Janice Lozano
International students in the US may be eligible for a Social Security number and can qualify for a student credit card if they meet the creditor's requirements. Discover offers student credit cards that can be used globally, with no foreign transaction fees. Students can earn cash back and rewards on purchases, and there is no annual fee. However, it is important to note that credit card approval depends on factors such as credit history and income, and international students may face challenges in obtaining a credit card due to their lack of credit history in the US.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Credit card approval | Depends on credit history and income |
| Credit history | Can be built by using a credit card for at least six months |
| Social Security number | Required by most credit card issuers to verify identity and check credit history |
| Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) | May be requested by a credit card company instead of a Social Security number |
| International credit history | May not transfer to the U.S. due to differences in credit reporting systems |
| Discover credit card options for students | Discover it® Student Cash Back, Discover it® Chrome for Students, Discover it® Secured Credit Card |
| Discover it® Student Cash Back | Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter, up to the quarterly maximum when activated; earn 1% cash back on all other purchases |
| Discover it® Chrome for Students | Earn 2% Cashback Bonus® at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter; earn 1% cash back on all other purchases |
| Discover it® Secured Credit Card | Credit line equals deposit amount, starting at $200; offers cash back rewards on eligible purchases |
| Discover student card features | No annual fee, low intro APR, customizable card designs, email and text alerts, fast and secure mobile login, 24/7 customer service |
| Discover card use outside the U.S. | Accepted at millions of merchants globally; notify Discover before traveling internationally to ensure uninterrupted use |
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What You'll Learn
International students' eligibility for a Social Security number
F-1 students must also provide evidence of lawful F-1 employment, such as an on-campus job or authorization for curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT). J-1 students are required to show evidence of employment and must be in valid J-1 status and be registered for a full course of study.
It is important to note that simply having an SSN does not grant legal authorization to work in the US. However, if you have been granted legal authorization to work and are working, you are required to apply for and obtain an SSN.
To apply for an SSN, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Valid immigration documents, including a valid passport, valid I-20 or DS-2019, and an I-94 card or electronic I-94 notated "F-1 D/S" or "J-1 D/S"
- Evidence of employment and valid F-1 employment authorization, such as a letter from your hiring department confirming that you have been offered an on-campus job
- On-campus employment authorization/SSN eligibility letter from your university's International Student Services (ISS) or Office of International Students and Scholars
It is recommended that you wait 2-3 weeks after arriving in the US to apply for an SSN, as it can take some time for your immigration information to be verified. The Social Security Administration will mail your number and card once all your documents have been verified, which can take 2-4 weeks or more.
Regarding credit cards, while most credit card issuers ask for an SSN to verify your identity and check your credit history, it is possible to apply for some credit cards without one. A credit card company may instead request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which the IRS may issue to individuals who are ineligible for a Social Security card. Discover, for example, offers a secured credit card called Discover it® Secured Credit Card, which can help build your credit history. They also offer student credit cards such as the Discover it® Student Cash Back, which allows students to earn rewards on their purchases.
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Student credit cards for international students
As an international student in the US, you may be eligible for a Social Security number and qualify for a student credit card if you meet the creditor's requirements. While most credit card issuers ask for an SSN to verify your identity and check your credit history, some cards can be obtained with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The ITIN is commonly used by international students and other non-citizens for federal income tax reporting.
Discover offers a range of credit cards for students with little to no credit history. These include the Discover it® Student Cash Back, which allows students to earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, and 1% Cashback Bonus® on all purchases. The Discover it® Chrome for Students offers 2% Cashback Bonus® at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. Discover also offers a secured credit card, the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, which requires a cash deposit.
Other credit cards for international students in the US include the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students, which has no foreign transaction fees, and the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card.
When choosing a student credit card, it's important to compare different options and select one that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle decisions. You may want to verify that your destination country widely accepts your card's network. It's also worth considering whether the card has any annual or foreign transaction fees and what security features it provides.
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International credit history transfer
International students in the US may be eligible for a Social Security number and qualify for a student credit card if they meet the creditor's requirements. While a Social Security number is not necessary for a credit history in the US, it does make the process easier. If you don't have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to apply for a credit card.
Credit scoring and history are bound to geography, so your credit history from your home country will not be carried over to the US. You will need to build your credit score in the US from scratch. It can take around six months of credit use to build your credit history and establish a credit score.
There are several ways to start building your credit history in the US. One option is to become an authorised user on a friend or family member's credit card, as long as the creditor reports to the credit bureaus. Another option is to take out a secured credit card, such as the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, which requires a cash deposit.
