their loans ahead of schedule and save on interest costs. Canara Bank also offers interest rate concessions for prepayments, further incentivizing early repayment.
- Special Schemes for Premier Institutions: Under the Vidya Turant scheme, Canara Bank offers unsecured education loans with concessional interest rates for students admitted to select premier institutions in India, such as IIMs, IITs, NITs, and ISB. The scheme provides loans up to ₹40 lakh without collateral, with no processing fees and lower interest rates (starting at approximately 7.75%). This feature is particularly beneficial for students pursuing high-cost programs at top-tier institutes.
- Support for Students with Disabilities: Through the Vidya Shakti scheme, Canara Bank extends unsecured education loans of up to ₹7.5 lakh to students with at least 40% physical disability, verified by a competent authority. These loans come with competitive interest rates (starting at 8.8%) and are designed to promote inclusivity by supporting differently-abled students in pursuing higher education in India or abroad.
- Co-Applicant Flexibility: Canara Bank allows parents, guardians, or spouses to act as co-applicants for unsecured education loans, enhancing the loan’s accessibility. The co-applicant’s income and credit profile are considered during the loan approval process, which can improve the chances of securing the loan. This feature is particularly helpful for students whose families have stable income sources but lack assets for collateral.
- Tax Benefits: Borrowers of Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans can avail of tax benefits under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act. The interest paid on the loan is deductible from taxable income, with no upper limit, for up to 8 years or until the interest is fully repaid, whichever is earlier. This feature provides significant financial relief for students and their families.
- Quick Disbursement Process: The bank ensures swift disbursement of loan funds, either directly to the educational institution for tuition fees or to the student’s account for other expenses. For international studies, Canara Bank provides a travel card for foreign currency expenses, simplifying financial management abroad. The efficient disbursement process ensures that students can focus on their studies without delays.
- Extensive Network and Support: With over 3,300 branches and a robust online banking platform, Canara Bank offers unparalleled accessibility and customer support. Students can approach any branch for loan-related queries or assistance, and the bank’s dedicated education loan officers provide personalized guidance throughout the loan process.
- Focus on Meritorious Students: Canara Bank prioritizes meritorious students who have secured admission through competitive entrance exams or merit-based selection processes. The Vidya Sahay scheme, for instance, provides unsecured loans of up to ₹1 lakh to cover seat selection or counseling fees, ensuring that deserving students can secure their admissions without financial constraints.
- Transparent Terms and Conditions: Canara Bank maintains transparency in its loan offerings, with clear documentation of interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria available on its website and through branch officials. This transparency builds trust and helps students make informed decisions about their educational financing.

- Flexible Loan Amounts Tailored to Students’ Needs: Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans offer flexibility, with loan eligibility based on the student’s needs.
- Comprehensive Expense Coverage: Canara Bank covers 100% of education-related expenses, including tuition fees, hostel charges, books, equipment, examination fees, and travel expenses for students studying abroad.
- No Margin for Smaller Loans: For unsecured loans up to ₹4 lakh, there is no margin requirement, which means students do not need to contribute any personal funds.
- Flexible Repayment Terms: The repayment tenure can extend up to 15 years, including a moratorium period. During this period, students are not required to make repayments, providing ample time to complete their studies.
- Interest Subsidy Schemes: Canara Bank participates in government-backed schemes such as the Central Sector Interest Subsidy Scheme (CSIS) and the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme, offering interest subsidies for students.
- Concessions for Specific Groups: Female students receive a 0.5% interest rate reduction, and there are special benefits for differently-abled students under the Vidya Shakti Scheme, offering unsecured loans up to ₹7 lakh.
- Quick and Hassle-Free Processing: The loan application process is streamlined through the e-Beckon portal and Vidya Lakshmi Portal. Students can expect quick processing and disbursement of funds.
- No Processing Fees: Canara Bank does not charge processing fees, making their education loans an affordable option for students.
- Support for Diverse Courses: Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans cover a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and diploma programs.
- Tax Benefits: Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, students can claim tax deductions on the interest paid on education loans for up to 8 years, providing additional financial relief.
- Support for Premier Institutions: The Vidya Turant Scheme offers loans up to ₹50 lakh for students admitted to premier institutions like IIMs, IITs, NITs, and IISc.
- Encouragement for Early Repayment: Canara Bank offers interest rate reductions for early or partial prepayments of the loan, allowing students to reduce their total interest burden.
- Trusted Legacy and Nationwide Reach: With over 117 years of experience, Canara Bank has a trusted legacy and a nationwide network of 3,300 branches, providing accessible services to students across India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the maximum loan amount available under Canara Bank’s unsecured
education loan?
Canara Bank offers up to ₹7.5 lakh without collateral for studies in India and abroad. Loans above
this limit require security.
Which courses are eligible for an unsecured education loan from Canara Bank?
Eligible courses include engineering, medicine, management, law, and other professional degrees from
UGC/AICTE/NAAC-approved institutions.
What is the interest rate for Canara Bank’s unsecured education loans?
Domestic studies: 9.25% – 11.50% p.a.
Abroad studies: 10% – 12.50% p.a.
(Girl students may get a 0.50% concession.)
Abroad studies: 10% – 12.50% p.a.
(Girl students may get a 0.50% concession.)
Is a co-applicant mandatory for an unsecured education loan?
Yes, a parent or guardian must be a co-applicant with a stable income and good credit score (CIBIL
650+ preferred).
Does Canara Bank provide a moratorium period for repayment?
Yes, a 6–12 month moratorium after course completion (or securing a job) before EMI repayment
begins.
What expenses are covered under the loan?
The loan covers tuition fees, exam fees, hostel charges, travel (for abroad studies), and other
academic expenses.
How long does loan approval take?
Approval typically takes 7–15 working days after submitting all required documents.
Can I get a loan for part-time or online courses?
No, Canara Bank’s unsecured loans are only for full-time, recognized degree/diploma courses.
What happens if I don’t get a job after completing my course?
The bank may extend the moratorium period (case-by-case basis), but interest continues to accrue.
Are there any prepayment penalties?
No, Canara Bank allows foreclosure without penalties after the moratorium period ends.
List of Canara Bank Unsecured Education Loans Banks
- Canara Vidya Jyothi Scheme
- Canara Bank Education Loan
- Canara Bank Loan for Professional Courses
- Canara Bank Loan for Technical Degrees
- Canara Bank Loan for Medical Studies
- Canara Bank Loan for Management Studies
- Canara Bank Loan for Law Studies
- Canara Bank Loan for Nursing & Paramedical Courses
- Canara Bank Loan for Arts & Science Degrees
- Canara Bank Loan for Diploma & Certification Programs
- Canara Bank Loan for Aviation & Hospitality Courses
- Canara Bank Loan for Online/Distance Education
- Canara Bank Loan for Vocational & Skill Development Courses
- Canara Bank Loan for Competitive Exam Coaching