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The parents’ guide to education loans helps to make sense of the loan process and understand how they can mold the terms and conditions to suit their specific needs and requirements.  If you ask an Indian parent about his priority then the obvious answer will be providing a good education for his children. With education inflation at 11% - 12% and expenses escalating consistently, it is no longer a reality without the help of education loans.   Even after creating a sizable education corpus for their children, parents can fall short of the money. Taking out an education loan can bridge the shortfall, provide quality education, and offer tax benefits.  What is an Education loan? An education loan is a loan taken out for completing the studies. It can be either for studying in the home country or abroad at a foreign university.  The education loan includes tuition fees, caution deposit, travel expenses, cost of books, uniform if applicable, laptop if required, hostel fees, food expenses, and in some cases traveling and other miscellaneous expenses. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gTQkdePOWM Guidelines for Parents Taking Education Loans Parents often worry about the burden of repaying the education loan at the beginning of their children’s careers but in reality, it is a good thing. Repaying the loan amount on time will create good credit scores and instill financial discipline in the students. Let us go through some of the important things that parents taking education loans need to look for beforehand.  1. Loan interest How much interest you have to pay on the education loan matters a lot and this is the first thing parents should find out. Private lenders, banks, and NBFCs are the perfect choices for an education loan hence parents should shortlist three to five lenders with the minimum loan interest. If the student has exceptional grades or has been admitted to a STEM course in a reputed and ranking university then parents can talk to the financial institution of their choice because banks often reduce 1% interest in such cases.  Choose from the multiple banks and NBFC partners at the Edufund App for higher loan amounts and lower interest rates.  2. Time or duration of the loan The lenders have extended the duration period from 7 years to 15 years. This means a minimum EMI which is easy to repay even if the initial salary of the applicant is low. Parents can choose the longest possible loan repayment duration as there is no penalty.  3. Collateral for the loan Defaults are very common in education loans hence financial institutions or lenders insist on the collateral if the loan amount exceeds INR 7.5 lakhs. The collateral can be fixed deposits or houses etc. Collateral often reduces interest costs. Take an education loan through the Edufund App as the hassle-free loan process does not require collateral for an amount up to INR 75 lakhs.  4. Co-applicant  Financial institutions insist on a co-applicant or guarantor so that the risk is divided in case of late payment or default. Parents, guardians, or elder siblings working in a reputed company should serve as guarantors or co-applicant as it will help in reducing the interest cost.  5. Margin money The margin money often depends upon the loan amount and the place where the university is located. It is better to know beforehand the contribution of the lender and how much margin money the parents will have to pay. Banks often charge 5% for loan amounts above INR 4 lakhs for studying in India and 15% for overseas studies.  Parents need not pay the margin money if they take out an education loan from the Edufund App.   6. Moratorium period The moratorium period lies between 6 – 12 months after the course study and it is important for parents to sort out beforehand that if the interest is paid in this period then the EMI will be based only on the principal amount and if not then it will be added up and EMI will be loan plus additional interest. 7. Documentation The parent’s guide to education loans emphasizes proper documentation. It is necessary to submit all the related papers and check the details with an expert to avoid any discrepancies.  8. Start the process as early as possible The loan application process takes time whereas the universities will give you little time to deposit the fees. Parents should start the process as early as possible to avoid any mishaps later on.  Conclusion Quality education ensures breaking the shackles of poverty with the help of a good job but it comes at a cost. The parent's guide to education loans refers to the guidelines that encourage parents to take the necessary steps and apply for the loan.  Parents can apply for education loans through the Edufund App. Use the education calculator on the site to know about the required loan amount and talk to the counselors to compare loan offers and get a clear picture of why taking the loan makes sense. The best thing is that parents will not have to pay any fees for the consultation. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Do you consider saving for your child's education? Do you think you need to save more for your child's future? If ‘yes’ is your answer to both questions, you have come to the right place! This article will explain the reasons why every new parent should have an EduFund. Let us check out the top reasons why you need to start saving for your child's education. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0MRtCeA2RU 1. No need to take money out of your retirement fund Maintaining separate funds for your child's education and savings is wise. One of the primary reasons is that you will not get loans to take care of your expenses after retirement. You may have to withdraw money from your retirement fund if you do not maintain separate funds. Your children are likely to get a loan to fund their education expenses. So, you must ensure that you and your partner do not depend on anyone after retirement. This is where an EduFund comes to the rescue. Find more about it below! Start Investing in Mutual Funds 2. Education costs will sharply rise The cost of education in India is increasing multifold. The rate of increment is higher than the inflation rate. As per reports, between 2008 and 2014, annual private expenditure for primary-level to postgraduate education increased by 175%. Technical and professional education increased by 96%. It is one of the reasons why new parents should have an EduFund. The educational expenses include transportation, books, course fees, coaching, and other costs. Parents spend 50% of their income on their children's education today. Compared to India's expensive and highly competitive educational landscape, abroad studies provide options to students. Considering only 10% of the inflation rate will cost you nearly double the amount after 20 years. No matter the destination you choose for your children's college education, the amount you will spend on the course fee will be pretty high. So, in considering these cases, an EduFund can come to your rescue. Apply for Education Loans 3. The competition will likely increase The competition for admission into the leading Indian or foreign colleges has always remained high. We all understand the importance of better education, so getting admission to the best colleges can be a little complicated in the future. With the increasing enrollment in higher education and the ever-rising population, the possibility of getting admission to good colleges has been declining. The marks allowed in 2000 for admission to a good college have increased significantly. If the number was 80% earlier, it has increased to 95% today. Imagine what is it going to be like in the future! Many people are competing for the same seats today. It is one of the primary reasons behind the trouble of getting admission to a good college in India or abroad. It calls for more tuition fees, hence adding up to more savings. What can be better than an EduFund in this case? This is why new parents should have an EduFund. Start Investing in US Market 4. Allow your child to be debt-free Educational loans are readily available from financial institutions and banks these days. They are attractive to various students who cannot afford higher education, particularly abroad. But, there is a disadvantage when it comes to education loans. They come at high interest rates. There are also collaterals attached to them. In such a situation, EduFund can help. Your children will not want to begin their career having a debt hovering over their choice of job. Job security is a far-fetched concept with the developing uncertainty in the job market due to the present global economic slowdown. No jobs that assure static security and income for paying off the education loan are available. So, what to do in such a situation? Choose EduFund! The first calculator for college costs in India can help you understand the amount you would need to pay for your child's college education. