Best Credit Cards for International Students

Best Credit Cards for International Students

 

 

Credit cards can be a powerful financial tool for Best Credit Cards for International Students if used wisely. By selecting a card tailored to your needs and practising good financial habits,

1. Journey Student Rewards from Capital One

• Key Features:
  • 1% cash back on all purchases, boosted to 1.25% for on-time payments.
  • No foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international travel.
  • Credit building features for students with limited or no credit history.
• Why It’s Great: Designed specifically for students, it encourages good financial habits with rewards for timely payments.

 

2. Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • 5% cashback on rotating categories like groceries, gas, and dining (up to the quarterly maximum with activation).
  • Unlimited 1% cashback on all other purchases.
  • Cashback Match for the first year, doubling all earned cashback.
  • No annual fees and no foreign transaction fees.
• Why It’s Great: Offers high rewards and is perfect for students new to credit.

 

3. American Express Blue Cash Everyday

• Key Features:
  • 3% cashback on groceries, online retail, and gas (up to $6,000 annually in each category).
  • No annual fee and an introductory APR for purchases.
• Why It’s Great: Ideal for students who spend on everyday essentials.

 

4. Chase Freedom Rise Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Flat 1.5% cashback on all purchases.
  • No annual fee.
  • Helps students and newcomers to the U.S. build credit.
• Why It’s Great: A simple, no-frills card for those starting their credit journey.

 

5. Deserve Edu Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • No Social Security Number (SSN) is required for international students.
  • 1% cashback on all purchases.
  • Free Amazon Prime Student membership for a year (terms apply).
• Why It’s Great: Designed for international students, eliminating the need for a U.S. credit history.

 

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

• Key Features:
  • Unlimited 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases.
  • No annual fees and no foreign transaction fees.
  • Points can be redeemed for travel purchases.
• Why It’s Great: Excellent for students who travel frequently, with simple and rewarding travel benefits.

 

7. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Complimentary airport lounge access.
  • Reward points on all purchases, redeemable for flights and hotels.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance.
• Why It’s Great: Offers premium benefits for international students travelling to and from India.

 

8. IDFC First WOW Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Lifetime free credit card with no annual fee.
  • Cashback and discounts on dining, entertainment, and shopping.
• Why It’s Great: Great for students looking for a no-cost card with lifestyle benefits.

 

9. SBI Student Plus Advantage Card

• Key Features:
  • Earn reward points on all purchases.
  • Low interest rates on balance transfers and cash advances.
• Why It’s Great: Tailored for students in India, with accessible eligibility criteria.

 

10. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Luxury travel and lifestyle benefits, including lounge access and concierge services.
  • Reward points on every spend.
• Why It’s Great: A premium card for students or their families seeking exclusive privileges.

 

11. AU Bank LIT Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Customizable benefits, allow users to choose perks based on their spending habits.
  • Lifetime free card with various reward categories.
• Why It’s Great: Offers flexibility and personalization to suit student lifestyles.

 

12. Diners Club Black Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Exclusive lounge access globally.
  • High reward points on travel and luxury expenses.
• Why It’s Great: Perfect for students or families who prioritize premium travel benefits.

 

13. Secured Neo Mastercard

• Key Features:
  • No credit history is required; backed by a security deposit.
  • Helps build or rebuild credit.
• Why It’s Great: A secured option for students without an existing credit score.

 

14. SBI Card ELITE

• Key Features:
  • Complimentary movie tickets and lounge access.
  • Reward points on every spend.
• Why It’s Great: Offers excellent lifestyle benefits for students with premium tastes.

 

15. HDFC Infinia Credit Card

• Key Features:
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges worldwide.
  • High reward rates and luxury travel benefits.
• Why It’s Great: A top-tier card for students with high spending or supported by their families.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Credit Card

1. Eligibility Requirements: Some cards require a Social Security Number (SSN), while others, like the Deserve Edu Credit Card, cater specifically to international students without one.
2. Rewards and Benefits: Choose a card with perks aligned to your spending habits (e.g., travel, dining, or shopping).
3. Annual Fees: Look for cards with no or low annual fees to save costs.
4. Foreign Transaction Fees: Cards with zero foreign transaction fees are essential for students studying abroad.
5. Credit Building: Ensure the card reports to major credit bureaus to help build your credit score.
6. Additional Perks: Consider cards offering travel insurance, lounge access, or discounts on essentials.

Tips for Using Credit Cards Responsibly

• Set a Budget: Avoid overspending by tracking your expenses.
• Pay on Time: Always pay at least the minimum to avoid penalties and maintain a good credit score.
• Avoid Carrying a Balance: Paying your balance in full each month helps you avoid interest charges.
• Monitor Transactions: Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions.
• Use Rewards Wisely: Redeem points or cashback for items or services you genuinely need.

 

 you can manage expenses effectively while enjoying the benefits of rewards and credit building.