Best Credit Cards for Students in the USA to Build Credit and Earn Rewards

You want a card that helps you build credit while rewarding everyday life on campus. This intro surveys student-friendly offers that keep costs low and put cash back in your pocket.

Discover, Capital One, Chase, and Bank of America all have student-focused options with a $0 annual fee and starter rewards that fit a college budget.

Look for features like 0% intro APR on purchases, Cashback Match that doubles first-year cash back, and reporting to all three credit bureaus to start your credit history the right way.

Some cards include early spend bonuses, strong cash back on dining and groceries, and minimum credit lines as low as $500. You’ll also find travel-friendly perks, flexible repayment windows, and issuer programs that help you grow your credit score.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a $0 annual fee student option to keep costs down while you build credit.
• Use 0% intro APR and early spend bonuses to manage larger purchases responsibly.
• Prefer cards that report to all three bureaus to speed credit history growth.
• Pick a rewards structure—flat-rate cash back or category bonuses—that matches your spending.
• Compare issuers like Discover, Capital One, Chase, and Bank of America for student perks and upgrade paths.

Why student credit cards matter right now for building credit and saving money

Student cards give you a low-cost way to start a credit record while earning rewards on everyday spending. Use a card to build credit early, establish steady on-time payments, and collect perks that offset campus costs.

Look for $0 annual fee options and 0% intro APR offers on purchases when you plan a big buy like a laptop or textbooks. Many student credit cards report to all three bureaus—Discover is one issuer that explicitly does this and often includes a 6-month 0% intro APR on purchases.

Keeping your utilization under 30% and automating payments helps your student credit profile grow. You’ll also find cash back and rewards on common purchases like dining, groceries, and streaming that stretch a tight budget.

"Opening a student card now starts your credit history clock and sets you up for better loan and housing options later."

• Zero or low annual fee keeps fixed costs down.
• Intro APR periods can save interest if you pay within the promo window.
• Issuer tools and reporting help you monitor your account and build credit responsibly.

Top picks at a glance: best student credit cards USA for rewards, low fees, and 0% intro APR

This compact comparison helps you match a card to daily life and larger buys without digging through long reviews.

Capital One Savor Student — Great if you spend on dining and entertainment. Earn up to 8% via Capital One Entertainment, 3% on dining and groceries, $0 annual fee, and a $50 early spend bonus. Variable APR applies.

Discover it Student Cash Back — Rotating 5% categories (activation required), 1% on other purchases, 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, and Cashback Match in year one. No annual fee.

Capital One Quicksilver Student — Simple 1.5% cash back on every purchase, plus travel portal boosts and a $50 new-user bonus. $0 annual fee and always-on rewards.

Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students — Long 0% intro APR window (15 billing cycles), 1.5x points on purchases and up to 3x on travel, plus a large points offer and no annual fee.

Chase Freedom Rise — 1.5% cash back on purchases, $0 fee, and better approval odds if you already bank with Chase. Small intro bonus adds value.

Secured & no-history alternatives — Discover it Secured offers rewards and an upgrade path. Self Secured Visa and Firstcard help if you need no-hard-check or no-SSN options.

• Most picks have $0 annual fee and starter rewards.
• Compare 0% intro APR length when planning big purchases.
• Decide between rotating categories or flat-rate cash back to match your monthly spend.

Discover student credit cards: cash back, no annual fee, and credit building for students

Discover’s student lineup pairs a $0 annual fee with campus-ready rewards and tools that help you build credit early. You get options that match different spending habits and clear steps to grow your credit history.

Discover it Student Cash Back: rotating 5% categories and Cashback Match

This card offers 5% cash back in quarterly rotating categories (activation required) and 1% on other purchases. Discover doubles all cash back you earn in year one with Cashback Match, amplifying your student cash without extra steps.

Discover it Student Chrome: steady rewards for gas and dining

The Chrome option pays 2% at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 combined per quarter and 1% elsewhere. It’s simpler to use if you prefer steady rewards without activations.

