Savanna Hoffman
International students face challenges when it comes to getting a credit card in certain countries, such as the US. The best credit cards for international students are those that accept students with little to no credit history and reward them for handling credit responsibly. These cards typically do not charge annual fees or foreign transaction fees and are available to students who are not citizens of the country in which they are studying. Some cards require a Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. International students can also get a credit card from a bank in their home country, which can be used internationally.
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What You'll Learn
Cards with no annual fees
International students in the US often face challenges in getting a credit card. A credit card can be a lifesaver, helping students manage expenses, build a credit history, and deal with emergencies.
Discover it® Student Cash Back
The Discover it® Student Cash Back card does not accept individual taxpayer identification numbers from applicants, but international students may qualify to receive a Social Security number. It offers a chance to earn cash-back rewards on every purchase with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees. Discover's signature Cashback Match™ welcome offer will match all the points you earn in your first year. However, Discover cards aren't accepted everywhere, so a backup credit card may be needed.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card offers flat-rate rewards, making it an attractive option for international students. It provides unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases, and 1.5% unlimited cash back on every purchase. The card has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee.
Zolve
Zolve offers three credit cards tailored for international students: Zolve Classic, Zolve Signature, and Zolve Black. Zolve cards are easy to manage online, providing flexibility and convenience. They do not require a Social Security Number (SSN) and offer 1% cashback on all purchases. There are no foreign transaction fees, and you can get reimbursed for an Amazon Prime Student subscription after spending $500 in the first three billing cycles.
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card can be obtained with an ITIN number and has no annual fee. It offers 3% cash back on purchases for dining, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery store shopping.
Petal 2
The Petal 2 Visa card can be applied for with an ITIN, but it is only available in the US, requiring a US phone number and address.
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Cards that don't require a Social Security number
International students in the US often face challenges when it comes to accessing financial services, including obtaining a credit card. One of the main requirements for getting a credit card in the US is having a Social Security Number (SSN). However, SSNs are typically issued to US citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents with work authorization, which can make it difficult for international students to obtain one.
Zolve
Zolve offers a range of credit cards specifically tailored for international students: Zolve Classic, Zolve Signature, and Zolve Black. These cards offer cashback rewards and an easy application process without requiring an SSN. Zolve cards also stand out for their comprehensive benefits, including no annual or foreign transaction fees.
Discover
Discover offers two credit cards aimed at students: the Student Cash Back card and the Chrome for Students card. The Student Cash Back card allows cardholders to earn up to 5% cashback on their spending, with the categories changing every quarter. The Chrome card offers 2% cashback on specific purchases like fuel and dining out. Discover student cards do require a credit check, but they may still be issued if other factors are favourable.
Capital One
Capital One offers several credit cards that international students can apply for using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of an SSN. These include the Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, which offers 1-8% cashback on purchases and has no annual fee. Capital One also offers the Quicksilver Secured card, which requires a $200 security deposit but is available to individuals with damaged credit.
Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card
The Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card is another option that allows applicants to use an ITIN instead of an SSN. This card offers 1-1.5% cashback and doesn't charge an annual fee, but it has a high regular APR.
Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the lenders that may issue a student card based on your passport or an ITIN. Their Cash Rewards and Travel Rewards Cards offer versatile rewards, including cashback on various categories such as online shopping or dining.
Deserve Edu Mastercard
Deserve Edu Mastercard is another card that international students can apply for without an SSN, and it has no annual or foreign transaction fees.
It is important to note that while these cards do not require an SSN, they may have other requirements, such as proof of identity, proof of enrollment in a US institution, or an ITIN. Building a credit history in the US can be challenging for international students, and it is recommended to use the card regularly and pay off the balance in full each month to establish a positive credit history.
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Cards that offer cash back
Several credit cards offer cash back for international students. Here are some of the best options:
Discover it® Student Cash Back
Discover it® Student Cash Back is a popular choice for international students due to its cashback rewards and lack of annual fees. Cardholders can earn bonus cash back in rotating categories, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants, with no activation required. Additionally, Discover offers a welcome bonus where they match all the points earned in the first year. However, Discover cards may not be accepted everywhere internationally, so a backup credit card may be needed.
Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card with Cashback
The Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card is another excellent option for international students. It offers up to 5% cashback in rotating categories, with 1% cashback on other purchases. There is no annual fee, no penalty APR, and no requirement for a Social Security number, making it accessible for international students.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card offers flat-rate cash back on all purchases. While the exact percentage is not mentioned, it is known to be competitive. Capital One also offers a bonus of $100 when you spend $300 in the first three months. This card is a good option for international students as it accepts ITIN numbers for applications.
Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card
The Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card is ideal for international students without a Social Security number or established credit history. It offers cash back with no fees, including no late payment fees, no foreign transaction fees, and no annual fees. Cardholders can boost their cash back by making timely payments. However, this card is only available in the US, so it cannot be obtained before arrival.
Zolve Credit Card
The Zolve Credit Card is designed for international students, offering 1% cashback on all purchases without categories to track. It does not require an SSN, and there are no foreign transaction fees. Additionally, Zolve offers an Amazon Prime Student subscription reimbursement after spending $500 in the first three billing cycles.
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Cards that are widely accepted
When it comes to cards that are widely accepted, Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit card networks internationally. A Visa credit card can be used in over 200 countries, while Mastercard is accepted in 210 countries. American Express is a distant third, being accepted in about 160 markets.
Therefore, cards that are part of the Visa or Mastercard networks are likely to be more widely accepted than American Express. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a Visa card that is not specific to students but is designed for travellers, with extensive rewards and benefits.
If you are looking for a card that is widely accepted and designed for students, the Discover it Student Cash Back card is a good option. This card does not require a Social Security Number, although international students may qualify to receive one. It is worth noting that Discover cards are part of the Mastercard network and are therefore widely accepted.
Another option is the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, which also offers cash back and does not require a Social Security Number. Capital One issues cards that are part of the Mastercard and Visa networks, so this card is likely to be widely accepted.
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Cards that help build credit
International students face a number of challenges when seeking credit-building opportunities in the U.S. Most credit card applications require a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). However, some credit card issuers may accept alternative forms of identification, such as a passport, visa, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Secured Credit Cards
Secured credit cards are a great option for international students looking to build their credit. These cards require a security deposit, which acts as the credit line. The Citi® Secured Mastercard® is a good and inexpensive option that accepts applicants with limited credit history. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is another option that offers rewards and the opportunity to upgrade to an unsecured card.
Capital One Student Credit Cards
Capital One offers student credit cards designed for college students with limited or no credit history. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card allow international students to earn rewards and build credit with responsible use. These cards also have features such as security alerts, card lock, and no foreign transaction fees.
Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card
The Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card is a unique option for international students. It allows your secured deposits to earn a competitive APY and additional cash back on eligible purchases. There is no hard credit inquiry and no foreign transaction fees. However, you will need to open a checking account to qualify, and your spending limit will be equal to the balance in your deposit account.
Bank of America Credit Cards
Bank of America offers two credit cards for international students that do not require an SSN and accept applications with an ITIN. The Bank of America Cash Rewards for Students offers a $200 initial bonus and 3% back in categories such as gas, dining, and travel. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students is a good option for those with good credit scores looking for straightforward travel rewards.
Discover it® Student Cash Back
The Discover it® Student Cash Back card is an engaging and fun option for international students looking to build their credit. It combines useful benefits, such as earning extra cash back each quarter on select categories, with educational features to help cardholders learn about building credit history. Discover also offers to match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year, with no minimum spending or maximum rewards.
It is important to note that building credit takes time and responsible use of credit cards. International students should also be aware of the different requirements and options available to them when applying for credit cards in the U.S.
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Frequently asked questions
Some of the best credit cards for international students include the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, the Discover it® Student Cash Back, the Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card, and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 1.5% unlimited cash back on all purchases, while the Discover it® Student Cash Back offers 5% cashback on grocery stores and wholesale clubs. The Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services, and grocery shopping. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers 2x points on travel and 5x points on Lyft rides.
Yes, credit cards for international students can help build a solid credit history, which can be valuable for future financial needs such as student loans or apartment leases. Some cards also offer rewards and no annual fees.
International students may face challenges in getting a credit card in some countries, such as the United States, due to a lack of credit history. However, some credit card companies may accept alternative forms of identification, such as an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a passport. Citibank offers student credit cards that do not require a Social Security number.
It is important to use your card responsibly and make at least the minimum payments on time and in full every month. Additionally, be mindful of foreign transaction fees, as these can add up quickly.