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30q9fjLitHM Getting admission into a college of your child's choice based on merit alone or with a scholarship will be more challenging than it was. Parents need to be ready to handle the competition. Today, new parents are already struggling to get their children admitted to kindergarten classes. The future could be much worse! Parents need to start planning right after childbirth. It calls for saving for children's education with the help of EduFund. When you begin college, you have the freedom of choice. You no longer need to bother about tuition fees. Having an EduFund for your child's education remains imperative to ensure a promising career for your children. Even if there is a change of career choice in your child's mind with time, you can be ready and adapt with the funds when needed. And, for that, you need EduFund. It is one of the best ways to save for your children's college expenses FAQs Why should new parents consider having an EduFund? An EduFund ensures that you don't have to dip into your retirement savings to fund your child's education, providing financial security for your future. Why is an EduFund essential for dealing with increasing competition for college admissions? As competition intensifies for top colleges, tuition fees and other expenses rise. An EduFund helps you financially support your child's education without compromising quality. How does an EduFund help with rising education costs? Education expenses in India are increasing faster than inflation. An EduFund helps you prepare for the significant costs associated with your child's education. How can an EduFund prevent your child from starting their career in debt? EduFund allows your child to avoid high-interest education loans, ensuring they begin their career debt-free, even in an uncertain job market. Why is early planning with EduFund crucial for securing your child's education? Early planning ensures you are well-prepared for the challenges of future education costs, offering your child the freedom to choose their career path without financial constraints. TALK TO AN EXPERT

An education loan is no longer a choice but a necessity for most students aspiring to study abroad. Although there are several financing options like banks, private lenders, and NBFCs open, it is not an easy feat to get the loan sanctioned. There are numerous criteria to meet that confuse the applicant.  In this blog, we will go through some of the important tips for maximizing your chances of getting approved for an abroad education loan so that the loan journey remains smooth, quick, and easy. 10 tips to consider before applying for an abroad education loans 1. Study courses and university  Financial institutions put a great deal of emphasis on the course a student wants to pursue and the university they have been admitted to. The most important tip for maximizing your chances of getting approved for an abroad education loan is that the study course should be accredited otherwise, the loan application can be rejected.  STEM courses like mathematics, engineering, and science have higher earning potential compared to arts, humanities, or commerce; hence the chances of a loan being approved are high. If you are considering the other courses, make sure you balance them out with a good and reputed university. It should be a top-notch place to study with a good reputation or ranking.   2. Academic history of the applicant Academic history matters as it will give a fair idea of the student’s capabilities, whether they are serious about their studies, and do they have the intelligence to get exceptional marks.  A student with consistently good grades has a better chance of loan approval than an average student or an applicant with an academic gap or backlog. Applicants seeking an overseas education should be serious about their studies from the word go, as it will improve their chances of loan approval.  3. Applicant and co-applicants age Financial institutions generally do not have an age limit for a secured loan, but for unsecured loans, the maximum age limit is 28 years. The co-applicant should not be close to the retirement age as lenders are hesitant in sanctioning them the loan. Applicants should be aware of the age criteria and apply for the loan accordingly.   4. Genuine and complete documents Fake or incomplete documents will result in the cancellation of the loan application; hence never try it. Read the guidelines carefully and submit each document as per the requirement. These include the loan application form, academic records and mark sheet, entrance test scores, address and identity proof like Aadhaar and PAN, admission letter from the university, and statement of costs.  5. Good CIBIL score CIBIL scores of the applicant and the co-applicant matter as a good score suggests that the previous loans have been paid on time and the chances of getting back the loaned money are high. A bad score means a delay in repayment or a cheque bounce. A good score will increase the chance of securing a loan; hence applicants should be conscious of maintaining a good CIBIL score from the beginning. 6. Too many loan inquiries are harmful Students should not apply to numerous financial institutions as they, in turn, inquire with CIBIL Agency which mentions the number of inquiries in the credit report. This has an impact on the CIBIL score; thus, the applicants must research beforehand and apply for the loan at the appropriate place and at the right time after going through all the pros and cons. 7. Must fulfill the income criteria Applicants must find out the minimum income required by the lender and then fill out the loan application; otherwise, it will be rejected.  8. The repaying capacity Lenders will look at the repaying capacity of the applicant and their total income. In case the loan is passed and is mid-way, and the co-applicant has lost or left their job, the loan can still get rejected. 9. Types of collateral  Financial institutions have a list that defines which properties are considered collateral and which are not; hence applicants must go through the list before naming that property as collateral.  10. Meet the set policy Every lender has a specific set of rules, and the applicant must go through them in detail and then fill out the form and submit the required documents.  Conclusion Lots of students apply for an education loan every year, but only a handful of them manage to get it sanctioned. In most cases, the applicants are not even aware of the true reason for the loan rejection. Knowing about the above-mentioned tips can maximize your chances of getting approved for an abroad education loan.  Reach out to the counselors or experts on the Edufund app for an abroad education loan, and they will guide you through the whole process in quick and easy steps. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

A student loan serves as the ideal link between academic hopefuls and high-quality education, enabling them to get a desired university seat and realize their academic goals. It is wise to get an education loan, but it's crucial to make your payments on schedule. Even if getting the loan could be easy, if it isn't planned well, repaying it could be difficult. Strategies for repaying your abroad education loans 1. Pay the variable rate loans first It is advisable to pay off the variable-rate loans first when you have several student loans to repay, some of which have variable interest rates and others that have fixed interest rates. Even if the variable rate is now lower than the fixed rate, this is delicate and changeable. You can be taken aback if interest rates suddenly increase as a result of economic developments. 2. Think about refinancing your education loan You likely have debt in addition to your school loan. For instance, you can also be responsible for paying off a car loan. If so, you might want to think about refinancing so you can handle your loans more effectively. If a lender gives you a cheaper interest rate, you might look into refinancing your student loan.  