Education Loan: 14 Tips To Repay Your Student Loan Early

Did you know that in the financial year 2019-2020, over 7.5 lakh students in India took out loans to pursue higher education?

Pursuing a degree in India or abroad can be an expensive affair, and student loans have become the go-to solution for countless young Indians. While student loans provide a crucial lifeline, they can also become a long-term burden, casting a shadow over your financial future. That’s why it’s essential to have a strategic plan to repay your student loan as early as possible.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey of financial empowerment, equipping you with the best tips to repay your student loan early in India. We’ll explore different types of student loans, key terms and conditions, and how to create an effective repayment plan. Furthermore, we’ll dive into 14 innovative strategies to help you tackle your loan faster, paving the way to a debt-free life. So, gear up and get ready to take control of your financial destiny!

Before embarking on your loan repayment journey, it’s crucial to have a deep understanding of your student loan. Familiarizing yourself with the terms and conditions, types of loans, and potential pitfalls will empower you to make informed decisions and develop an effective repayment strategy.

Understanding Your Student Loan

Types of Student Loans in India

There are two primary categories of student loans available in India:

1. Government loans: These loans are offered by nationalized banks and financial institutions, usually at more favourable terms and lower interest rates. Some popular government loan schemes include:
   • Central Scheme for Interest Subsidy (CSIS)
   • Indian Bank’s Education Loan Scheme (IBELS)
   • State Bank of India’s Student Loan Scheme (SBI SLS)
2. Private loans: These loans are offered by private banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). While private loans may come with higher interest rates, they often have more flexible eligibility criteria and quicker approval processes. Some well-known private student loan providers include:
   • HDFC Credila
   • Avanse Financial Services
   • Axis Bank

Key Terms and Conditions

Understanding the terms and conditions of your student loan is vital in order to develop a successful repayment strategy. Here are some critical aspects to consider:

1. Interest rates: Interest rates can vary based on the type of loan, the lender, and your credit profile. Typically, government loans have lower interest rates compared to private loans. Interest rates can be fixed or floating, which means they may change over the loan tenure.
2. Repayment period: This refers to the duration you have to repay your loan. Repayment periods can range from 5 to 20 years, depending on the loan amount and lender. Longer repayment periods result in lower monthly payments but higher overall interest costs.
3. Grace period: Also known as the “moratorium period,” this is the time frame after completing your studies during which you are not required to make loan repayments. Grace periods usually last 6 to 12 months, allowing you to find a job and become financially stable before repayment begins.
4. Prepayment penalties: Some lenders may charge a penalty for repaying your loan before the end of the agreed-upon tenure. It’s essential to be aware of any prepayment penalties associated with your loan to avoid unexpected costs when attempting to repay early.

Importance of Reading and Understanding Loan Documents

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the technical jargon and legal language in loan documents. However, taking the time to read and understand these documents is crucial, as they contain essential information about your rights and responsibilities as a borrower. Make sure you’re aware of the following:

• The exact loan amount
• Interest rate and calculation method
• Repayment schedule and grace period
• Late payment fees and penalties
• Prepayment options and potential penalties
• Tax benefits available, if any

By thoroughly understanding your student loan, you’ll be better equipped to create an effective repayment strategy and avoid any potential pitfalls along the way.

Creating a Repayment Plan

Crafting a well-thought-out repayment plan is the cornerstone of tackling your student loan debt head-on. A solid plan will help you stay on track, achieve your financial goals, and ultimately, repay your loan early. To create a personalized repayment plan, follow these steps:

Assess Your Current Financial Situation

Before diving into your repayment strategy, take stock of your current financial situation by evaluating the following:

1. Income: Determine your monthly income, including your salary and any additional sources of earnings, such as freelance work or part-time jobs.
2. Expenses: List all your fixed and variable monthly expenses, such as rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance, and entertainment.
3. Emergency fund: Evaluate your existing savings and ensure you have a sufficient emergency fund to cover at least 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses. This fund will act as a financial safety net in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss or health issues.

