What is a hard inquiry in CIBIL?

A hard inquiry occurs when a lender checks your credit report because you have applied for a new loan or credit card. This check can temporarily reduce your credit score by a few points.

What is a soft inquiry in credit report?

A soft inquiry happens when your credit report is checked for informational purposes, this includes checking your own score or get pre-approved offers from your bank. It does not affect your score in any way.

Does checking my own CIBIL score affect it?

No. Checking your own CIBIL score is considered a soft inquiry. You can check it as often as you like without any negative impact on your credit profile.

How many hard inquiries are too many?

There is no strict number. However, having more than two or three hard inquiries within six months can make lenders view you as credit-hungry. This often leads to loan rejections. This is why you should be informed of what hard and soft credit inquiries mean.

Which inquiry affects credit score: hard or soft?

Only hard inquiries affect your credit score. Soft inquiries have zero impact on your creditworthiness.

How long do hard inquiries stay on credit report?

Hard inquiries remain visible on your credit report for up to two years. However, their impact on your score usually fades after the first 12 months.

Do loan eligibility checks reduce CIBIL score?

If it is a preliminary eligibility check, it is usually classified as a soft pull. This won't reduce your score. However, a formal loan application will trigger a hard pull and slightly reduce your score.

What is the difference between hard pull and soft pull?

A hard pull is initiated by a lender when you apply for credit and affects your score. A soft pull is for informational purposes only and does not affect your score at all.

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What is a Hard Inquiry vs Soft Inquiry in CIBIL?

Confused between hard and soft inquiries in CIBIL? Learn how different credit checks work, their impact on your credit score, and why enquiry types matter before applying for loans or credit cards.

Anjali Singh

Assistant Manager

Published Date:May 27, 2026

"Check Your Loan Eligibility in Minutes!"

What is a Hard Inquiry vs Soft Inquiry in CIBIL?

"Check Your Loan Eligibility in Minutes!"

What is a Hard Inquiry vs Soft Inquiry in CIBIL?

Frequently Asked Questions

Anjali Singh

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