If you have never taken a loan or used a credit card, your CIBIL score might be listed as “Not Available.” This is a common occurrence. However, it also implies that for you, it may be troublesome to get a loan. Thus, the big question is: What can you do to generate CIBIL score when there are no credit history records?
The truth is that anyone can create a score from nothing. Just take a few clever steps, and you’re done. Even platforms like Olyv will assist a new borrower in taking the very first step.
Let’s explain it in the most straightforward way possible.
The Importance of a CIBIL Score
A CIBIL score is a trust signal. It is considered by banks and NBFCs before they decide to approve a loan. Not having a score, they cannot ascertain the repayment reliability of the borrower.
Therefore, it is essential to know how to build up one’s credit history. The moment you start making small repayments regularly, your score will begin to grow.
Step-by-step Ways to Generate CIBIL Score
There are numerous ways to generate CIBIL score from zero that are not complicated at all. A huge loan is not necessary. You just need a few small, smart actions.
Let’s look at the most useful ones.
1. Use a Secured Credit Card
The secured credit card way is a very straightforward method to start. A small amount of money is deposited by you, and the bank issues a credit card to you secured by that deposit. You then use the card for small purchases and pay off the bill easily.
This improves your credit score fast. Moreover, it is best for beginners who can’t qualify for a normal card.
2. Take a Small Consumer Loan
The next easy step is to borrow a small amount under a monthly instalment (EMI) plan for something as simple as a mobile phone. Making the EMI payments punctually will allow you to steadily build your CIBIL score.
Olyv, a fintech platform, not only provides users with appropriate credit options but also ensures their safety and friendliness for beginners.
3. Become an Add-On Card User
If someone in your family has a good credit card history, ask them to become an add-on user. This doesn’t always guarantee a score, but it helps you learn good habits and can indirectly support your profile.
4. Use a Beginner-Friendly Credit Card
A starter credit card is targeted at people who do not have a credit history. These cards come with low credit limits and are quite easy to manage. If used responsibly, they will help in establishing your early credit profile.
Best Ways to Build Credit from Zero
| Method | Difficulty Level | How Fast Does It Help |
| Secured Credit Card | Easy | Fast impact |
| Small EMI Loan | Medium | Moderate impact |
| Add-On Card | Easy | Slow impact |
| Beginner Credit Card | Easy | Steady impact |
What Affects Your First CIBIL Score?
Your initial score will be determined by how well you handle your early credit steps. For CIBIL score generation, lenders consider the following,
- Number of loans taken
- Monthly bill repayment
- Credit card usage
- Payments overdue
- Credit history age
By practising these simple credit score improvement techniques, your score will rise continuously.
Mistakes Often Made by Beginners
Many first-time borrowers make mistakes without realising it. These mistakes slow down their score-building process.
To give you a clue, here are some things you shouldn’t do,
- Using too much credit
- Making late payments
- Taking multiple loans simultaneously
- Cutting off credit cards too early
These mistakes can still lower your score even if you try all the methods to build a credit history.
Good vs Bad Credit Behaviours for Beginners
| Good Habits | Bad Habits |
| Paying bills on time | Missing payments |
| Using less than 30% of the credit limit | Overspending on credit |
| Keeping old accounts open | Closing accounts quickly |
| Applying for 1–2 credit products | Applying everywhere |
How Long Does It Take to Get Your First Score?
A new CIBIL score usually appears after three to six months of activity. Sometimes earlier. Sometimes later. It depends on how consistent you are.
If you use a secured credit card method or a beginner credit card, your profile usually forms faster.
Conclusion
Building a credit score from zero is simple if you follow the right steps. You don’t need a big loan. You only need good habits. By using beginner tools like a credit card for beginners, following simple ways to improve credit score, and using smart options like the secured credit card method, you can generate CIBIL score smoothly.
Your financial journey becomes easier once your score starts growing. So begin small, stay consistent, and watch your CIBIL rise over time.