Your payments won't be a hardship this way. Due to unforeseen circumstances, you could incur unforeseen fees when making your school loan repayments. Therefore, even a tiny amount of money saved from interest may make a big difference in your situation. Examine your refinancing choices, and if you find a better bargain, move your loan. 3. Choose the right repayment plan Choosing the appropriate education loan repayment plan is the best method to manage student debt. Your lender will offer you a range of repayment options. Choose the approach that best fits your budget. You must be informed of the duration of your moratorium. Before your first EMI is due, you will know how much time you have left to find employment and save money. Think about your anticipated pay from your first job as well. You may determine the appropriate tenure and EMI with the aid of all of this. Without such careful planning, you can end up selecting an EMI that is too expensive for you financially. 4. Get a part-time job while studying It is advisable to work a part-time job that fits into your schedule while attending college or a university to further your knowledge. Saving money from your part-time employment will significantly speed up the loan payback procedure. Students studying abroad are most affected by this strategy. 5. Buy an insurance Banks require a term cover or insurance in the borrower's name as part of their policy. To ensure repayment in the event of any interruption due to either natural or manmade causes, the risk cover should be equal to the loan amount. 6. Loan forgiveness programs The release of the borrower from the obligation to repay a loan is referred to as loan forgiveness, also known as debt elimination or forgiveness in the financial industry (or a portion of a debt). Although theoretically any student debt might be forgiven, student loan forgiveness typically only applies to loans issued or sponsored by the United States government. 92% of the nation's total student debt is comprised of these loans.  In other words, even though the loans are designated for students, the well-recognized forgiveness programs do not apply to any privately issued loans. Borrowers may be able to get their loans canceled or forgiven in specific circumstances. Loan forgiveness applicants must apply, and they might need to continue making payments until their request is approved. How to choose the right Education loan for higher education?  Research and thorough comparison are necessary while selecting the best education loan for higher education. Before choosing an Education loan, compare the interest rates and repayment options offered by several institutions. You may also get in touch with an expert. They can assist you in negotiating a lower interest rate and in organizing your repayment plan to help you save money. Before choosing to take out an education loan, ascertain how much money you require to fund your higher education. Our College Cost Calculator will help you determine how much additional money you'll need to live comfortably in your college city by providing you with information on the tuition and living costs there. When arranging the repayment of your student loan, keep in mind to account for all possibilities and outcomes to make the process simpler on both your wallet and your mind.  It may also be advantageous to invest to increase your current savings corpus if you haven't received a credit sanction yet and are still considering your ability to repay to minimize the amount of credit you require, which might then result in a shorter loan term or lower interest rate. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Education is the birthright of every child, but how many children can afford it in these turbulent times when education costs continue to rise? Gradually getting a good education is becoming a dream that only the upper-middle class or rich people can afford.  So, what happens to the students from lesser backgrounds who want to break the shackles of poverty through education? Well, building an education fund is an ideal option, but if they can’t reach their goal in time, an education loan is a great option. It can be repaid slowly within a stipulated time frame.  Leading government and private banks, cooperatives and NBFCs are offering loans at reasonable rates; hence it seems sensible to apply for it especially when the terms and conditions are aligned with your interests. Average education loan rates The average education loan rate in India is 11% if the student wants to study here. It increases to 12.5% if the student is interested in attending a foreign university.  Education loan rates Comparing the top education loan offers in India in 2023 The Reserve Bank of India in September 2022 hiked the repo rate to 5.9%, which resulted in an increase in ROI on loans. Let us compare the education loan rates in India of some of the public as well as private sector banking institutions to get a clear picture of the type of plan that will suit your personal preferences NameNational InstitutionsROI (%)International Institutions ROI (%)Processing FeesPunjab National Bank8.65% - 9.90%10.65% - 11.40%Nil – 1%State Bank of India7.95% - 10.55%10.55%Nil – INR 10,000Axis Bank13.70% - 15.20%13.70% - 15.20%Up to 2%Bank of Baroda10.50% - 11.85%10.25% - 10.90%Nil – 1%ICICI Bank9.5% onwards9.5% onwardUp to 2%Bank of Maharashtra8.85% - 10.70%10.35% - 10.70%Nil – 0.50%Federal Bank11.95% onwards11.95% onwardsNABank of India10.45% - 11.25%As ApplicableNil – INR 5,000Canara Bank8.8% - 10.80%10.40% - 10.90%0.50%Kotak Mahindra BankUp to 16%Up to 16%NA How do banks calculate education loan rates in India? Education loan rates of the lending Institutions depend upon several critical factors. These are- 1. University If the college or university that the student is getting admitted to has a record of good placements, then most banks would be willing to sanction loans at a lower interest rate. 2. Academic record The academic record of a student matters a lot because if a student has been able to maintain very good grades throughout their academic career, the chance of getting a loan at low-interest rates becomes high. If the record is average or below average, the chance of loan approval becomes less, and the rate of interest will be comparatively higher. 3. Collateral Secured loans or loan applications where the applicant can provide collateral have lower ROI compared to unsecured loans without collateral.  4. Credit score of the co-borrower If the co-borrower has a low credit score, then the chance of the loan application being rejected or an increased rate of interest becomes high, whereas a good credit score will secure the loan quickly at low interest. Education loan through the EduFund app Edufund is one of the leading apps that helps students with easy education loans. Students can access loans up to an amount of 1 crore to study in either India or a foreign university. The service is free, and there are no hidden charges that can later come to haunt you.  Through the Edufund App, you have direct access to its NBFC partners and banking institutions like Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, MPower Financing, ICICI Bank, etc., so that the loan approval process becomes quick and easy.  The best thing about getting a loan through the app is that collateral is not needed for loan amounts up to INR 75 Lakh. The icing on the cake is that the higher the amount of the loan, the lower the interest rate you have to pay.  The education calculator on the site is a blessing in disguise as it helps to calculate the required sum with some simple steps within a few seconds. Income Tax benefit on education loans Applicants should know that the interest amount and not the principal part that an individual pays on an education loan can be claimed as a deduction under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act of India 1961. The exemption is for a maximum of 8 years or till the date when the interest is paid, whichever is earlier.  Conclusion It is vital to know about the education loan rates in India to make comparisons and understand where to apply and how to get the minimum rate of interest on the loan amount. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Confusion while choosing a career occurs when you lack a clear idea about your options. The resultant stress can add to the clouding of judgment. This can, however, be avoided by conducting thorough self-scrutiny and simultaneously analyzing the current job market.  Choosing a career can seem like a mammoth task. Like all other mammoth tasks, the most efficient way to troubleshoot this is to divide it into smaller tasks. First, make a list of the things you need to consider while choosing a career. Second, prioritize them systematically by lining them up in the correct chronological order. Set short-term goals so that they are easily achievable. Here are some helpful pointers.  