Best Student Cards
Build credit while in school. Here are our top picks for 2025.
OUR TOP PICK
Capital One
Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
ANNUAL FEE
$0
APR
29.99% variable
WELCOME BONUS
No welcome bonus or sign-up offer.
REWARDS
None
WHY WE LOVE IT
- ✓No annual fee means zero ongoing cost (deposit is refundable)
- ✓Accessible for very poor credit or no credit history (scores as low as 300)
- ✓Low deposit options ($49, $99, or $200) make it affordable to start
- ✓Reports to all three major credit bureaus for maximum credit-building impact
- ✓Potential upgrade to unsecured card with deposit refund (often 12-18 months)
- ✓Possible credit line increases without additional deposits
- ✓Free unlimited credit score monitoring via Capital One CreditWise
- ✓Credit simulation tools to understand how actions affect your score
- ✓No foreign transaction fees
- ✓Mobile app with spending insights and account management
- ✓Autopay options to ensure on-time payments
- ✓No authorized user fees
- ✓Virtual card numbers for safer online shopping
- ✓Mastercard benefits and fraud protection
MORE GREAT OPTIONS
Capital One
Capital One Platinum Credit Card
Capital One
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card
NO FEE
Annual Fee:$0
Welcome Bonus:No welcome bonus or sign-up...
REWARDS
1.5% unlimited cash back on every purchase
Chase
Chase Freedom Rise℠
NO FEE
Annual Fee:$0
Welcome Bonus:$25 autopay statement credit...
REWARDS
1.5% unlimited cash back
Discover
Discover it® Student Cash Back
NO FEE
Annual Fee:$0
Welcome Bonus:Unlimited Cashback Match + $20/year...
REWARDS
5% rotating categories + 1% on everything else
What to Consider
How do I choose the right student cards card?▼
Consider your spending habits, credit score, and financial goals. Look at the rewards structure, annual fees, and additional benefits to find the best match for your needs.
What credit score do I need?▼
Most student cards cards require good to excellent credit (670+). However, some cards are available for those building or rebuilding credit. Check each card's requirements before applying.
Are annual fees worth it?▼
It depends on how you use the card. Cards with annual fees often offer higher rewards rates and premium benefits. Calculate if the rewards and perks you'll use outweigh the fee.
Ready to Apply?
Compare all student cards cards or explore other categories to find your perfect match.