Best Credit Cards for Students in May 2025

Being a college student isn’t cheap. Luckily, many credit card companies offer special credit cards to students. These student cards have unique qualification requirements (as new students likely don’t have any credit history) and unique rewards to help fund a student’s lifestyle.

Whether you’re an 18 year old with no credit history or a grad student looking to get serious about your finances, here are the best student credit cards to consider.

Best credit cards for students

Here are the best student credit cards available today, for both American and international students.

Best credit card for students with no credit

Best rewards credit card for students

Best travel credit card for students

Best Visa credit card for students

Best credit card for international students

How old do you have to be to get a student credit card?

You can get a credit card when you’re 18 years or older. However, borrowers under 21 years old may have a tough time getting a credit card, as anyone between 18–21 needs to show proof of income.

If you’re under 21 and unable to provide proof that you can pay your monthly bills, you’ll likely need a cosigner for your credit card. A cosigner takes responsibility for your credit card bills in the event you’re unable to pay.

Is it easy to get a student credit card?

Yes, it’s generally easy to get a student credit card. Unlike traditional credit cards, student credit cards are designed as first credit cards for people with no credit or previous borrowing history, and they’re good credit cards for 18 year olds.

However, some students may find it difficult to prove a source of income, and you may need to apply for a student credit card with the help of a cosigner.

Do I need a job to get a student credit card?

You don’t need a job to get a student credit card, but you do need proof of income so the issuer knows you can pay your monthly credit card bills. Proof of income varies based on whether you’re under or over 21 years old. If you’re under 21, proof of income must be:

• Personal income from a job
• Scholarship or grant funds leftover after paying tuition and other education expenses
• Your cosigner’s income

If you’re 21 years or older, proof of income can come in the form of:

• Personal income from a job or side hustle
• Loan money
• Scholarships and grants
• Allowance from your parent, guardian, or other individual
• Your spouse or domestic partner’s income
• Your cosigner’s income
  

Can international students get student credit cards?

Yes, international students can get student credit cards. Some credit cards, like the Deserve® EDU Mastercard®, are available to students without Social Security numbers.

Should I get a student credit card?

Yes, you should get a student credit card. Responsibly using a credit card is a great way to build a credit history, which could help you:

• Qualify for student loans
• Rent an apartment
• Open future lines of credit

Additionally, using a credit card can help offset the many costs of college. In addition to tuition and housing, new student costs include:

• Textbooks and school supplies
• Housing essentials
• Travel back home

Not only do credit cards help with your immediate expenses, but student credit cards offer rewards and bonuses that help fund your college life and studies. A good credit card can even help you save money while traveling after graduation, meaning that the benefits can extend beyond your life in college.