Student credit cards 30 August 2023

6 Best Credit Cards for Students with No Income

Applying for a credit card will likely trigger a credit check from one or all of the major credit bureaus. We’ve rounded up the top credit cards that use Experience to check your credit score when you apply.

Best Credit Cards for Students with no Income

Little to no income, plenty of expenses, and weak or no credit history can make gaining access to basic financial products—like credit cards—difficult for students. Credit cards for students with no income can be a great stepping stone for students and young adults who don’t yet have an income – especially to build credit.

We’ve rounded up the best credit cards for students with no income, including their requirements, best features, and rates.

Credit Cards for Students with No Income

LenderScholaroo ratingRegular APRCredit Score

Discover It® Student Cash Back Credit Card

Best for cash back rewards

Visit website
4.8/517.99% - 26.99%No minimum credit score

Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards

Great for above-average rewards

Visit website
4.5/519.99% - 29.99%No minimum credit score

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

Best for travel rewards

Visit website
4.4/517.99% - 27.99%Good (690 - 850)

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card

Great for everyday purchases

Visit website
4.3/525.74%No minimum credit score

Deserve® EDU Mastercard

Best for low credit score

Visit website
4.2/522.99%N/A

Discover It® Secured Credit Card

Great for building credit with no fees

Visit website
4.0/527.99%No minimum credit score
Lender

Discover It® Student Cash Back Credit Card

Best for cash back rewards

Scholaroo rating
4.8/5
Regular APR
17.99% - 26.99%
Credit Score
No minimum credit score
Visit website
Lender

Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards

Great for above-average rewards

Scholaroo rating
4.5/5
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99%
Credit Score
No minimum credit score
Visit website
Lender

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

Best for travel rewards

Scholaroo rating
4.4/5
Regular APR
17.99% - 27.99%
Credit Score
Good (690 - 850)
Visit website
Lender

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card

Great for everyday purchases

Scholaroo rating
4.3/5
Regular APR
25.74%
Credit Score
No minimum credit score
Visit website
Lender

Deserve® EDU Mastercard

Best for low credit score

Scholaroo rating
4.2/5
Regular APR
22.99%
Credit Score
N/A
Visit website
Lender

Discover It® Secured Credit Card

Great for building credit with no fees

Scholaroo rating
4.0/5
Regular APR
27.99%
Credit Score
No minimum credit score
Visit website

1. Discover It® Student Cash Back Credit Card

Best for cash back rewards

Apply now

Discover It® Student Cash Back Credit Card

4.8
Scholaroo Rating
Regular APR17.99% - 26.99%
Annual Fee$0
Rewards5% cash back Amazon and select grocery stores
Credit ScoreNo minimum credit score
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsBenefits and Rewards

The Discover It® Student Cash Back credit card offers great rewards and benefits to students with no credit history, such as a cashback program, and no annual fees. Along with rewards, students can log in to the Discover mobile app to view their free FICO scores, track their cashback rewards, and get free Social Security Number security alerts.

You can earn a statement credit if you refer a friend and they get approved for a card. You’ll also get a welcome bonus that you don’t typically get with other student credit cards.

The card comes with a 0% APR for six months on purchases, after which a minimum APR of 17.99% will apply. There’s also a balance transfer intro APR of 10.99% for six months. When you graduate, you can update your income information and you may then become eligible for a higher credit limit.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Cash back rewards program
  • No credit score needed to apply

Cons

  • Lower rewards than other similar cards
  • Not as widely accepted as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Enrolled in college
  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Have a Social Security Number
  • Need to have verifiable income (part-time or full-time)

Cash Back

  • 5% cash back on everyday purchases from Amazon as well as selected grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. Plus, 1% cash back on all other purchases

Welcome Offer

  • You’ll get an unlimited cashback match, where Discover will automatically match all the cashback rewards you’ve earned at the end of the first year

2. Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card

Great for above-average rewards

Apply now

Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card

4.5
Scholaroo Rating
Regular APR19.99% - 29.99%
Annual Fee$0
RewardsUnlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Credit ScoreNo minimum credit score
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsBenefits and Rewards

The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards credit card has no annual fees, a very decent cashback rewards program, and no credit history requirement. This makes the card ideal for students who want to earn rewards while building a credit history.

The card comes with a 0% intro APR for six months on purchases, and a 10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for six months. After this, an APR of 17.99% to 26.99% will apply.

The card offers a 24-hour travel assistance benefit, and there are no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for students traveling outside of the U.S.

