As a student, choosing the right credit card can be an excellent first step toward building a solid credit history. The right student credit card not only provides convenience and security but also offers unique rewards and perks tailored to your lifestyle. Here’s a list of some of the best student credit cards available in 2024, focusing on cards that balance great benefits with accessibility for those new to credit.
1. Discover it® Student Cash Back
- Best for: Cash Back Rewards
- Rewards: 5% cash back on rotating categories (like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and Amazon.com) and 1% on all other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Intro Offer: Discover will match all cash back earned in the first year.
- Unique Perk: Get $20 statement credit each school year for a 3.0 GPA or higher (for up to 5 years).
Overview: This card is ideal for students who want to maximize their cash back rewards, especially with Discover’s first-year cash back match. The added incentive for maintaining a good GPA can be beneficial for students working hard on their academics.
2. Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card
- Best for: Flat Cash Back and Credit Limit Increases
- Rewards: Earn 1% cash back on all purchases with no categories to track.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Intro Offer: $50 bonus after making a purchase within the first 3 months.
- Unique Perk: Credit limit increase after five on-time payments.
Overview: The Chase Freedom Student card is a simple, straightforward option for students looking to build credit without managing multiple reward categories. With a flat 1% cash back on every purchase, this card is easy to use, and the credit limit increase after a few months helps support responsible usage.
3. Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Best for: Consistent Cash Back
- Rewards: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Intro Offer: $50 bonus after first purchase made within the first three months.
- Unique Perk: No foreign transaction fees – ideal for students studying abroad.
Overview: If you’re looking for a simple, hassle-free way to earn cash back without worrying about specific categories, the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards is a great pick. Its lack of foreign transaction fees makes it an excellent option for students studying internationally or traveling abroad.
4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students
- Best for: Travel Rewards
- Rewards: Earn 1.5 points for every dollar spent, redeemable for travel expenses.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Intro Offer: 25,000 online bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days, which can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Unique Perk: Points don’t expire and can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and more.
Overview: This card is perfect for students with an eye on travel rewards. You can earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for a variety of travel-related expenses. If you plan to take trips or study abroad, these rewards can make travel more affordable.
5. Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students
- Best for: International Students
- Rewards: 1% cash back on all purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Intro Offer: Amazon Prime Student subscription for free (a $59 value) for one year.
- Unique Perk: No Social Security number required for international students.
Overview: The Deserve EDU card is specifically designed with international students in mind. It doesn’t require a Social Security number for international applicants, making it accessible to a broader audience. The 1% cash back and Amazon Prime Student offer add value, particularly for those new to the U.S.
Tips for Choosing the Right Student Credit Card
- Consider Your Spending Habits: If you frequently dine out, look for cards with rewards in dining or grocery categories. For general expenses, a card with a flat-rate cash back might be the best option.
- Look for No Annual Fee Options: Most student credit cards come with no annual fee, which is ideal for budget-conscious students.
- Take Advantage of Intro Offers: Many student cards offer sign-up bonuses, so make sure to capitalize on these offers if they align with your spending plans.
- Avoid Over-Spending: It’s easy to overspend when you have a credit card. Stick to a budget and pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
- Build Good Credit Habits: Remember that timely payments and responsible credit use will build your credit score, opening doors to better cards and loan rates in the future.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right student credit card can help you build a strong credit foundation, which is essential as you prepare for future financial goals. By using one of these top student credit cards, you’ll earn rewards, manage your finances more effectively, and build a positive credit history. Compare your options carefully, assess your spending habits, and select the card that best suits your needs.