CIBIL Score for First-Time Credit Users

Last Updated : June 3, 2025, 5:08 p.m.

Are you a first-time credit user with no credit history? You might be wondering what your CIBIL score is – or if you even have one yet. Don’t worry if you currently don’t have a score; it simply means you haven’t availed credit before. The good news is building credit history from scratch is possible and easier than it sounds. In this guide, we’ll explain how to go from having no credit history to a healthy CIBIL score. You’ll learn how to build credit history step by step, how to check your CIBIL score online for free, and smart strategies to kickstart your credit journey.

What is CIBIL and Why Your First Credit Score Matters?

CIBIL score is a 3-digit number (ranging from 300 to 900) that reflects your creditworthiness. If you’re new to credit, you will not have any score yet because you do not have a credit history. Lenders will see an NA/NH (no history) status on your report. This isn’t a bad thing, but you’ll need to start building credit before lenders can evaluate you.

Your first CIBIL score is important – once you generate it, a good score (around 700+) can open doors to credit cards , personal loans , and other financial opportunities.

Quick Steps to Build Your Credit History

• Start with a secured or starter credit card.
• Use your credit sparingly and regularly.
• Pay all bills and EMIs on time.
• Avoid applying for multiple credit products simultaneously.
• Verify your CIBIL score online monthly free of charge

How to Build Credit History from Zero?

Starting with no credit history is something like a chicken-and-egg situation: you require credit to build a credit score, but you need a score to obtain credit! Fortunately, there are beginner-friendly ways to get started. Follow these steps to build your credit history and improve your CIBIL score:

1. Start with a Secured or Starter Credit Card

If regular credit cards aren’t an option due to lack of history, begin with a secured credit card (against a fixed deposit) or a low-limit starter card from your bank. These are easier to get and will report your activity to CIBIL, helping kickstart your credit record. You can also explore credit cards for people with no credit history.

2. Use Credit Sparingly but Regularly

Once you have a credit line, use it for small necessary expenses each month. Keep your credit utilization low (ideally under 30% of your limit) to show you’re not over-reliant on credit.

3. Pay Your Bills on Time

Always pay your credit card bills and loan EMIs by the due date. Even one late payment can hurt your new credit profile. Consider establishing auto-debit via your bank to avoid missed payments.

4. Avoid Multiple Credit Applications

Don’t apply for several new credit accounts in a short span of time. Too many inquiries make you look credit-hungry and can lower your score. Stick to one credit product, use it for 6–12 months, then expand gradually.

5. Monitor Your Credit Report

Regularly check your CIBIL score online to track progress and spot errors. Monitoring your score helps you stay informed and make better borrowing decisions.

By following these steps diligently, you’ll start to see a CIBIL score generated within a few months of activity, even if you started from zero. Typically, after 6 months of responsible usage, you should have a solid initial score.

How to Verify Your CIBIL Score Online for Free?

As you work on building your credit, it’s important to track your CIBIL score. Verifying your own score is not detrimental to your credit. The easiest way is to do it online. For instance, you can check your CIBIL score for free on Wishfin and get your updated score. You can also view a detailed report by entering a few basic details like your PAN card number and contact information.

Checking your score periodically will show you whether your efforts will be successful or not. It also comes with benefits – Wishfin’s free credit report service may offer personalized tips and loan or credit card offers suited to your profile.

Next Steps: Leverage Your New Credit Profile

As your score improves, you’ll qualify for more credit opportunities. For example, once you have a fair score, you can check your personal loan eligibility to see what loan amount you might get.

Most importantly, keep up the good habits – with consistent timely payments and low debt, you’ll soon reach an excellent CIBIL score (750+).

Conclusion

Ready to begin? Check your CIBIL score online for free on Wishfin. Then take your first step toward a strong credit foundation and financial freedom.