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RATE Function in Excel: Syntax, Examples and Free Practice

By Rinkesh Shah, founder of Cellgrids.

RATE is an Excel Financial function. Calculates the interest rate per period for a loan or investment.

RATE syntax

=RATE(nper, pmt, pv, [fv], [type])

Arguments

When to use RATE

RATE is used in loan, investment, or valuation models where precise financial math is required.

Practice RATE online, free

Open the live Excel-style spreadsheet and try RATE yourself. No Excel install or sign-up needed to start.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the RATE function do in Excel?

Calculates the interest rate per period for a loan or investment.

What is the syntax of RATE in Excel?

The syntax is =RATE(nper, pmt, pv, [fv], [type]). nper: The total number of payment periods; pmt: The fixed payment made each period; pv: The present value of the amount; fv: The future value of the amount (optional); type: Whether payments are due at the start or end of a period (optional).

Where can I practice RATE online for free?

Open the free live spreadsheet on Cellgrids and try RATE yourself. No Excel install is needed and you can start without signing up.

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