If you’re a college student looking for your first credit card — but have no credit history — don’t worry. Many credit card issuers now offer student-friendly cards designed for beginners who are just starting to build credit.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best student credit cards in 2025 that are easy to get approved for, even with no prior credit history. We’ll also show you how to use them wisely to grow your credit score and unlock future financial opportunities.
🧠 Why Get a Student Credit Card?
Here’s what a student credit card helps you do:
- ✅ Build your credit score from zero
- ✅ Learn how to manage credit responsibly
- ✅ Qualify for loans, apartments, and better cards in the future
- ✅ Earn rewards on everyday spending (groceries, gas, subscriptions)
Many student cards come with:
- No annual fees
- Cashback rewards
- Flexible approval criteria
✅ Best Student Credit Cards for No Credit History in 2025
Here are the top student cards that don’t require a credit history and are ideal for college students:
1. Discover it® Student Cash Back – Best Overall
Key Features:
- 5% cashback on rotating categories (e.g., groceries, Amazon, gas)
- 1% on all other purchases
- First-year Cashback Match — they’ll double all your cashback!
- No annual fee
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
Eligibility: No credit history needed. Must be 18+ and enrolled in school. No co-signer required.
✅ Why it’s great: Generous cashback, excellent for beginners, and ideal for building credit fast.
2. Capital One Quicksilver Student Rewards – Best for Flat Cashback
Key Features:
- Unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Fraud protection & travel accident insurance
Eligibility: No credit required. Must be enrolled in college full- or part-time.
✅ Why it’s great: Simple, no-rotating-categories cashback card with strong travel perks.
3. Chime Credit Builder Visa® – Best for No Credit Check
Key Features:
- No credit check to apply
- No interest or late fees
- No annual fee
- No minimum deposit required (uses Chime account balance)
- Reports monthly to all 3 credit bureaus
Eligibility: Must have a Chime Checking Account and at least one qualifying direct deposit.
✅ Why it’s great: Easiest and safest way to start credit with no credit pull, great for first-timers.
4. Deserve® EDU Mastercard – Best for International Students
Key Features:
- 1% cashback on all purchases
- No security deposit
- No SSN required for international students
- Free Amazon Prime Student for 1 year (with $500 spend in 3 months)
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
Eligibility: Designed for U.S. and international college students. No credit or co-signer required.
✅ Why it’s great: One of the few credit cards made specifically for international students.
5. Petal® 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa – Best for Low Credit or Thin File
Key Features:
- Credit limits from $300–$5,000
- 2%–10% cashback at select merchants
- No annual fee or deposit required
- No late payment fee
- Uses cash flow underwriting (not just credit score)
Eligibility: No credit history required. Petal reviews your income and spending habits.
✅ Why it’s great: Ideal for students with little to no credit who want higher limits without a deposit.
🧾 Quick Comparison Table
| Card | Cashback | Fees | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discover it® Student | 5% rotating + 1% | $0 annual | Beginners wanting high rewards |
| Quicksilver Student | 1.5% flat | $0 annual | Simple rewards, travel perks |
| Chime Builder | None | $0 fees, $0 interest | No credit check, no fees |
| Deserve EDU | 1% flat | $0 annual | International students |
| Petal 1 | Up to 10% | $0 annual | No credit score needed |
🛠️ How to Apply with No Credit History
- Choose a student credit card from the list above
- Provide your student status, income source (even if it’s part-time or financial aid), and SSN (except Deserve)
- Apply online in under 5 minutes
- Wait for instant or email approval
- Start using responsibly to build your credit
📈 How These Cards Build Your Credit
All cards on this list report to all three credit bureaus:
- Experian
- Equifax
- TransUnion
Pay on time, keep balances low (below 30% of your limit), and never miss a payment — and you’ll see your credit score grow in just a few months.
❓ FAQ Section
Q: Can I get denied for a student credit card with no credit?
Yes, if you don’t meet income or age requirements. But most cards listed here are designed to approve first-time applicants with no credit score.
Q: What income do I need to apply?
Income can include:
- Part-time jobs
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Parental support
- Financial aid (some issuers count this)
Q: Should I get a secured or unsecured student credit card?
If you want no deposit, go for an unsecured card (like Discover or Quicksilver).
If you’re worried about approval or want full control, a secured card (like Chime) is a great place to start.
Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Build Fast
Getting your first credit card without a credit history isn’t just possible — it’s smart. These beginner-friendly cards help you earn rewards while laying the foundation for strong financial health.
The earlier you start, the sooner you’ll qualify for:
- Higher-limit cards
- Auto loans
- Apartment rentals
- Even mortgages
👉 Need help using your card wisely?
Read next: What Is a Secured Credit Card and How It Helps Students Build Credit
