The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is the best student credit card, since its rewards categories align perfectly with some of the top things students spend money on — dining, entertainment, streaming and groceries.
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Welcome Offer | Rewards Rate | Recommended Credit Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
Best student credit card
|
$100 Cash Back
Earn $100 Cash Back when you spend $300 in the first three months
| 1% - 8% cash back
| Fair | |
Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card*
|
Best for no credit
|
$25 statement credit
Earn a $25 statement credit when you sign up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account and remain enrolled for at least 90 days.
| 1.5% cash back
| Good / Excellent | |
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students*
|
Best for travel
|
25,000 points
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
| 1.5X points
Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases. | Good / Excellent | |
Discover it® Student Cash Back
 Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
Best for rotating cash back categories
|
Unlimited Cashback Match
Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
| 1% - 5% cash back
| Limited / Fair |
Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students*
|
Best for customizable cash back
|
$200 cash rewards
$200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
| 1% - 3% cash back
| Good / Excellent | |
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
Best for flat rate cash back rewards
|
$100 Cash Back
Earn $100 Cash Back when you spend $300 in the first three months
| 1.5% - 5% Cash Back
| Limited / Fair | |
Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
Best for secured credit card
|
Match all cash back
Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
| 1% - 2% cash back
| Limited / Poor |
Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
BankAmericard® Credit Card for Students*
|
Best for low APR
|
N/A | N/A | Good / Excellent | |
Discover it® Student Chrome
Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
Best for gas
|
Unlimited Cashback Match
Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
| 1% - 2% cash back
| Limited / Fair |
Apply Now
on Discover's secure site Rates & Fees |
To bring you the list of the best credit cards for students, we use an objective rating and ranking system that compares features across a large set of credit cards (over 200 of them from over 50 issuers). We use calculations to estimate the value of each card for the average cardholder, based on LendingTree and U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics.
For credit building cards in particular, we devote a large part of the score to features that help build credit — we want to help you locate cards that don’t cost a lot to own and get help you upgrade to better card offers.
We calculate how much the average cardholder can save with the card on a yearly basis. If it’s a rewards card, we use U.S. Bureau of Labor data and $300 in monthly spend (the typical starting credit limit for an introductory card) to calculate how much the average cardholder can earn in rewards. We then subtract fees — including annual fees and maintenance fees — from this amount.
We give points for features that help build credit, including reports to all three credit bureaus, regular account reviews for card upgrades and free credit score access. We detract points for features that can be costly to cardholders trying to build credit, such as security deposits, penalty APRs and late payment fees.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best credit card for building credit. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder’s. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn $100 Cash Back
The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card earns high honors for its generous (and unlimited) bonus rewards on key “dorm life” categories like dining, groceries, entertainment and streaming. There’s a $0 annual fee, and it’s also a good option to take abroad since it has good travel benefits. Cardholders can choose to redeem points as a statement credit, to cover a recent purchase or get gift cards. Plus, the card has staying power long after you hang your diploma, since it carries the same rewards as the regular version of the card, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn a $25 statement credit
Students who bank at Chase may have a good shot at getting approved for the Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card (if you have $250 or more in a Chase bank account, that’ll boost your approval odds). And once you start making purchases with the card, you’ll earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases. There’s a $0 annual fee, and you’ll enjoy extra perks and benefits that aren’t typically found on student cards, like purchase and extended warranty protection. Plus, if you make all of your payments on this card and with your other lenders on time over a 12-month period, you’ll receive an automatic account review for graduating to an upgraded Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates & fees).
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn 25,000 points
Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students is the best choice if you plan to study abroad, jet set for spring break or live in a dorm far from home. The flat-rate rewards you earn can be redeemed on travel purchases or restaurant spending, and its $0 foreign transaction fee makes it worth packing, too.
Plus, the card has a generous welcome bonus: Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases. It also comes with a lengthy introductory APR, and it’s rare to get both on a student card. Try to time the card opening for when you have a large purchase to make (textbooks, a trip or electronics) to earn the bonus.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Welcome offer: Earn Unlimited Cashback Match
The Discover it® Student Cash Back is a $0-annual-fee card that offers more generous rewards than many other student credit cards. It’s designed for students looking to establish and build their credit through responsible card usage — so you won’t even need a credit score to apply. Students can also track their credit progress with Discover’s free Credit Scorecard tool.
