Are you a student looking for the best credit card to build your credit history? Look no further! We’ve done the research and found the top credit cards for students in 2024. These cards are designed with students in mind, offering great rewards and benefits while helping you establish your credit. Whether you’re a freshman or a graduate student, there’s a card that’s perfect for you!
Best Student Credit Cards Compared 2024
Let’s start by comparing the best student credit cards available this year. These cards offer a range of features and benefits, so you can find the one that suits your needs.
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| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card | Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card |
| Credit Score Needed: credit_score_needed | Rewards: 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. | Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full |
Our Recommendations for the Best Student Credit Cards
Now that you’ve seen the top student credit cards, let’s dive into our recommendations for the best ones.
Best for Bonus Cash Back: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a fantastic choice for students who want to earn bonus cash back. With this card, you’ll earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery store purchases. Plus, you’ll earn 1% on all other purchases. The card also comes with a $50 cash welcome offer after spending $100 in the first three months from account opening.
Best for Flat Rate Cash Back: Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
If you prefer a flat rate cash back card, the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is perfect for you. This card earns unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. While it does have an annual fee, it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it great for students who travel internationally. You may also be eligible for credit line increases after just six months.
Best for Students Studying Abroad: Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice for students studying abroad. This card has no annual fee or foreign transaction fees, making it perfect for international travel. You’ll earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, and there’s a $50 cash welcome bonus offer after spending $100 within the first three months from card opening. Additional benefits include free credit monitoring, card lock, virtual card numbers, and travel accident insurance.
Best for Rotating Bonus Categories: Chase Freedom FlexSM
The Chase Freedom FlexSM card is perfect for students who want to earn cash back in various rotating bonus categories. You’ll earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in total combined purchases in quarterly rotating categories, including gas stations, grocery stores, and Amazon.com. Plus, you’ll earn 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on dining at restaurants and drugstore purchases, and 1% on all other purchases. With this card, you’ll also receive a bonus_miles_full and have access to a balance_transfer_intro_apr,balance_transfer_intro_duration and intro_apr_rate,intro_apr_duration (after that a reg_apr,reg_apr_type applies). The card has an annual fee but does charge a foreign_transaction_fee foreign transaction fee on purchases made outside of the U.S.
Best for Balance Transfers: Citi Simplicity® Card
If you’re a student with existing credit card debt, the Citi Simplicity® Card is an excellent option. This card offers a balance_transfer_intro_apr,balance_transfer_intro_duration and intro_apr_rate,intro_apr_duration (after that a reg_apr,reg_apr_type applies). The card has no annual fees but does charge a foreign_transaction_fee foreign transaction fee on purchases made outside of the U.S.
Best for Travel Rewards: Capital One VentureOne Rewards for Good Credit
Although not as robust as Capital One’s higher-tier travel cards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards for Good Credit card is an excellent option for students who love to travel. You’ll earn unlimited 1.25x miles on every purchase, and 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. You can book a trip with miles through Capital One Travel, redeem miles for statement credits, or get reimbursed for past travel purchases made with the card. This card has no annual fees or foreign transaction fees.
Best Secured Card: Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
For students with limited or no credit history, the Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card is an excellent choice. This card requires a minimum refundable deposit, but it’s a great way to build credit. You may qualify for credit line increases after just six months with responsible use. The card doesn’t offer many perks but comes with standard benefits like account alerts, credit score monitoring, and fraud protection.
Best for Medical Students: Citi Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer
If you’re a medical student looking for a low-maintenance cash back card, the Citi Double Cash Card – 18 month BT offer is a great option. This card earns 2% cash back on purchases: 1% when you buy, plus another 1% as you pay. It also offers a balance_transfer_intro_apr,balance_transfer_intro_duration (after that a reg_apr,reg_apr_type applies). Keep in mind that it charges a foreign_transaction_fee foreign transaction fee for purchases made outside the U.S.
