Karnataka ranks second in education loan disbursements, women lead growth

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Karnataka has emerged as a key player in education financing, ranking second in India for education loan disbursements, according to a report by fintech education lender Propelld. Titled "Karnataka’s Education Loan Story – Trends, Insights, and Impact," the report highlights major shifts in the state’s higher education financing over the past five years, including a significant rise in women applicants and the growing role of digital lending in improving access to education.

One of the report’s key findings is the 30.7% increase in female education loan applicants between 2019 and 2024. The proportion of women borrowers grew from 26.32% in 2019 to 34.11% in 2024, indicating a strong societal push for gender inclusivity in higher education. The study also highlights shifting course preferences among Karnataka’s students. While Data Science courses once dominated upskilling programs, their popularity has declined in recent years.

However, demand for technology-driven certifications remains high among early-career professionals, who seek to stay competitive in an evolving job market. With digital lending playing a crucial role, Karnataka continues to lead in ensuring financial access to education, particularly for women and techfocused learners.