Financing your studies: repayment deferral and practical tips
A student loan lets you finance your academic path without waiting for a stable income. Here is how it works in practice and how to make the most of it.
Understanding the repayment deferral
A repayment deferral means you do not repay the borrowed capital, or sometimes not even the interest depending on the option chosen, for the whole duration of your studies. Repayment generally starts once you enter working life and have a regular income.
Partial deferral or full deferral: what is the difference?
With a partial deferral, you repay the interest during your studies but not the capital. With a full deferral, no repayment is made before the end of your studies, but the unpaid interest is generally added to the remaining capital, which increases the total cost.
How do you estimate your financing need?
- Tuition fees for the whole duration of the course
- Student housing, on campus or elsewhere
- Specific equipment (computer, tools depending on the field)
- Everyday living costs, if not covered elsewhere
The role of a guarantor
Since students generally do not have sufficient income of their own, they often need a guarantor (a parent or close relative) to complete their application. This reassures the lender about future repayment capacity.
Frequently asked questions
Does the repayment deferral have a cost?
Depending on the option chosen, interest generally starts accruing as soon as the funds are released, even if it is not paid immediately: it is then added to the capital to be repaid later.
Can a student loan be repaid early once you start your first job?
Yes, early repayment, whether partial or full, is generally possible as soon as your financial situation allows it.
Ready for the next step? Apply now or explore more resources:
