Building a credit history is crucial for international students studying in the U.S. at universities like Rowan University or Arizona State University. A good credit score can help you:
- Rent an apartment
- Get lower interest rates on loans
- Qualify for better phone plans or insurance
The easiest way to build credit as a student is to use a student credit card responsibly.
What Is a Student Credit Card?
A student credit card is a special credit card designed for college students with limited or no credit history. These cards often have:
- Lower credit limits
- No annual fees
- Rewards or cashback on purchases
Best Student Credit Cards for International Students (2025)
Here are some top options that are friendly to international students:
1. Discover it Student Cash Back
- 5% cashback on rotating categories (groceries, gas, etc.)
- 1% unlimited cashback on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- Accepts applicants with limited credit history
2. Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
- 3% cashback on dining, entertainment, streaming
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- Reports to all major credit bureaus
3. Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students
- 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
- Great for students who travel frequently
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
4. Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students
- Designed for international students (no SSN required)
- 1% cashback on all purchases
- Free Amazon Prime Student for 1 year
- No annual fee
Requirements to Apply
- Must be 18+ years old
- Valid passport and visa (F-1 or J-1)
- I-20 form and student ID
- U.S. bank account (for payments)
- Some cards may require a Social Security Number (SSN), but not all (Deserve EDU doesn’t)
Tips for Using Credit Cards Wisely
- Pay your full balance on time every month
- Keep credit utilization under 30%
- Don’t apply for too many cards at once
- Check your credit score regularly
Final Thoughts
Getting a student credit card is a smart step toward building your financial future in the U.S. Whether you choose the cashback rewards from Discover or the travel points from Bank of America, using a card responsibly can boost your credit score and make life easier as an international student at Rowan University or Arizona State University.