Features of PNB Unsecured Education Loan
- Loan Amount and Coverage: Maximum Loan Limits: Unsecured loans are available up to ₹7.5 lakh for most PNB education loan schemes without requiring collateral. For the PNB Kaushal scheme, the maximum loan amount is ₹1.5 lakh. Covered Expenses: Tuition and course fees, examination fees, hostel fees, books, equipment, uniforms, and other related costs.
- No Collateral or Third-Party Guarantee: For loans up to ₹7.5 lakh, PNB does not require tangible collateral or a third-party guarantee. Parents or guardians act as co-applicants. For the PNB Kaushal scheme (up to ₹1.5 lakh), no security is required.
- Margin Requirements: No margin is required for loans up to ₹4 lakh (100% financing). For loans above ₹4 lakh (up to ₹7.5 lakh), a 5% margin applies for studies in India, or 15% for studies abroad. Scholarships can be included in the margin.
- Competitive Interest Rates: PNB Saraswati: 10.50%-11.25% PNB Pratibha: Starts as low as 8.20% for premier institutes PNB Udaan: 8.80%-9.55% for studies abroad PNB Kaushal: Concessional rates with 0.50% subsidy for female students PNB Digi Education: Starts at 7.85%

- Competitive Interest Rates:
Interest rates for PNB unsecured education loans are competitive and vary by
scheme:
• PNB Saraswati: 10.50% to 11.25%, based on course, performance, and credit.
• PNB Pratibha: Starts at 8.20% for students admitted to premier Indian institutes.
• PNB Udaan: 8.80% for listed colleges abroad; 9.55% for non-listed ones.
• PNB Kaushal: Concessional rates with 0.50% subsidy for female students.
• PNB Digi Education: Starts at 7.85%, ideal for collateral-free, quick loans.
• Female students receive 0.50% interest concession across most schemes.
• Rates are floating, linked to MCLR, and subject to market conditions.
This structure benefits school funding, vocational training, and higher studies. - Flexible Repayment Terms: Repayment Period: Up to 15 years, excluding moratorium. Moratorium: Course duration plus 1 year post-completion. For PNB Kaushal, tailored to course. No Prepayment Charges: Loans can be repaid early without penalties. Designed to suit school-to-career transitions and financial planning.
- Eligibility Criteria: Indian nationals only. Admission: Must secure merit-based admission in recognized institutions. For PNB Kaushal: Course must be NSQF-aligned or offered by ITIs/polytechnics/NSDC partners. Age: 18–35 years (unemployed), 18–45 years (employed) for PNB Udaan. Academic: Minimum marks in last exam; relaxations for SC/ST students.
- No Processing Fees: No fees charged by PNB for education loans. For PNB Udaan: Any initial fee refunded after first disbursement. Reduces cost burden, especially useful for school and vocational courses.
- Tax Benefits: Interest paid qualifies for deductions under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act. No upper limit on deduction for up to 8 years. Offers significant savings for students and co-borrowers.
- Special Schemes for Accessibility: PNB Kaushal: For short-term vocational programs (₹5,000 to ₹1.5 lakh). PNB Digi Education: Fully digital, collateral-free with fast processing (7.85% onwards). PM CARES Benefits: For students who lost parents to COVID-19. Concessions for female and differently-abled students.
- Application Process: Online: Through www.pnbindia.in or Vidya Lakshmi Portal. Offline: Visit branch, download form, submit documents. Required: ID proof, address proof, academic records, admission letter, income proof, bank statements. Typical Processing Time: 3–15 working days.
- Support for Diverse Courses: Covers higher secondary education (Class 11–12), vocational training, diplomas. Skill development courses under NSQF or NSDC/ITI/polytechnic partners. Graduate and postgraduate courses in India or abroad. Ideal for students at multiple education stages.
- Government Subsidies and Support: CSIS: Interest subsidy for economically weaker sections during moratorium. CGFSEL: Credit guarantee for unsecured loans up to ₹7.5 lakh. Enhances affordability and access to education loans for school/vocational students.