Best Student Credit Cards: A Guide for College Students
Introduction
As a college student, managing finances and building credit can be a challenging task. With tuition fees, housing expenses, textbooks, and more to worry about, it’s essential to find a credit card that supports students’ financial needs. The following list consists of the best student credit cards available in the market today.
1. Discover it Student Cash Back Card
The Discover it Student Cash Back card earns cardholders 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (up to $1,500) and 1% cash back on all other purchases. Additionally, Discover matches all cashback earned within the first year for new cardmembers. The card also boasts no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and forgiveness for the first late payment fee.
2. Capital One Journey Student Rewards Card
The Capital One Journey Student Rewards Card is designed to help college students build credit with responsible use. It offers 1% cash back on all purchases, which increases to 1.25% if payments are made on time consistently. There’s no annual fee or foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for international students or those studying abroad.
3. Bank of America Cash Rewards for Students Card
The Bank of America Cash Rewards for Students Card offers 3% cash back in the category of your choice (gas, online shopping, dining, travel), 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases), and 1% cash back on other purchases. As a bonus, new cardmembers can earn a $200 statement credit after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days. The card has no annual fee.
4. Citi Rewards+ Student Card
The Citi Rewards+ Student Card features an innovative rewards program that rounds up points earned to the nearest 10 for every purchase made. This card offers double points on gas and grocery purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1x points), as well as 1 point per $1 spent on other purchases. Citi offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases for seven months, followed by a variable APR between 13.49% and 23.49%. No annual fee is required.
5. Deserve EDU Student Credit Card
The Deserve EDU Student Credit Card is designed for students without an extensive credit history. No Social Security Number (SSN) or credit history is required for international students. Cardmembers receive 1% cash back on all purchases, a complimentary Amazon Prime Student membership (after spending $500 in the first three billing cycles), and no annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
Conclusion
When selecting the best student credit card, it’s essential for college students to consider factors like rewards programs, fees, interest rates, and opportunities for building credit. Make sure to weigh all options carefully and choose a card that best suits your financial needs and lifestyle. Building strong credit habits during college years can set you up for a healthy financial future.