Top Student Credit Cards Compared
Building credit in college sets you up for better rates on car loans, apartments, and future credit cards. These student-focused cards feature easier approval, no annual fees, and rewards that fit student budgets.
| Feature | Discover it Student Cash Back Discover | Bank of America Customized Cash Bank of America |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 |
| APR | 17.49% - 26.49% | 19.24% - 29.24% |
| Sign-Up Bonus | Cashback Match (all cash back doubled year 1) | $200 after $1,000 spend in 3 months |
| Base Rewards | 1% on everything | 1% on everything |
| Top Categories | 5% rotating categories (up to $1,500/quarter) | 3% in chosen category, 2% grocery/wholesale |
| Foreign Tx Fee | $0 | 3% |
| Credit Needed | Fair (640+) | Fair - Good (650+) |
Pros & Cons
Discover it Student Cash Back
Pros
- +First year Cashback Match
- +5% rotating categories
- +Good grades reward ($20/yr)
- +Easier approval for students
Cons
- -Only 1% base rate
- -Must activate categories
- -Discover less accepted
Bank of America Customized Cash
Pros
- +Choose your 3% category
- +2% on groceries
- +No annual fee
- +Preferred Rewards boost
Cons
- -$2,500/quarter cap on 3%
- -Foreign transaction fees
- -Best value with BoA banking
Our Recommendation
The Discover it Student Cash Back is the best overall student card thanks to its Cashback Match promotion and rotating 5% categories. For simplicity, the Bank of America Customized Cash is solid.