Best Credit Cards for Students in 2025.
As a student, managing finances can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling tuition, textbooks, and the occasional late-night pizza. But did you know that using a credit card responsibly can be a powerful tool to build your credit history and set yourself up for financial success after graduation? In 2025, the credit card market is expected to remain student-friendly, with options tailored to help you earn rewards, avoid fees, and establish good credit habits.
Whether you’re a freshman or a grad student, here’s a breakdown of some of the best credit cards for students potentially available in 2025 (as of late 2024):
1. Discover it® Student Cash Back
Why it’s great for students:
Discover has long been a popular choice among students, and the current version of this card is likely to continue to impress into 2025. As of now, it typically offers 5% cash back on rotating categories (like groceries, gas, and Amazon purchases) and 1% on everything else. Plus, Discover usually matches all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year—essentially doubling your rewards! Please note that rotating categories are subject to change each quarter.
Key features (as of late 2024):
- No annual fee or minimum credit score typically required to apply.
- Free FICO® credit score monitoring to help you track your progress.
- $20 statement credit each school year if your GPA is 3.0 or higher (this is a feature as of late 2024, subject to change).
Best credit cards for: Students who want to maximize cash back while building credit.
2. Capital One SavorOne Student Rewards
Why it’s great for students:
If you’re a foodie or love dining out, the Capital One SavorOne Student Rewards card is often a perfect fit. Currently, it offers 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases.
Key features (as of late 2024):
- No annual fee or foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for studying abroad.
- Access to Capital One’s CreditWise® tool to monitor your credit score.
- No penalty APR, so your rate won’t increase if you miss a payment (this is a common feature, but always confirm terms).
Best credit cards for: Students who spend on dining and entertainment and want a straightforward rewards program.
3. Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card
Why it’s great for students:
Chase is known for its premium rewards cards, and the Freedom® Student card is a solid entry-level option. It generally offers 1% cash back on all purchases, plus a possible bonus for new cardholders (like a $50 bonus after your first purchase, as currently offered).
Key features (as of late 2024):
- No annual fee.
- Credit history review after five on-time payments, which may lead to a credit limit increase.
- Access to Chase’s Ultimate Rewards® program for potential future travel rewards within the Chase ecosystem.
Best credit cards for: Students who want a simple, no-fuss card with the backing of a major bank.
4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
Why it’s great for students:
If you dream of traveling during breaks or after graduation, this card is a popular way to earn points toward flights, hotels, and more. You’ll typically earn unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
Key features (as of late 2024):
- No annual fee.
- Flexible redemption options for travel, cash back, or gift cards.
- Bonus points for Bank of America® Preferred Rewards members (if you have a qualifying Bank of America banking relationship).
Best for: Students who want to earn travel rewards without an annual fee.
5. Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students
Why it’s great for students:
The Deserve® EDU card is specifically designed for international students or those with limited credit history. It often offers 1% cash back on all purchases and may include perks such as a free Amazon Prime Student membership for a period (like one year as currently offered).
Key features (as of late 2024):
- No Social Security Number (SSN) typically required for international students in some cases.
- No annual fee or security deposit.
- Cell phone insurance when you pay your monthly bill with the card (coverage details vary, check the terms).
Best credit cards for: International students or those new to credit.
6. Citi Rewards+® Student Card
Why it’s great for students:
The Citi Rewards+® card has a unique rewards structure, rounding up your points to the nearest 10 on every purchase, potentially maximizing rewards on small transactions. You’ll usually earn 2X points at supermarkets and gas stations (up to a certain annual cap, like $6,000 per year) and 1X points on everything else.
Key features (as of late 2024):
- No annual fee.
- 10% points back on the first 100,000 points redeemed each year (introductory bonus – check current terms).
- May offer an introductory 0% APR on purchases for a limited time (like the first 12 months, as sometimes offered).
Best credit cards for: Students who want to earn rewards on everyday, smaller purchases.
Tips for Choosing the Right Student Credit Card
- Look for no annual fees: As a student, minimizing costs is generally wise.
- Check for rewards: Consider what kind of rewards (cash back, travel points, etc.) align with your spending habits and goals.
- Monitor your credit score: Utilize free credit score tracking tools often offered by student cards to stay informed.
- Pay on time and in full: This is crucial for building good credit and avoiding interest charges, which is the most important habit.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right credit card as a student can be a smart move for building credit, earning rewards, and developing responsible financial habits. In 2025, it is expected that there will continue to be diverse options tailored to student needs, whether you prioritize cash back, travel rewards, or simply establishing credit history.
Remember, the key to success is using your card wisely—pay your balance in full each month, avoid overspending, and make the most of the benefits your card provides. With the right card and responsible usage, you’ll be setting yourself up for a stronger financial future.
What’s your experience with student credit cards? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Disclaimer: Credit card offers and terms are subject to change. The information presented here is based on our understanding of student credit card offerings as of late 2024. Before applying for any credit card, please review the issuer’s website for the most current and complete terms and conditions, including annual percentage rates (APRs), fees, and rewards details.