Studying abroad is a dream for many students, but financial constraints often stand in the way. To support students from socially and educationally backward classes (SEBC), the Government of Gujarat has introduced a Loan Assistance Scheme for Study Abroad. This initiative helps deserving students pursue higher education in foreign countries by offering them education loans at subsidized interest rates.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Gujarat Study Abroad Loan Scheme for SEBC students—eligibility, benefits, documents required, and how to apply.
🔍 What is the Gujarat Loan for Study Abroad (SEBC)?
The Gujarat Loan for Study Abroad (SEBC) is a financial assistance program launched by the Gujarat Government’s Developing Castes Welfare Department. It provides interest-free or low-interest loans to students belonging to Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) who wish to pursue higher studies in foreign countries.
This scheme is part of the state’s efforts to promote education and create global opportunities for underprivileged students.
🎓 Key Highlights of the SEBC Loan Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Gujarat Education Loan for Study Abroad (SEBC) |
| Implemented By | Developing Castes Welfare Department, Government of Gujarat |
| Beneficiaries | SEBC students from Gujarat |
| Loan Amount | Up to ₹15 lakhs |
| Interest Rate | 4% per annum (simple interest) |
| Loan Repayment | Begins 1 year after course completion or 6 months after job, whichever is earlier |
| Purpose | To fund tuition fees, travel expenses, living costs, and other educational expenses abroad |
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To avail of this loan, students must meet the following conditions:
- Domicile: Applicant must be a permanent resident of Gujarat.
- Category: Must belong to SEBC (Socially and Educationally Backward Class).
- Academic Qualification:
- Must have secured admission to a recognized foreign university for postgraduate or higher education.
- Family Income:
- The annual family income must not exceed ₹6 lakhs.
- Course Type:
- Applicable only for postgraduate and PhD programs.
- Undergraduate studies are usually not covered under this scheme.
📄 Documents Required
Here is a list of the documents required to apply for the SEBC Study Abroad Loan:
- Aadhaar Card
- Caste Certificate (SEBC)
- Domicile Certificate (Gujarat)
- Admission Letter from Foreign University
- Mark Sheets of 10th, 12th, and Graduation
- Passport Copy
- Proof of Family Income
- Bank Account Details
- Affidavit for repayment
- Passport-size photographs
📝 How to Apply for the SEBC Loan Scheme (Online Process)
- Visit the Official Portal
Go to https://esamajkalyan.gujarat.gov.in - New User Registration
- Click on “New Registration”
- Fill in the personal details and verify with OTP
- Login to Portal
- Use your credentials to log in to your account
- Choose the Scheme
- Select “Loan for Study Abroad – SEBC” under the welfare schemes list
- Fill Application Form
- Enter all necessary academic, personal, and course details
- Upload Documents
- Scan and upload all required documents in the correct format
- Submit and Take Printout
- Submit the application and take a printout for reference
📌 Important Notes
- The loan is disbursed in installments based on university semester/annual fees and student progress reports.
- Students must start repayment after the completion of the course or upon getting a job.
- In case of discontinuation of study, the full amount becomes repayable immediately.
- The interest subsidy is available only for the study duration, not beyond.
🎯 Benefits of the Scheme
- Financial Support: Up to ₹15 lakhs for quality education abroad.
- Low Interest Rate: Only 4% interest, which is significantly lower than private loans.
- Inclusive Growth: Promotes education among backward communities.
- Career Opportunities: Opens global job prospects for SEBC students.
📞 Contact Details and Helpline
- Developing Castes Welfare Department, Gujarat
- Helpline: 1800-233-5500 (Toll-Free)
- Email: esamajkalyan@gujarat.gov.in
🔚 Conclusion
The Gujarat SEBC Study Abroad Loan Scheme is a transformative opportunity for students from backward classes to fulfill their dreams of higher education overseas. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this loan can ease your financial burden and pave the way for a brighter, global future.
👉 Apply early, prepare your documents well, and take full advantage of this government initiative!