First Swipe: How to Choose the Best Credit Card for College Students

College is full of firsts—first day of classes, first dorm, and maybe even your first time doing your own laundry. It might also be the first time you are thinking seriously about your finances. One smart move? Getting a credit card…but not just any credit card.

Applying for your first credit card might feel intimidating (or even unnecessary), but it’s actually the best financial decision you will make in college. The right card can help you build credit, manage your budget, and start “adulting” for the first time. So how do you choose the top credit card for students? Let’s take a look.

Why Credit Matters in College

Your credit score might not feel like a priority now, but trust us, it matters more than you think!

A credit score is a number that measures how responsible you handle borrowed money. It can affect your ability to rent an apartment, qualify for a car loan, or even land a job after graduation. Your credit history starts the moment you open your first credit account—and it follows you well into adulthood. If you use credit wisely, you will build a solid track record that opens doors for years to come. If you use it poorly… well, let’s not go there.

Getting a credit card in college is one of the easiest ways to start building credit early. It’s a small step that can make a big difference later.

Want to revisit the basics of credit? Read “Everything You Need to Know About Credit” for a simple breakdown.

Key Features to Look for in a Student Credit Card

Not all credit cards are the same. That’s why finding the best credit card for college students is so important. Look for these features when you compare options:

1. Cards with No Annual Fees

You are already paying for late-night pizza, textbooks, and a parking pass that STILL doesn’t get you a spot. So why pay money just to own a credit card? Plenty of good starter cards come with no annual fees, making them a smart way to build credit without extra costs. This means you can spend money on game-day gear…not card fees!

2. Manageable Credit Limit

Having more credit available might sound like having more freedom, but the reality isn’t so idealistic. Too much credit too soon can get you in trouble. Therefore, it’s better to begin with a lower, manageable credit limit while you attend college and build credit. This will keep things affordable and help you avoid overspending. Start small, stress less!

3. Credit Reporting Capabilities

The whole point of getting a credit card in college is to build credit—so make sure your good behavior actually counts.

The best credit cards for students report to all 3 major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Why all three? Because different lenders pull information from different bureaus. You should cover your bases, so your future self qualifies for an apartment, auto loan, or dream job.

4. Cards with Low Interest Rates (APR)

APR stands for “Annual Percentage Rate.” It’s essentially the interest you could pay if you carry a balance month to month. In other words, APR is simply how much extra you will owe if you don’t pay off your credit card in full. 

Even if you plan to pay your balance every month (and you absolutely should!), things don’t always go as planned. A high APR can make even a small unpaid balance grow quickly. That’s why it’s smart to choose a card with a low interest rate—just in case.

5. Security Features

College life can be chaotic. Your wallet gets lost. You leave your phone in the dining hall. Stuff happens. For that reason, your card should come with solid security features:

• Fraud alerts
• Mobile app control (like freezing your card instantly if it goes missing)
• Zero liability for unauthorized charges

Afterall, Fraud Protection > Freaking Out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your First Credit Card

Even smart students make mistakes with money…don’t be one of them! Watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Applying for too many cards at once — Every application triggers a credit check, and too many can ding your score.
• Ignoring the fine print — Look out for hidden fees, high interest rates, or penalties for late payments before you apply.
• Chasing credit card perks — While perks and bonuses are great, they aren’t really the point of student credit cards. Your first credit card should be simple and easy to use. Besides, special card bonuses are typically meant for cardholders who have a proven track record of handling their credit well.
• Maxing out your credit limit — Just because you can spend up to the limit doesn’t mean you should. Keep your balance low! If you want a better credit score, experts recommend staying under 30% of your limit.
• Missing payments or paying late — This is a credit score killer. Set up autopay to make sure you never forget.

Secured vs. Unsecured Credit Cards: What’s the Difference?

Don’t worry, this isn’t a trick question! Most credit cards are “unsecured,” which means you don’t need a deposit. However, these cards often require a longer credit history, which is something most college students do not have yet!

That’s where “secured credit cards” come in. With a secured card, you make a refundable deposit that becomes your credit limit. It’s easier to get approved and is the best way to build credit from scratch.

Academy Bank’s Credit Builder: Best College Student Credit Card

Ready to start building credit in college? Academy Bank’s Credit Builder Secured Credit Card is a great place to begin! It’s designed for students and first-time cardholders, with everything you need to manage your money simply.

Here’s why Credit Builder is a top choice:

• No application fee
• No annual fee
• No over-the-limit fee
• Customizable credit limits based on your deposit
• Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
• Competitive interest rates
• Easy approval process—even with no credit history
• Secure digital banking tools to manage your card and credit-building progress

THE BEST PART? As you use the card responsibly, you can upgrade to an unsecured card with better perks.

Start building your credit the smart way—apply today!

Credit Card for College Students

MORE STUDENT BANKING RESOURCES:
Student Checking Account
Student Savings Account
College Savings Calculator
How to Pay Off Your Student Loans