Set a Repayment Goal

Establishing clear repayment goals will keep you motivated and focused on your financial objectives. Consider the following when setting your goals:

1. Timeline: Determine a realistic timeframe for repaying your loan. While shorter timelines lead to quicker debt repayment, they also require higher monthly payments. Strive to strike a balance between an aggressive repayment schedule and a manageable monthly payment.
2. Amount to be repaid: Calculate the total amount you owe, including principal and interest. Keep in mind that repaying your loan early will reduce the overall interest paid, saving you money in the long run.

Create a Budget

A well-planned budget is the foundation of any successful financial strategy. Follow these steps to create a budget tailored to your loan repayment goals:

1. List monthly expenses: Categorize your expenses into fixed (e.g., rent, utilities, insurance) and variable (e.g., groceries, entertainment) costs. This will give you a clear picture of your spending habits and help you identify areas where you can cut costs.
2. Allocate funds for loan repayment: Based on your income and expenses, determine how much you can allocate towards loan repayment each month. Remember to factor in any grace periods, as well as the interest that will accrue during that time.
3. Identify areas to cut costs: Analyze your expenses and pinpoint areas where you can reduce spending. Some suggestions include:
   • Cooking at home instead of dining out
   • Opting for public transportation or carpooling
   • Cancelling unnecessary subscriptions and memberships
   • Shopping for essentials during sales or at discount stores
   • Switching to more affordable insurance plans or utility providers

By creating a detailed budget and diligently tracking your spending, you’ll be able to maximize your loan repayment efforts and inch closer to a debt-free future.

Strategies For Repaying Your Loan Early

Accelerating your student loan repayment requires a combination of smart tactics and consistent effort. Here, we present 14 effective strategies to help you repay your loan early and unlock the door to a debt-free life:

1. Make extra payments

Making extra payments is an effective way to reduce your loan balance and shorten your repayment timeline. By paying more than the minimum amount due each month, you can save money on interest payments and reach your debt-free goal sooner. Here’s how to implement this strategy:

1. Pay more than the minimum amount: Whenever possible, allocate extra funds towards your loan repayment. Even small, consistent increases in your monthly payment can have a significant impact on your loan’s principal balance and interest charges over time. To illustrate this, let’s consider an example:
   • Loan amount: ₹10,00,000
   • Interest rate: 10%
   • Repayment period: 10 years
   • Minimum monthly payment: ₹13,215

   By increasing your monthly payment by just ₹2,000 (₹15,215 total), you can repay your loan nearly 2 years earlier and save over ₹1,60,000 in interest.

2. Use bonuses and windfalls: Whenever you receive unexpected income, such as a performance bonus, tax refund, or inheritance, use a portion of the funds to make an additional payment towards your loan. This can significantly reduce your outstanding balance and bring you closer to becoming debt-free.
3. Allocate a percentage of salary increments: When you receive a salary raise or promotion, dedicate a portion of the increase to your loan repayment efforts. This not only helps accelerate repayment but also ensures that lifestyle inflation doesn’t hinder your financial progress.

2. Refinance your loan

Refinancing your student loan involves obtaining a new loan with a different lender, typically at a lower interest rate, to pay off your existing loan. This strategy can save you money on interest payments, reduce your monthly payments, and shorten your repayment period. Here’s how to approach refinancing:

Benefits of Refinancing

Refinancing your student loan can offer several advantages, including:

• Lower interest rates: A reduced interest rate can lead to significant savings over the life of your loan.
• Shorter repayment terms: With a lower interest rate, you may choose to maintain your current monthly payment, enabling you to repay your loan faster.
• Simplified repayment: If you have multiple loans, refinancing can consolidate them into a single loan with one monthly payment, making it easier to manage your finances.

Finding the Right Lender

Research and compare interest rates, terms, and fees from various lenders to find the best refinancing option for your needs. Some popular lenders for refinancing student loans in India include:

• SBI Education Loans
• HDFC Credila
• Axis Bank
• Bank of Baroda
• Punjab National Bank

Comparing Interest Rates and Terms

Use online tools and calculators to estimate potential savings and evaluate the impact of refinancing on your repayment timeline. Remember to consider factors such as the new loan term, prepayment penalties, and any fees associated with refinancing before making a decision.

