Free Credit Score Check vs Free CIBIL Score Check: What’s the Difference?
Whenever you would have searched online to check your credit score , you would’ve probably come across two terms ,which sound almost identical, Credit score and CIBIL score.
Isn’t it? If yes, don’t worry , you are not alone. This is true for most of us and this arises questions such as :
- Are credit score and CIBIL score the same?
- Which one do banks actually check?
- Should I do a free credit score check or a free CIBIL score check?
Well the short answer to all this is that they are closely related, but they are not exactly the same.
Let me demystify the difference between a free credit score check and a free CIBIL score check for you . Once you understand the key difference you will not only make better financial decisions but also avoid unwanted confusion, and thus you shall be prepared more confidently whenever you are applying for loans or credit cards.
Let’s break the two terms down in more simple terms.
What Is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number that typically ranges from 300 to 900 which is calculated by credit bureaus like CIBIL TransUnion, CRIF HighMark, Experian,Equifax . The calculation of your score is based on your credit history and represents your overall creditworthiness.
Your credit history includes:
- Loans you’ve taken
- Credit cards you use
- Repayment behaviour
- Outstanding balances
- Credit utilisation
- Past defaults or delays
A higher credit score implies a responsible credit behaviour, whereas a low score suggests higher risk to lenders.
When you do a free credit score check, you’re usually viewing a score generated by one of India’s recognised credit bureaus.
What Is a CIBIL Score?
A CIBIL score is a type of credit score but is specifically calculated by TransUnion CIBIL. TransUnion CIbil is India’s most widely used credit bureau.
Just like other credit scores, the CIBIL score:
- Ranges from 300 to 900
- It is based on your credit history
- It is used by banks and NBFCs to assess loan applications
As TransUnion CIBIL is one of the oldest , widely accepted and one of the go to bureaus in India, most of the lenders place their significant trust in Cibil Score and hence the cibil score becomes one of the prime parameters when making credit decisions.
I believe now you know why you’ll often hear from lenders asking for your CIBIL score directly.
Credit Score vs CIBIL Score- What is the Real Difference?
The primary difference between the two scores is that who has calculated the score.
- Credit score: It is a more of a generalized term which refers to a score generated by any of the four credit bureaus available in India namely CIBIL TransUnion, Experian, Equifax, CRIF High Mark.
- CIBIL score: It is a score calculated by TransUnion CIBIL only.
So when you see a free credit score check online , it could mean that it is showing you a score from any one of the four bureaus mentioned above. However, a free CIBIL score check, on the other hand, specifically means that the score will be fetched from TransUnion CIBIL.
The logic for calculation of the credit score may be similar, yet scores may vary slightly across all the bureaus.This could be due to difference in data sources and their scoring models.
Why Do Credit Scores Differ Across Bureaus?
It is usual for people to find slight variations between their CIBIL score and their Credit Score , which comes from different bureaus.
This happens because:
- Lenders may choose to report data to some bureaus and may not report to other bureaus
- Reporting timelines can differ.
- Every credit bureau has its own set of scoring algorithm
These differences are usually minor and nothing to worry about. What matters more is the overall range your score falls into.
Which Score Do Lenders in India Prefer?
Most major banks and NBFCs in India rely heavily on CIBIL scores.
However, many lenders also refer to reports from other bureaus, especially when:
- You’re a first-time borrower
- Your credit history is limited
- Additional verification is needed
In practice, lenders often look at your complete credit profile, not just one score.
That’s why doing both a free credit score check and a free CIBIL score check gives you a more complete picture.
Is a Free Credit Score Check Enough?
A free credit score check is a great starting point.
It will help you:
- Understand where you stand financially
- Track improvements over time
- Keep you ready for applying for any new credit instrument
However, if you’re planning to apply for a major loan such as a home loan or a car loan, then checking your CIBIL score specifically can give you added confidence, as many lenders prioritise cibil score over other credit scores.
Does Checking Your Credit Score or CIBIL Score Reduces your score?
No.
Checking your own credit score, whether it’s a general credit score or a CIBIL score, triggers a soft inquiry, which has no impact on your score.
A soft inquiry:
- Does not affect your credit score or CIBIL Score.
- Can be done multiple times, however it will depend on the platform
- Is visible only to you.
Only lender initiated checks i.e when you apply for a loan or credit card application, that inquiry counts as hard inquiries. Hard inquiries will have an impact on your score.
How to Do a Free Credit Score Check or Free CIBIL Score Check Online
Digital platforms like CreditMitra makes the process simple , convenient ,secure and most importantly free.
Step 1: Enter Basic Details
You’ll need to provide with your basic personal details like :
- Full name
- PAN number
- Mobile number
- Date of Birth
Step 2: OTP Verification
An OTP is triggered to your registered mobile number . This not only ensures security but also enables only you to have access to your report.
Step 3: View Your Score Instantly
Once verified, your credit score or CIBIL score is displayed within seconds , along with helpful insights on your credit report.
No fees. No paperwork. No waiting.
When Should You Check Which Score?
The following are a few pointers on when to check your credit score:
- For regular monitoring: Free credit score check
- Before applying for a major loan: Free CIBIL score check
- After improving credit behaviour: Both, to track progress
- If rejected for a loan: Check CIBIL score first
Staying informed puts you in control.
Common Myths Around Credit Scores and CIBIL Scores
“Only one score matters”
In reality, lenders consider multiple factors beyond just one score.
“A low score means I’ll never get a loan”
Not true. Many lenders consider overall profile and improvement trends.
“Checking too often is risky”
False. Self-checks do not reduce your score.
Why Use CreditMitra for Credit Score Checks?
CreditMitra is designed to make credit awareness simple and accessible for Indians.
With CreditMitra, you get:
- Free credit score check
- Free CIBIL score check
- Instant, secure access
- Easy-to-understand insights
- A platform built to help you make smarter credit decisions
Whether you’re just tracking your score or preparing for a loan, CreditMitra helps you stay informed and confident.
Final Thoughts
The debate between free credit score check vs free CIBIL score check isn’t about choosing one over the other—it’s about understanding what each one tells you.
A credit score gives you a broad view. A CIBIL score gives you lender-focused insight.
When you understand both, you’re better prepared, better informed, and better positioned to access credit when you need it.
If you haven’t got a chance to check your score yet, today is the best time and guess what? It’s free, quick, and empowering.
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