Ways you can choose the right career path? 1. Do I have one or more areas of interest? An ideal point to start is to consider your area of interest. This also means self-analyzing and deciding how interest-driven you are in life and at work. Choosing a career can befuddle you if you are not sure of yourself. If you have more than one area of interest, note them down serially. Not every interest can be monetized. Once you have all of them listed you can decide which would be ideal as a foundation for your career. A coach would be very helpful to help you gain clarity. 2. What are my skills & capabilities?  Skills are one of the most important factors when it comes to vocation. Being aware of what your capabilities are will make you not only confident about yourself but also offer clarity over what skills could be developed to become a better competitor in the job market.  It is also necessary to be well aware of your skills so that you can list them down in your curriculum vitae that are necessary for your job profile alongside your portfolio. Remember, not having a skill is not an obstacle. As long as you know about it, you can always train yourself to be better.  3. What is my level of education?  Education is another founding factor when it comes to career selection. This is why it is so important to think about future job options even while pursuing an academic course. Journeys are made purposeful by setting a destination. Similarly, your educational endeavor can be a rewarding experience when it has a good career as its destination point. A good career is also what makes the allocation of funds towards education fruitful because you have an estimate of the returns. Nevertheless, do not worry if you are way past your educational life and looking for jobs presently. All you need to do is consider what your level of education is and how it can help you land a good job.  4. What are my principles/work ethics?  Your values, principles, and work ethics are what make you exclusive and irreplaceable as an employee. Among other things, it takes into account your approach towards work- if you function well in stressful situations or are you most efficient in a stress-free environment.  Thus, it is important to check up not only on the work ethics and values of the company you want to work for but also your principles. If these two match, you might have the most wonderful experience of your life. However, if they do not, you might feel stuck in a work environment that does not help you grow as a person.  5. Are there many jobs I can choose from?  Analyzing the job market is one of the most indispensable steps while considering career options. It is advisable to start as early as possible. When you are deciding upon a course to study, keep an eye on the availability of jobs in that field.  Having more options means you can reduce the pressure upon yourself, to begin with. It also implies that once you land a few jobs, your demand as a candidate increases. This might also be reflected as a positive influence on your future salary and enhance your prospects.  6. What are my financial goals?  Goals offer purpose to living. But financial goals are more than that. Other than making you purposeful, it also regulates your monetary habits. As such it is important to set out personal goals judiciously.  Your mindfulness while setting financial goals can come in handy while choosing a career. You might have short-term or long-term goals. Based on that, you can apply for jobs after considering their salary structure and thereby, formulate a plan of action for achieving your dreams. 7. Is my living style compatible with my career option(s)? You can expect life to not remain the same before and after employment. Nevertheless, you might want to consider jobs that are compatible with your current lifestyle. The other option is to be open to changing your lifestyle according to your job requirements.  You can start by asking questions like - Is the job shift manageable or will it be too inconvenient for you? Carefully examine if you are comfortable with the job role. Some jobs require you to travel frequently. In that case, you can ask yourself if you are up for it. FAQs What are the 7 steps to finding the right career path?   Know your area of interest   Assess your skills and capabilities   Quality education   The right principle/ work ethic   Analyse the job market   Set your financial goal   Strike a balance between lifestyle and career option     How do I find my career path? Confusion while choosing a career occurs when you lack a clear idea about your options. Choosing a career can seem like a mammoth task. Like all other mammoth tasks, the most efficient way to troubleshoot this is to divide it into smaller tasks.   First, make a list of the things you need to consider while choosing a career. Second, prioritize them systematically by lining them up in the correct chronological order. Set short-term goals so that they are easily achievable. What are the 4 Ps of choosing a career? There are four significant things that an individual should consider while choosing a career- people, product, purpose, and potential.   What are the 10 steps to the right career path?   Identify your passion   Know your strengths and weakness   Prioritise quality education   Choose a suitable course   Acquire important skills during the internship   Design a winning resume   Do your research before applying for a job   Keep an eye on the job market   Assess your financial goal   Balance your lifestyle and career option   Conclusion In this capitalistic world, work and leisure are often segregated from each other. We tend to forget that enjoying your work can render you stress-free and make life ten times better. Choose a career that, while yielding desired returns, will not hamper your mental peace or restrict personal growth. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Ever since the year 2020, the world has moved at a different speed. Due to the pandemic, the world almost came to a standstill. But then it got back on its feet again and started progressing at a faster pace to make up for the lost time. Some of the intrinsic social institutions like health and education have been most influenced by such drastic changes. Certain trends have emerged and solidified in the case of education and these are going to be quite noticeable in 2022.  1. Technology as a factor  First and foremost, after staying cooped up in our rooms for too long, humans were forced to take up interaction with the rest of the world through virtual media. Even kids are being deprived of their basic right to social development in a more open and public atmosphere, as they have to attend online classes.  Although Generation Z is born in the digital era, studies have indicated that such a drastic and paradigmatic change has affected children psychologically. Children staying at home all the time has made work-from-home slightly difficult for adults. Moreover, the added dependency on gadgets to get an education has extended their screen time exponentially.  But this new trend came with a silver lining- it made kids tech-savvy at a very young age. To make up for lost public time and space and to make social distancing bearable, new software applications have been developed. Some of them are devoted to instilling a sense of patience and concentration in kids getting into the new habit of getting a school education from home.  2. Social grooming  Human beings are social animals. Let’s just say, we have learned a new way of being social amidst the norms of isolation and social distancing. Developing soft skills is a major part of the social and cognitive development that kids partly learn from school, and partly at home.  Now the space we call home has to serve as both public and private, figuratively speaking. In a way, the pandemic has turned the world into an even smaller global village. Fortunately, digitization has made it possible to attain the closest experience to real-life socializing. Class presentations are still held for students on virtual platforms. Children can choose to indulge in group study projects through social media apps under their parents’ supervision.  3. Vocational engagements  After a few months into the Coronavirus pandemic, it became clear that time and tide stop for none. Once the governments of various countries started getting some level of control over the situation, the education sector also started reopening avenues virtually.  Soon developers on new virtual platforms realized that this was their chance to take advantage of the study-from-home culture. Courses began getting more and more job-oriented. Even websites known for finding job placements began offering certificate courses that would make one more eligible to apply for a particular vocation in the future. Understandably, a lot of the vocational skills are offered through these courses that last for a shorter duration. They are meant to prepare the new generation for work-from-home jobs since the pandemic has changed some things in a near-permanent fashion. 