- 3%Cash back on groceries
- 1%Cash back on recurring payments
- 0.5%Cash back on every day essentials
Get 5% cash back in your first 3 months on up to CA$2,500 in qualified spending.
Earn 3% cash back on groceries, 1% on recurring payments, and 0.5% on every day essentials.
The BMO CashBack® Mastercard® for Students stands out as the top choice because it offers a generous 5% cash back in the first three months, allowing students to maximize their rewards while building credit without any annual fee.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- High rewards on grocery purchases
Cons:
- Limited cash back on other categories
- Higher interest rates
2.PC Financial Mastercard
PC Financial
- 4.5%Points on groceries/beauty
- 3%Points at participating stores
- 1%Points on all other spending
Earn 20,000 PC Optimum™ points after making your first purchase.
Earn 3%–4.5% in points on groceries/beauty and at least 1% on all other spending.
What sets the PC Financial Mastercard apart is its ability to earn high rewards specifically at grocery and beauty stores, making it an excellent choice for frequent shoppers at Loblaws and affiliated retailers.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- High rewards at grocery stores
Cons:
- Limited redemption options
- Points can expire
3.Rogers Red Mastercard
Rogers
- 2%Cash back on all eligible purchases
10% cash back on all purchases for the first three months, up to a maximum of CA$100.
Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases.
The standout feature here is the Rogers Red Mastercard's straightforward 2% cash back on all eligible purchases, making it a versatile option for those who want to earn rewards without worrying about category restrictions.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- High cash back on all purchases
Cons:
- Cash back limited to eligible purchases
- Higher interest rates
Final Words
As you explore credit card options this April 2026, remember to prioritize rewards that align with your spending habits and financial goals. Take time to compare various student credit cards to ensure you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The BMO CashBack® Mastercard® for Students offers a welcome bonus of Get 5% cash back in your first 3 months on up to CA$2,500 in qualified spending. You can also earn 3% cash back on groceries, 1% on recurring payments, and 0.5% on every day essentials.
The PC Financial Mastercard provides a welcome bonus of Earn 20,000 PC Optimum™ points after making your first purchase. Additionally, you can earn 4.5% in points on groceries/beauty and at least 1% on all other spending.
The Rogers Red Mastercard offers a welcome bonus of 10% cash back on all purchases for the first three months, up to a maximum of CA$100. After that, you can earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases.
Eligibility requirements for student credit cards typically include being enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution and being at least 18 years old. Some cards may also consider your income or credit history.
Most student credit cards come with no annual fees, making them an affordable option for college students. However, always check the card’s terms to confirm, as some may charge fees for premium features.
When selecting a student credit card, consider factors like rewards structure, interest rates, and any potential fees. It's also important to evaluate how the card fits your spending habits, especially in areas where you make frequent purchases.
To maximize rewards, use your card for everyday purchases in categories that earn higher cash back or points, such as groceries or dining. Additionally, take advantage of any welcome bonuses by meeting the required spending thresholds.
