1.Discover it® Student Cash Back
Discover
- 5%Cash back on rotating categories each quarter
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
Discover matches all the cash back earned in the first year, doubling the rewards.
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter, up to the quarterly limit, plus 1% on all other purchases.
16.49%-25.49% Variable APR
The Discover it® Student Cash Back card stands out as the top choice because it offers a unique Cashback Match feature that doubles the cash back earned in the first year, making it an excellent option for students looking to maximize their rewards while building credit.
Pros:
- High cash back potential with rotating categories
- Cashback Match doubles rewards in the first year
Cons:
- Requires activation of rotating categories
- Limited to $1,500 in purchases per quarter for 5% cash back
2.Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards for Students
Bank of America
- 6%Cash back in the category of your choice for the first year
- 2%Cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
Earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending at least $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days.
Earn 6% cash back in the category of your choice for the first year, plus 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs.
17.49%-27.49% Variable APR
What sets the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards for Students apart is its flexibility to choose a cash back category that suits your spending habits, combined with a generous welcome bonus that provides immediate value.
Pros:
- High cash back in a chosen category for the first year
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Requires spending $1,000 to earn the bonus
- Cash back rates drop after the first year
3.Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Capital One
- 3%Cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
Earn a $50 cash bonus after spending $100 on purchases within the first 3 months.
Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores.
18.49%-28.49% Variable APR
The standout feature of the Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is its high cash back rate on dining and entertainment, making it an excellent choice for students who frequently dine out or enjoy entertainment options.
Pros:
- High cash back on dining and entertainment
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Lower cash back on other purchases
- Requires spending $100 to earn the bonus
4.Chase Freedom Rise
Chase
- 1.5%Cash back on all purchases
Earn a $25 statement credit when you enroll in automatic payments within the first 3 months.
Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
25.24% Variable APR
The Chase Freedom Rise is designed for beginners, offering a straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it an ideal choice for those looking to establish credit without the complexities of rotating categories.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Flat cash back rate on all purchases
Cons:
- Lower cash back rate compared to other cards
- Limited rewards structure
5.Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students
Bank of America
- 2%Cash back on all purchases for the first year
- 1.5%Cash back on all other purchases
Earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days.
Earn unlimited 2% cash back on purchases for the first year, plus 1.5% on all other purchases.
17.49%-27.49% Variable APR
The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards for Students card shines with its unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases for the first year, making it a strong contender for students looking to maximize their rewards.
Pros:
- High cash back rate for the first year
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Requires $1,000 in spending to earn the bonus
- Cash back rate drops after the first year
6.Discover it® Student Chrome
Discover
- 2%Cash back at gas stations and restaurants
- 1%Cash back on all other purchases
Discover matches all the cash back earned in the first year, doubling the rewards.
Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, plus 1% on all other purchases.
0%-25.49% Variable APR
The Discover it® Student Chrome card is an excellent choice for students who frequently spend on gas and dining, offering a solid 2% cash back in those categories while also providing a Cashback Match in the first year.
Pros:
- Good cash back on gas and restaurant purchases
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Cash back is capped at $1,000 per quarter
- Requires activation for bonus categories
Did you know?
Student credit cards often have lower income requirements but still report to credit bureaus. Compare APR, fees, and whether a secured or starter card on this list is easier to qualify for with a thin credit score.
Final Words
As you navigate the options for the best college student credit cards this June, remember that selecting the right card can significantly impact your financial future. Take time to compare features, rewards, and fees to make informed decisions that align with your spending habits and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
The welcome bonus for the Discover it® Student Cash Back card is that Discover matches all the cash back earned in the first year, doubling the rewards.
You can earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter, up to the quarterly limit, plus 1% on all other purchases.
This card offers a welcome bonus of $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending at least $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days. You can earn 6% cash back in the category of your choice for the first year, plus 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs.
With the Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, you earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores, and 1% on all other purchases.
Many college student credit cards come with no annual fees, making them a budget-friendly option for students. It's essential to check the specific terms of each card to confirm any applicable fees.
Using a credit card responsibly can help college students build their credit history, which is crucial for future financial endeavors like renting an apartment or applying for loans. Additionally, many student credit cards offer rewards and cash back that can save money.
Students should consider factors like interest rates, annual fees, rewards programs, and credit limits when choosing a credit card. It's also important to evaluate their spending habits to find a card that aligns with their needs.
