FNavigating the world of credit can be overwhelming for students, but the right credit card can make all the difference—helping you build credit, earn rewards, and manage your expenses with confidence. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 credit cards designed specifically for students in June 2025, highlighting their perks, fees, and unique features. Whether you’re looking for cash back, travel rewards, or a simple way to establish your credit history, there’s a card here to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Discover it® Student Cash Back
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 5% cash back on rotating categories | $0 | 0% intro for 6 months, then 17.24%-26.24% Variable | No credit score required, Cashback Match (matched first year) |
- Earn 5% cash back on rotating categories and 1% on everything else.
- Discover will match all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year—no minimums, no limits.
- Perfect for students who want to maximize rewards and build credit without a credit history.
Capital One Quicksilver Student
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 1.5% cash back on all purchases | $0 | 19.24%-29.24% Variable | No foreign transaction fees, easy redemption options |
- Flat 1.5% cash back on every purchase, plus 5% back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
- Easy to redeem rewards, and no foreign transaction fees make it great for students who shop online or travel.
Bank of America® Customized Cash
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 3% in chosen category, 2% groceries | $0 | 18.24%-28.24% Variable | No fees for students under 24, $200 sign-up bonus |
- Choose your own 3% cash back category each month. Earn 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and 1% everywhere else.
- No annual fee and a generous sign-up bonus for students under 24.
Chase Freedom Rise®
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 1.5% cash back on all purchases | $0 | 26.99% Variable | Easier approval with Chase banking, $25 statement credit |
- 1.5% cash back on all purchases, plus a $25 statement credit for setting up automatic payments.
- Easier approval if you have a Chase bank account. Great for students new to credit.
Capital One Savor Student
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 4% on dining, entertainment | $0 | 19.24%-29.24% Variable | Travel accident insurance, automatic credit line reviews |
- 4% cash back on dining and entertainment, plus travel accident insurance and automatic credit line reviews.
- Perfect for students who love eating out or attending events.
Discover it® Secured
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 2% at gas stations/restaurants | $0 | 27.24% Variable | Upgrade path after 7 months, Cashback Match |
- 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants, plus upgrade potential after 7 months.
- Ideal for those with limited or no credit history
Bank of America® Travel Rewards
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases | $0 | 18.24%-28.24% Variable | No foreign transaction fees, no annual fee |
- 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, no foreign transaction fees.
- Excellent for students who travel or study abroad
Wells Fargo Active Cash®
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 2% cash rewards on all purchases | $0 | 19.24%-29.24% Variable | 0% intro APR for 12 months, cell phone protection |
- 2% cash rewards on all purchases, plus 0% intro APR for 12 months and cell phone protection.
- Great for students who want straightforward rewards.
Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| 1% cash back, up to 4% APY on savings | $0 (premium $48/year) | N/A (secured) | No credit check, for international students |
- 1% cash back and up to 4% APY on savings.
- No credit check required, making it accessible for international students.
Self Visa® Secured
⭐4.8/5
| Key Features | Annual Fee | APR (Purchase) | Student Perks |
| Build credit with $100 deposit | $25 | 29.24% Variable | No hard credit check, credit-building tool |
- Build credit with a $100 deposit, no hard credit check.
- Designed for students who want a simple, secure way to establish credit.
We chose these credit cards based on a balance of:
- Low or no annual fees
- Student-specific perks like easy approval or no credit history required
- Cash back or rewards programs
- Intro APR offers (0% periods)
- Credit-building tools such as secured paths and reporting to bureaus
Each card is student-friendly, designed to help you build financial health — not debt.
How Does a Student Credit Card Work?
A student credit card is a beginner-friendly version of a regular credit card. It allows you to:
- Borrow money up to a certain credit limit
- Pay it back monthly (in full or minimum payment)
- Build credit history when used responsibly
Student cards often have lower income requirements and provide access even with no prior credit score.
Different Types of Credit Cards
- Rewards Cards: Earn points, cash back, or discounts on purchases. Great for students who want to maximize value from everyday spending.
- Travel Cards: Offer air miles, lounge access, and travel insurance. Ideal for students who travel often.
- Fuel Cards: Provide fuel surcharge waivers and reward points on fuel purchases. Useful for students who commute by car.
- Secured Cards: Require a security deposit and help build credit for those with limited or no credit history.
- Student Cards: Designed specifically for students, often with low or no annual fees, easy approval, and student-focused perks.
Advantages and Risks of Credit Cards
Advantages:
- Build Credit: Responsible use helps establish a strong credit score, making it easier to get loans and better rates in the future.
- Rewards and Cash Back: Earn points, discounts, and cash back on purchases.
- Convenience and Security: Shop online and in-store with ease, and enjoy protection against fraud.
- Emergency Funds: Access to credit in case of unexpected expenses.
Risks:
- High-Interest Debt: Carrying a balance can lead to expensive interest charges.
- Late Fees: Missed payments result in fees and can hurt your credit score.
- Overspending: Easy access to credit can lead to spending beyond your means.
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for You
- Consider Your Spending Habits: Choose a card that rewards your most common purchases.
- Look for Low or No Annual Fees: Student cards should be affordable.
- Check Eligibility Requirements: Some cards require a credit history, while others are designed for first-time users.
- Compare Rewards and Perks: Look for cash back, points, or travel benefits that match your lifestyle.
- Understand the APR: Know the interest rate in case you need to carry a balance.
- Check for Student-Specific Benefits: Some cards offer perks like free access to credit scores, automatic credit line increases, or no foreign transaction fees.
How Many Credit Cards Should You Have?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most students do well with one or two cards to start. This helps you build credit without the risk of overspending or missing payments. As you gain experience, you can consider adding more cards to maximize rewards and benefits, but always manage your credit responsibly.
Additional Details for Each Card
- No Impact to Credit Score Unless Approved: Applying for a card only affects your credit score if you’re approved and accept the offer.
- Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back: Some cards offer flat-rate rewards on all purchases, making them simple and rewarding.
- Automatic Credit Line Reviews: Some issuers will review your account after a few months and may increase your credit limit automatically.
- Free Credit Score Access: Many student cards provide free, online access to your credit score, helping you monitor your progress.
- Instant Decision: Most student cards offer instant or quick decisions on your application, so you know right away if you’re approved.
Explore More Student Finance Guides:
- Best Credit Cards for Students in 2025
- Understanding Your Student Loan
- Budgeting Tips for College Students
- How to Save Money in College