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In a financial landscape where credit scores often dictate access to borrowing, securing a Rs 3 lakh personal loan with a 650 credit score may seem daunting—but it’s far from impossible. According to recent updates from Mint and Live Hindustan on September 19, 2025, borrowers with moderate credit scores can still qualify for personal loans through non-bank financial companies and fintech platforms, provided they meet certain income and documentation criteria.
While traditional banks prefer applicants with scores above 720, the rise of alternative lending models and digital underwriting has opened doors for individuals with scores in the 650 range. However, applicants must be prepared for stricter scrutiny, higher interest rates, and more conservative loan terms.
Key Highlights From The Lending Landscape
- A 650 credit score is considered moderate and may trigger stricter eligibility checks
- NBFCs and fintech lenders are more flexible than traditional banks for such applicants
- Salaried individuals earning Rs 25,000–30,000 with stable employment have better approval odds
- Co-applicants, collateral, and consistent income history can improve loan terms
- Loan approval may be partial or delayed, depending on risk assessment
Understanding The Credit Score Barrier
A credit score of 650 suggests past delays or limited credit history, making lenders cautious. While the Reserve Bank of India does not mandate a minimum score for personal loans, most banks set internal thresholds, often preferring scores above 720. A score of 750 and above is considered excellent and typically ensures faster approvals and lower interest rates.
Applicants with a 650 score are seen as moderate-risk borrowers. This means lenders may offer smaller loan amounts, impose higher interest rates, and require additional documentation to mitigate risk.
Eligibility Criteria And Income Requirements
To qualify for a Rs 3 lakh personal loan with a 650 score, applicants should:
- Be salaried with a monthly income of Rs 25,000 or more
- Have a stable job history with at least 12 months of continuous employment
- Maintain a clean repayment record for existing loans or credit cards
- Provide complete documentation including salary slips, bank statements, PAN, and address proof
Applicants with lower income or unstable employment may face partial approval, with lenders offering only 60–70 percent of the requested amount unless backed by a co-applicant or collateral.
Ways To Improve Approval Odds
Borrowers can strengthen their loan application through the following strategies:
- Add a co-applicant with a higher credit score or stronger income profile
- Offer collateral such as fixed deposits, gold, or property to reduce lender risk
- Choose fintech platforms that use alternative credit data like utility bill payments or rental history
- Negotiate loan tenure and use EMI calculators to demonstrate repayment capacity
- Ensure all documents are accurate and up to date to avoid processing delays
Fintech lenders often process applications faster than banks, with disbursals completed within 24–48 hours if eligibility is confirmed. However, applicants must verify that the platform is RBI-certified to avoid predatory lending practices.
Loan Terms And Conditions To Expect
With a 650 score, borrowers should be prepared for:
- Interest rates ranging from 14 to 24 percent annually, depending on lender and risk profile
- Shorter loan tenures, typically between 12 to 36 months
- Processing fees and documentation charges that may be higher than standard rates
- Longer approval timelines in traditional banks (1–3 days) versus instant decisions from fintechs
- Possible requirement of no-objection certificates if past loans were settled or written off
Looking Ahead
While a 650 credit score presents challenges, it does not eliminate the possibility of securing a Rs 3 lakh personal loan. With the right mix of income stability, documentation, and strategic lender selection, borrowers can navigate the process successfully. Improving credit behavior over time—such as timely EMI payments and reducing credit utilization—can also pave the way for better loan terms in future applications.
Sources: Mint, Live Hindustan, Moneycontrol.
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