4. Going beyond the syllabus Another very popular trend that has emerged amid the pandemic is students enrolling for different courses from foreign universities. Since traveling across borders has now become more complicated due to COVID, grabbing every opportunity for distance education can be counted as a smart move. The internet has made it possible to introduce new and unconventional courses into the mainstream curriculum. Educators can now virtually assess and discuss the progress of a student with their parents. Students can also resort to technological aids for self-assessment, through data algorithms which means that the process is more objective and self-sufficient. This can, in turn, provide a self of self and purpose. It can drive kids to learn and develop skill sets that go beyond the prescribed syllabus.  5. Studying abroad is still as desirable as ever The idea of studying from anywhere virtually is taking hold but data suggests that college enrolments abroad have only increased in the past year. The reason is perhaps that a college education doesn't only include the syllabus but also the community, lifestyle, and campus life that all add up to overall personality development. Studying abroad remains as desirable as ever for Indian students wanting to get the best higher education. FAQs What are the new trends in education? The new trends in education include increased of technology, higher number of online classes, reliance of education-technology to teach in classrooms and going beyond the usage of books and reading material. What are the trends in Indian education? The growing trends in Indian education: Gamification Introduction of soft skills and hard skills Use of technology in classrooms What is the importance of trends in education? New and improved trends in education are important to deal with the changing world. For instance, the introduction of online classes helped thousands of schools and parents cope with the changing world. It allowed students to continue their education unhindered. Conclusion An optimistic way of looking at the changing trends in higher education in 2022 is acknowledging the fact that digitization has acted as a catalyst in changing the face of academia itself. The pandemic has wreaked much havoc but it has also prepared us for a brave new world.  Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Everyone speaks about the rewards of preparing early for education funds and securing them as soon as possible. What they forget to explain is how to reach that goal. Fear not, for we have prepared a list of things you might want to tick off if you want to secure your child’s education.  1. Choosing the right platform is important There are a number of investment platforms available for investors. As an investor with a goal in mind (the education fund for your child), it is important to choose a platform that is built for that purpose or has certain advantages in the pursuit of your goal. There are two great advantages of choosing a goal-specific platform - one, you separate your investments in a way that you know how much amount is set aside for that particular goal every month, and second, you get the added goal-related benefits that the platform could offer. In the case of EduFund, a platform built for parents to save for their children's education fund, you have added advantages like readily available education loans if you fall short, or free counseling if your child needs it. 2. Investing in the right mutual funds  Once you decide to invest in mutual funds to achieve higher returns than Fixed Deposits, you also need to do your research to find which investment schemes are best suited for you. Many factors play crucial roles in this procedure. For example, one of the first things you need to consider is the balance between your monetary goals and the level to which these will be fulfilled by the fund returns and the risk associated.  Time is another important factor that will shape your decision in this matter. You also need to consider what exactly you want out of your investment whether it is tax reductions high returns with high risks or more stabilized returns with low risks. To indulge in smart investments, stay aware of the best investment schemes currently trending in the stock market. 3. Investing in international stocks Parents who like to stay alert about the current trends related to the education system and finances must be well aware of the phenomenon called education inflation. This is what makes a global education exponentially more expensive than one attained within India.  The value of the Indian Rupee has depreciated over the years against foreign currencies like the American dollar. This means that the cost of a course pursued in a foreign land like the US or the UK will be tenfold compared to the same course pursued in this country. The cost of living will be equally high overseas. A smart way to deal with this problem is to invest in international equity funds. This means higher returns because if you invest in US stocks, you will be earning in dollars, not rupees. Moreover, if your investments in Indian stocks get affected by market fluctuations, you can still depend upon your foreign stock investments which will remain relatively more stable.  4. Consider the availability of education loans  Sometimes your life savings and your investment returns are not enough to fund your child’s education. Do not worry. Education loans can take care of your child’s aspirations in such situations. Even if you are in a position to be able to afford your kid’s dream college, student loans are still a healthy way to teach your kid the value of money and how to build credit.   Creditworthiness is a virtue that will financially discipline your child so that they can make monetary decisions in your absence. It will also ensure that they can take future loans as part of their education fund at low interest rates. Only loans exceeding a very high amount of money require collateral or a security deposit, which means you can easily avail of student loans.  5. The right guidance for your children Career and academic counseling sessions are crucial for your kid if they are going through a transition phase in their lives. As their primary caregiver, you are entitled to guide their way but sometimes what might be required is professional help. You are longer required to pay for these counseling sessions. A platform like EduFund offers them the best education counseling services in India for free of cost. Let nothing stop your child from achieving their goals.  6. Expert advice to get you to your goal EduFund believes in helping you attain as much clarity on financial affairs as possible. In case of expert advice on investment, you can rely on the world-class experts from EduFund. The Edufund app provides you with all the useful tools to attain the best from your child’s education fund.  For example, it comes with a calculator that helps you calculate the education cost. This is a smart calculator developed to give you inflation-adjusted rates. This is the first step toward getting an idea of how much you will need to invest or save up as an education fund.  Conclusion What seems like a mammoth task can be easily managed by dividing it into smaller tasks and simplifying it. Each small step is quite crucial in itself. But once you have the checklist ready, you can be sure if not losing sight of things. FAQs How do I plan my child's education fund? Starting early is key to building your child's education fund. You can start saving with mutual funds, PPF, US stocks, Indian stocks, fixed deposits, and much more. Before starting it is important to consult a financial advisor and figure out the cost of education before starting an SIP. Which fund is best for child education? Here are some of the best funds for your child's education fund: Axis Long-Term Equity FundSBI Equity Hybrid FundParag Parikh Flexi Cap FundAditya Birla Sun Life Tax Relief 96 Fund Growth Aditya Birla Sun Life Tax Plan-GrowthDSP BlackRock Tax Saver Fund Growth Axis Long-Term Equity Fund Growth How do you build a corpus for child education? The first step to building a corpus for a child's education fund is to figure out the cost using the College Cost Calculator. Knowing the financial goal you need to invest in before starting a SIP helps you remain focused and know the exact amount you need to save monthly to get started. DisclaimerMutual fund investments are subject to market risks. The previous performance of a fund or scheme is no guarantee of future success. Please read the offer document carefully before investing.

