Discover Credit Cards: Options For International Students In America

As an international student in the United States, you may face challenges when applying for a credit card, but it is not impossible. Discover offers a range of student credit cards that are designed for those with little to no credit history, which is often the case for international students. These cards can help you build a credit history and provide rewards and benefits such as cash back on purchases. However, it is important to compare the different options available and select the one that best suits your financial goals and travel plans.

International students can get a Discover credit card in America

As an international student in the United States, you may face challenges when applying for a credit card, but it is not impossible. Discover offers a range of credit cards that may be suitable for international students studying in America. Here is some information on how international students can get a Discover credit card in America:

Types of Credit Cards for International Students

Discover offers various credit cards tailored to students with limited or no credit history, including international students. These include:

• Discover it® Student Cash Back: This card allows students to earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when activated. Students can also earn 1% Cashback Bonus® on all purchases with no maximum or activation needed.
• Discover it® Chrome for Students: With this card, students can earn 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Additionally, they can earn unlimited 1% cashback on all other purchases.
• Discover it® Secured Credit Card: This card is designed for individuals who are new to credit or are looking to rebuild their credit history. It helps students build their credit history with responsible use.

Applying for a Discover Credit Card as an International Student

When applying for a Discover credit card as an international student, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Discover credit card.
• Credit History and Score: While a credit history and good credit score are typically required for most credit cards, student credit cards like Discover's often do not require a credit score. Student cards are designed to be more accessible, even for those with limited or no credit history.
• Social Security Number or Taxpayer ID Number: Many credit card applications require a Social Security number or taxpayer ID number. As an international student, you may not have either of these. However, some issuers, including Discover, may accept your international passport for identification purposes. Depending on your visa type, you may be able to obtain a Social Security number or taxpayer ID number even if you are not a US citizen.
• Income and Employment: Credit card issuers may also consider your income and employment status when reviewing your application. As an international student, you may have part-time employment or other sources of income to support your stay in the US.
• Bank Account: Opening a US-based bank account as an international student can be beneficial. It can help eliminate currency exchange fees, protect your assets, and make it easier to manage your finances and pay credit card bills. Additionally, a banker may provide suggestions on suitable credit card options.

Benefits of Discover Credit Cards for International Students

Discover credit cards offer several advantages for international students:

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Unlike some other credit card issuers, Discover does not charge foreign transaction fees when using your card internationally. This can save you money when making purchases or withdrawing cash while travelling or studying abroad.
• Rewards and Cash Back: Discover student credit cards offer various rewards and cashback options. Students can earn cashback on everyday purchases, such as dining, gas, and groceries, as well as on travel-related expenses. These rewards can help offset the costs of studying and living in the US.
• Building Credit History: As an international student, building a good credit history in the US is essential, especially if you plan to stay long-term or return in the future. Responsible use of a Discover credit card can help you establish and improve your credit score over time.
• Security and Convenience: Discover credit cards offer security features, such as the ability to freeze your account immediately if lost. Additionally, contactless payment options are available in countries that utilize the Discover network, making transactions fast and convenient.

Student credit cards are designed for students with no credit history

Discover's student credit cards are a good option for international students in America who want to build their credit history. These cards are designed for students enrolled in school with little to no credit history. They can be obtained by full-time or part-time students and do not require a credit score to apply.

Discover's student credit cards also offer customizable card designs, 24/7 customer service, and email and text alerts to help students stay on top of their account activity. Additionally, students can view their FICO® Credit Scores for free on mobile and online.

It is important to note that student credit cards often have higher interest rates and lower credit limits compared to standard credit cards. However, this can help students control their debt as they build their credit history and learn to manage their finances.

Other options for students with no credit history include secured credit cards and store credit cards. Students can also consider becoming an authorized user on someone else's card, such as a partner or family member's credit card. This can help them access credit and build their credit score simultaneously.