Credit building, 0% intro APR, and helpful account tools

Both cards report to all three credit bureaus and provide a free FICO Score so you can track your progress. You’ll see a 0% intro APR on purchases for six months and a 10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for six months.

• Minimum credit limit starts around $500, with review options as you prove on-time payments.
• No credit score required to apply, making these cards accessible as you begin your student credit journey.

Capital One student lineup: Savor Student and Quicksilver Student compared

Compare two Capital One student options to see which rewards match your daily spending and travel plans. Both cards carry a $0 annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and a $50 early spend bonus to boost value in your first months.

Savor Student highlights

The Savor Student card supercharges entertainment and everyday buys.

Key rates: 8% cash via Capital One Entertainment, 5% through Capital One Travel on hotels and rentals, and 3% on dining, groceries, streaming, and entertainment.

Quicksilver Student highlights

Quicksilver keeps rewards simple with a flat rate on every purchase.

Key rates: 1.5% cash back on all purchases and the same 5% travel boost when you book through Capital One Travel.

"Pick Savor if your monthly mix skews to dining and events; pick Quicksilver if you want one steady return and no tracking."

• Both cards use similar APR ranges; plan to pay in full to avoid interest and build strong credit history.
• Use the travel portal for 5% back on trip bookings when it adds value.
• Turn on alerts and auto-pay in your account to protect your card and ensure on-time payments.

Chase Freedom Rise for beginners: no credit history and a banking boost

If you have little or no credit history, a simple starter option can help you build a reliable record while keeping rewards easy to track.

Chase Freedom Rise offers 1.5% cash back on every purchase and a $0 annual fee, making it a clear choice if you want one steady rate and nationwide acceptance.

1.5% cash back on every purchase and $0 annual fee

The flat 1.5% structure means you don't need to worry about categories. A $25 intro offer adds a little immediate value when you start using the card.

Why being a Chase banking customer can improve approval odds

Holding a Chase deposit account often improves approval chances if you have little credit. Chase also runs automatic annual reviews that can lead to upgrades as your account history grows.

"A simple, steady rewards card and on-time payments are the fastest way to establish a healthy credit profile."

• Pay balances in full to avoid the ~25.99% variable APR from canceling your cash back.
• Use alerts and auto-pay to protect on-time payments and build student credit fast.
• Consider linking a Chase checking account to strengthen approval odds and simplify banking on campus.

Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students: low interest student credit card with long intro APR

If you plan to travel or need to spread a larger campus purchase over months, this card gives you breathing room. The long 0% intro APR helps you avoid interest while you pay down big expenses and still earn travel rewards.

0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles

The card offers 0% APR on purchases for 15 billing cycles. Balance transfers also get the 0% promo when made in the first 60 days.

After the promo, the variable APR ranges from about 18.24%–28.24%, so plan to finish promotional balances early.

1.5x–3x points and no annual fee for travel‑savvy students

You’ll earn 1.5x points on purchases and up to 3x on select travel categories. There’s no annual fee, and a 25,000-point intro bonus can offset flights or hotels.

• Use the 15-cycle window to spread a laptop or semester travel costs without interest.
• Transfer small balances within 60 days to qualify for the promo and simplify payments.
• Redeem as statement credits against travel purchases to keep redemptions simple.
• Monitor your account, pay on time, and keep utilization low to protect your credit score.

Compare this long intro offer to shorter promos to see which aligns with your payback timeline. With no annual fee and flexible travel rewards, this low interest student credit card can suit students who travel home, study abroad, or attend campus events.

Secured and alternative student-friendly cards if you’re building from scratch

If you’re starting with no score, secured and no‑hard‑check options give you a clear path to build a reliable payment record. These products trade a deposit or subscription for an account that reports on‑time activity to the bureaus.

Discover it Secured: cash back and an upgrade path

Discover it Secured charges $0 annual fee, earns 1%–2% cash back, and matches that cash back in year one with Cashback Match.