Want your child to go to the best possible college in India or abroad? Plan way ahead of time. Being prepared beforehand is the secret ingredient to being a successful parent when it comes to backing up your ward’s academic career. When you build an education fund it is important not only to save up but also to invest. Here are some pro tips on how to send your child to the best possible college.   1. Planning ahead The significance of planning ahead can not be stressed enough. There are multiple reasons why you should start having forethoughts about your family’s future. Firstly, an ideal way of demystifying a huge process is to break it down into short-term goals. Secondly, it can resolve all the stress that may come your way when you are faced with the biggest monetary decisions of your life. One such decision is regarding the college your child will eventually attend. When you are ready with your investment money and savings directed to your kid’s education, you can effortlessly offer financial backing in whatever dream college they aim for. The pandemic has not been entirely successful in distorting the trend of pursuing a global education. Make sure to start investing early so that you can keep many options open for your kid.   2. Choosing investment schemes  There are too many options to choose from when it comes to investment schemes. This is another reason why you should begin as soon as possible. This way you will have more time in listing out the most suitable choices and deciding how you are going to divide your money between savings and investments. You can go for mutual funds instead of investing directly in stocks. Investing in mutual funds is a hassle-free option, unlike direct investments as you will not be required to have in-depth knowledge of market trends. 3. Considering the possibility of a global education While it is not possible to know for certain the stream of education your child will opt for in the future, it is advisable to remain prepared. It can be useful to remember that the earlier you invest, the more wealth you generate. This principle works for every financial goal you set and it is particularly beneficial if there is a possibility of pursuing global education. Another concept you need to be familiar with in this situation is education inflation.  Education inflation is a result of the costs of education rising faster than the average income, and this rate of inflation is higher than the rate of general inflation in most countries. The only way to beat education inflation? Start investing early. FAQs What is important when choosing a college? The most important criteria for choosing a college for your child are the course and their reputation in that field. For example, if your child wants to study business, they should aim for universities like Harvard, Columbia, University of Pennsylvania, and MIT. Other factors to consider are rank, ROI of the university, acceptance rate, qualifications, and eligibility criteria as well as the fees and cost of pursuing the course. It's important to look at scholarships, application waivers, and the placement opportunities offered by the college. How do I choose the right college for my child? The right way to choose a college for your child is to plan ahead. Find out which course your child wants to pursue, and check out the best colleges and the best country to pursue that program. The next step is to figure out the future cost of college for the program. You can use the college cost calculator to determine the cost of tuition fees and living expenses, adjusted to inflation and price increase. How to plan for college? The most important aspect of planning for college includes cost and tuition fees. There are multiple costs involved in sending your child off to college such as tuition fees, accommodation, travel, books, stationary, lab expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Tuition fees and accommodation are the two biggest expenses that parents need to bear, thus, starting an education fund after determining the costs is the best way to plan for college. Conclusion The above-mentioned points prove why simply looking up dream colleges for your kid is not enough. To be practical, financial backing is one of the most important factors in this matter. Plan ahead. Diversify your investments. Provide your child with the future that they deserve.

USA is known for its technological advancements. Afterall, it is home the top 10 Schools of Technology in the USA! If you are going through indecision regarding choosing the best college for technology in the USA or are confused about your options, this is the blog for you.   1. New Jersey Institute of Technology  The New Jersey Institute of Technology, located in Newark city of New Jersey, is counted among the best colleges in the country. One of the perks of studying at this public university is that it is located in one of the prettiest cities in New Jersey. The other perk is, of course, the high rate of placements that over 90 percent of the students are known to enjoy every year. The degrees are offered in interesting subjects like biometrics, computer science, information technology, and so on.  2. Illinois Institute of Technology  Located in Chicago, Illinois Institute of Technology is known for offering degrees like Bachelor, Master, and research to prepare students for exciting jobs of the future. The subjects covered by these courses include artificial intelligence, theory of computation, information and communication technology, cyber security, and so on. 3. Rochester Institute of Technology The Rochester Institute of Technology is located in Rochester city of New York state. It is considered one of the best when it comes to schools of technology in America because it has an impressive employment rate that crosses 70 percent. Innovative and enticing courses are taught here including game design and development, computing exploration, new media interactive development, human-centered computing, software engineering, and so on.  Additional read: What are the best-fit colleges? 4. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Troy, a city in Rensselaer County of New York state, houses one of the best technical colleges in the US - the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Part of the legacy of this institution is also because it is one of the oldest. It offers M.S., B.S., and doctoral degrees in computer science. The renowned department of computer science incorporates interesting subjects like artificial intelligence and machine learning. The campus is also well-known for its technology park that spans over 1250 acres and its on-site business incubator.  5. Stevens Institute of Technology  Stevens Institute of Technology is located in New Jersey, right across the river from New York state. It is most prominently known for a particular program it offers - the cybersecurity education program. Stevens is also famous for ensuring one of the highest placement rates in the country. Students can earn patents or collaborate with investors to work on their projects. The subjects covered are data science, cybersecurity, and computer science. 6. Georgia Technology Institute Another public institution located in Atlanta, Georgia, that ranks among the top 10 colleges in the US for technology is the Georgia Technology Institute. Other than being one of the best schools of technology, it is also one of the highest-rated for research. It offers employable degrees in courses like mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, computer and information sciences, bioengineering, and biomedical engineering, among others.  7. Lehigh University Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh University offers B.A. as well as B.S. degrees. Other than the core courses in computer science and business, it offers exciting electives in robotics, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, data mining, mobile app development, and so on, thus prepping students to be the best performers in a corporate setting. 8. Michigan Technological University Michigan Technological University in Houghton city of Michigan state might not be the biggest institution in the US but it is one of the best when it comes to job placements. B.S. and M.S. degrees are offered here alongside research. Some very interesting courses taught here include human-computer interactions, parallel computing, and virtual environments.  