Student credit cards are tailored specifically for college students and recent graduates who are just beginning their credit journeys. These cards typically come with lower fees and are designed to be accessible to those who may not yet have a steady income or extensive credit history. With student credit cards, students can cover their financial needs while also earning rewards.
Applying for a student credit card is usually easier than applying for a regular credit card. The application process involves minimal documentation, and there is no requirement for a consistent income source. Students often opt for secured credit cards, which require a fixed deposit as collateral, or they might use an add-on credit card linked to a parent’s or family member’s account.
No matter which type of credit card you choose, it’s crucial to manage your spending wisely and make timely payments to build a positive credit history. Using your card responsibly will not only help you avoid debt but also improve your credit score over time. Keep reading to learn more about the best credit cards for students and how to use them effectively to establish a solid financial foundation.
- List of Best Student Credit Cards in India 2024
- Features and Benefits of Student Credit Cards
- Top Student Credit Cards in India 2024
List of Best Student Credit Cards in India 2024
Credit Card | Annual Fee | Rewards/Cashback | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card | None | 10x reward points on dining, movies, and online shopping | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
AU Bank LIT Credit Card | ₹199 | 5% cashback on utility bills, 2% on online shopping | ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) |
Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card | ₹500 | 5% cashback on Flipkart and Myntra, 4% on partners | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
Bank of Baroda (BoB) Easy Credit Card | ₹500 | 1 reward point per ₹100 spent | ★★★★☆ (4.2/5) |
Amazon Pay ICICI Bank Credit Card | None | 5% cashback on Amazon (Prime), 3% (non-Prime) | ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) |
IDFC FIRST EARN Credit Card | None | 6x reward points on online, 3x on offline | ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) |
Axis Bank Neo Credit Card | ₹250 | 10% off on Myntra and BookMyShow, cashback on recharges | ★★★★☆ (4.2/5) |
HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card | ₹500 | 2 reward points per ₹150 spent, 2x on online spending | ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) |
Features and Benefits of Student Credit Cards
Low or No Annual Fees:
- Affordable for Students: Most student credit cards have low or waived annual fees, making them accessible to students who are starting to manage their finances.
- Fee Waivers: Some cards offer fee waivers when certain spending thresholds are met, providing more value to users.
Simple Eligibility Requirements:
- Easier Approval: These cards generally have fewer documentation requirements and are easier to obtain, making them accessible even without a long credit history.
- Lower Income Requirements: Designed specifically for students, these cards usually have lower income requirements.
Rewards and Cashback:
- Earn Rewards on Everyday Purchases: Student credit cards offer rewards points or cashback on daily expenses, such as dining, groceries, and entertainment.
- Special Discounts: Many cards provide discounts on educational materials, travel, and online subscriptions, catering to the needs of students.
Building Credit:
- Establish a Credit History: Using a student credit card responsibly helps students build a credit history, which is crucial for future financial activities like applying for loans or other credit cards.
- Controlled Spending: Lower credit limits encourage responsible spending, making it easier for students to manage their finances.
Security and Safety:
- Enhanced Security Features: Most student credit cards include zero liability on fraudulent transactions, instant transaction alerts, and two-factor authentication for online purchases.
- Spending Limits: Some cards allow parents to set spending limits, providing an added layer of financial oversight.
Top Student Credit Cards in India 2024
1. IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: No annual fee.
- Rewards: Earn 10x reward points on selected categories, including dining, movies, and online shopping.
- Cashback: Redeem points for cashback or gifts.
- Additional Perks: Fuel surcharge waiver, discounts on dining and entertainment, and zero-interest EMI options on large purchases.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a valid ID proof and income proof or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card offers a generous rewards program with no annual fee, making it a great choice for students who want to maximize rewards without additional costs.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
2. AU Bank LIT Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: ₹199 (waived on annual spends above ₹1 lakh).
- Rewards: Earn 5% cashback on all utility bills, 2% on online shopping, and 1% on all other spends.
- Cashback: Direct cashback credited to the account.
- Additional Perks: Discounts on dining and travel, fuel surcharge waiver, and zero-interest EMI options on large purchases.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a stable source of income or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The AU Bank LIT Credit Card is a versatile option for students, offering a range of cashback benefits and discounts. The affordable annual fee, waived on higher spending, makes it accessible and rewarding.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
3. Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on annual spends above ₹2 lakh).
