top 10 student credit cards
Student credit cards are designed to help young adults build credit history while still in school. They often come with lower credit limits and fewer rewards than traditional credit cards, but they typically offer special features tailored to students, such as cashback on common student expenses, no annual fees, and tools to help track spending and manage budgets.
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Among the top student credit cards are the Discover it® Student Cash Back and the Journey® Student Rewards from Capital One, both known for their generous cashback programs. The Discover it® Student Cash Back card offers 5% cashback on rotating categories and 1% on all other purchases, with the added benefit of matching all cashback earned in the first year. The Journey® Student Rewards offers 1% cashback on all purchases, with a 0.25% bonus for on-time payments. Other notable student cards include the Bank of America® Cash Rewards for Students, Citi Rewards+℠ Student Card, and the Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students, which rewards spending on streaming services and other student essentials. Some cards, like the Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card, provide a $50 bonus after the first purchase and a small credit limit increase with responsible use. These cards not only help students build credit but often include educational resources and tools to foster financial literacy.
DiscoverView AllDiscover - Innovative financial services with cashback rewards.
ChaseView AllChase - Global financial services leader.
Bank of AmericaView AllBank of America - Major American multinational banking and financial services corporation.
CitiView AllCiti - Global financial services and banking corporation.
Capital OneView AllCapital One - Capital One: Financial services, credit cards, banking, innovation-focused.
Wells FargoView AllWells Fargo - Large, diversified financial services company.
DeserveView AllDeserve - Deserve: Fair, transparent, and accessible financial solutions.
PetalView AllPetal - Eco-friendly, stylish, biodegradable cleaning products.
JourneyView AllJourney - A brand's evolution through stages of development and engagement.
Sallie MaeView AllSallie Mae - Student loans and financial services provider.
top 10 student credit cards
1.
Discover
Discover is a leading financial services company known for its credit card offerings, banking products, and payment services. Established in 1985, Discover aims to provide exceptional customer service and innovative financial solutions. The company offers a range of credit cards with rewards programs, online banking, personal loans, and student loans. Discover also operates the Discover Global Network, one of the largest card networks in the world, facilitating secure and seamless transactions globally.
Pros
Wide acceptance- Cashback rewards
- No annual fee
- Strong fraud protection
- Excellent customer service.
Cons
Higher international fees- Limited international acceptance
- Interest rates can be high
- Rewards categories can be restrictive
- Limited sign-up bonuses.
2.
Chase
Chase is a prominent financial services brand under JPMorgan Chase & Co., one of the largest banks in the United States. Known for its comprehensive range of offerings, Chase provides personal and business banking, credit cards, loans, mortgages, and investment services. The brand is recognized for its extensive network of branches and ATMs, user-friendly digital banking solutions, and strong customer service. With a commitment to innovation and community support, Chase aims to help customers achieve their financial goals securely and efficiently.
Pros
- Wide range of credit cards
- Robust online banking
- Extensive ATM network
- Strong customer service
- Competitive rewards programs
Cons
- High fees on some accounts
- Interest rates can be high
- Complex fee structure
- Limited branch locations in rural areas
- Stringent credit requirements
3.
Bank of America
Bank of America is a leading multinational financial institution headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. It offers a broad range of banking, investing, asset management, and other financial and risk management services to individuals, small businesses, and corporations. Known for its extensive network of branches and ATMs, digital banking innovations, and commitment to customer service, Bank of America serves millions of clients worldwide. It emphasizes sustainable finance and community development initiatives, aiming to drive economic growth and social progress.
Pros
- Wide range of services
- extensive branch network
- robust online banking
- strong customer support
- competitive credit card rewards.
Cons
- High fees for some accounts
- occasional customer service issues
- strict overdraft policies
- limited interest rates on savings
- complex fee structures.
4.
Citi
Citi, also known as Citibank, is a major global financial services company and a subsidiary of Citigroup. Founded in 1812, Citi offers a wide range of financial products and services, including banking, credit cards, wealth management, and investment banking. With a presence in over 160 countries, Citi is renowned for its commitment to innovation, customer service, and corporate responsibility. The brand is synonymous with reliability, global reach, and a strong focus on digital banking solutions.
