The West Bengal Student Credit Card (WBSCC) scheme, launched by the Department of Higher Education, provides collateral-free loans to students for pursuing higher studies in India or abroad. As of 2026, the scheme continues to support education ranging from secondary school (Class 10) to doctoral and postdoctoral research.
Key Financial Features
- Maximum Loan Limit: Students can avail themselves of a loan of up to ₹10 lakh.
- Interest Rate: A nominal simple interest rate of 4% per annum is charged after interest subvention.
- Incentive: Borrowers receive a 1% interest concession if the interest is fully serviced during the study period.
- Repayment Terms: The loan has a flexible repayment period of up to 15 years, which includes a moratorium or “repayment holiday” (typically the course duration plus an additional year or six months after securing a job).
- Collateral: No tangible or intangible security is required beyond the co-obligation of parents or legal guardians.
Eligibility Criteria
- Residency: Must be an Indian citizen and a resident of West Bengal for at least 10 years.
- Age Limit: The applicant must be under 40 years old at the time of application.
- Education: Students enrolled in Class 10 and above are eligible. This includes secondary, higher secondary, undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and diploma courses.
- Competitive Exams: Students in recognized coaching institutes for exams like IAS, IPS, WBCS, Engineering (JEE), and Medical (NEET) can also apply.
Scope of Expenses Covered
The loan covers both institutional and non-institutional costs:
- Institutional: Course fees, tuition, examination fees, and hostel charges.
- Non-Institutional: Living expenses (capped at 20% of total loan), and purchase of books, computers, laptops, or tablets (capped at 30% for all non-institutional expenses including living costs).
How to Apply
The application process is entirely online through the WBSCC Portal:
- Registration: Register as a student on the portal to generate a unique ID and password.
- Application Submission: Log in to fill out personal, co-borrower, and bank details.
- Document Upload: Upload necessary files (Aadhaar, colored photographs, signature, admission receipt, and institution fee structure).
- Tracking: You can track the application status directly from your student dashboard on the official website.
For assistance, students can contact the State Help Line at 1800-102-8014.