The best credit cards for college students
Editor's Note
Building credit as a college student is an essential step toward a life of financial responsibility, helping you form a solid relationship with the money (and plastic!) in your wallet. Opening your own line of credit as a young adult can be daunting, but the short- and long-term benefits are undeniable.
In the not-so-distant future, having a line of credit attached to your name will be important when you apply for a car loan, apartment or mortgage.
From valuable cash-back credit cards perfect for a student with an existing (but limited) credit history to student credit cards designed specifically for first-timers with no credit at all, here you'll find the perfect mix of no-annual-fee credit cards tailored to student needs.
Best credit cards for college students
- Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates and fees): Best for students with established credit
- Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for most college students
- Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for studying abroad
- Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees): Best for flat-rate cash-back
- Discover it® Student Cash Back: Best for students with good grades
The information for the Discover it Student Cash Back has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Comparing the best credit cards for students
| Credit card | Best for | Rewards rate | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|
Established credit |
| $0 | |
Most college students |
| $0 | |
Studying abroad |
| $0 | |
Flat-rate cash back |
| $0 | |
Good grades |
| $0 |
How I picked the best credit cards for college students
When determining the best credit cards for college students, I looked at multiple factors most relevant to young adults. I analyzed factors such as ease of approval, student-focused rewards structures and cards with no foreign transaction fees.
I also focused exclusively on credit cards with no annual fee. While many great rewards credit cards on the market have an outsize value that more than makes up for an annual fee, it's always a good practice to start slow with a no-annual-fee card early on in your credit journey.
Related: The best credit cards for college students
How do student credit cards work?
Student credit cards are geared toward individuals 18 and older who don't yet have a credit history or a credit card in their name. For this reason, they're typically much easier to be approved for and often do not require a good or excellent preexisting credit score.
Issuers tend to be stricter in delineating between qualified and unqualified credit card applicants for higher-end cards.
For the most part, student credit cards work the same way that most credit cards work. You're provided with a credit limit representing the maximum amount of money you can borrow on that specific card for that month.
You must pay back the borrowed amount by the due date on your credit card statement to avoid interest. For this reason, it's important to remember that credit cards are not free money.
While managing your own finances and having a credit card in your name are big steps toward being an independent adult, make sure to check your account frequently and keep track of your spending to help get your FICO score off on the right foot.
Related: TPG’s 10 commandments of credit card rewards
Building credit as a student
Before building credit as a student, get familiar with the world of credit cards and rewards. Begin by checking your credit reports for free, and make sure to find a card that fits your score, needs and spending habits. Understand credit card terminology, including the following terms:
- Annual fee: Although student credit cards usually do not have an annual fee, many premium rewards credit cards require an annual fee for maintaining a card in your name.
- Credit limit: After getting approved for a credit card, you will receive a credit limit. This is the maximum amount of money that the issuer will extend to you on this specific credit line during that payment cycle. The percentage of your limit you use — called the credit utilization ratio — plays a role in your credit score.
- Rewards: Many credit cards offer rewards in the form of cash-back, points or airline miles. There are many redemption options that range from using your rewards for a statement credit on your account to elaborate travel redemptions through transfer partners. You can learn all about how to get started in the world of rewards with our beginner's guide to points and miles.
- Foreign transaction fees: Some credit cards incur fees when you use them outside the United States. These fees will generally cancel out any rewards you earn on the purchase, so be sure to swipe cards that waive foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
Related: Foreign transaction fees: Everything you need to know
Tips for parents about student credit cards
Helping your teen get their first credit card can be a nerve-wracking but worthwhile process. Teaching your children how to utilize credit responsibly is a valuable skill for their financial lives — and your peace of mind.
If you aren’t comfortable with your student opening their own line of credit, you can always add them to your personal account as an authorized user. This can usually be done directly through the credit card issuer, online or over the phone.
Even though you'll be the sole debtor and responsible for paying the actual statement balance each month, adding your child to your account has significant benefits.
Most importantly, as long as the account is managed properly, your children will likely get boosts to their personal credit scores and add more depth to their credit histories.
If your issuer reports this information to their respective credit bureaus, adding your children to your account could give them FICO advantages when they apply for a personal card in their name.
Related: My first-year journey into the world of cards and points: From baby steps to maximizing rewards
FAQs about student credit cards
Do I need a job to qualify for a student credit card?
While most credit card applications require you to input your annual income, you do not need a formal job title to be considered for most student credit cards. Many part-time jobs, internships and personal freelance work are acceptable as a form of income when applying for a student credit card.
If you have little or no income, consider having a parent or guardian add you as an authorized user to their account. Getting approved for any credit card, even secured credit cards, is very difficult without any meaningful income. You don't need to make a large income every year, but you need to earn enough to make a lender comfortable extending you a line of credit.
Related: What is a secured credit card?
How old do I need to be to qualify for a student credit card?
You're the ideal candidate for a student credit card if you are:
- 18 years or older
- A U.S. citizen
- In a two- or four-year college
- Able to show proof of income
If you're under the age of 21 and can't prove that you are eligible for a credit card, then you may have the opportunity to get a co-signer (usually a parent or guardian) who can take responsibility for your payments should you fail to make them at any point.
However, keep in mind that this could affect both the student's and the co-signer's credit scores on the account, as even one missed payment can significantly impact your credit score.
What do I do if I get denied for a credit card?
Getting denied for a credit card can be disheartening, but it certainly shouldn't be the end of your credit journey. Issuers technically have 30 days to respond to a credit card application. Still, they'll often respond in a few weeks by mailing an official notice of your denial with a reason (or reasons) why you were not approved.
The primary reason for students will likely be an insufficient credit history, especially if you apply for a credit card not specifically marketed with students in mind.
However, there may be other common reasons that young people are denied, such as a mismatch between the information on their application and the information the credit bureau has on file.
Lacking any meaningful income is also a major reason why you may be denied.
If you're denied for a credit card, we recommend you call the credit card issuer and see if you can speak to a representative about their decision. Banks have a reconsideration line where customers may challenge their decision on a credit card application.
Before calling, ensure your correct identification and income information are on hand to field any questions the representative might have. The worst that can happen is that the issuer's decision is not overturned. In that case, your credit score will likely fall by only a few points due to the hard inquiry on your credit, but these are temporary drops, and scores typically rebound quickly.
What happens to my student card after I graduate?
I generally recommend keeping your first credit card open permanently. That said, you may worry that your student card will be closed after you graduate. After all, it's meant for students, not working professionals.
Fortunately, credit issuers will usually reclassify your student card instead of closing it. Your account will stay the same, but the issuer will provide you with the non-student version of your card. Alternatively, the issuer may allow you to keep the student card despite being a graduate, like with Discover.
As you move on to bigger and better cards, remember to occasionally put a purchase on your old student card. Issuers may cut your credit limit or even close your account if you don't use your card for a long period of time.
Bottom line
Students have many choices when it comes to picking a first credit card. While the best card for you will ultimately depend on what type of rewards you want, each card on our list provides substantial rewards at no annual cost. Many assist with promoting positive financial habits, and most are easier to get approved for than other rewards cards.
If you have an existing credit history, the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Citi Double Cash is the perfect card to start building a relationship with a premium issuer. If you're a complete credit game novice, the Capital One Savor Student or Capital One Quicksilver Student would be an excellent choice.
Apply here: Chase Freedom Unlimited
Learn more: Capital One Savor Student
Learn more: Capital One Quicksilver Student
Apply here: Citi Double Cash
Related: 5 mistakes to avoid when you get your first credit card
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.