Discover offers a range of student credit cards that can be used by international students with little to no credit history. These include the Discover it® Student Cash Back, which allows students to earn 5% cashback on everyday purchases, and the Discover it® Chrome for Students, which offers 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants.
Before applying for a credit card, it's important to compare different options and select the one that aligns with your financial goals and travel plans. You should also verify that your destination country widely accepts your chosen credit card to avoid any inconvenience and ensure reliable access to your funds.
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Applying for a credit card without a Social Security number
As an international student in the US, you may be eligible for a Social Security number and a student credit card if you meet the creditor's requirements. However, if you don't have a Social Security number, there are still ways to obtain a credit card.
Credit card issuers may require that you share your Social Security Number (SSN) as a way to verify your identity. If you don’t have an SSN, some issuers still make it possible to open a credit card. You will still need to meet the minimum card application requirements, even with alternative identification.
To access your credit report without an SSN, you can use your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). To obtain an ITIN, you’ll need to file IRS Form W-7, which is available to individuals who are not eligible to get a Social Security number. You will need to provide proof of identity and documentation of foreign status, such as a passport, a national ID card from your home country, or a visa issued by the US State Department. Processing takes about seven weeks.
Some credit card companies may accept applications from immigrants without an SSN but may require an ITIN. Immigrants who don’t qualify for a standard credit card may be eligible for a secured credit card or a student credit card.
If you lack credit history in the US, you could consider becoming an authorized user on a friend or family member’s credit card, as long as the creditor reports to the credit bureaus. Alternatively, you could apply for a secured credit card, such as the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, which requires a cash deposit.
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Foreign transaction fees and dynamic currency conversions
Foreign transaction fees and dynamic currency conversion fees are two distinct charges that can be applied when using a credit card abroad. These fees can add up quickly, so it is important to understand the differences between them and how to avoid or minimise them.
Foreign Transaction Fees
A foreign transaction fee is a charge that banks or credit card companies may levy when you use your card in a foreign country or with a foreign merchant. This fee is typically applied when the transaction involves changing money from one currency to another. The fee usually ranges from 2% to 3% of the purchase price but can go up to 4% depending on the bank and the type of card used. It is important to note that this fee may be charged even if you are using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees if the merchant offers dynamic currency conversion (DCC).
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Fees
DCC is a service offered by some merchants and ATMs that converts the purchase price from the local currency to your home currency at the point of sale. This can be convenient, but it often comes with a significant commission, resulting in a higher total price. The DCC fee is usually set by the merchant and their bank, so it may vary from one store to another. Additionally, even when using DCC, your card-issuing bank may still charge a foreign transaction fee. Therefore, it is generally recommended to decline DCC if offered and always pay in the local currency.
Avoiding and Minimising Fees
- Choose a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, such as Discover cards.
- Use a multi-currency account or a prepaid travel card.
- Pay in the local currency to avoid DCC fees.
- Get some cash before you leave home to minimise ATM withdrawals and the associated fees.
- Check if your bank is part of a "no fee" or "low-cost" global ATM network.
- Be wary of deceptive ATMs and terminals that try to disguise DCC.
- Download a currency conversion app to know the exchange rate and how much you're paying in the local currency.
- Notify your bank or credit card issuer of your upcoming travel dates and destinations.
Discover Credit Cards for International Students
Discover offers several credit cards that are suitable for international students in the US, such as the Discover it® Student Cash Back and Discover it® Chrome for Students. These cards offer rewards on purchases, including cashback on eligible gas station and restaurant purchases. Additionally, Discover cards have no foreign transaction fees, making them a good option for students travelling abroad. However, it is important to note that acceptance of Discover cards may vary depending on the country. Therefore, it is recommended to verify that your destination country widely accepts Discover cards before travelling.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can open a Discover credit card in America. Students with limited or no credit history may find that a Discover student card fits their financial needs.
You can apply for most Discover credit cards online at Discover.com or by calling 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683). If you are under 21 or applying for a secured credit card, you must apply online.
Most credit card issuers ask for a Social Security number to verify your identity and check your credit history. However, applying for some credit cards without a Social Security number is possible. A credit card company may instead request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Discover student cards offer the flexibility of redeeming cash back on a wide range of purchases. Students can earn significant rewards on their everyday spending, such as 5% cash back on purchases at grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. Discover cards also have no foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international students who plan to travel.
