Credit Cards for Students

Opening a new credit card normally requires an applicant to have an established credit history. And this is particularly problematic for young individuals who don’t have any credit history at all, such as college and university students.

Luckily, many banks and financial institutions have specifically made credit cards for these cases. Credit Cards for Students are designed with a focus on helping young adults establish a credit history and build credit scores early on in life.

Usually, Credit Cards for Students offer lower credit limits, and if you are under 21, you might also need to show that you have independent income or get an adult cosigner. Despite possible restrictions, Credit Cards for Students may still come with some good perks, e.g., 0% introductory APR, no annual membership fee, and a cashback bonus.

As with any other credit card, Student Credit Cards must be handled responsibly! It is essential to pay the monthly minimum fee, keep the card balance under control and work toward paying off the debt within a reasonable time frame. The disciplined approach to initial debt management will help young adults establish a credit history and build good financial habits while benefitting from card perks and rewards.

Best Credit Cards

  • Freedom Rise℠: best for people with no credit history, offers 1.5% cashback on all purchases, no annual fee, and a chance for a credit limit increase after 6 months.
  • Travel Rewards for Students: best for students who travel, offers unlimited 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases, with no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, a sign-up bonus, and 0% intro APR for 15 months
  • BankAmericard® for Students: best for students looking to save on interest, offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 months, no annual fee, and tools to help build responsible credit habits.
  • Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students: best student card for unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases + sign-up bonus and 0% intro APR
  • Customized Cash Rewards for Students: best student card for flexible cashback with 0% intro APR

Freedom Rise℠

Apply now

On Chase's Secure Website

Freedom Rise℠
4.8

Annual fee:
$0

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

25.99% Variable APR

Buy Now, Pay Later Break up eligible credit card purchases into equal monthly payments. Two plan options - "after purchase" in the bank account, or "at checkout" with select merchants (e.g., Amazon). Eligibilty requirements vary.

Chase Pay Over Time®

Credit Score

New To Credit

Rewards Earn unlimited 1.5% cashback on all your purchases.

1.5% Cashback

Welcome Offer Get a $25 statement credit when you enroll in automatic payments within the first three months of account opening.

$25

Improve Your Approval Chances: If you’ve never had a credit card, keeping at least $250 in a Chase checking or savings account before you apply can help you get approved for the Chase Freedom Rise℠ card.

Welcome Offer

  • $25 for Enrolling in Autopay: Get a $25 statement credit when you enroll in automatic payments within the first three months of account opening.

Rewards

  • Earn 1.5% unlimited cashback on all purchases.

Partner Benefits

  • DoorDash DashPass Membership: Enjoy 6 months of complimentary DashPass for DoorDash and Caviar, with $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on eligible orders. Activate by December 31, 2027; enrollment auto-renews at the standard rate.
  • Up to $10 off Quarterly: DashPass members get up to $10 off quarterly on non-restaurant DoorDash orders through December 31, 2027.
  • 2% Cashback on Lyft: Earn 2% cashback on Lyft rides through September 30, 2027.

Redemption Options

  • Redeem rewards for cash, travel, gift cards, purchases at Amazon.com, and more.

Fees and APR

  • Annual Fee: $0.
  • Regular APR: 25.99% Variable APR.
  • Balance Transfer Fees: $5 or 5% of each transfer amount, whichever is greater.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each purchase transaction in U.S. dollars.

Travel Benefits

  • Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance: Get reimbursed up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable fares if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons like illness or severe weather.

Purchase Protections

  • Purchase Protection: Covers new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft, up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Extended Warranty Protection: Extends warranty coverage by one additional year on original eligible warranties of three years or less.

