Best credit cards for students of April 2025

Can college students get regular credit cards? Absolutely. There’s no rule against it. However, student credit cards are specifically designed for those new to credit and enrolled in college. They often offer perks like cash back for good grades, lower or waived fees (especially for occasional missed payments), and typically no annual fee—a stark contrast to many top regular credit cards.

Essentially, student cards understand you’re just starting out and tend to be more forgiving. Their eligibility requirements, including credit score and income, are also usually less stringent, aligning better with the profile of a typical student new to credit. While regulations protect students from predatory marketing, the overall bar for approval is generally lower.

Learn more about student credit cards vs regular credit cards.

The short answer is typically 18, but it’s a bit more nuanced than that. While 18 is the usual minimum age to enter into a legally binding contract (which a credit card agreement is), even then, you’ll generally need proof of income or a co-signer if you don’t have enough income of your own to qualify. So, while you might technically be old enough at 18, the real question is whether you meet the other requirements, especially demonstrating the ability to repay the credit you’re borrowing. Some states have slightly different rules, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific regulations in your state. In short, 18 is the starting point, but it’s not the whole story.

Learn more about how old you have to be to get a credit card.

Yes, absolutely! That’s precisely what student credit cards are designed for: helping students build their credit history. Lenders understand that college students often haven’t had the chance to establish credit yet. That’s why student credit cards typically have more lenient approval requirements compared to regular credit cards. They’re a stepping stone, a way to demonstrate responsible credit use and start building a positive track record. So, if you’re a student with no credit history, don’t worry – you’re exactly who these cards are meant for. Just be prepared to show some form of income (even if it’s part-time) or have a co-signer if required.

Yes, and in fact, many of the best student credit cards come with no annual fee. These no-annual-fee cards are a great option for students because they allow you to build credit without incurring extra costs. Think of it this way: you’re already juggling tuition, books, and living expenses; a yearly fee on top of that just adds unnecessary pressure. No-annual-fee cards let you focus on responsible credit usage and building a positive credit history without the added burden of a yearly charge. So, while some student cards might have fees, they’re definitely not the only option, and many excellent no-fee choices are readily available. It’s always smart to prioritize no-annual-fee cards when comparing student credit card options.

Students who build credit in college gain a significant financial advantage as they begin their careers. While in school, many students benefit from a parental safety net, offering support and guidance should financial missteps occur. However, your credit history and score are lifelong companions, impacting everything from loan and mortgage approvals and credit card qualifications to insurance premiums and even job prospects. Building credit as a student means launching your professional life with one less financial burden to worry about.

Learn more about 5 things young adults should know about credit.

The “best” student credit card is like the best pair of shoes: it depends on where you’re going. Instead of a single “best,” think about your needs. Are you focused on minimizing costs? Look for cards with no annual fee and low (or no) foreign transaction fees if you plan to study abroad. A foodie? Prioritize cards with bonus rewards on dining and grocery purchases. A frequent traveler? Explore options with travel rewards or miles. Don’t just grab the flashiest card; research and compare based on your spending habits and financial goals. Sites like CardRatings offer expert comparisons, but ultimately, the best student credit card is the one that fits your unique lifestyle.

For students studying abroad, the best credit card is one without foreign transaction fees. If your current student card charges these fees, consider applying for a different one. Foreign transaction fees, typically around 3%, apply to every purchase made in a foreign currency. While 3% might seem small, it adds up quickly. Imagine spending three months in Rome and charging $500 monthly for dining and groceries. Those fees alone would total $45—money better spent on a moped rental or countless scoops of gelato.

Learn more about the best credit cards for students studying abroad.

The ideal number of credit cards for a college student isn’t a fixed number, but rather a question of responsible management. One well-managed credit card can be a fantastic tool for building credit and handling emergencies. However, multiple cards can quickly become overwhelming, especially with limited income. A good starting point is one card, used consistently and paid off in full each month. As you gain experience and confidence, and if your spending habits justify it, you might consider a second card for specific purposes, like one for travel rewards and another for everyday expenses. But the key is quality over quantity. Focus on managing one or two cards exceptionally well, rather than spreading yourself thin across multiple accounts. Remember, building good credit is about responsible usage, not the sheer number of cards you possess.

First off, whatever you do, don’t close the account. During college, you’ve hopefully built a solid credit history of on-time payments and responsible use. Crucially, simply having the card has established valuable credit history length, a key factor in your credit score. Closing the account interrupts this progress.

However, your college card might not be ideal for your post-grad life. So, what’s the solution? Many card issuers offer a smooth transition, automatically or upon request, to a non-student card. Familiarizing yourself with this “product change” process is beneficial for long-term credit management. Your new card could offer better rewards, lower interest rates, and other perks, all while preserving your established credit history.

Learn more about what to do with your student credit card after graduation.