Pros

  • No credit history required
  • 1% - 2% cash back on purchases
  • 0% purchase intro APR for six months
  • No annual fees or foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • Balance transfer fee
  • No initial rewards bonus
  • Be 18 years or older
  • Have a Social Security Number
  • Have a steady income

Cash Back

  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
  • Earn 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases

Early Spend Bonus

  • Earn $50 when you spend $100 in the first three months

Referral Bonus

  • Earn up to $500 a year by referring family and friends

3. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

Best for travel rewards

Apply now

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

4.4
Scholaroo Rating
Regular APR17.99% - 27.99%
Annual Fee$0
RewardsUnlimited 1.5x points on all purchases
Credit ScoreGood (690 - 850)
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsBenefits and Rewards

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students has no annual fees and no foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for students. It doesn’t require a good credit score to qualify and online pre-approval only takes a few minutes.

The card offers a 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 18 months and for six months on balance transfers. Thereafter, an APR of 17.99% to 27.99% and a balance transfer fee of 3% on each transaction will apply.

This card offers good rewards, especially for travel. It comes with 25,000 online bonus points if you make purchases of at least $1,000 within the first 90 days of opening your account. You can use this as a $250 statement credit towards credit purchases.

In addition to this, you also get unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases. Rewards that you earn don’t expire.

Pros

  • Unlimited 1.5 reward points on all purchases
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • 25,000 bonus points
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 18 months

Cons

  • 3% balance transfer fee
  • No travel insurance
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Must be enrolled as a student
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases
  • Rewards don’t expire

4. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card

Great for everyday purchases

Apply now

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card

4.3
Scholaroo Rating
Regular APR25.74%
Annual Fee$0
Rewards2% cash back on your first $2,500 at grocery stores
Credit ScoreNo minimum credit score
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsBenefits and Rewards

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured credit card is a good option for borrowers without a good credit score. It offers great cashback rewards and your initial card limit is between $200 and $5,000, depending mainly on your security deposit.

You get 2% cash back at grocery stores and 3% cash back in your choice of these categories: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, and home improvement. After your first $2,500 spending in any category, you will earn 1% back on purchases.

Other perks include checking your FICO credit score for free and the ability to move to an unsecured card with a refund of your security deposit. You can improve your chances by keeping your balances low and making your payments on time.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Up to 3% cash back rewards
  • Flexible credit limit

Cons

  • Security deposit of $200 (minimum)
  • No welcome bonus
  • Requires a security deposit
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Up to 3% cash back on gas, online shopping, dining, travel, or home improvement
  • 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs on the first $2,500 in purchases, then earn 1%

5. Deserve® EDU Mastercard

Best for low credit score

Apply now

Deserve® EDU Mastercard

4.2
Scholaroo Rating
Regular APR22.99%
Annual Fee$0
RewardsEarn 1% cash back on all purchases
Credit ScoreN/A
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsBenefits and Rewards

The Deserve® EDU Mastercard is a good option for 18-year-olds as you don’t need a security deposit or a cosigner to apply. It is also a great credit card for international students as you don’t need a Social Security number to qualify. It has some great card perks, in addition to its low credit requirements.

Some benefits include a year of Amazon Prime Student membership when you spend $500 in the first three billing cycles. There is also a 1% cash back on all purchases. The Deserve® EDU Mastercard has a $0 annual fee and comes with a 22.99% variable APR.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No social security number is required to apply
  • No cosigner or security deposit required
  • Cell phone protection up to $600

Cons

  • High APR rates
  • Late payment fees of up to $25
  • No minimum credit score
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be enrolled in a U.S.-based college or university
  • 1% cash back on all purchases
  • One year Amazon Prime Student membership when you spend $500 in the first three billing cycles

6. Discover It® Secured Credit Card

Great for building credit with no fees

Apply now

Discover It® Secured Credit Card

4.0
Scholaroo Rating
Regular APR27.99%
Annual Fee$0
Rewards2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations up to $1,000 per quarter
Credit ScoreNo minimum credit score
Why We Like ItPros and ConsEligibility RequirementsBenefits and Rewards

The Discover It® Secured credit card is a great card for students as it requires no credit history to qualify. It also reports payments to all three major credit bureaus and allows you to earn rewards while building your credit.

The card requires a minimum security deposit of $200 which will equal your starting credit limit. After seven months, your account will be reviewed to see if you qualify for moving to an unsecured credit card and a deposit return.