The card reports to all three bureaus and offers an upgrade path to an unsecured product as you build your credit history.

• Intro balance transfer APR: 10.99% for six months.
• Variable APR after promo: 27.24% (use sparingly and pay on time).

Self Secured Visa: no hard credit check

Self Secured Visa avoids a hard pull and requires funding via a Credit Builder Account.

There’s $0 the first year, then a $25 annual fee. Note: it cannot be used internationally and its APR is high if you carry a balance.

Firstcard: option for international students

Firstcard Secured Credit Builder lets applicants without an SSN apply using a passport or visa.

This plan uses a subscription model (annual fee ranges $72–$144) instead of APR on purchases and can earn partner cash back up to 15%.

"Pick the path that fits your budget: refundable deposit, low subscription, or a credit builder account—and focus on small, repeat purchases you pay in full."

• Use recurring small purchases to create a perfect on‑time payment streak.
• Compare total cost: deposit, annual fee, and rewards before you choose.
• Favor cards that report to all three bureaus and offer upgrade options to grow your credit score.

Best Credit Cards for Students: how to compare rewards, APR, and fees

When you shop card offers, start by matching rewards to your real spending. If most of your purchases are dining and groceries, a category card can beat a flat rate. If you prefer simplicity, a flat 1.5% cash back card gives steady value without tracking.

Weigh 0% intro APR vs ongoing rates

Use a long 0% window when you need time to pay a big purchase. Bank of America’s long promo can help spread laptop costs. Shorter promos like Discover’s six months work for smaller buys. Always plan to pay the post‑promo APR or pay in full to protect your rewards.

Check fees, foreign fees, and balance transfer terms

• Scan for a $0 annual fee first.
• Look at foreign transaction fees if you travel—Capital One and Discover often waive them.
• Review balance transfer length, transfer fee, and the 60‑day eligibility window.

Confirm three‑bureau reporting

Pick issuers that report to all three credit bureaus. Every on‑time payment should build your credit history and make future approvals easier.

Eligibility requirements for student credit cards in the United States

Before you apply, confirm age, income, and documentation rules so your request moves smoothly. Issuers expect basic facts like your U.S. address and proof you’re enrolled at a school. Have these ready to speed approval.

Age, student status, and income rules

You must be at least 18 to open a card. If you’re under 21, most issuers require proof of independent income to qualify on your own.

Acceptable income can include wages, stipends, or predictable support where allowed. Issuers evaluate income differently depending on age.

Documentation: SSN, ITIN, and enrollment

Most applications ask for a Social Security number or an ITIN and a U.S. physical address. You’ll also upload school verification like enrollment dates.

Alternatives if you lack income

Some issuers don’t permit co‑signers. If you can’t qualify, consider becoming an authorized user on a parent’s account to build credit history and a stronger credit score.

• Open a checking account with your target issuer to improve approval odds.
• Expect a low initial limit; request increases after months of on‑time payments and low utilization.
• Avoid multiple applications at once to protect your credit score and approval chances.

How to apply online and get approved faster

Start your online application by checking prequalification tools that use soft pulls so you can see your odds without harming your score.

Use pre-approval first. Many issuers (Discover included) offer a soft-check prequalification that won’t leave a hard inquiry on your credit report. This helps you compare likely outcomes before you apply.

What to prepare before you apply

Have your SSN or ITIN, school enrollment proof, and current income ready. Entering accurate info reduces errors that can slow approval.

Timing and utilization tips

Apply when your existing balances are low. Lower utilization improves odds and can help you qualify for a higher starting limit.

Fast online steps to follow

1. Check prequalification with soft pulls to estimate approval odds.
2. Confirm documents: SSN/ITIN, U.S. address, school enrollment, and income.
3. Limit other applications and keep utilization under 30% before you apply.
4. Review rewards, cash back, and 0% options so the card fits your semester plan.
5. Save confirmations, set up your online account, and enable alerts and auto-pay.