Additional Features

  • Turn Good Habits Into an Upgrade: If you use your Freedom Rise® card responsibly, you’ll be automatically checked each year for an upgrade to the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card. Just keep your account open, make at least one purchase, and pay all your bills on time for 12 months.
  • Chase Credit Journey®: A free tool that helps you monitor your credit score, receive alerts, and get personalized tips to improve your credit health.
  • Credit Limit Increase: After 6 months, Chase will see if you qualify for a higher spending limit on your Freedom Rise® card. Your credit limit is the most you’re allowed to spend on the card.
  • Zero Liability Protection: You won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account info, just report them promptly.
  • 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: Your account is continuously monitored for unusual activity. Potential fraud is blocked, and you’ll be alerted if suspicious transactions are detected.
  • Lock or Unlock Your Card: Use the Chase Mobile® app or Chase.com to quickly lock your card and stop new purchases if it’s lost or stolen. You won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges, and your automatic payments will still go through.
  • Contactless Payments: Tap to pay quickly and securely with your contactless credit card at checkout, no swiping or inserting needed.
  • Digital Wallet Compatible: Easily add your card to Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, or Samsung Pay® for fast, secure, contactless payments in-store, in-app, and online.

Terms and Conditions

Click Apply Now to see the terms and conditions.

The Chase Freedom Rise℠ Credit Card is an excellent choice for individuals looking to establish their credit history while earning rewards on everyday purchases. It offers unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases, with no annual fee and no rotating categories to track. To improve approval odds, applicants can benefit from having a Chase checking account before applying. The card also includes valuable purchase protection and automatic reviews for potential credit line increases and future upgrades. With its simple structure and useful benefits, Freedom Rise provides a strong foundation for building credit and earning consistent rewards along the way.

Travel Rewards for Students

Apply now

On Bank of America's Secure Website

Travel Rewards for Students
4.5

Annual fee:
$0

Intro APR

Purchases: 0%, 15 billing cycles

Balance Transfers: 0%, 15 billing cycles

Regular APR

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Buy Now, Pay Later N/A

N/A

Credit Score

New To Credit

Rewards Earn 1.5x points per $1 spent on all purchases.

1.5x Points

Welcome Offer Earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first three months. That's worth $250 when redeemed for statement credit toward travel and dining purchases.

25,000 Points

Welcome Offer

Earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first three months. That’s worth $250 when redeemed for statement credit toward travel and dining purchases.

Rewards

Earn 1.5x points per $1 spent on all purchases.

Redemption Options

Redeem points for a statement credit towards travel and dining, or use them to book your next trip.

Fees and APR

  • Annual Fee: $0.
  • 0% Intro APR on Purchases and Balance Transfers: Enjoy 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening. To qualify for the balance transfer offer, transfers must be completed within the first 60 days.
  • Regular APR: After the introductory period, a variable APR of 18.24% - 28.24% applies to purchases and balance transfers.
  • Intro Balance Transfer Fees: 3% of each transfer amount for balance transfers made within the first 60 days of account opening.
  • Regular Balance Transfer Fees: 4% of each transfer amount for balance transfers made after the introductory period ends.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None.

Additional Features

  • Free FICO® Score Access: View your FICO® Score for free, updated monthly in your Mobile Banking app or Online Banking. Opt in to see key factors affecting your score and tips to help maintain your credit health.
  • Better Money Habits®: Access free tools and resources to build financial confidence, covering credit, budgeting, debt management, and more.
  • 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: Your account is continuously monitored for unusual activity. Potential fraud is blocked, and you’ll be alerted if suspicious transactions are detected.
  • Zero Liability Protection: You won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account info, just report them promptly.
  • Contactless Payments: Tap to pay quickly and securely with your contactless credit card at checkout, no swiping or inserting needed.
  • Balance Connect® for Overdraft Protection: Link your eligible Bank of America® checking account to your credit card to help avoid declined purchases or returned checks. No transfer fees, other fees may apply.
  • Digital Wallet Compatible: Easily add your card to Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, or Samsung Pay® for fast, secure, contactless payments in-store, in-app, and online.
  • Account Alerts: Stay on top of your balances, due dates, and transactions with customizable email or text alerts, so you’re always informed and in control.