Other benefits of this card include no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and a 27.99% variable APR. There’s a 10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for the first six months and a welcome bonus of an unlimited cashback match on all purchases during your first year.

You also earn 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations for purchases up to $1,000 per quarter. Thereafter, you earn 1% cashback.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • No credit history needed to apply
  • Possibility of upgrading to an unsecured card after seven months
  • Unlimited cashback on all purchases during the first year

Cons

  • Requires a security deposit
  • High ongoing APR
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Must have a bank account
  • Must pay a security deposit
  • Earn 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations up to purchases of $1,000 per quarter. All other purchases earn 1%
  • An intro bonus of an unlimited cashback match on all cash back you earn during the first year

How to Get a Credit Card With No Income

Getting a student credit card when you have no income can be particularly challenging, but there are ways to navigate this obstacle. A student credit card is often the first step in establishing a credit history, which will be critical for future financial transactions.

Here’s how you can get a student credit card even if you don’t have a steady income.

Use Parental Income

Some credit card companies allow you to consider parental income when applying for a student credit card. As a student, you can list your parents’ income on your application to boost your chances of approval. This approach may be good for students who are confident in their ability to manage credit responsibly, as it increases the likelihood of approval.

Show Proof of Financial Aid

If you’re receiving financial aid, scholarships, or grants for college, some lenders will accept this as proof of income. Although this isn’t a stable income source like a job, it shows that you have some financial resources.

Open a Bank Account

Having a bank account in good standing can demonstrate to credit card issuers that you’re financially responsible, even if you don’t have a regular income. While not a guarantee for approval, it can improve your chances.

Find a Co-Signer

A co-signer can help you secure a credit card by taking on the liability for your debt if you default. Opt for a co-signer who has a stable income and a good credit history. We recommend this option with caution; while it can help you get a credit card, it places financial responsibility on another person.

Apply for a Secured Card

While a secured credit card isn’t exclusively for students, it’s an option if you have no income. These cards require a refundable deposit and are easier to qualify for. We strongly suggest considering this as a fallback option because it will allow you to build credit even without a regular income.

How to Build Credit When You Don’t Have Any

Establishing a good credit history is an important financial milestone, especially for students who are just starting their financial journey. Building credit can provide the foundation for significant future transactions like renting an apartment, buying a car, or securing a mortgage.

Below are ways students can build credit even if they have no existing credit history.

Get a Student Credit Card

As mentioned earlier, student credit cards are designed for people with limited or no credit history. They usually come with low credit limits but offer the opportunity to build credit. Getting a student credit card is one of the easiest ways to start building credit.

Become an Authorized User

Being added as an authorized user on a parent’s or guardian’s existing credit card account can help you build your credit. This method allows you to benefit from their good credit standing. But caution that the account holder’s behavior, good or bad, will affect your credit as well.

Take Out a Small Loan

Another approach to building credit is by taking out a small personal loan that you can comfortably pay back. You should opt for loans with low interest rates and manageable monthly payments. We recommend this approach for students who are financially disciplined and have a means to repay the loan, such as a part-time job or financial aid.

Use a Co-Signer for a Loan or Credit Card

Using a co-signer for a credit card or loan can help you get approved and start building credit. The co-signer should have a good credit history and be willing to take on the liability for your debts. But use this option cautiously, as it puts the co-signer’s credit at risk if you are unable to meet payment obligations.

Apply for a Secured Credit Card

If other options are unavailable, consider a secured credit card. These cards require a deposit that becomes your credit limit. They’re easier to qualify for and can be a stepping stone to an unsecured card. This is a solid fallback option for those who have difficulty obtaining other forms of credit.

FAQs

What is your credit score if you have no credit?

If you have no credit history yet, you don’t have a score. Your credit report gets created when there is an activity – like a first credit check on your name. A zero credit score doesn’t exist, even for those with damaged credit.

What credit card can I get with no credit?

Many issuers offer credit cards for those with no credit. Student cards like the ones we’ve listed above, for example, may not require credit for approval. Another option for those without credit is a secured credit card, but becoming an authorized user on someone else’s account can also help you build credit.

Can you get a credit card at 18 with no credit?

Yes. There are credit cards for 18-year-olds with no credit, but it might be difficult to get approved if you are younger than 21. The Credit CARD Act of 2009 requires individuals under the age of 21 to either have a cosigner or provide proof of income or regular allowances to get approved for a first credit card.