Credit Score vs. CIBIL Score vs. Experian: What’s the Difference in India?
- Satyam Singh
- May 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 17
Confused between credit score, CIBIL, and Experian? Learn the key differences and how to check your credit report for free with MyExcellentScore.com.
The CIBIL uses a scoring model that is specifically designed for the Indian market, while the Experian utilises a FICO (Fair Issac Cooperation)...
In 2025, understanding your credit profile isn’t optional—it’s essential. But if you're confused between terms like Credit Score, CIBIL Score, and Experian Report, you’re not alone.
These phrases get thrown around a lot, and it can feel like financial alphabet soup. So, let’s break it all down—no jargon, just clarity.
What Is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a 3-digit number (typically between 300 and 900) that represents your creditworthiness. It's based on your:
Payment history
Credit usage
Account age
Credit mix
Enquiries
Lenders use this number to decide whether to approve your credit application and at what interest rate.
What Is a CIBIL Score?
CIBIL Score is a type of credit score, provided by TransUnion CIBIL, one of India's major credit bureaus. It's the most commonly referenced score by Indian banks and NBFCs.
Key Features of CIBIL Score:
Score range: 300 to 900
750+ is considered excellent
Updated monthly based on your credit activity
What Is Experian?
Experian is another licensed credit bureau in India, like CIBIL. It also offers its own credit score, often used by private lenders and online platforms.
✅ Highlights of Experian Score:
Also ranges from 300 to 900
Available for free online
Accepted by many Indian fintechs and banks
CIBIL vs. Credit Score vs. Experian – Key Differences
Feature | Credit Score | CIBIL Score | Experian Score |
Definition | General term for credit rating | Score from TransUnion CIBIL | Score from Experian India |
Who Provides It? | Multiple bureaus | TransUnion CIBIL | Experian Credit Information Co. |
Score Range | 300–900 | 300–900 | 300–900 |
Most Commonly Used By | All lenders | Public sector banks & NBFCs | Private banks, fintechs |
Report Type | Credit report summary | CIR (Credit Information Report) | Experian Credit Report |
Where to Check Free? | Aggregator sites or apps | CIBIL website or MyExcellentScore.com | Experian India or MyExcellentScore.com |
Do All Bureaus Show the Same Score?
Not always.
Different bureaus use slightly different algorithms and data sets. So your CIBIL score may differ from your Experian score, even if your credit behavior is the same.
But don’t panic—small differences are normal. Focus on the trend and consistency across reports.
How to Check All Your Scores for Free
At MyExcellentScore.com, we help you check your credit score using multiple bureaus—without spam or sales calls. We believe in credit education without confusion.
Visit MyExcellentScore.com to:
Check your CIBIL or Experian score instantly
Understand what's helping (or hurting) your credit
Track your monthly credit health
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which score is more important—CIBIL or Experian?
Both are valid. However, CIBIL is more commonly used by traditional banks. Experian is preferred by digital lenders and credit card providers.
Q2: Why are my CIBIL and Experian scores different?
They might have different data points, reporting times, or scoring models. This is completely normal.
Q3: Does checking my score affect it?
Not at all! When you check your score, it’s called a soft inquiry, which doesn’t impact your score.
Final Thoughts: Understand Before You Improve, Credit Score vs. CIBIL Score vs. Experian: What’s the Difference in India?
Understanding the difference between credit score, CIBIL, and Experian gives you an edge. Instead of relying on just one number, take a broader view of your credit health.
And with tools like MyExcellentScore.com, you can monitor your progress, dispute errors, and get expert tips tailored to your report—all in one place.
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