Introduction
As an international student studying in the United States, managing finances efficiently is essential for a smooth academic journey. Credit cards offer a convenient way to handle expenses, build credit history, and enjoy various perks tailored to students’ needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 credit cards specifically designed for international students in the USA. From cashback rewards to low fees and credit-building tools, these credit cards provide the financial flexibility and peace of mind necessary for navigating student life abroad. Discover the best options and take control of your finances like a pro!
1. Discover it® Student Cash Back
- Key Features: This card offers cashback rewards on purchases, bonus cashback for good grades, no annual fee, and free FICO® credit score monitoring.
- Why Choose: Perfect for students looking to earn rewards while establishing credit history without worrying about an annual fee.
2. Capital One® Platinum Credit Card
- Key Features: With no annual fee and credit-building tools, this card offers the opportunity to increase credit limit with responsible use.
- Why Choose: Ideal for international students with limited credit history seeking to build credit in the US without additional costs.
3. Deserve® Edu Mastercard for Students
- Key Features: No Social Security Number (SSN) required, no annual fee, cashback rewards, and a one-year Amazon Prime Student membership.
- Why Choose: Designed specifically for international students with no credit history or SSN, offering rewards and benefits without extra requirements.
4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students
- Key Features: This card has no annual fee, offers unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent, and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
- Why Choose: Suitable for students who prioritize travel rewards and want to avoid extra fees while studying abroad.
5. Citi Rewards+℠ Student Card
- Key Features: With no annual fee, this card offers round-up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase and a 2,500 bonus points offer after spending $500 within the first 3 months.
- Why Choose: Great for students seeking to maximize rewards on everyday purchases and earn a welcome bonus.
6. Journey® Student Rewards from Capital One®
- Key Features: No annual fee, cashback rewards, and the opportunity to earn a higher credit line with responsible use.
- Why Choose: Ideal for students focused on building credit and earning rewards on purchases while enjoying the perks of responsible credit usage.
7. Wells Fargo Cash Back College℠ Card
- Key Features: No annual fee, cashback rewards, and cell phone protection when paying the monthly cell phone bill with the card.
- Why Choose: Tailored for students who want to earn cashback on purchases and protect their cell phone without additional costs.
8. Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card
- Key Features: This card has no annual fee, offers cashback rewards, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and doesn’t have late payment fees.
- Why Choose: Suitable for international students with limited credit history who want to earn rewards without worrying about fees or additional charges.
9. Deserve® Pro Mastercard
- Key Features: No SSN required, 3% cashback on travel and entertainment, no foreign transaction fees, and cellphone protection.
- Why Choose: Designed for international students with established credit seeking premium rewards and benefits without the need for an SSN.
10. State Farm® Student Visa® Credit Card
- Key Features: With no annual fee and rewards for responsible driving, this card offers an automatic eligibility review for a higher credit limit.
- Why Choose: Perfect for students looking to earn rewards on car-related expenses and build credit responsibly without additional costs.
Conclusion
Managing finances as an international student in the USA can be challenging, but with the right credit card, you can navigate expenses efficiently while building credit history and enjoying rewards and benefits tailored to your needs. The top 10 credit cards for international students listed in this guide offer a range of features and perks, from cashback rewards to low fees and credit-building tools, empowering you to take control of your finances and thrive during your academic journey abroad. Explore the options, choose the card that best fits your lifestyle and financial goals, and embark on a journey to financial independence and success! Apply now and experience the freedom and flexibility of managing your finances like a pro.