Credit Score in India
Your credit score is a single number between 300 and 900 that summarises how reliably you repay debt. Every bank in India checks it before approving a loan or credit card. This hub explains what moves it and how to improve it.
Updated
Start here
- BasicsWhat is a CIBIL score?What the number means, and its range.
- ProcessHow to check your CIBIL scoreFree ways to pull your report and score.
- BasicsFactors that affect your scoreThe five things banks look at.
- BasicsCommon credit score mythsDebunking the biggest misconceptions.
- ActionHow to improve your credit score10 concrete steps you can take today.
- SegmentCredit score for home loanScore cut-offs at each major bank.
- BasicsWhat is your Experian score?How Experian differs from CIBIL, and when it matters.
- ActionHow to dispute a report errorStep-by-step process and the 30-day SLA.
Credit score bands and what they mean
| Score band | Typical outcome |
|---|---|
| 750 – 900 | Best rates, high approval odds |
| 700 – 749 | Approved at slightly higher rates |
| 650 – 699 | Approvals possible, higher rates |
| 550 – 649 | Mostly declined at banks; NBFC options |
| Below 550 | Very difficult to get unsecured credit |
750 – 900
- Typical outcome
- Best rates, high approval odds
700 – 749
- Typical outcome
- Approved at slightly higher rates
650 – 699
- Typical outcome
- Approvals possible, higher rates
550 – 649
- Typical outcome
- Mostly declined at banks; NBFC options
Below 550
- Typical outcome
- Very difficult to get unsecured credit
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check my credit score?
Once every 3-6 months is sufficient. CIBIL offers one free credit report every calendar year; more frequent access is available through paid subscriptions.
Does checking my own score reduce it?
No. Checking your own score is a 'soft enquiry' and has zero impact. Only lender enquiries during a loan application are 'hard enquiries' that briefly reduce the score.
How long does it take to improve a poor score?
Meaningful improvement (50-100 points) typically takes 6-12 months of disciplined repayment.
Sources & references
- Reserve Bank of India — Credit Information Companies overview — RBI
- CIBIL — Get your free CIBIL score & report — TransUnion CIBIL
- CIBIL Score FAQ — TransUnion CIBIL
Rates, fees, eligibility, and product terms cited on this page reflect the sources above at the time of publication and may have changed since. Always verify directly with the lender or regulator.