Student cards have lower credit limits and higher interest rates

As an international student in the United States, you may face challenges when applying for a credit card. However, it is possible to get one. Student credit cards are designed for students with limited or no credit history, which is often the case for international students. These cards usually have lower credit limits and higher interest rates compared to standard credit cards.

Student credit cards, such as the Discover it® Student Cash Back and Discover it® Chrome for Students, offer rewards and perks on everyday purchases, like gas, dining, and groceries. These cards can help students earn cash back and accumulate rewards, which can be redeemed for travel expenses, dining, car rentals, or transit passes. While the lower credit limit may seem like a disadvantage, it can help students control their debt as they build credit and learn to manage their finances.

The Discover it® Chrome for Students card, for example, offers 2% cashback on gas and restaurant purchases, up to a specified maximum, and 1% cashback on all other purchases. The Discover it® Student Cash Back card allows students to earn 5% cashback on everyday purchases at various locations, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, with a 1% cashback bonus on all purchases.

It is important to note that student credit cards may have higher interest rates than other cards. However, by making timely payments and paying off the balance each billing cycle, students can avoid paying any interest. Building good credit is crucial for international students to improve their credit card choices and overall financial situation in the United States.

To apply for a Discover student credit card, individuals can visit Discover.com or call their customer service line. It is worth noting that Discover student cards are available for students studying abroad, but acceptance may vary depending on the country. International students are advised to verify the acceptance of the Discover card network in their destination country before travelling.

International students may need a Social Security number or taxpayer ID number

International students can open a credit card in the United States, but it may be challenging due to certain requirements. One common requirement is a Social Security number or taxpayer ID number. However, some credit card issuers may accept an international passport instead.

The type of visa you hold as an international student may determine whether you can obtain a Social Security number or taxpayer ID number. Even if you do not intend to work in the United States, you may still be able to secure one of these options. Applying for a taxpayer ID number through the IRS can provide a valuable form of identification.

It is recommended that international students open a U.S.-based bank account, which can be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it can eliminate currency exchange fees, protect your assets, and simplify payments via check or debit card. Secondly, having a U.S. bank account can be a prerequisite for securing a line of credit in the future. Additionally, bankers can provide valuable suggestions on credit card options, and having a U.S. account can streamline the process of paying your credit card bills.

Before applying for a credit card, it is advisable to determine if you pre-qualify. This involves a lender assessing your likelihood of approval before you submit a formal application. While approval is not guaranteed, pre-qualification provides valuable insight into whether a credit card is a suitable fit.

When choosing a credit card as an international student, it is crucial to consider your individual needs, spending habits, and travel plans. It is also essential to verify that your destination country widely accepts your chosen card. Discover users can utilise their credit cards abroad, benefiting from contactless payment in countries that support the Discover network.

Student cards offer perks and rewards, like cash back or travel miles

Student credit cards are designed for students with no credit history. They often have lower credit limits and higher interest rates compared to standard credit cards. Student cards also offer perks and rewards, like cash back or travel miles. For example, the Discover it® Student card and Discover it® Chrome for Students card allow students to earn rewards on eligible purchases, such as gas and restaurant purchases.

Cash-back cards provide rewards in dollars, which can be redeemed as a credit on your statement, check, or direct deposit. They are low-maintenance and usually don't charge annual fees, but they may not offer the same perks as travel rewards cards. Travel credit cards, on the other hand, earn points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses. These points or miles may have variable values depending on how they are redeemed. Premium travel cards often include perks such as statement credits, travel insurance, elite status benefits, and airport lounge access.

When choosing between a cash-back or travel rewards card, consider your spending habits and travel frequency. Cash-back cards are straightforward and low-maintenance, while travel rewards cards offer perks that can enhance your travel experience. Additionally, some cards may have specific categories or partnerships that can increase the value of your rewards. For example, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers 2 miles per dollar on most purchases, while the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card provides up to 5 points per dollar depending on where you use it.

It's important to note that building a good credit score is crucial when applying for credit cards. Student credit cards can help you build your credit history by making timely payments and managing your debt effectively.

Frequently asked questions