3. Pay-Off High-Interest Loans First

Prioritizing the repayment of loans with the highest interest rates can save you money over time and speed up the debt repayment process. This strategy, commonly known as the “debt avalanche” method, involves allocating extra funds towards the loan with the highest interest rate while making minimum payments on other loans. Here’s how to implement this approach:

1. List your loans: Make a list of all your outstanding loans, including the principal balance, interest rate, and minimum monthly payment for each. This will provide you with a clear picture of your overall debt situation.
2. Prioritize loans based on interest rates: Arrange your loans in descending order, with the loan having the highest interest rate at the top. This will be the loan you focus on repaying first.
3. Allocate extra funds: Direct any extra funds towards the loan with the highest interest rate, while continuing to make the minimum payments on your other loans. Once the highest-interest loan is paid off, move on to the loan with the next highest interest rate, and so on.
4. Benefits of clearing high-interest loans: By focusing on high-interest loans, you minimize the overall interest costs associated with your debt, freeing up more money to allocate towards your other loans and accelerating your debt repayment journey.

4. Use Tax Benefits

In India, borrowers can claim tax deductions on the interest paid on education loans, helping them save money and potentially repay their student loans faster. Here’s how to make the most of these tax benefits:

1. Deductions under Section 80E: The interest paid on education loans is tax-deductible under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act. This deduction is available for a maximum period of 8 years or until the interest is fully repaid, whichever comes earlier. There is no limit on the amount of interest you can claim as a deduction, potentially leading to substantial tax savings.
2. Eligibility criteria: To claim this deduction, the loan must be taken from a recognized financial institution or an approved charitable institution. The loan should be used for higher education pursued in India or abroad, and the borrower should be an individual taxpayer (not a Hindu Undivided Family or any other type of taxpayer).
3. Claiming the deduction: To claim the deduction, provide details of the interest paid on your education loan in your income tax return. Ensure you have the relevant documents, such as loan statements and interest certificates, to support your claim in case of scrutiny from the Income Tax Department.
4. Maximizing tax savings: Consult with a tax professional to understand the nuances of claiming tax deductions on education loan interest and ensure you’re maximizing your tax savings. You can use the money saved through tax deductions to make extra payments towards your loan, accelerating your repayment process.

5. Implement a Bi-Weekly Payment Plan

Adopting a bi-weekly payment plan is a simple yet effective way to accelerate your loan repayment process, reduce overall interest costs, and shorten the loan term. This approach involves making half the monthly payment every two weeks instead of making the full payment once a month. Here’s how to execute this strategy:

1. Calculate bi-weekly payments: Divide your current monthly payment by two to determine the amount you should pay every two weeks. For instance, if your monthly payment is ₹10,000, your bi-weekly payment would be ₹5,000.
2. Benefits of bi-weekly payments: By making bi-weekly payments, you’ll end up making 26 half-payments or 13 full payments per year, as opposed to 12 full payments with a monthly plan. This extra payment directly reduces your principal balance, leading to lower interest costs and a faster repayment timeline.
3. How to switch to a bi-weekly plan: Reach out to your lender to inquire about the possibility of switching to a bi-weekly payment plan. Some lenders may offer this option directly, while others might require you to set up automatic payments through your bank account.
4. DIY bi-weekly payments: If your lender does not support bi-weekly payments, you can create a DIY bi-weekly payment plan by making extra payments towards your loan principal throughout the year. Make sure to inform your lender that these additional payments are meant to reduce the principal balance.

6. Take Advantage of Repayment Assistance Programs

Repayment assistance programs, offered by the government or employers, can provide relief to borrowers struggling to repay their education loans. These programs may offer loan forgiveness, reduction, or more manageable repayment options based on specific eligibility criteria. Here’s how to leverage these programs:

1. Loan forgiveness programs: Some government-sponsored schemes, such as the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) Scheme in India, provide full interest subsidies to students from economically weaker sections during the moratorium period. Explore such programs and their eligibility criteria to determine if you qualify for assistance.
2. Employer-sponsored repayment programs: Certain companies offer student loan repayment assistance as part of their employee benefits package. Check with your employer to see if they provide such assistance and understand the terms and conditions associated with the program.
3. Income-driven repayment plans: Investigate income-based repayment options that adjust your monthly payments according to your income level, making repayment more manageable. These plans can provide temporary relief and help you avoid defaulting on your loan.

