Credit Rewards For International Students: Are They Worthwhile?

International students can get credit cards, but the options may be limited. Most applications require a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). One of the most common options for international students is a student credit card, which offers modest rewards on popular spending categories like dining, entertainment, and streaming services. These cards have lower barriers to entry, meaning students may qualify with limited or no credit history. Other options include the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, which offers flat-rate rewards, and the Discover it® Student Cash Back card, which offers 5% cash back on purchases and accepts international students with an SSN.

Characteristics and Values of Rewards Credit Cards for International Students

International students can get rewards credit cards, but they may need an SSN or ITIN

International students can get a credit card, but there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to applying for one. One of the most significant factors is whether or not you need a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). While some credit card companies may require an SSN, there are options available that accept an ITIN or even a visa.

As an international student, you may have limited or no credit history, which can make it challenging to qualify for rewards cards or unsecured credit cards. However, there are still options available. Some credit cards are specifically designed for students and offer modest rewards on popular spending categories like dining, entertainment, and streaming services. These student credit cards typically have lower barriers to entry, and you may qualify with limited or no credit history.

To build credit as an international student, you can consider getting a secured card, which is backed by collateral, usually a security deposit from the cardholder. This deposit often serves as the card's credit limit, reducing the risk for lenders. Another option is to become an authorized user on someone else's account. Additionally, you can open a U.S. bank account and obtain an ITIN or SSN to increase your chances of getting a credit card.

While some credit card options may require an SSN, there are several alternatives for international students without one. Some of the best credit cards for international students without an SSN include the Deserve Edu Mastercard, Bank of America Cash Rewards for Students, Journey Student Rewards from Capital One, Citi Rewards+ Student Card, Wells Fargo Cash Back College Card, and the Discover it Student Cash Back. These cards offer various benefits, such as cashback rewards, no annual fees, and acceptance of ITINs.

In summary, international students can get rewards credit cards, but they may need an SSN or ITIN, depending on the card issuer's requirements. It is important to compare the different options and choose the one that best suits your needs and financial situation.

Rewards cards for international students with no SSN include the Deserve Edu Mastercard and the Capital One Secured Mastercard

As an international student, you may face difficulties in obtaining a credit card due to the lack of a Social Security number (SSN) and a U.S. credit history. Most credit card applications require a soft credit check and an SSN, which can be a significant hurdle. However, there are still options available for international students seeking rewards cards, such as the Deserve Edu Mastercard and the Capital One Secured Mastercard.

The Deserve Edu Mastercard is designed specifically for students and offers various benefits. It does not require a Social Security number, making it accessible to international students. The card provides modest rewards on common spending categories like dining, entertainment, and streaming services, catering to the needs of students. Additionally, it helps students build their credit history, which can be valuable for future financial endeavours.

On the other hand, the Capital One Secured Mastercard is another option for international students without an SSN. This card is ideal for those who want to build or rebuild their credit history responsibly. It does not require a credit score to apply, but applicants must meet certain income and debt conditions. The card offers opportunities to earn rewards, such as cash back on everyday purchases, and provides the convenience of flexible payment options.

Both the Deserve Edu Mastercard and the Capital One Secured Mastercard present advantages for international students seeking rewards cards without an SSN. These cards offer the dual benefit of rewards and credit-building opportunities, which can be particularly useful for students planning to stay in the U.S. for an extended period and wanting to establish a solid financial foundation.

It is worth noting that while these cards cater to international students without an SSN, other requirements, such as an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a student visa, may still apply. Additionally, establishing a credit history through secured cards can take time and responsible financial behaviour, such as timely payments and managing debt.

The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a good option for flat-rate rewards

One of the key advantages of this card is its simplicity. The flat-rate rewards structure means you don't have to juggle multiple bonus categories or keep track of changing merchants to maximize your rewards. This makes it a good choice for students who want a straightforward way to earn rewards without the hassle of optimizing their spending.

Additionally, the Capital One Quicksilver Student card offers a sign-up bonus, which is rare among student credit cards. You can earn a $50 bonus when you spend $100 in the first three months. The card also provides benefits such as push notifications for each approved purchase, emergency card replacement, and automatic insurance for covered losses when you use the card to book travel.

While the card does have a variable interest rate of 19.24%-29.24% APR, it does not require a lengthy credit history, making it accessible to students who may be building their credit profiles. The recommended credit score range is fair or average credit, defined as a FICO score of 630 to 689.

Overall, the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a strong option for students seeking a simple, hassle-free way to earn flat-rate rewards on their everyday purchases, with the added benefit of no foreign transaction fees.

The Discover it® Student Cash Back card is a good option for students who want cash-back rewards on every purchase

International students in the U.S. may qualify for credit cards, which offer both convenience and the opportunity to build a U.S. credit history. However, options may be limited, and international students may need different application materials, including an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), Social Security Number (SSN), or someone who will let them become an authorized user on their card. Without a U.S. credit history, it will be difficult to qualify for rewards cards, which typically require a good-to-excellent credit score.

The Discover it® Student Cash Back card is designed to help students build their credit history. Students without a credit history will find that the rewards are far superior to just about every other option. The card has no annual fee, a low intro APR, and a low minimum interest charge of $0.50 if you are charged interest. However, it is important to note that the card does require an SSN from international student applicants, so it may be more suitable for students who are already working, either on-campus or otherwise.

Other credit card options for international students include the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, which offers flat-rate rewards, the Journey® Student Rewards from Capital One®, which offers cash-back rewards and a potential credit line increase after timely monthly payments, and the American Express Blue Cash Everyday® Card, which offers 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and gas stations (up to a certain amount per year).

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is a good choice for students who want to earn flexible rewards

International students can get credit cards, but the options may be limited. Most credit card applications require at least a soft credit check, which can be difficult without a US credit history. However, some cards are crafted with students' needs in mind, offering modest rewards on common spending categories like dining, entertainment, and streaming services.

The card is part of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program, which offers a 25%–75% rewards bonus on all eligible Bank of America credit cards. As a Preferred Rewards member, you can enjoy benefits and rewards on your everyday Bank of America banking and Merrill investment accounts. These benefits grow as your qualifying balances increase.

Other good credit cards for international students include the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, which offers flat-rate rewards, and the Discover it Student Cash Back card, which offers 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined quarterly purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases. The Journey Student Rewards from Capital One also offers cash-back rewards and incentivizes on-time payments with extra cash back.

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