Pros
- global presence
- extensive services
- robust online banking
- strong brand reputation
- innovative financial products
Cons
- high fees
- complex terms
- occasional customer service issues
- limited branch access
- stringent eligibility criteria
5.
Capital One
Capital One is a diversified financial services company headquartered in McLean, Virginia. Founded in 1994, it specializes in credit cards, auto loans, banking, and savings accounts. Known for its data-driven approach, innovative products, and strong customer service, Capital One has become one of the largest banks in the United States. The company's slogan, "What's in your wallet?" underscores its focus on personalized financial solutions and consumer empowerment. Capital One is also recognized for its commitment to technology and digital banking.
Pros
- Competitive interest rates
- No annual fees on many cards
- User-friendly mobile app
- Strong fraud protection
- Wide range of card options
Cons
- High APR on some cards
- Limited branch locations
- Strict approval criteria
- Customer service can be inconsistent
- Rewards redemption can be complex
6.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified, community-based financial services company founded in 1852. Headquartered in San Francisco, it operates globally, offering banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance services. Renowned for its iconic stagecoach logo, Wells Fargo serves millions of customers through a vast network of branches and ATMs, as well as digital banking platforms. The company emphasizes customer service, innovation, and community support, although it has faced regulatory and reputational challenges in recent years.
Pros
- extensive branch network
- diverse financial products
- strong customer service
- online banking options
- long-standing reputation
Cons
- past scandals
- high fees
- occasional service issues
- slow innovation
- complex account terms
7.
Deserve
Deserve is a financial technology company specializing in credit cards and digital lending solutions. They focus on offering credit products, particularly to underserved demographics such as students, international professionals, and those new to credit. Utilizing innovative technology and alternative data, Deserve aims to provide fair access to credit, helping users build and manage their credit responsibly. Their platform also offers rewards and benefits tailored to the needs of its diverse customer base.
Pros
- Innovative products
- Strong customer service
- Competitive pricing
- Positive user reviews
- Eco-friendly initiatives
Cons
- Limited product range
- High shipping costs
- Inconsistent availability
- Newer brand
- Less market recognition
8.
Petal
Petal is a modern financial technology company dedicated to providing more inclusive and fair access to credit. Utilizing advanced technology and data analytics, Petal offers credit cards that do not solely rely on traditional credit scores, considering other financial behaviors to assess creditworthiness. Their mission is to help consumers build healthy credit histories and achieve financial wellness through transparent terms, no fees, and user-friendly digital tools, making credit more accessible and understandable for everyone.
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Stylish designs
- Durable materials
- Affordable pricing
- Wide product range
Cons
- Limited availability
- Higher shipping costs
- May lack customization
- Smaller size options
- Limited customer reviews
9.
Journey
Brand Journey is a strategic consulting firm that specializes in helping businesses navigate the complexities of brand development and market positioning. With a focus on authentic storytelling and customer-centric strategies, Brand Journey assists organizations in creating compelling brand narratives that resonate with their target audiences. Their comprehensive services include brand audits, market research, and creative direction, all aimed at building strong, enduring brands that drive growth and foster customer loyalty.
Pros
- Innovative designs
- High-quality materials
- Strong brand recognition
- Excellent customer service
- Good resale value
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited availability
- High competition
- Potential for counterfeits
- Limited size options
10.
Sallie Mae
Sallie Mae is a prominent financial services company in the United States, primarily known for offering private student loans to help individuals finance their education. Established in 1972, the company has evolved from a government-sponsored enterprise to a leading private lender. In addition to student loans, Sallie Mae provides savings products, credit cards, and insurance. Committed to supporting students and families, Sallie Mae aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable.
Pros
- Extensive loan options
- Flexible repayment plans
- Online account management
- Offers scholarships
- Co-signer release available
Cons
- High-interest rates
- Origination fees
- Customer service issues
- Limited deferment options
- Strict credit requirements