Terms and Conditions

Click Apply Now to see the terms and conditions.

  • Additional Features: Include 24-hour fraud protection, $0 liability guarantee, contactless chip technology, Balance Connect® for overdraft protection, Digital Wallet technology, account alerts, and free access to FICO® Score.
  • Click ‘Apply Now’ to see the full terms and conditions.
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students is a solid choice for students who want to earn flexible travel rewards without paying an annual fee. It offers unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on every purchase, with no expiration and no categories to manage. New cardholders can earn a 25,000-point welcome bonus (worth $250 toward travel and dining) after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months, along with a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. With no foreign transaction fees, it’s a practical option for students who plan to travel or study abroad and want to build credit at the same time.

BankAmericard® for Students

Apply now

On Bank of America's Secure Website

BankAmericard® for Students
4.3

Annual fee:
$0

Intro APR

Purchases: 0%, 18 billing cycles

Balance Transfers: 0%, 18 billing cycles

Regular APR

15.24% - 25.24% Variable APR

Buy Now, Pay Later N/A

N/A

Credit Score

New To Credit

Rewards N/A

N/A

Welcome Offer N/A

N/A

Fees and APR

  • Annual Fee: $0.
  • 0% Intro APR on Purchases and Balance Transfers: Enjoy 0% intro APR for 18 months from account opening. To qualify for the balance transfer offer, transfers must be completed within the first 60 days.
  • Regular APR: After the introductory period, a variable APR of 15.24% - 25.24% applies to purchases and balance transfers.
  • Intro Balance Transfer Fees: 3% of each transfer amount for balance transfers made within the first 60 days of account opening.
  • Regular Balance Transfer Fees: 4% of each transfer amount for balance transfers made after the introductory period ends.
    • Paying late won’t raise your APR.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each purchase transaction in U.S. dollars.

Additional Features

  • Zero Liability Protection: You won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account info, just report them promptly.
  • Embedded Chip Technology: Provides enhanced security and greater acceptance at chip-enabled terminals in the U.S. and internationally.
  • Free FICO® Score Access: View your FICO® Score for free, updated monthly in your Mobile Banking app or Online Banking. Opt in to see key factors affecting your score and tips to help maintain your credit health.
  • Better Money Habits®: Access free tools and resources to build financial confidence, covering credit, budgeting, debt management, and more.
  • 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: Your account is continuously monitored for unusual activity. Potential fraud is blocked, and you’ll be alerted if suspicious transactions are detected.
  • Contactless Payments: Tap to pay quickly and securely with your contactless credit card at checkout, no swiping or inserting needed.
  • Balance Connect® for Overdraft Protection: Link your eligible Bank of America® checking account to your credit card to help avoid declined purchases or returned checks. No transfer fees, other fees may apply.
  • Digital Wallet Compatible: Easily add your card to Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, or Samsung Pay® for fast, secure, contactless payments in-store, in-app, and online.
  • Account Alerts: Stay on top of your balances, due dates, and transactions with customizable email or text alerts, so you’re always informed and in control.

Terms and Conditions

Click Apply Now to see the terms and conditions.

The BankAmericard® Credit Card for Students is a straightforward option for students who want to manage expenses or pay off a balance over time without accumulating interest. It offers a 0% intro APR for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers made in the first 60 days, followed by a variable APR. While it doesn’t earn rewards, it also doesn’t charge an annual fee, and its main strength is helping keep interest costs down. It’s a practical choice for students looking to build credit and have some flexibility while paying off purchases at their own pace.

Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students

Apply now

On Bank of America's Secure Website

Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students
4.5

Annual fee:
$0

Intro APR

Purchases: 0%, 15 billing cycles

Balance Transfers: 0%, 15 billing cycles

Regular APR

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Buy Now, Pay Later N/A

N/A

Credit Score

New To Credit

Rewards Earn unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases. Rewards do not expire.