Quick checklist

Step	Why it helps	Action
Prequalification	Soft check avoids score impact	Run issuer tool first
Documents	Create a complete application	SSN/ITIN, school proof, income
Timing	Lower utilization improves odds	Pay balances down before applying

"Start with one strong student card, build on-time history, and upgrade later rather than opening many accounts at once."

Student rewards cards you can actually maximize on campus

Map your monthly campus spending to the cards that return the most cash and points. Start by listing regular purchases—meal swipes, grocery runs, gas, and subscriptions.

Dining and groceries often make up the largest chunk of student spend. Keep dining and entertainment on cards like Savor Student that reward 3% in those categories.

Use the Discover it Student Cash Back rotating 5% calendar to time big grocery trips and streaming purchases. Activate each quarter and move planned purchases into that window.

Gas, streaming, and easy flat-rate coverage

Chrome gives an automatic 2% at gas stations and restaurants, so use it for quick stops and campus refuels.

If you want simplicity, sweep remaining purchases to a flat 1.5% Quicksilver Student card. One steady card keeps tracking painless between classes.

Small habits add up: set subscriptions to the high‑earning entertainment card, group grocery runs during bonus months, and enable auto-pay to protect your account and credit history.

Category	Recommended card	Typical reward	How to maximize
Dining & Entertainment	Capital One Savor Student	3% on dining & eligible streaming	Put restaurants and subscriptions on this card
Rotating categories	Discover it Student Cash Back	5% (activation required)	Activate early and plan big buys in quarter
Gas & Quick Stops	Discover it Student Chrome	2% at gas & restaurants	Use for refuels and small meals
Everyday sweep	Capital One Quicksilver Student	1.5% on all purchases	Cover misc buys you forget to route

• Track quarterly caps and spread purchases to avoid hitting limits.
• Organize your wallet so you always know which card to use.
• Focus on on‑time payments to protect your student credit and credit history.

Using your first card to build credit history the smart way

Start your credit journey by using your first card for small, repeatable purchases you can pay off every month. That habit shows lenders you manage credit and earns steady rewards or cash back without interest.

On-time payments, statement balances, and utilization targets

Set auto-pay for the statement balance so you never miss a due date. On-time payments are the single biggest factor in your credit history and credit score.

Keep utilization under 30% and aim for under 10% before the statement posts. Low reported balances help your score and let you keep more available credit in the account.

Monitoring your FICO Score and disputing errors

Check your FICO Score monthly and review reports for mistakes. Discover offers a free FICO Score and reports activity to all three bureaus, making monitoring easier.

If you find an error, dispute it quickly with the bureau to protect your progress.

Graduating to higher limits and non-student cards without closing accounts

After 6–12 months of on-time payments, request a higher limit to lower utilization. Keep the original student card open when you move to regular credit cards to preserve account age.

• Use cash back as a small budget boost while paying in full every month.
• Avoid cash advances and fees that can harm your account standing.
• Use steady, predictable purchases—like a subscription or groceries—to build a spotless payment record.

"Pay in full, keep balances low, and let time and on-time payments build your profile."

Travel-ready student cards: no foreign transaction fee and international acceptance

When you study overseas, a travel-focused card keeps extra fees from eating into your budget. Choose a travel-ready option that waives foreign transaction fees so every euro or yen you spend isn’t taxed by an added percentage.

Why Visa and Mastercard acceptance matters abroad

Visa and Mastercard are accepted in far more places than some other networks. If you rely on a Discover or niche network, you may find merchants that can’t process your purchases.

Choosing cards that waive foreign transaction fees for study abroad

Capital One generally waives foreign fees and offers wide acceptance plus travel rewards. Discover also has no fee but can be limited in some countries.

• Bring a backup card on a different network to avoid declines.
• Set travel notices, enable alerts, and link a small emergency checking balance to your account.
• Pay in local currency when possible and confirm PIN and contactless support for transit and terminals.