7. Establish a side hustle

Starting a side hustle or part-time job can provide additional income to supplement your primary source of income, enabling you to allocate more funds towards your student loan repayment. Here’s how to create a successful side hustle:

1. Identify your skills and interests: Assess your skills, talents, and hobbies to determine a side hustle that aligns with your abilities and interests. This could include freelancing, tutoring, or selling handmade products online.
2. Dedicate time to your side hustle: Set aside time each week to focus on your side hustle, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with your primary job or personal commitments. Establishing a consistent schedule will help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
3. Allocate earnings towards loan repayment: Use the income generated from your side hustle specifically for making extra payments towards your student loan. This will help accelerate your repayment process and reduce overall interest costs.
4. Stay committed: Be persistent and dedicated to your side hustle, as it may take time to generate a substantial income. Consistent effort and commitment will eventually yield results, helping you achieve your financial goals.

8. Consider loan consolidation

Loan consolidation involves combining multiple student loans into a single loan, often with a reduced interest rate and an extended repayment term. This can help simplify your loan repayment process and potentially lower your monthly payments. Here’s how to evaluate whether loan consolidation is right for you:

1. Evaluate your loan portfolio: Examine your existing student loans to determine if you have multiple loans with varying interest rates and repayment terms. If managing these loans becomes challenging, loan consolidation may be a viable solution.
2. Research consolidation options: Investigate various loan consolidation options, such as those offered by banks or non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). Compare interest rates, terms, and conditions to identify the best consolidation option for your needs.
3. Calculate potential savings: Use online loan consolidation calculators to estimate your potential interest savings and monthly payment reduction. This will help you determine if consolidation is financially beneficial in the long run.
4. Consider potential drawbacks: Loan consolidation may extend your repayment term, potentially increasing the overall interest costs. Additionally, consolidating your loans may disqualify you from certain loan forgiveness or repayment assistance programs. Evaluate these factors carefully before proceeding with consolidation.

9. Seek employer assistance

Some employers offer student loan repayment assistance as part of their employee benefits package. This assistance can come in various forms, such as direct contributions towards your loan balance or a matching program. Here’s how to leverage employer assistance for your student loan repayment:

1. Research your company’s policies: Review your company’s employee benefits package or speak with your human resources department to determine if student loan repayment assistance is offered. Familiarize yourself with the terms, conditions, and eligibility requirements associated with the program.
2. Enroll in the assistance program: If your employer offers student loan repayment assistance, enrol in the program as soon as you’re eligible. Ensure you provide all necessary documentation and fulfil any requirements needed to receive assistance.
3. Optimize the assistance: Maximize the benefits of your employer’s assistance program by making regular payments towards your loan and ensuring you meet the program’s criteria to continue receiving the assistance. This can help you accelerate your loan repayment and minimize overall interest costs.
4. Use assistance strategically: If your employer’s assistance program has a matching component, contribute as much as you can to receive the maximum employer match. This will help you make the most of the assistance offered and further accelerate your loan repayment process.

10. Maintain open communication with your lender

Establishing and maintaining open communication with your lender can be crucial in successfully repaying your student loan. A good relationship with your lender can lead to more flexible repayment options and support during financial hardships. Here’s how to foster open communication with your lender:

1. Update your contact information: Ensure your lender has your current contact information, including your phone number, email address, and mailing address. This will help them send you important updates and information about your loan.
2. Stay informed about your loan: Regularly review your loan statements, interest rates, and repayment terms. Reach out to your lender if you have any questions or concerns about your loan, its terms, or repayment options.
3. Discuss financial difficulties: If you’re experiencing financial hardship and are struggling to make your loan payments, inform your lender as soon as possible. They may be able to offer temporary relief, such as a deferment, forbearance, or an alternative repayment plan.
4. Negotiate repayment options: Proactively engage with your lender to explore the possibility of negotiating more favourable repayment terms or interest rates. Demonstrating a strong commitment to repaying your loan can improve your chances of obtaining better loan conditions.

