Your credit score is the first thing most lenders look at. Checking it before you apply tells you where you stand — and gives you time to fix problems before they cost you a better rate.
How credit scores work in India
India has four credit bureaus: TransUnion CIBIL, Experian, Equifax and CRIF High Mark. Each keeps a record of your loans and credit cards and turns it into a score, usually between 300 and 900. The higher the score, the more comfortable lenders are — and the better the terms you are likely to be offered.
Get your free credit report
Under RBI rules, you are entitled to one free full credit report a year from each bureau. You can request it on the bureaus' own websites:
Checking your own score does not lower it. Only a lender's enquiry when you formally apply is recorded as a hard enquiry.
What to look for in the report
- Loans or cards you do not recognise
- Loans you have closed that still show as open
- Late payments that you did not make late
If something is wrong, raise a dispute with the bureau that shows it. Corrections take time, so check well before you plan to apply.
How to improve your score
- Pay every EMI and card bill on time. Payment history matters more than anything else.
- Keep credit-card use low compared with your limit.
- Do not apply to many lenders at once. Several hard enquiries in a short period can pull your score down.
- Keep old accounts in good standing — a long, clean history helps.
- Settle overdue amounts properly and get the account closed, not just "settled", where you can.
Low score? You may still have options
Some lenders accept lower scores, sometimes for a smaller amount or a higher rate, or with a co-applicant or security. Tell us honestly where you stand and we will tell you honestly what is realistic.
General information, not financial advice. Lender policies and scheme rules change — we confirm the current position for your case.