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Can a full time college student get a credit card?

Author

Andrew Campbell

Updated on February 07, 2026

A student credit card is a great first step in establishing a good credit history. Be aware that simply being a college student may not be enough to qualify you for a “student” card. You’ll generally need access to income, and if you have shaky credit or no credit history at all, you may find it hard to get approved.

Can a college student be approved for a credit card if they don’t have a job or established credit?

If you don’t have any form of income, you can open your own credit card account by having a family member co-sign. If your parents or other family members are willing to do so, opening a joint account can help build your credit while giving you access to the rewards and benefits that a student credit card offers.

Is it smart for a college student to get a credit card?

As college students work their way toward adulthood, it’s reasonable to ask whether they should be given credit cards. On the one hand, it’s generally a good idea to build up a credit score while they’re still in college in order to make getting an apartment, opening a new credit card, or even finding a job easier.

Why is it bad for college students to have credit cards?

Average Credit Card Debt for College Students The reason is that credit card debt is painful for anyone, but it’s especially troublesome when you’re still in college because you’re most likely to already have student loan debt. Your credit score will start to go up as your balance starts going down.

What are 2 reasons someone would need to get a credit card?

8 Reasons Why You Need a Credit Card

  • 2: Free borrowing. There is no cheaper way to borrow than with the right credit card.
  • 4: Cheap money abroad. Savvy travellers carry plastic.
  • 6: Free insurance.
  • 8: It’s the only way to pay.
  • Balance Transfer.
  • Balance Transfer and Purchase.
  • Rewards.
  • Charity card.

    What is the average credit card debt for a college student?

    Debt and Education The more educated you are, the more debt you have. That’s because higher education leads to higher income, and higher income leads to higher spending. People with college degrees carry an average of $8,200 in credit card debt. Those who attended college but did not graduate carry $4,700.

    How many college students own a credit card?

    57 percent of college students have and regularly use a credit card, while 85 percent have and regularly use a debit card (Sallie Mae).

    Is it good to have credit card for college?

    Banks want loyal customers for life, but they don’t want to give credit to folks that can’t pay it back. Enter the student credit card. With smaller credit limits and rewards tailored to those in college, student credit cards can provide a bridge to more valuable credit offers in the future.

    Is there a credit card limit for a college student?

    The card offers cash back rewards, one year of Amazon Prime Student (after spending $500 in the first 3 billing cycles with your EDU card), no annual fee and a credit limit of up to $5,000. “Not all credit cards are the same,” says Vasudevan.

    Can a college student get a secured credit card?

    Secured credit cards are designed for consumers who likely can’t get unsecured cards because they have no (or bad) credit history. These cards are secured with a cash deposit from the card owner but otherwise work like a regular credit card. They can be ideal for college students who wouldn’t otherwise be approved for a credit card.

    Why are Bank of America credit cards good for college students?

    Credit Cards for students can help build a successful financial future when handled responsibly. Bank of America® credit cards for students are designed to help students build credit and assist in establishing good credit habits that can be used to create a foundation for a successful financial future.