Network/Issuer	No foreign fee?	Notes
Visa/Mastercard	Usually yes	Best global acceptance
Capital One	Yes	Good travel rewards and portal boosts
Discover	Yes	No fee but limited acceptance in some regions

"Carry one main travel card and a backup on a different network to keep purchases running smoothly."

Responsible use tips to avoid debt and interest

Protect your finances by treating a student card like a budgeting tool, not extra spending power. Use simple habits to keep interest and fees from undoing your rewards and progress.

Pay in full and avoid cash advances

Always plan to pay the statement balance in full each month. That prevents purchase APR and keeps any cash back or rewards as real savings.

Avoid cash advances: they often charge immediate interest plus extra fees and can blow up your budget.

Set alerts, automate payments, and use 0% windows wisely

Turn on payment alerts and set auto-pay for at least the statement amount. This stops late fees and protects your credit.

Only use 0% intro APR offers for pre-budgeted purchases with a clear payoff plan. For example, Discover’s 0% on purchases for 6 months or Bank of America’s 15 billing cycles can help—if you stick to the schedule.

• Commit to paying your statement balance in full each month.
• Avoid cash advances; they accrue immediate interest and fees.
• Use calendar reminders, spending alerts, and auto-pay to guard your account.
• Plan large buys during 0% promos and set a payoff target before the promo ends.
• Make a mid-cycle payment to lower reported balance and support your credit.
• Skip unnecessary new applications and review statements for errors monthly.

"View rewards as a perk, not a reason to overspend—sustained account health beats small bonuses."

Trusted banks and issuers with student-friendly programs

Major issuers offer student programs that mix low fees, clear upgrade paths, and helpful digital tools. These options help you start small, earn rewards, and build credit with low risk.

Discover, Capital One, Chase, and Bank of America highlights

Discover accepts applicants with no prior score, reports to all three bureaus, and gives a 0% intro APR on purchases for six months. Cashback Match and a typical $500 minimum limit make it a clear choice if you want visible progress.

Capital One offers Savor and Quicksilver student options with $0 annual fee, early spend bonuses, and no foreign transaction fees. Use these if you value simple cash back on every purchase.

Chase can improve approval odds if you already bank there. Freedom Rise gives 1.5% cash back and regular account reviews that may lead to upgrades.

Bank of America stands out with a long 0% intro APR and 1.5x–3x points plus a large intro bonus for travel-minded students.

When to pick secured issuers with clear upgrade paths

Choose a secured product when unsecured approval is unlikely. Favor issuers that review accounts for unsecured upgrades so you can keep the same account and lengthen history.

• Prioritize $0 annual fee options while you build student credit.
• Check mobile apps, customer service, and dispute tools before you apply.

Issuer	Key perk	Typical fee	Upgrade path
Discover	Cashback Match, 3‑bureau reporting	$0 annual fee	Secured → review to unsecured
Capital One	Flat cash back, no foreign fee	$0 annual fee	Periodic reviews, easy increases
Chase	1.5% cash back, better odds with bank	$0 annual fee	Annual account reviews
Bank of America	Long 0% APR, points bonus	$0 annual fee	Standard unsecured options later

"Start with one reliable issuer, use on-time payments, and move up as your record grows."

Conclusion

, A clear plan—pick the right rewards mix, use intro APR windows wisely, and pay on time—wins over chasing every bonus.

Choose a card that fits your spending: flat cash back, dining boosts, or travel points. Top picks include Discover (0% intro APR six months, Cashback Match, $0 annual fee), Capital One Savor/Quicksilver (no fee, early spend bonus, no foreign fees), Chase Freedom Rise (1.5% cash back, easier approval if you bank with Chase), and Bank of America Travel Rewards (15 billing cycles 0% APR, 1.5x–3x points).

Next steps: use pre-approval tools, prepare your Social Security number or ITIN, enrollment proof, and income details, then apply student credit when utilization is low. Set alerts and auto-pay, pay your balance in full, avoid cash advances, and track your FICO score to grow your credit history and unlock better card offers.

