Best Credit Cards For International Students in the USA

Are you an international student looking to get your first credit card in the U.S.?

If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the top credit card options that cater specifically to international students, helping you build your credit history and make the most of your time in the States.

Discover it Student Cash Back

The Discover it Student Cash Back card is a popular choice for international students. It offers a $0 annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 in purchases).

Plus, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.

As a student, you’re also eligible for a $20 Good Grade Reward each year if you maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Deserve EDU Mastercard

The Deserve EDU Mastercard is unique because it doesn’t require a Social Security number (SSN) to apply.

All you need is a valid passport and a U.S. bank account. This card has no annual fee or foreign transaction fees, and it earns 1% cash back on all purchases.

Additionally, you’ll receive one year of Amazon Prime Student after spending $500 in the first three billing cycles.

Chase Freedom Student Credit Card

The Chase Freedom Student Credit Card is a great option for building a relationship with Chase, a renowned financial institution.

This card has no annual fee, earns 1% cash back on all purchases, and provides a $50 bonus for signing up.

Furthermore, you’ll receive a 20% bonus on your account anniversary for up to 5 years, helping you maximize your rewards.

Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students

The Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students offers a unique feature – you can choose a 3% cash back category from a list of options, such as gas, online shopping, or dining. You’ll also earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined 3% and 2% category purchases per quarter), and 1% on everything else.

Plus, you can earn a $200 bonus after making $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days.

Capital One Journey Student Credit Card

The Capital One Journey Student Credit Card is a straightforward, no-frills option with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees. It earns 1% cash back on all purchases, and you can earn an additional 0.25% bonus when you make your payments on time.

Capital One also offers the opportunity to increase your credit limit after making five on-time payments.

Remember, building credit is crucial as an international student, as it can impact your ability to rent an apartment, get a car loan, or even secure a job.

By using these credit cards responsibly and making timely payments, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a strong credit history in the United States.