11. Create a visual debt payoff tracker

A visual debt payoff tracker can serve as a powerful motivational tool, helping you stay focused on your goal of repaying your student loan early. By tracking your progress and celebrating milestones, you can maintain momentum throughout your repayment journey. Here’s how to create a visual debt payoff tracker:

1. Choose a tracking method: Select a tracking method that suits your preferences, such as a physical chart or poster, a digital spreadsheet, or a mobile app. Consider the ease of updating and accessibility of the tracker to ensure it remains an effective tool throughout your loan repayment journey.
2. Set milestones: Break down your overall loan repayment goal into smaller, manageable milestones. This can help you stay motivated by allowing you to celebrate incremental achievements along the way.
3. Update your tracker regularly: Keep your visual debt payoff tracker up-to-date by recording your payments and tracking your progress towards your loan repayment goal. Regular updates will help you visualize your progress and stay motivated to continue making payments.
4. Display your tracker prominently: Place your visual debt payoff tracker in a prominent location, such as your workspace or refrigerator, to serve as a constant reminder of your goal. This will help you stay focused and committed to repaying your student loan early.

12. Cut down on non-essential expenses

Reducing non-essential expenses can help you allocate more funds towards your student loan repayment, accelerating your debt payoff and minimizing interest costs. Here’s how to identify and cut down on non-essential expenses:

1. Track and categorize your expenses: Monitor your spending habits by keeping a record of your expenses. Categorize them as essential (e.g., rent, groceries) and non-essential (e.g., dining out, entertainment) to determine areas where you can reduce spending.
2. Create a budget: Develop a budget that prioritizes essential expenses and allocates a portion of your income towards your student loan repayment. This will help you control your spending and ensure you have adequate funds to make consistent loan payments.
3. Identify spending triggers: Analyze your spending habits to identify patterns or triggers that lead to non-essential purchases. This self-awareness can help you make more conscious spending decisions and reduce impulsive purchases.
4. Implement cost-saving measures: Adopt cost-saving measures, such as cooking at home, using public transportation, or cancelling unused subscriptions. These adjustments can free up additional funds that can be directed towards your student loan repayment.

13. Seek professional financial advice

Obtaining professional financial advice can provide valuable insights and personalized recommendations to help you manage your student loan repayment more effectively. Here’s how to seek and utilize professional financial advice:

1. Identify a qualified financial advisor: Research and select a qualified financial advisor with experience in student loan management. Look for certifications and client testimonials to ensure they have the expertise to assist you in your loan repayment journey.
2. Discuss your financial goals: Share your financial goals, including your desired student loan repayment timeline, with your financial advisor. This will help them tailor their advice and recommendations to your specific needs and objectives.
3. Implement the advisor’s recommendations: Apply the strategies and suggestions provided by your financial advisor to optimize your loan repayment process. This may include refinancing options, budget adjustments, or investment opportunities to accelerate your loan payoff.
4. Regularly review your progress: Schedule periodic meetings with your financial advisor to review your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your repayment strategy. This will ensure you stay on track towards achieving your financial goals.

14. Adopt a frugal lifestyle

Embracing a frugal lifestyle involves making mindful spending choices and prioritizing long-term financial goals over short-term desires. Adopting a frugal lifestyle can help you save money and allocate more funds towards your student loan repayment. Here’s how to cultivate a frugal lifestyle:

1. Set clear financial priorities: Establish clear financial priorities, with your student loan repayment at the forefront. This will help you make more intentional spending decisions and align your daily choices with your long-term financial goals.
2. Eliminate debt-inducing habits: Identify and eliminate habits that contribute to debt accumulation, such as excessive credit card usage or impulse buying. Replacing these habits with more financially responsible behaviours can lead to significant savings.
3. Embrace DIY solutions: Whenever possible, opt for do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions to reduce costs. This can include home repairs, meal preparation, or personal grooming. By embracing DIY practices, you can save money and redirect those savings towards your loan repayment.
4. Maximize resources: Utilize resources such as coupons, sales, and discounts to minimize your spending on essential items. Additionally, consider buying second-hand items or borrowing items from friends or family to further reduce expenses.

In conclusion, repaying your student loan early is an achievable goal with proper planning, dedication, and the implementation of effective strategies. By understanding your loan terms, creating a repayment plan, and embracing the diverse tactics discussed in this article, you can fast-track your journey towards financial freedom. Remember, each small step you take towards paying off your student loan contributes to a more secure and stress-free financial future. Stay committed to your repayment plan, celebrate milestones, and take control of your finances as you embark on this empowering journey.