A CIBIL score is not a number—it’s a reflection of your creditworthiness. If your score right now is around 600, you’re among many. It’s tough for many to break beyond this. But here’s the best part? With the right plan, a score of 750 is within your grasp.
This blog discusses how to improve CIBIL score—systematically, sustainably, and with effects that last.
Understanding a 600 CIBIL Score
A 600 score usually falls in the “average” or “subprime” range. It signals to lenders that you’re a moderate to high-risk borrower. This might result from past issues like:
- Late or missed payments
- High credit card usage
- Defaulted EMIs or loan settlements
- Frequent loan or credit card applications
- A very limited or new credit history
At 600, your access to credit is limited. Even if you get approved, it’s on more expensive terms, with lower limits, and more stringent terms. The idea is to reform how lenders think about your financial responsibility.
Why is 750 the Magic Number?
A 750+ CIBIL score is simply superb. You are considered low-risk in the eyes of lenders, which makes you more likely to:
- Speedier credit decisions
- Reduced interest rates
- Increased credit card limits
- Improved deals on home loans, personal loans, and other such products
While 600 to 750 may seem like just 150 points, the behavioral difference between the two bands is significant. Individuals with 750+ scores usually:
- Make all the repayments on time
- Keep low credit utilisation
- Maintain a well-diversified credit record
- Do not over-leverage or over-borrow
Step-by-Step Plan on How to Improve CIBIL Score
Let’s break down how to move from 600 to 750 with specific, actionable steps:
1. Check Your CIBIL Report in Detail
Before you fix your score, you need to understand what’s dragging it down.
What to do:
- Visit the CIBIL website or any credit bureau platform and request your credit report (you’re entitled to one free report annually).
- Search for inconsistencies:
- Wrong personal information
- Loans or cards that are not yours
- EMI is showing unpaid even when paid
- Duplicate records
If any mistake is discovered, raise a dispute with the bureau. These normally settle in 30 days.
Tip: Errors are more common than you think—and fixing them can boost your score by 30–60 points quickly.
2. Clear All Outstanding Dues
If you’ve defaulted or have overdue payments, that’s likely the biggest drag on your score.
What to do:
- Pay off late EMIs, minimum dues of credit cards, and overdue amounts in priority.
- And if the full repayment is not feasible, get the lender to settle or restructure. However, note that “settled” loans still impact your score—“closed” loans are better.
Why it’s important: Paying your dues demonstrates reliability. Closed accounts begin to mend your credit record once they are closed.
3. Start Paying Every EMI and Credit Card Bill On Time
Even one missed payment can drop your score by 50–100 points.
What to do:
- Pay on time, or automate your payments.
- Utilize standing orders, NACH mandates, or mobile app reminders.
Fast fix: Pay at least the minimum on time, even if complete payment is not feasible.
Fact to remember: Your payment record contributes more than 30% to your score—it’s the biggest single influence.
4. Reduce Your Credit Utilisation Ratio
Burning more than 30% of your credit limit is an indicator of excessive credit dependence.
What to do:
- Keep card spending below 30% of your total limit.
- If your limit is ₹1,00,000, do not exceed ₹30,000 in expenditure.
- Make bi-monthly payments instead of one every month, once mid-cycle, and then before the due date.
Tip: Request a limit increase from your bank if you pay on time. This decreases utilisation without decreasing spend.
5. Avoid Applying for Multiple Loans or Cards Frequently
Every application creates a hard inquiry on your credit profile.
What to do:
- Space out applications. Don’t make several credit card or loan applications in close proximity.
- Utilize pre-approved offers, which do not generate hard inquiries.
- Utilize credit marketplaces to test eligibility without impacting your score.
Why it is important: Excessive inquiries indicate desperation and may lower your score by 5–10 points each.
6. Diversify Your Credit Portfolio
A mix of credit—secured (home/car loan) and unsecured (credit cards, personal loans) strengthens your profile.
What to do:
- If you’ve only used credit cards so far, consider a small car or consumer durable loan.
- If you have a lot of unsecured debt, a secured loan (like against FD or gold) balances your profile.
Why it works: Good credit mix enhances your score and lowers risk perception.
7. Don’t Close Old Credit Accounts
Your age contributes to your score. The longer, the better.
What to do:
- Keep old credit cards active by making small purchases.
- Don’t close accounts because you don’t use them frequently.
Remember: The more stable your credit looks, the better.
8. Monitor Your Score Every 3 Months
Credit improvement takes time, but regular monitoring helps you course-correct.
What to do:
- Utilize credit apps to monitor your score and receive advice.
- Don’t overcheck, but review quarterly.
Why: Being informed allows you to catch problems before they become big.
How Long Does It Take to Improve CIBIL Score from 600 to 750?
Improvement is gradual and depends on your starting point and discipline. On average:
- Minor problems (high credit utilization, late payments): 4–6 months
- Major problems (defaults, settlements, thin credit file): 9–18 months
Consistency is the most important thing. Every payment on time, every reduced utilization, and every correcting mistake matters.
Conclusion
Improving your CIBIL score from 600 to 750 isn’t an overnight process, but it’s entirely doable. You don’t have to game the system or pile on additional debt to establish creditworthiness. Just be consistent, patient, and strategic.
Your credit score is your financial reputation. Rebuilding it is one of the greatest investments you can make in your future. Check out our Equifax Credit Report API.
FAQs
How frequently is the update of the CIBIL score?
CIBIL scores are refreshed on a monthly basis, based on the freshest information furnished by banks and financial institutions.
Will it lower my own CIBIL score?
No, viewing your own score is a soft inquiry and will not affect your credit score.
Can a loan settlement affect my credit score?
Yes. A “settled” status (as opposed to “closed”) negatively affects your score and may stay on your report for up to 7 years.
How long does a missed payment stay on the report?
Late payments usually remain on your credit report for 24–36 months and weaken over time.
Is it better to have multiple credit cards?
Yes, if done properly. Multiple cards assist in having a better credit utilisation ratio, but demand disciplined usage.
