Student Credit Cards: Getting a student credit card is more than just a convenience—it’s a strategic move that can shape your entire financial future. By starting early, students can build a strong credit history, which plays a vital role in qualifying for lower interest rates, better loan terms, and higher credit limits down the road.
Good credit also helps when renting apartments, buying a car, or even launching a business. Managing a credit card teaches essential lessons like budgeting, making timely payments, and understanding debt—all critical for long-term financial stability.
Bank of America Cards Still Popular Among Students
In 2024, two Bank of America cards—the Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students and the Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students—ranked among the most-clicked student cards on Bankrate’s website. These cards offer no annual fee and flat-rate rewards, making them attractive to students who are just beginning to use credit responsibly.
Many students also appreciate that these cards are backed by a trusted bank and come with perks not commonly found in entry-level credit cards.
First Card Secured Tops List for Beginners
Despite the popularity of unsecured cards, the First Card Secured Credit Builder Card with Cashback was the most clicked student credit card last year.
Secured cards require a refundable deposit but are more accessible for students with no credit history. They are particularly effective for building credit from scratch and are often recommended for students who want to avoid overspending.
Learning From Experience
One student shared how she got her first credit card at a campus event because her grandfather—a Bank of America manager—recommended it. Though the advice was sound, she quickly maxed out the card on entertainment and food and spent nearly a year paying off the debt.
While she admits she didn’t learn the lesson right away, the experience helped shape her approach to credit management going forward. Her advice? Choose a card that fits your actual needs and lifestyle—not just what sounds good in theory.
Avoiding Peer Pressure and Trends
On a Reddit thread, a student considered getting the Amex Gold Card—a flashy card with a $325 annual fee—just because a teammate had it. Most users advised against it, noting that students typically don’t spend enough monthly to justify the cost.
One commenter warned that this was just “social media pressure” and emphasized that personal finance should remain personal. In short, choose what fits your budget and goals, not what others are flashing around.
Tips for First-Time Cardholders
When choosing a student credit card, look for ones with no annual fee, flat-rate cashback, and reporting to all three credit bureaus. If possible, use preapproval tools like CardMatch to gauge which cards you’re likely to qualify for.
Becoming an authorized user on a parent’s card is another good option to start building credit history. And always pay on time and keep your credit utilization below 30%.
Gen Z Loves Rewards—But Be Strategic
According to Bankrate’s 2025 Credit Card Debt Report, over 40% of Gen Z credit card users actively seek to maximize their rewards. While it’s smart to look for perks like cashback or travel points, experts warn that rewards should not be the main reason for opening a card.
Good credit habits—on-time payments, responsible usage, and avoiding unnecessary debt—matter much more in the long run.
Choosing the right student credit card in 2025 can be a game-changer. Whether you opt for a secured builder card or an unsecured reward card, what matters most is how you use it. Your first credit card will set the tone for your financial journey, so choose wisely, spend responsibly, and focus on long-term gains.