9. Stanford University Stanford is unanimously considered one of the best schools on a global scale. No wonder it is one of the most hard-to-get-in institutes of technology. It is not simply the percentage of placements that make it a top institution in the country. The courses offered are also one-of-a-kind. These include biocomputation, artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and graphics among others. 10. Massachusetts Institute of Technology  MIT is the best, be it technology or any other discipline. Massachusetts Institute of Technology is considered the most prestigious among the top 10 colleges for technology in the USA and is located in Cambridge city of Massachusetts. The Department of Computer Science offers B.S., M.S., and doctoral degrees in data science, electrical science, and engineering, among others.  FAQs What is the number 1 tech school in the US? The best tech school in the US is Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It has the lowest acceptance rate and reputation of launching world's most talented founders. What college has the best technology program? The colleges with the best technology program in the USA: New Jersey Institute of Technology Illinois Institute of Technology Rochester Institute of Technology Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Stevens Institute of Technology Georgia Technology Institute Lehigh University Michigan Technological University Stanford University Massachusetts Institute of Technology What college is #1 in the US? The #1 college in USA is Harvard University. Conclusion It is important to go through the details of the chosen course offered by these premiere institutions way ahead of time. This way you can be well prepared for the application procedure in case you want to opt for an education loan. You will also know if you need to develop certain technical skills that will make you a better candidate. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Confused about how to get started with a fund for your child’s college education? Do not worry the stress of saving for college is quite natural. It is, however, avoidable. With certain smart steps, you can smoothly ensure the best for your child.  A college education is, in most cases, the final step before you embark on a whole new venture, namely your career. This is why having a proper college education is so crucial. To ensure that your kid gets to go to their dream institution and cherish their college life, you must start getting prepared as soon as possible.  College savings go a long way in securing a lot of things. It takes half the stress away in your retired life. It inspires your child to aim higher, unperturbed. A family that grows in the culture of financial regulation stays prepared to take on future monetary challenges. Saving for college is one such healthy habit that you should inculcate as your child’s primary caregiver and later pass it on to them as they come of age.  Now let us discuss some wise ways of building up that college fund.   1. Start early  The more time you devote to creating college savings, the more money you can accumulate. Going by that simple logic, time is money. You can even start before your child is born for that matter. Yes, college savings can be part of your preliminary family planning.  In fact, starting early helps in steering clear of all kinds of confusion when the actual moment arrives. You will not be required to compromise your retirement savings to make up for your kid’s dream college. This brings us to the next pro tip for college savings. 2. Organize your savings  The virtues of organization and compartmentalization are not just for college savings. Life itself works on such discipline and decorum. If you do not list out the various things you have to save for, you will always end up mixing up finances. For example, if you use up the savings meant for emergencies to help your kid get admission to a fancy college, that leaves you vulnerable to future crises. It is advisable to open a separate savings bank account meant for your child’s education. Once your child grows up, you can turn them into the beneficiary of that account.    3. Diversify your investments  Investments, unlike savings, generate wealth. Thus, like savings, it is beneficial to get started with investments as soon as possible. Investing in mutual funds can be an easy, stress-free, and lucrative option.  Nowadays parents are also advised to invest in foreign stocks because there is a high chance of their child pursuing a global education. Moreover, a college education abroad is not just about the tuition fee, it is also about the cost of living. When you make money in a foreign currency, you can counter the problem of education inflation that plagues the college lives of students from Asian countries desiring to study in the West. 4. Involve your child  Last, but not least, it is very important to involve your child in financial affairs that concern their future. As your child grows up to be sensible enough to understand the basics of how money works, start teaching them about the income-expenditure ratio and the art of saving. You can encourage them to save whatever they can every month from their pocket money. As they grow older, educate them on market trends and how investments work. This way the stress will not just be on your shoulders as you grow old. In fact, the idea that your ward is well-informed on such affairs will ease most of the stress of family life.  Conclusion Children can not learn to be judicious with money if they are not taught to be so on a day-to-day basis. If you can get your kid involved in the whole procedure of college savings, they will also learn to do effective budgeting when they are on their own in a foreign city or country. FAQs How do I start saving money for college? The best way to start saving money for college is to start early. If you are a parent then start saving for your child's education when they are as young as 2 -3 years. The sooner you start building a fund for them, the bigger it will grow. If you are preparing for your own studies then investing in mutual funds is also an option. Time is of great value, try to start as early as possible to get ahead. Is saving for college a good idea? Saving for college is a great idea for parents. It helps you build a fund for your child's education, allows you to meet different financial goals, and secures a good life for your children. At what age should you start saving for college? The best age to start saving for college for your children is when your child is young. It is ideal to start when they are 1-2 years old. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Wondering if investments are a good option for your child’s future? Not sure when or where to start? This article details why early investments not only serve the purpose of helping your kid realize their dreams but also secure the entire family’s future simultaneously.  Now there is a fine solution to avoid all kinds of bewilderment and anxiety surrounding the expenditure for your child’s college education. It is called early investment. Be it investing in mutual funds, or directly into stocks, investing from the beginning of your family life is the way to go. Especially, if you have children or planning to have kids, now is the time to begin if you haven’t already begun.  Here is a list of reasons why investing early is good for your children’s future. 1. Planning is key Plan your investments like you plan your savings - smart and quick. Savings play an important role in building up an education fund for your kid. But savings alone are not enough to accumulate enough wealth. This is where investments come in.  Break up your investment goals like you would with your savings. Your emergency fund or retirement fund should not get muddled up with your kid’s college fund. Don’t worry about the exact amount of money you ought to invest. Start with small amounts depending on how much you can spare from your income. 2. Scope to diversify investments  Part of your planning for investments should be to decide how to diversify them. For example, you can read up on how different mutual fund schemes work and decide on investing in more than one. This way, you will not be at the sheer mercy of market fluctuations.   