FAQ

How do student cards help you build credit?

Student cards report your payment history and balances to the credit bureaus, so making on‑time payments and keeping your utilization low helps you establish a credit file and raise your score over time.

Do you need a Social Security number or ITIN to apply?

Most issuers ask for a Social Security number, but some accept an ITIN or offer alternatives for international students. Check the issuer’s application requirements before you apply.

Can you apply without a long credit history?

Yes. Many student products target beginners and consider income from part‑time jobs, scholarships, or parental support. Secured cards and issuers with no‑credit options can help if you have no history.

What’s the difference between a secured card and a regular student option?

A secured card requires a cash deposit as collateral, which typically sets your credit limit. Regular student cards don’t need a deposit but usually require at least some income or a co‑signer for approval.

How do rewards and cash back work on student cards?

Rewards vary: some offer flat rates on all purchases, others give higher rates in rotating or fixed categories like dining, groceries, or gas. Choose one that matches your typical campus spending to maximize value.

Are there annual fees or foreign transaction fees to watch for?

Many student cards come with $0 annual fee, but always check the terms. If you plan to study abroad, pick a card with no foreign transaction fee to avoid extra charges on purchases overseas.

What is an intro APR and why does it matter?

An intro APR is a temporary 0% interest period on purchases or balance transfers. It can help you pay down a large expense interest‑free, but be sure you understand the length of the offer and the regular APR afterward.

How high will your initial credit limit be?

Limits vary by issuer and your financial profile; many student cards start with modest limits like $500 or higher. Demonstrating responsible use can lead to limit increases later.

Can being a bank customer improve your approval odds?

Yes. Having an existing checking or savings relationship with an issuer like Chase or Bank of America can strengthen your application and sometimes unlock special student offers.

What documents and info should you have when applying online?

Prepare your Social Security number or ITIN, proof of enrollment or school, income details (job, stipend, or parental contribution), and your U.S. address to speed up the process.

Will a soft pre‑qualification hurt your score?

No. Many issuers offer soft pulls for pre‑qualification that won’t affect your credit score. Only a full application triggers a hard inquiry, which can have a small short‑term impact.

How should you use your first card to build the best habits?

Pay on time, keep your balance well below the limit (aim under 30% utilization), and pay the full statement each month if possible. Set up autopay and alerts to avoid missed payments.

Do student cards report to all three major credit bureaus?

Most major issuers report to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, but confirm with the issuer. Reporting to all three speeds up the development of a full credit profile.

What if you don’t have a SSN and are an international student?

Some issuers accept ITINs, and alternatives like Firstcard or Self may allow applications without a SSN. You can also become an authorized user on a parent’s account to start building history.

When is a secured card the better choice?

Choose a secured card if you have no credit or very limited history, or if you were denied traditional student products. Look for clear upgrade paths and reporting features like Cashback Match or three‑bureau reporting.

How do balance transfers work on student‑friendly offers?

Balance transfers let you move existing debt to a card with a 0% intro APR for a set period. Watch for transfer fees and the length of the promo; paying off the balance before the promo ends avoids higher APRs.

Can you get card benefits like free FICO Score or credit monitoring?

Yes. Many student products include free FICO Scores, credit education tools, and alerts to help you monitor progress and spot errors for dispute with the credit bureaus.

How do you choose between flat‑rate rewards and category bonuses?

Pick a flat‑rate card if your spending is broad and steady; choose category bonuses if you spend heavily in specific areas like dining or gas. Match the card’s rewards cadence to your campus lifestyle.

Is it worth applying to multiple student offers at once?

Avoid applying to many cards in a short span. Multiple hard inquiries can lower your score and reduce approval odds. Space applications and target cards that best fit your needs.

What happens when you graduate and your issuer converts the account?

Many issuers convert student accounts to standard consumer products or offer automatic upgrade options. Keep the account open and in good standing to preserve your credit history and score.