Top Picks + Tips from a Real Card Nerd
Hi, I’m Karl Brown — and if you’re a student trying to get your very first credit card, I’ve been exactly where you are.
I remember being overwhelmed by all the options, especially when I had zero credit history. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a credit score, a cosigner, or a ton of income to get started. You just need the right card — and some solid guidance.
So I’ve put together this list of the best student credit cards for no credit in 2025, based on personal experience, real-world research, and what I wish I had known when I applied for my first card.
Why This Guide Matters
When I was applying for my first card, I had no idea that some credit cards are actually designed for people with no credit history. These cards don’t penalize you for being new — they help you build credit from scratch.
And bonus? Many of them come with rewards, $0 fees, and even perks like free credit monitoring.
My Top Picks for Students With No Credit
These are the cards I recommend again and again — either because I’ve used them myself, or because I’ve seen them work for friends and readers.
Discover it® Student Cash Back
This was actually one of the first cards I got approved for — and it still holds up in 2025.
- 5% cash back on rotating categories like Amazon, groceries, or restaurants
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Cashback Match™: whatever you earn in your first year gets doubled
- No annual fee
- No credit score needed to apply
Check if You Qualify →
Capital One Quicksilver Rewards for Students
If you’re not into tracking categories, this is a great one.
- 1.5% flat cash back on everything — super simple
- No foreign transaction fees, No annual fee
- You can pre-qualify without hurting your score
Get Pre-Qualified →
See Full Benefits →
Capital One Savor Rewards for Students
Perfect if you’re like me and spend a lot on food, concerts, and Netflix.
- 3% cash back on dining, grocery stores, entertainment, and streaming
- No foreign transaction fees, No annual fee
- You can pre-qualify without hurting your score
Get Pre-Qualified →
See Full Benefits →
Chase Freedom Rise®
This is a newer card that replaced Chase’s old student card — and it’s built for people with no credit.
- 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- No annual fee
- Approvals are higher if you already have a Chase checking account with $250 in it.
Learn More →
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students
If you’re planning to study abroad (or just want to earn travel points), this one’s for you.
- 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
Learn More →
Quick Comparison Table
| Card | Best For | Rewards | Annual Fee |
| Discover it® Student | Overall pick | 5% categories + 1% | $0 |
| Capital One Quicksilver Rewards for Students | Simplicity | 1.5% on all purchases | $0 |
| Capital One Savor Rewards for Students | Food & fun | 3% on top categories | $0 |
| Chase Freedom Rise® | Chase users/new credit | 1.5% flat | $0 |
| Bank of America Travel Rewards Student | Study abroad/travel | 1.5 points per $1 | $0 |
What to Look for in a First Card
Here’s what I personally look for when applying:
- $0 annual fee: Never pay to build credit. There are so many free options.
- Reward types that match your life: If you eat out a lot or shop online, get rewarded for it.
- Soft pull pre-approval tools: Use them to avoid damaging your score.
- Reports to all 3 bureaus: This is what builds your credit.
Tips from Personal Experience
- Don’t apply for more than one card at a time
- Pay on time — even if it’s just the minimum
- Keep your balance low (under 30% of your credit limit)
- Set up autopay and never get charged any late fees
- Don’t overspend just to earn rewards — I’ve made that mistake 😅
What to Do If You’re Denied
It happens. If you get denied, don’t panic.
Look into:
- Secured cards like the Discover it® Secured or Capital One Platinum Secured
- Alternative underwriting cards like Petal® 2, which look at cash flow, not just credit
You can always build from there — and reapply in a few months once your file improves.
Final Thoughts from Karl
I know how stressful it can be to feel like you’re starting from scratch. But if you choose one of these student cards and use it responsibly, you’ll be on your way to a strong credit profile before you graduate.
I started with no credit, and now I’m the guy writing about them — so you’ve got this.
👉 Need help deciding? Check out my full student card comparison page here
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best student credit card for no credit in 2025?
Top picks include the Discover it® Student Cash Back, Capital One Quicksilver Rewards for Students, and Chase Freedom Rise. These cards offer no annual fees, soft pull pre-approval, and solid rewards for first-time users.
Can a student with no credit get a credit card?
Yes. Many student cards are specifically designed for applicants with no credit history. Some do not require a FICO score at all, and many offer tools to help you build credit responsibly over time.
Do I need a cosigner to get a student credit card?
No — most major student cards do not require a cosigner. You can apply using your income from part-time work, scholarships, or grants.
Are secured credit cards a good alternative if I get denied?
Yes. If you’re denied a traditional student card, secured credit cards like the Discover it® Secured or Capital One Platinum Secured can be great options. They require a refundable deposit but help you build credit the same way.