You are also advised to go for international equity stocks if you expect your kid to pursue their college education abroad in the future. Investing in foreign stocks is an effective way of balancing the pressure of education inflation. The earlier you begin, the more time you will have on your hand to patiently do your research or even consult a financial expert if required.  3. The boon of compounding  The simplest logic behind indulging in early investments is the same as the logic of early savings. With more time, a larger amount of wealth gets accumulated. But investments enjoy an added benefit - compounding. The extra amount of money you earn in the first round of investments later adds to the amount you originally invested. This means your money will be multiplying at increased rates as time goes by. This is also why investments are a superior option when compared to saving and more importantly, why you should start investing immediately.  4. The most secure future  Investing early in your child’s future education is not simply about securing their future. It is also about creating a hassle-free retirement life for yourself. Now even if your child desires to go to a foreign institution, you will be able to back them up without having to sacrifice your retirement fund.  Moreover, in most cases, the tax liability is way less when you start investing at the beginning of your career. This way you save more money. For later, you can go for tax-saving investment options like ELSS to make the best out of your investments. SIPs make investing even more effortless as you will not have to worry about it manually investing your money every month.  5. Setting an example for your kids  If you are a new parent or have a kid on the way, this tip is specifically directed toward you. It is important to remember that kids learn by imitating adults. When you teach them the benefits of saving and investing early, they start growing a consciousness that will shape their financial habits when they grow up.  Make your kids a part of the investment plan as soon as possible. You can later turn them into the beneficiaries of the funds you have built for them. By that time, they will be adept at managing the economic resources at their disposal.   FAQs Why investing early is so important? Investing early is important. It helps you find a sizable fund for your child and family's financial goals. Whether its paying for your child's education or buying a house, investing can help you achieve financial goals. What are 3 benefits of investing? The 3 benefits of investing are: Beats inflationary prices Helps you grow wealth and meet different financial goals Allows you to reap benefits of compounding Why is education called an investment? Education is an investment in itself because it is the means to an end. End goal like better lifestyle, job opportunities and personal growth. It is the best way to grow as an individual and provide a better life to yourself and your family. Conclusion Investing early in your kid’s college fund not only takes away the pressure of student loans but also helps them focus on academics and their career. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan  TALK TO AN EXPERT

Financial freedom is on the wish list of everyone who understands its importance in living a fulfilling life. So often, we get caught up with just working to pay the bills, rent, and everything else that enjoying life is left for a tomorrow that’s always still coming.  As a parent, financial freedom is the greatest gift you can give your child and we’re here to help you with that goal. Here are four things that you can do as a parent to help your child achieve financial freedom.  1. Help them understand how money works Everyone who has trodden the path to financial freedom has taken the time to understand how money works and the role that it plays in their life. Of course, to say that it just buys you things is like saying that cricket is just hitting the ball with a bat. It negates the skill, strategy, and work that it takes to be good at the sport.  You can help your children with financial literacy by talking to them about the basics, introducing them early to the concept of finance, and encouraging them to read books and watch movies/documentaries on the subject. This will help them see through the “transaction” aspect and beyond, laying the foundation for a greater understanding.  2. Inculcate habits that will help them Great parenting is so often just inculcating the right habits. Teach them the value of saving and investing very early with a piggy bank. Be precise with the pocket money that you give them and make sure that it is neither too much nor too little. Encourage them to create a budget for their expenses and teach them how they can save more.  These habits will give shape their financial mindset which is going to help them achieve financial freedom. Create a bank account for them when they are eligible and get them excited about financial institutions such as equity markets and their functioning.  3. Do not burden them with student loans or other debt Financial independence is surely a scalable path but any kind of debt means that your child is starting the race far behind everyone else. Good education always comes at a considerable cost and student loans seem like the easy way out, but they often end up being the reason why young graduates stick around in unfulfilling jobs. So what’s the better way?  Early planning on your part can help save your children from this kind of debt. With the use of platforms like EduFund, you start investing early in your child’s education. This way, it is neither a burden on you nor on your child. An education cost calculator can help you find out how much your child might need for a good education and help you plan things out.  And only in the rarest of situations, if you still happen to fall short, you can opt for student loans that don’t burden your child entirely.  4. Be their financial role model Your children learn things by looking at you tackle life. The easy way of teaching them the art of budgeting would mean including them in the conversation when you sit down to budget. Similarly, show them your investment portfolio, and show them the kind of diversification you are hoping for and why.  Tell them how much you save and why. They answer their curious questions patiently. Tell them why you could buy that new car but why you wouldn’t (right away). Teach them about debt and when it is good and when it is bad.  When your children grow up looking at you as their financial role model, they will try to replicate those same habits and that would help them achieve financial freedom.  FAQs What is the fastest way to achieve financial freedom? The fastest way to achieve financial freedom is to set financial goals,, determine how much you need to retire and start working towards the goals. Investments, creating multiple sources of income and sticking to the budget are some ways to achieving financial freedom. It is important to have assets that provide you with a regular income and help you manage your finances on a daily basis. What's the 50/20/30 rule? 50/30/20 rule is a budgeting rule for financial management and success. The idea is to divide your income into three categories, spending 50% on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings. How can I be financially free in 10 years? Financial freedom means different things to different people. It is important to pen down your goals, the amount you need to be financially free and assess the ways to achieve that goal. There are some tried and tested ways like investing in mutual funds, creating multiple incomes, investing in stocks, starting a retirement fund that can help you achieve financial freedom. What are things that you can do as a parent to help your child achieve financial freedom? Help them understand how money works Inculcate habits that will help them Do not burden them with student loans or other debt Be their financial role model Conclusion The topic of financial literacy has been gaining footing in the global dialogue for a while. It is not such a taboo subject anymore given the rise of the millennials and their financial leanings. If you have children or are planning to have children anytime soon, make sure you familiarize yourself with the topic of financial literacy today. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT