Why are college students a major target of credit card companies?
Matthew Harrington
Updated on February 15, 2026
College students are prime targets for credit card issuers because they don’t have sufficient financial knowledge and are expected to experience a sudden increase in wealth once they graduate and get a job, going from zero dollars to an average of $50,556 for a person holding a bachelor’s degree.
Why do you feel creditors target college students for credit card offers?
They like to get you while you’re young for a couple of reasons. First, they have a strong hunch that your parents will bail you out if you run up your credit card bill. Credit card companies pay to sell credit cards to students because they’re banking on students making up for it in interest charges and fees.
How do credit card companies attract college aged students?
Many credit card companies see the marketing potential in college students. Credit card companies use promotional offers and free gifts like t-shirts, coffee mugs, or CDs to entice students on signing up for their company.
Is it a good idea for a college student to have a credit card?
A credit card can be much more than just a convenient way to pay for today’s college expenses. It can provide peace of mind in emergencies, be a fun way to accumulate rewards and cash back, and be a useful tool to help college students establish life-long good financial habits.
Why credit cards are bad for college students?
Interest rates and fees are associated with credit cards, so the companies can get as much money as possible. You may use your credit card for $200 concert tickets, and if you only pay the minimum and allow interest to build up, you could be paying more than double for that concert ticket.
How much credit card debt does the average college student graduate with?
A Look at the Shocking Student Loan Debt Statistics for 2021. It’s 2021, and Americans are more burdened by student loan debt than ever. Among the Class of 2019, 69% of college students took out student loans, and they graduated with an average debt of $29,900, including both private and federal debt.
What are the challenges can you face with a low FICO score?
These are the biggest disadvantages of having a bad credit score
- You’re too big of a risk for mainstream lenders.
- You pay more for your loan.
- Your insurance premiums may go up.
- You may miss out on career opportunities.
- You’ll have a harder time renting an apartment.
What is the average credit limit for a college student?
College students tend to have below-average credit scores. Here’s how you can build credit. A recent study found that in 2019, college students reported having an average of five credit cards. The average monthly balance was $1,423.
Is it good to have a credit card for college?
Credit card companies do not have to be the only ones to profit. A student credit card can provide great help and support during a student’s college years as long as the student knows how to manage his finances responsibly. Samantha Wilson is a consultant for credit cards for students.
Who are the credit card companies for college students?
Expect to see credit card company representatives on or near campus giving out free stuff for credit card applications.
How much credit card debt do college students have?
One in four college students leaves college with more than $5,000 in credit card debt, a “TrueCredit.com” study shows. One in 10 leaves with over $10,000 in debt. When you’re just graduating college, getting your first real job, and trying to make it on your own, credit card debt is the last thing you need to worry about.
Why is it important for a teenager to have a credit card?
Discuss the reasons why it’s important to have a credit card and credit history. Also, you should help them find a good credit card, so they don’t end up signing up for the first one they come across. Once they obtain a card, make a purchase and walk them through making the monthly payment.