The Jharkhand Guruji Student Credit Card (GSCC) Scheme is designed to make higher education accessible to every student by providing low-interest, collateral-free loans. Below is a collection of commonly asked questions and their answers to help students and parents understand the scheme, eligibility, loan process, and repayment structure.
Q1. What is the Jharkhand Guruji Student Credit Card (GSCC) Scheme?
The GSCC Scheme is a government initiative that provides education loans up to ₹15 lakh at a low interest rate to Jharkhand students pursuing higher education in India or abroad. It ensures that financial constraints do not prevent students from completing their education.
Q2. Who implements the GSCC Scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Department of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Jharkhand, in collaboration with partner banks. The state government also serves as the guarantor, ensuring security and smooth processing of loans.
Q3. Who can apply for the GSCC Scheme?
Any student who is a permanent resident of Jharkhand, aged between 18 and 35 years, and enrolled in a recognized institution in India or abroad can apply. Applicants must also meet the academic and income eligibility criteria set by the government.
Q4. What type of courses are covered under the GSCC Scheme?
The GSCC covers professional, technical, vocational, and general degree programs recognized by UGC, AICTE, MCI, or other relevant authorities. Students pursuing higher studies abroad in approved universities are also eligible.
Q5. Are students from private institutions eligible?
Yes. Students admitted to private institutions recognized by AICTE, UGC, or state universities can apply for the GSCC Scheme, provided the course is approved and accredited by a competent authority.
Q6. Can I apply for the GSCC Scheme if I am already receiving another loan?
No. Applicants must not have an active education loan under any other state or central government scheme. Each student can avail only one GSCC loan at a time to ensure fair access to funds.
Q7. What is the maximum loan amount offered under the GSCC Scheme?
Students can avail of loans up to ₹15 lakh to cover tuition fees, books, hostel charges, and other educational expenses. The sanctioned amount depends on the course, institution, and estimated cost of study.
Q8. What is the interest rate under the GSCC Scheme?
The interest rate is 4% per annum for male students and only 1% per annum for female and differently-abled students. The rate remains fixed for the entire loan tenure, ensuring predictable and affordable repayment.
Q9. Do I need to provide collateral or a guarantor?
No. The GSCC Scheme is completely collateral-free. The Government of Jharkhand acts as the guarantor for every sanctioned loan, making the process easy and risk-free for students and families.
Q10. What expenses are covered under the GSCC loan?
The loan covers all major education-related expenses such as tuition, admission, and examination fees, as well as books, laptops, hostel rent, and travel costs (if applicable). It aims to provide total financial support throughout the course.
Q11. How can I apply for the GSCC Scheme?
Students can apply online at the official GSCC portal —https://gscc.jharkhand.gov.in. Registration, document upload, and status tracking are all available digitally for convenience and transparency.
Q12. What documents are required for application?
You need to upload Aadhaar, domicile, income certificate, admission letter, fee structure, photographs, and bank account details. Additional documents like caste or disability certificates may be required for specific categories.
Q13. Is there an offline application option?
Yes. Students can submit physical forms at the District Education Office or partner bank branches if online access is limited. However, online submission is faster, easier, and preferred by the authorities.
Q14. How can I track my GSCC application status?
After submission, you’ll receive an Application ID. You can use this ID on the official portal to check real-time updates regarding document verification, approval, and loan disbursement.
Q15. When does repayment start under the GSCC Scheme?
Repayment begins one year after course completion or six months after securing a job, whichever is earlier. This moratorium period helps students focus on their education without financial pressure.
Q16. What is the repayment tenure for GSCC loans?
The loan can be repaid over a maximum period of 15 years, ensuring low monthly EMIs and flexibility. Early repayment is allowed anytime without additional charges or penalties.
Q17. What happens if a student fails to complete the course?
In case of discontinuation due to valid reasons (like illness or family crisis), the student can request repayment rescheduling or temporary deferment. Each case is reviewed individually by the nodal bank and the GSCC authority.
Q18. How can I contact the GSCC helpline for queries?
You can reach the official GSCC helpline at 1800-123-3456 or email support@gscc.jharkhand.gov.in for assistance. District Nodal Officers are also available for in-person support at local offices.
Q19. How long does it take for a loan to be approved?
Typically, the approval process takes 15–30 working days, depending on the accuracy of documents and verification speed. Applicants are notified via SMS and email once their loan is sanctioned.
Q20. Is there any application fee for the GSCC Scheme?
No, the application process is completely free of charge. Students should apply only through official GSCC channels and avoid third-party agents who may demand fees for processing or faster approval.