- Rewards: 5% cashback on Flipkart and Myntra, 4% on preferred partners, and 1.5% on all other spends.
- Cashback: Unlimited cashback credited directly to the card account.
- Additional Perks: Complimentary airport lounge access, fuel surcharge waiver, and discounts on dining and travel.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a stable source of income or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card is an excellent option for students who frequently shop on Flipkart and Myntra. With high cashback rates and additional perks like lounge access, it provides substantial value for online shoppers.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
4. Bank of Baroda Easy Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on annual spends above ₹50,000).
- Rewards: 1 reward point per ₹100 spent on all transactions.
- Cashback: Points can be redeemed for cashback, gift vouchers, or merchandise.
- Additional Perks: Fuel surcharge waiver, easy EMI conversion, and discounts on dining and travel bookings.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a valid ID proof and income proof or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The Bank of Baroda Easy Credit Card offers a straightforward rewards program and is ideal for students looking for a basic card with the flexibility to convert points into cashback or other benefits.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
5. Amazon Pay ICICI Bank Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: No annual fee.
- Rewards: 5% cashback on Amazon purchases for Prime members, 3% for non-Prime members, and 1% on all other spends.
- Cashback: Unlimited cashback credited directly to the card account.
- Additional Perks: No joining or annual fees, fuel surcharge waiver, and no-cost EMI options on Amazon.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a stable source of income or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The Amazon Pay ICICI Bank Credit Card is perfect for students who shop on Amazon frequently. The substantial cashback, especially for Prime members, and no annual fees make it a highly cost-effective choice.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
6. IDFC FIRST EARN Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: No annual fee.
- Rewards: Earn 6x reward points on online transactions and 3x on offline transactions.
- Cashback: Redeem points for cashback or statement credits.
- Additional Perks: Zero interest EMI options, fuel surcharge waiver, and exclusive discounts on dining and travel.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a valid ID proof and income proof or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The IDFC FIRST EARN Credit Card is ideal for students looking to earn rewards on both online and offline spends. The no-annual-fee structure and easy cashback redemption make it a great starter card.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
7. Axis Bank Neo Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: ₹250 (waived on annual spends above ₹2,500 in the first 45 days).
- Rewards: 10% off on movie tickets via BookMyShow, 10% off on Myntra, and cashback on mobile recharges.
- Cashback: 1 reward point for every ₹200 spent.
- Additional Perks: Discounts on dining and shopping, fuel surcharge waiver, and EMI options on large purchases.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a stable source of income or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The Axis Bank Neo Credit Card offers a range of benefits for students, especially for those who frequent platforms like BookMyShow and Myntra. The low annual fee and various discounts make it a cost-effective choice for everyday use.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
8. HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card
Features and Benefits:
- Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on annual spends above ₹50,000).
- Rewards: Earn 2 reward points for every ₹150 spent and 2x reward points on online spending.
- Cashback: Redeem reward points for cashback or gifts.
- Additional Perks: Fuel surcharge waiver, easy EMI options on large purchases, and discounts on dining and shopping.
Eligibility:
- Students aged 18 and above with a stable source of income or a parent as a co-applicant.
Review and Rating:
- Review: The HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card is ideal for students who shop online frequently. The doubled reward points on online transactions and the ability to convert reward points into cashback make it a practical choice for budget-conscious students.
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
FAQ
What is a student credit card?
A student credit card is a type of credit card specifically designed for college or university students, offering lower credit limits, minimal fees, and tailored benefits like cashback, rewards, and discounts to help students manage their finances responsibly.
What are the eligibility criteria for a student credit card?
Eligibility criteria typically include being a student aged 18 or above, having a stable source of income (such as a part-time job or stipend), or having a parent as a co-applicant. Some banks may also require a savings account or fixed deposit with them.
Can student credit cards help build credit?
Yes, using a student credit card responsibly by making timely payments and keeping balances low can help build a positive credit history, which is beneficial for future financial activities like applying for loans or other credit cards.
Are there any fees associated with student credit cards?
Many student credit cards come with low or waived annual fees, especially if spending thresholds are met. It’s important to check the specific terms and conditions of each card.
Can parents monitor spending on student credit cards?
Yes, some student credit cards allow parents to set spending limits and receive transaction alerts, providing oversight and helping students develop good financial habits.
Do student credit cards offer rewards and cashback?
Yes, most student credit cards offer rewards points or cashback on various spending categories like dining, entertainment, and online shopping, helping students earn while they spend.