Discover also offers a unique welcome bonus for new cardmembers: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn $200 cash rewards
Earn $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
When you’re a college student, it’s a good idea to get a head start on building a positive credit history — but you might as well also earn rewards along the way. The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students is a $0-annual-fee card that can help you build credit and earn rewards, and you’ll even get to choose your top earning category. The card offers other key benefits, including a good cash back rate in other popular spending categories, a sign-up bonus if you meet the spending requirement and an intro APR.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn $100 Cash Back
The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a solid credit card for students who want to build credit and prefer a simple cash back program from a $0-annual-fee card. You can earn 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). Plus, the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card has a few travel benefits — which makes it ideal for students who plan to study abroad or take international trips.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Welcome offer: Match all cash back
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is a good option for anyone looking to build credit, and not just college students. It has a $0 annual fee — plus, unlike many secured credit cards, it offers cash back rewards, which can help students get more bang for their buck.
But since it is a secured card, you’ll have to put down a security deposit (at least $200) that’ll also serve as your credit limit. However, Discover automatically reviews accounts starting at seven months — so if you keep your account in good standing, you could graduate to an unsecured credit card in little time.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Intro APR: 0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases; after, a 15.24% - 25.24% Variable APR applies.
For students who are new to credit and may occasionally revolve a balance, finding a card with a low APR may be the top priority — and the BankAmericard® Credit Card for Students is likely the lowest you’ll find. You won’t get any rewards, but you will get a 0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases; after, a 15.24% - 25.24% Variable APR applies. This is perfect if you need extra time to pay off a new laptop or items for your dorm room.
Without any complicated bells and whistles and a lower cost to borrow, this card is ideal for those worried about getting used to the learning curve of how credit cards work.
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Welcome offer: Earn Unlimited Cashback Match
The Discover it® Student Chrome could be a good fit for students looking to earn an elevated cash back rate on gas station and restaurant purchases. Plus, like other Discover cards, new cardholders get a cash back match at the end of the first year: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
Further, having a 0% Intro APR for 6 months on purchases (after, a 17.24% - 26.24% Variable APR applies), as well as a late fee waiver the first time you pay late, gives students who are new to credit a little grace if they slip up.
A student credit card is an unsecured card designed specifically for college students to help them build their credit. Since students typically have limited or no credit history and earn lower incomes, these cards have less stringent qualifications for approval and start off with lower credit lines.
Just like regular cards, there are different student credit card options — some that offer cash back, others that offer general rewards or travel rewards and those that have lower APRs or long intro APR periods.
Over time with responsible card behavior, cardholders can graduate to higher credit limits and, in some cases, card upgrades.
| Student credit cards | Regular credit cards |
|---|---|
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Since many students are new to credit, it’s important to understand how to use credit cards effectively. Responsible student credit cardholders can develop smart habits and avoid mistakes that can have a lasting impact on their finances.
PAY YOUR BILL ON TIME EACH MONTH
Your payment history is the biggest factor that affects your credit score. It makes up 35% of your FICO credit score, the type of score that’s used by 90% of top lenders. This means that just paying your bills on time (or early) each month can help you build credit. It’ll also help you avoid late fees and may help reduce interest payments. Even if you can’t afford to pay your entire balance one month, at least make the minimum payment to avoid late fees and negative marks on your credit.
DON'T CHARGE MORE THAN YOU CAN AFFORD TO PAY
When you’re first starting out with a student credit card, it can be tempting to spend money without worrying about how you’ll pay it back. However, it’s always best to start small with credit and only charge purchases you can afford to pay off right away. This’ll help you build the positive credit habits you’ll need later in life.
Of course, there may be situations where you can’t afford to pay your balance in full. In that case, you should strive to pay off as much as you can, even if you have to make multiple payments throughout the month.
STAY WELL BELOW YOUR CREDIT LIMIT
The second most important factor in your FICO Score is the amount you owe in relation to your credit limit. This factor is known as your credit utilization ratio, and it counts for 30% of your score. Generally speaking, it’s always best to keep your utilization below 30% of your available credit. For example, if you have a credit limit of $1,000, you should keep your balance under $300.
CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE FREQUENTLY
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the three major credit bureaus to provide individuals with a free annual credit report. You can get a free credit report from each of the major bureaus once a week by going to AnnualCreditReport.com. Plus, you’re also entitled to receive one any time a company takes adverse action against you — for example, a rejection of an application for a credit card or loan.
The best credit cards for college students will typically have at least a few of the following features:
Choosing the best student credit card will come down to your personal spending style and the type of value you want from the card. You might prefer a simple flat-rate cash back credit card like the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card — or maybe you want to enjoy bonus categories that align with your spending, like our top student credit card pick, the Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card.
If you travel frequently, then a student card with travel rewards and benefits — like the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students — may suit you best. If your main need, however, is to finance a large purchase over time with no interest, then a card with a long intro APR offer (like the BankAmericard® Credit Card for Students) would be ideal.
If the student card offers credit-building tools and a pathway to card graduation, or updating your student card to a regular nonstudent card, take advantage of those resources as well.
It can be intimidating to apply for your first credit card as a student — especially if you have limited credit history. Luckily, college student credit cards are geared for applicants who are new to credit, which means it may be easier to get approved. You can boost your approval odds by taking steps to build your credit before you apply.
After deciding which card is right for you, follow these steps to apply for a credit card:
You don’t necessarily have to start your credit journey with a student credit card. There are some other available products and tools for building credit that might be a better fit in some situations.
SECURED CREDIT CARD
If you have poor credit or no credit, a secured credit card can help you build your credit score up. While secured credit cards require a deposit to secure your line of credit, they report your credit movements to the three credit bureaus to help you boost your score.
Many secured credit cards also offer rewards for spending with no annual fee, and you can get your security deposit back when you close your account or upgrade it in good standing.
STORE CREDIT CARDS
Store credit cards from retailers, like Lowe’s or Kohl’s, can also help you build credit. It’s often easier to get approved for a retail card than a traditional credit card. However, the downsides of store cards are that you can only use them with a single store or certain store brands and they often come with high APRs.
Some store cards — like the Prime Visa from Amazon — are offered by card networks like Visa and Mastercard, so you can use this kind of store card nearly anywhere. These types are actually called co-branded cards, and have qualifications that are more in line with regular unsecured credit cards.
BECOME AN AUTHORIZED USER
You can also look into becoming an authorized user on another person’s credit card, like a parent, spouse or another trusted family member. This step can help you piggyback off the good credit and responsible use of the primary cardholder.
Just remember that there are risks involved in being an authorized user for both you and for the primary cardholder, who’s ultimately responsible for repayment.
DEBIT CARD
If you just want a way to make purchases without using cash, you can also use a debit card that’s connected to your bank account. But remember that debit card usage won’t help build your credit score, as your payments won’t be reported to any of the major credit bureaus. You’re also less likely to earn rewards with a debit card.
Many of the cards listed in this article are fine choices for your first credit card. (For more options, see our list of best credit cards for beginners.) Be aware, however, that no card offers guaranteed approval. When you apply, the issuer will consider a variety of factors, including your income, your credit score and how much debt you’re carrying.
Generally speaking, you can’t pay federal student loans with a credit card. Some private companies will allow you to make student loan payments with a credit card, but it’s not usually a good idea — credit cards usually have higher interest rates than student loans.
While the credit cards with the best benefits and rewards typically require a good or excellent credit history, there are cards available for people with no credit. Cards designed for college students, like the ones listed in this article, are a good place to start.
In general, the best credit cards for college students don’t charge an annual fee and earn rewards where the student spends the most. And if you need extra time to pay off purchases or high-interest debt, an intro APR offer can reduce or eliminate interest charges as you make payments. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students checks all these boxes and includes a generous welcome bonus for new customers.
Legally, you’ll need to be 18 years old and have a source of income to qualify for a credit card. For college students who meet these requirements, a credit card can be a useful tool to build credit — which will be important when you’re renting an apartment, getting a car loan and even for some job applications.
You may be able to continue using your student credit card after graduation — some issuers, like Discover, may even upgrade you to the nonstudent version of your card. That said, you should consider looking at other credit cards once you’ve built your credit score up to the “good” range or have a FICO Score of 670 or higher. At that point, you may be able to qualify for one of the best credit cards, which have better rewards and perks.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
The information related to the Chase Freedom Rise® Credit Card, Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students, Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students and BankAmericard® Credit Card for Students has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
