Student credit cards are specifically created for college students who have limited credit or who are just starting to build their credit. These types of cards typically have low credit limits and charge no annual fees. Students can use them to build a credit history and become more financially responsible. Having a credit card as a student can also be handy in case of emergencies or unexpected accidents when away from home. Student credit cards provide a real way to manage money in adulthood during the transitionary period of college life. Whether you’re a parent researching credit cards for your child or you are a new student ready for a credit card, check out these frequently asked questions to help you with your search. The card doesn’t have any rewards, but it’s a good way to build a positive credit history while ironing in good credit card habits like paying on time. And, Capital One will automatically consider you for a credit line increase in as little as six months, provided you’ve been using the card responsibly.Pros
Low minimum deposit requiredBuild good credit habitsZero fraud liability protectionPotential easy credit limit increase
Cons
No rewardsLow starting credit limit (depending on how much was deposited)Few perks
As a nice touch, the card features a $60 streaming credit for all of your binge-watching needs. Pay your streaming sub with the card to get a $5 credit each month for 12 months. In addition, students can access Capital One’s CreditWise tool to track their VantageScore 3.0 credit score, but it should be noted everyone can use this service, not only Capital One cardholders. Capital One will also consider you for a credit limit increase in as little as six months after showing responsible behavior. Pros
1.25% cash backBuild responsible habitsNo annual fee$60 streaming creditEasy potential credit limit increase
Cons
Low rewardsFew perks
But what makes this card truly rewarding is Discover’s Cash Back Match. Discover will double the rewards you earn during your first year with the card, meaning you’ll earn 10% cash back for its rotating categories and 2% cash back for everything else. That’s hard to beat. It has no annual fee or foreign transaction fee either. So it’s still a solid pick for students studying abroad. Pros
Double the rewards for the first yearIntro 0% purchase APR (then 17.74% to 26.74% variable) No annual feeNo foreign transaction fee
Cons
Few benefitsComplicated reward program for beginners
It even features a 0% intro APR for purchases for six months (then 17.74% to 26.74% variable. That means any purchases you make during that time won’t earn any interest, saving you money. And, you can keep an eye on your FICO score from your TransUnion credit reports. Pros
Rewards for purchases you’re already makingDouble the rewards for the first yearNo annual feeIntro 0% APR for purchasesCheck your FICO score
Cons
Few perksTakes awhile to get a credit limit increase
What are student credit cards?
Student credit cards are credit cards designed with financial features that cater to students. While there may be exceptions, the majority of credit cards marketed as student credit cards will require proof of school enrollment when applying. Student credit cards are available to students who are 18 years and older. Student credit card applicants are likely to have zero or minimal credit history, so student credit cards typically have higher interest rates than consumer credit cards. Anyone with little demonstrated card history is considered a higher risk cardholder. Student credit cards are typically easier to qualify for than standard credit cards. Student cards also tend to have lower lines of credit compared to other credit cards because lenders know students likely have limited income. However, some cards increase lines of credit once several payments are made on time. A student card can help students build credit history, create responsible habits, and increase their credit score.
How do you get a student credit card for the first time?
Students who are interested in a credit card can apply in person or online. The student will usually have to provide their birthday, social security number, citizenship status, income, school information and monthly rent payment. For students who have no credit, they’ll need to prove they have the assets or independent income available to pay at least a monthly minimum credit card bill. Students can also have a parent or guardian co-sign for a credit card. Students who have bad credit should consider a credit card specifically designed for building credit, like the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card. If a student can’t qualify for a credit card, a family member can look into adding the student as an authorized user on their credit account. If the primary cardholder has a good payment history, the authorized user can also get a boost in credit. Also: Four reasons to add your teen as an authorized credit card user
What is the minimum age to get a credit card?
18 years old. However, students younger than 18 can become an authorized user for another credit card to start building credit.
How can college students establish a credit history quickly?
A way for a college student to establish a credit history quickly is to become an authorized user on a family member’s credit card. If the primary account holder makes responsible payments, that can also positively impact the student’s credit score. Students can be as young as preteens and become authorized users on some credit cards.
Do student credit cards build credit?
Yes, student credit cards build credit. Making payments on time and in full can positively impact a credit score and contribute to credit history. Students using their own credit cards will benefit most by only making purchases they can pay off on time.
What is the easiest student credit card to get?
Secured cards, like the Capital One Platinum Secured Card, are the easiest to qualify for. Students just have to pay a one-time, refundable deposit of $49, $99, or $200. You can pay more if you so choose, however, to get a higher starting credit limit. Before you apply for a credit card, it’s best to learn about the card’s features and consider the credit level required for approval. If a student meets the requirements, the credit card application process is relatively simple.
How can you maximize your student credit card?
Can you pay your student loans with a credit card?
Federal student loan servicers do not allow credit card payments for student loans. If your student loan is through a private firm, you may be able to use a credit card, but transaction fees may apply. Also: When paying bills with a credit card makes sense – and when it doesn’t Be careful if you’re considering using a credit card to pay for a student loan because you’re transferring credit card debt to another form of debt, which can have higher penalties and interest. You’ll have to factor in interest rates, fees and rewards to determine what is best for your financial situation.
What should you do with your student credit card after you graduate?
You may be wondering if you can hold on to a student credit card once you’re no longer a student. The short answer is: yes. If you’re a fan of the student card’s features, you can keep on using the card or simply keep the account open. Let your lender know you’ve graduated or left college, but that you would like to continue using the card. If you’re working full-time, you may qualify for a higher credit line. Additionally, you may be able to ask for a lower APR if you’ve been paying your monthly payments on time. You can also ask your credit card provider to convert your card to a non-student card once you’ve graduated. Discover offers non-student versions of both the Cash Back and Chrome. There’s always the option of closing your account, too. But you should be aware that it can negatively impact your credit history and, thus, your credit score. When you close your account, you also decrease your total credit available. [This article was first published on The Simple Dollar in 2020. It was updated in March 2022.]