Our Methodology
We compared dozens of credit cards to find the best options for students based on credit requirements, introductory APR offers, annual fees, rewards, benefits, and more. These cards offer a range of features and rewards to suit different student needs. While some cards have higher credit requirements, others are designed for students with limited or no credit history. We’ve chosen the top cards for each category to help you make an informed decision.
How to Choose the Best Student Credit Card for You
When choosing a student credit card, consider your credit profile, spending habits, and specific needs as a student. Determine which card features are most important to you. For example, if you plan to study abroad or travel frequently, look for cards with no foreign transaction fees. If you want to maximize your rewards, consider cards that earn bonus cash back in categories aligned with your spending habits. It’s also important to review the credit requirements for each card and check for pre-approved offers when possible.
What are the Requirements to be Approved?
Credit card issuers typically consider your credit score, credit history, and other factors when determining eligibility for a card. Some cards, especially secured credit cards, may not require a credit score or income. However, income may be considered when approving card applications. Keep in mind that certain cards on our list may have specific eligibility criteria, so be sure to review them before applying.
Can Students Get Pre-Approved for Credit Cards?
Yes, some credit card issuers offer pre-approval, which allows you to check for card offers without impacting your credit score. While pre-approval doesn’t guarantee approval for a specific card, it indicates that you meet the basic criteria. Pre-approval can be a helpful tool when shopping for credit cards.
How to Build Credit and Avoid Debt Once You Get Approved
Once you’re approved for a student credit card, it’s crucial to use it responsibly to build your credit and avoid debt. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Pay on time: Always make your monthly payments on time to establish a positive payment history.
- Spend within your means: Only use your credit card for purchases you can afford to pay off.
- Pay off your balance each month: Avoid interest charges by paying your full balance each month.
- Keep your balances low: If you do carry a balance, try to keep it as low as possible to maintain a low credit utilization ratio.
- Earn rewards for everyday spending: Take advantage of rewards programs, but don’t overspend to earn rewards.
By practicing responsible credit card usage, you can build strong credit and set yourself up for future financial success.
Alternatives to Student Credit Cards
If you don’t meet the requirements for a student credit card, there are alternative options to access and build credit as a student:
- Secured credit cards: These cards require a refundable security deposit and can help you build credit even if you have limited or no credit history.
- Authorized user: Becoming an authorized user on a parent’s credit card allows you to access credit and build credit history.
- Prepaid debit cards: While not a credit card, prepaid debit cards can be used for purchases and are a good way to manage your spending. They don’t help build credit, but they’re widely accepted.
TIME Stamp: Use Student Credit Cards Wisely to Build Credit
A student credit card is a valuable tool for building credit responsibly. By using your card wisely and making on-time payments, you can establish a positive credit history. Good credit opens up opportunities for better rates, discounts, and financial options down the road. Remember, responsible credit card usage is an essential skill that will benefit you throughout your life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do you do with a student credit card after graduation?
If possible, you should keep your credit card account open to increase the length of your credit history. Some card issuers may automatically upgrade your card when you graduate. If not, you can request a card conversion, credit line increase, or a lower APR.
2. Which is better: Student credit cards or regular credit cards?
Regular credit cards typically offer more benefits and perks than student credit cards. However, student credit cards are easier to qualify for and have less strict credit requirements.
3. Do I need a job to get a student credit card?
No, a job is not necessary to get a student credit card. However, you’ll need to meet income and credit requirements set by the card issuer to be approved. Card issuers are required to consider your ability to repay credit card debt if you’re under 21.
4. How do you apply for a student credit card?
You can apply for a student credit card online through the card issuer’s website. The application process may vary depending on your age. You generally need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card on your own.
5. Can international students apply for a credit card?
Yes, international students can apply for credit cards. Some cards offer options to apply using an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) rather than a Social Security number, which is more common for international students.
Remember, a credit card can be a powerful tool for building credit, but it must be used responsibly. Choose the card that aligns with your needs, spend within your means, and make on-time payments. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to financial success as a student and beyond.