1.5% Cashback

Welcome Offer Earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days from account opening. Plus, earn unlimited 2% cashback on purchases for the first year.

$200 + 2% Cashback on Purchases for the First Year

Welcome Offer

  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first three months.
  • Earn unlimited 2% cashback on purchases for the first year.

Rewards

Earn 1.5% unlimited cashback on all purchases. Cash rewards do not expire.

Redemption Options

Redeem rewards for statement credits, direct deposits to Bank of America® accounts, or to pay at Amazon.com and with PayPal.

Fees and APR

  • Annual Fee: $0.
  • 0% Intro APR on Purchases and Balance Transfers: For 15 months from account opening.
  • Regular APR: After the introductory period, a variable APR of 18.24% - 28.24% applies to purchases and balance transfers.
  • Intro Balance Transfer Fees: 4% of the transfer amount for balance transfers made within the first 60 days.
  • Regular Balance Transfer Fees: 4% of each transfer amount for balance transfers made after the introductory period ends.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each purchase transaction in U.S. dollars.

Additional Features

  • Better Money Habits®: Access educational tools and resources to help you build financial confidence and manage credit wisely.
  • Zero liability protection, fraud protection, contactless checkout, Balance Connect® for overdraft protection, compatibility with digital wallets, automatic account alerts, and free access to FICO® Score.

Terms and Conditions

Click Apply Now to see the terms and conditions.

The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students is a strong starter card for college students looking to build credit while earning simple cashback. It offers unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases, with no annual fee and access to Bank of America’s financial education tools. While it doesn’t include travel or premium perks, this card is well-suited for students who want steady rewards, no hidden fees, and a solid foundation for future credit growth.

Customized Cash Rewards for Students

Apply now

On Bank of America's Secure Website

Customized Cash Rewards for Students
4.2

Annual fee:
$0

Intro APR

Purchases: 0%, 15 billing cycles

Balance Transfers: 0%, 15 billing cycles

Regular APR

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Buy Now, Pay Later N/A

N/A

Credit Score

New To Credit

Rewards Earn 3% cashback in the category of your choice, 2% cashback at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter), and 1% cashback on all other purchases.

1% - 3% Cashback

Welcome Offer Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first three months. Plus, earn 6% cashback in the category of your choice for the first year.

$200 + 6% Cashback In The Category of Your Choice for the First Year

Welcome Offer

  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first three months.
  • Plus, earn 6% cashback in the category of your choice for the first year.
  • 3% Cashback in the Category of Your Choice: Gas and EV charging stations; online shopping, including cable, internet, phone plans and streaming; dining; travel; drug stores and pharmacies; or home improvement/furnishings. You can change the choice category once every calendar month.
  • 2% Cashback at Grocery Stores and Wholesale Clubs: Up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter.
  • 1% Cashback on All Other Purchases.
  • Annual Fee: None.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each transaction made in a foreign currency. This fee will be in addition to any other applicable fee.
  • 0% Intro APR on Purchases: For 15 months from account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers: For 15 months from account opening. To qualify, you must make balance transfer within the first 60 days.
  • Balance Transfer Fees: Introductory period: 3% of the transfer amount for balance transfers made within the first 60 days. Regular: 4% of each transfer amount for balance transfers made after the introductory period ends.
  • Regular APR: After the introductory period, a variable APR of 18.24% - 28.24% applies to purchases and balance transfers.
  • Redeem Rewards: As a statement credit or direct deposit into an eligible Bank of America® or Merrill® account.
  • Better Money Habits®: Learn how responsibly handle your credit.
  • Additional Features: Include 24-hour fraud protection, $0 liability guarantee, contactless pay, Balance Connect® for overdraft protection, Digital Wallet technology, account alerts, and free access to FICO® Score.
  • Click ‘Apply Now’ to see the full terms and conditions.
This student credit card is a good option for flexible cashback. Great additions are a welcome bonus, and 0% APR intro offers on purchases and balance transfers.




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