Best Student Credit Cards
Why Students Need a Credit Card
Having a credit card as a student is a smart way to begin building your credit history. A good credit score will benefit you in the long run for renting apartments, buying a car, or even landing your first job. But not all credit cards are equal, and it’s important to choose one that offers the right mix of rewards, low fees, and flexibility.
Top Credit Cards for Students in 2024
1. Discover it® Student Cash Back
- Pros: No annual fee, 5% cash back on rotating categories like gas, groceries, and online shopping. Unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Student Perk: $20 statement credit each school year your GPA is 3.0 or higher.
- Why it’s great: Excellent for students who want rewards and a card that helps with responsible credit-building.
2. Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card
- Pros: No annual fee, 1% cash back on all purchases, $50 bonus after first purchase.
- Student Perk: Automatically reviews for credit limit increases after five months of on-time payments.
- Why it’s great: Simple and straightforward with no hassle, perfect for those new to credit.
3. Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
- Pros: No annual fee, 1.5 points per $1 spent, no foreign transaction fees.
- Student Perk: Earn unlimited points and redeem for travel without blackout dates.
- Why it’s great: Ideal for students planning to study abroad or who love to travel.
Tips for Using Student Credit Cards Responsibly
- Pay Your Balance in Full: Avoid interest charges by paying off your card every month.
- Keep Utilization Low: Try to use less than 30% of your credit limit to improve your credit score.
- Set up Alerts: Use mobile apps to track spending and set payment reminders.
Choosing the best credit card as a student means finding one that offers rewards and perks that fit your lifestyle while helping you build credit responsibly. With the right card and good financial habits, you’ll be setting yourself up for success well beyond your college years.