Student status does not ensure approval
Check the issuer’s student and income requirements. There is no universal student-card approval score.
Student Credit Cards: Compare Costs & Eligibility
Explore student-card listings and confirm eligibility, current terms and credit reporting directly with the issuer.
Compare listed cards ↓What to compare before applying
Start with manageable costs
Compare annual fees, deposits if applicable, and the cost of carrying a balance. A smaller credit limit can still require careful spending and repayment.
Build a payment routine
Set reminders, review statements and budget for required payments. Check what happens to the account when you graduate.
Compare the cards in our directory
This is a selection of products, not the entire market. Offers can vary by applicant and change over time. Verify current bonuses, rates, fees, and eligibility in the issuer’s application disclosures before applying. List order is not a guarantee of suitability or approval.
Discover it Student Cash Back
Discover · Discover
Annual fee
$0
Top reward
5% in rotating categories on up to $1,500 per quarter with activation; 1% on other purchases
Signup bonus
Discover matches the cash back earned during your first year, with no maximum. New cardmembers only; match is paid after the first year.
Bonus: Discover matches the cash back earned during your first year, with no maximum. New cardmembers only; match is paid after the first year.
Selected facts checked 2026-09-24 · Official source
- +5% cash back in rotating categories up to the quarterly maximum after activation; 1% on other eligible purchases.
Discover it Student Chrome
Discover · Discover
Annual fee
$0
Top reward
2% at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 combined each quarter; 1% on other purchases
Signup bonus
Discover matches the cash back earned during your first year, with no maximum. New cardmembers only; match is paid after the first year.
Bonus: Discover matches the cash back earned during your first year, with no maximum. New cardmembers only; match is paid after the first year.
Selected facts checked 2026-09-24 · Official source
- +2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter; 1% on other eligible purchases.
Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Capital One · Mastercard
Annual fee
$0
Top reward
1.5% on everything
Signup bonus
$50
Bonus: $50 after $100 in purchases within 3 months of account opening.
Selected facts checked 2026-09-24 · Official source
- +1.5% cash back on eligible purchases. Student eligibility requirements apply.
Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students
Bank of America · Visa
Annual fee
$0
Top reward
Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 on purchases
Signup bonus
No public welcome bonus listed on the reviewed product page
Selected facts checked 2026-09-24 · Official source
Continue your comparison
Comparison guidance reviewed September 12, 2026. This date does not certify every issuer offer as current. Sources: CFPB credit card terms and each linked issuer’s application disclosures. Editorial policy.
Work through the numbers
Use these guides to compare costs and benefits with your own budget.
First Credit Card: A Practical Selection Checklist
Choose a first credit card by checking eligibility, fees, payment terms and a manageable spending plan.
Student Credit Cards: Eligibility and Everyday Costs
Compare student card eligibility, ongoing fees and simple rewards while building a payment plan that fits your income.