Can I get a loan without a co-signer after GMAT/GRE?

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Acing the GMAT or GRE is just the first step. Learn how to secure an international student loan without a co-signer, even if you lack local credit history. We'll explore how your test scores can boost

You’ve aced your GMAT or GRE, shortlisted your dream university, and now it’s time to face the next big question: how will you fund your international education?

For many students, especially those without access to a financial guarantor or co-signer, securing a loan can feel like a daunting task.

Here’s the good news: it is possible to get a student loan without a co-signer, even after taking the GMAT or GRE. In this guide, we’ll explore what a “no co-signer loan” really means, how GMAT/GRE scores can influence your loan eligibility, and how platforms like Prodigy Finance can help you fund your studies on your terms.

What is a no co-signer loan?

A student loan without a co-signer is exactly what it sounds like: a loan you can take without needing another person (usually a parent, guardian, or relative) to guarantee repayment. This type of loan is ideal for:

  • Students whose family members don’t meet lender requirements

  • Students from developing countries with limited financial documentation

  • Independent students pursuing higher education abroad

Traditional banks and lenders typically require a co-signer, especially if you lack credit history or a stable income. But international lenders like Prodigy Finance have redefined this model.

Why is it hard to get a loan without a co-signer?

Most traditional lenders evaluate loan eligibility based on credit history, income, and local residency. If you’re planning to study abroad:

  • You may not have a credit history in your destination country

  • You may not have a stable source of income while studying

  • You may not have family residing in that country to act as a co-signer

This is where alternative financing options and borderless lenders come in.

GMAT/GRE: Do they impact your loan eligibility?

Yes, especially if you’re applying to top business schools or STEM programmes. While GMAT and GRE scores don’t directly influence loan approval the same way a credit score might, they indirectly strengthen your application in several ways:

  1. Eligibility to top-ranked schools

    Many lenders, including Prodigy Finance, use your university and course as part of their risk assessment. A strong GMAT or GRE score improves your chances of admission to prestigious institutions, which can, in turn, boost your loan eligibility.

  2. Stronger career potential = lower risk

    Lenders assess your post-study earning potential. High test scores often indicate admission into competitive programmes with strong salary outcomes, which reduces the lender’s perceived risk.

  3. Signal of commitment and preparedness

    A strong GMAT/GRE score shows that you're serious and ready for the academic challenge, something lenders view positively.

Can you get a loan without a co-signer after GMAT/GRE?

Yes, especially with Prodigy Finance. Let’s break it down.

What Prodigy Finance offers:

  • No co-signer required

  • No collateral needed

  • Loans available for 1800+ schools, 500+ universities in 19 countries.

  • Entirely online application process

  • Grace period during and after the study

Prodigy Finance doesn’t rely on traditional credit scores or local collateral. Instead, we assess your potential based on:

  • The school and course you’ve been admitted to

  • Your future earning potential

  • Your country of residence

  • Your career path and previous experience

So, if you’ve cleared your GMAT or GRE and secured admission, you already meet the key criteria Prodigy considers.

Step-by-step: how to apply for a no co-signer loan with Prodigy Finance

  • Check eligibility: Visit the Prodigy Finance website and use the eligibility checker. Select your school, programme, and country of citizenship to get started.

  • Get a loan quote: Once eligible, generate a custom loan quote based on your profile. This won’t affect your credit score.

  • Submit your application: You’ll be asked to provide:

    • Admission letter

    • Passport

    • GMAT/GRE scores

    • CV

    • Details of any scholarships or savings

  • Accept the offer: Review the interest rate, repayment terms, and grace period. If you’re happy with the terms, accept the offer.

  • Loan disbursement: Funds are sent directly to your university. Repayment typically begins after a grace period—usually six months post-study.

How is Prodigy different from traditional lenders?

Feature

Traditional Lenders

Prodigy Finance

Co-signer required

Yes

Optional

Collateral needed

Yes

No

Loan terms based on future earning potential

No

Yes

Online process

Partial

Completely online

Custom rates by school/programme

No

Yes

What programmes are covered?

Prodigy Finance supports loans for over 1,800+ schools and a wide range of programmes, including:

  • MBA programmes – Harvard, INSEAD, Oxford, Wharton, and more

  • STEM programmes – Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science

  • Law and Public Policy – Select global programmes

So whether your GMAT score helped you get into an Ivy League MBA, or your GRE opened the door to a top engineering school, you’re covered.

Tips for maximising your chances

  • Apply early: Loan processing can take a few weeks, so apply as soon as you receive your admission letter.

  • Be transparent: Ensure all your details—especially test scores and work experience—are accurate and up to date.

  • Research your programme’s ROI: Use loan calculators and compare repayment scenarios to understand the long-term value.

  • Use the grace period wisely: Start planning your job search and budgeting strategy well before repayments begin.

Final thoughts

You don’t need a co-signer to follow your dreams. With your GMAT or GRE scores and an offer from a top school, lenders like Prodigy Finance make it entirely possible to secure a student loan independently.

So go ahead, secure that admission, apply for your loan, and take one giant step towards your global career.