If you are an international student on an F1 visa in the U.S, and are wondering how to get the best credit card for F1 students to manage your expenses smartly, you are at the right place. Today, we are discussing how to obtain a credit card and the special rules that must be followed. To obtain a card, focus on the available options instead of applying blindly for multiple cards.
However, as an immigrant in the U.S., international students often receive limited offers to apply for a credit card. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss some of the best available options for you. Also, we will talk about how you can use your card smartly to build a better credit score. Stay with us to know more.
What is a Credit Card and How Does It Work for F-1 Students
A credit card allows you to borrow money from a bank or a financial institution. This helps you start building your credit score or manage your monetary expenses wisely. When you use a credit card, you have the option to pay your full balance, pay by the due date, or carry a balance, which may incur interest.
For F-1 students in the US, credit cards are not only used for their everyday expenses like groceries, travel, and subscriptions, but also help to play an important role in building a US credit history. However, building strong credit requires students to pay on time and keep a low balance, and the card issuer reports your activity to all major credit bureaus in the U.S., which helps F-1 students gradually build a strong credit profile.
Best Credit Card Options for F-1 students in the U.S
Below, we have mentioned some of the best credit card for F1 students in the U.S. Have a look at them for a better understanding.
- Deserve EDU Mastercard – It doesn’t require an SSN to apply for this credit card. Also, it is designed for 1% cashback in several cases for international students. This card is ideal for those who have no SSN or credit history and are looking for a credit card.
- Zolve classic/ Signature Black – According to several online reviews and sources, it doesn’t require a SSN and also doesn’t charge any international transaction fee. Also, you can get rewards at your expense. Ideal for students who are looking for a card with no international transaction fee.
- Capital One Student Card – It is a secure deposit-based card. With responsible usage, you may later qualify for an unsecured credit card. The card is good for those who are looking to build a credit score or history.
- Discover It Student Cashback – The card accepts ITIN and offers attractive 2% cashback at certain categories up to a cap. This card is suitable for students who have some income and want to earn cashback on everyday purchases.
These were some of the best credit card for F1 students with requirements and features.
What To Check Before Applying For a Credit Card?
Some important things should be checked before applying for any credit card. So that you can get the best deal. Below, we have listed some things for you to check. Have a look at it.
- Annual Fee – Often, a student-friendly credit card comes with no annual fee. However, before applying, check to ensure it.
- Foreign Transaction Fee – If you travel from the U.S. to your home country and make purchases, it is important to check the foreign transaction fee of the card. It helps you to grab the best deal according to your convenience.
- Reward/Cashback – There are many student credit cards in the U.S. that offer rewards and cashback in certain categories.
- Credit Limit – Often, student cards come with a low credit limit. However, always check the credit limit to get a better understanding.
- Reporting to Credit Bureaus – Always check if your card issuer reports to the major U.S credit bureaus or not. Remember, if your issuer does not report to bureaus, you will not be able to build a good credit score or history. Even after paying your debt on time.
- Repayment and Utilization – Use your credit card responsibly and pay the amount on time. Also, keep the balance low (<30% of the Limit) to build a better credit score or history.
These are some of the things that one should pay attention to before applying for the best credit card for F1 students.
How F1 Students Can Apply for a Credit Card in the U.S
Below, we have explained step-by-step how you can apply for the best credit card for F1 students in the U.S. Have a look at it:
- Check Eligibility Criteria—In the U.S., most issuers require you to be at least 18 years old. Also, legally present in the U.S. on a valid F1 visa.
- Determine whether you have an SSN or ITIN—Remember, some credit cards accept applications without an SSN, while others may require an SSN or ITIN. Before applying, always check the issuer’s requirements.
- Keep Documents Ready—The lender may ask for some documents, like
- Your Passport.
- F1 visa and I-20 form.
- Your address or contact details.
- Proof of enrollment from your university.
- Choose Student-friendly or International Student Cards—Go for the credit cards that are designed for students or international applicants. These cards have relaxed eligibility criteria.
- Apply Online or Through App—In the U.S., most credit card companies allow you to apply online. This makes the process simple and quick for students.
- Use the Card Responsibly After Approval—Once your card is approved, use it responsibly and pay your bill on time, and keep your credit utilization low. Moreover, avoid applying for multiple cards at once to maintain your credit score.
By following this step-by-step process, you can easily apply for the best credit card for F1 students.
Common Mistakes F1 Students Should Avoid
There are some common mistakes that every F1 student should avoid. Below, we have listed everything for you. Have a look at it:
- Applying for Multiple Cards—Do not apply for multiple cards at once because it hurts your credit score and reduces approval chances.
- Missing Payments or Late Payments—Remember, a missing payment or a late payment can harm your credit history. To avoid this, always pay on time.
- Maxing Out Your Credit Limit—Using most or all of your credit increases your credit utilization ratio, which can lower your credit score.
- Choosing a Card That Doesn’t Report to Credit Bureaus—Before moving forward, check if your issuer reports your activity to all major U.S. credit bureaus. Like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
- Not Checking Fees and Terms—It is important to check the card’s annual fee, interest rates, and terms to avoid any unexpected fees.
- Not Tracking Credit Score—Always check your credit score occasionally. This simple habit will help you notice mistakes or opportunities to improve your credit profile.
These are some of the mistakes that every F1 student should avoid to get the best deal.
SSN Vs ITIN – F-1 Students Should Know
An SSN (Social Security Number) is issued to authorized individuals to work in the United States. Many F-1 students receive an SSN after getting on-campus placement, CPT, or OPT authorization.
On the other hand, an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is issued by the IRS for tax purposes. ITIN is mainly issued to those who are not eligible for an SSN. There are several credit card issuers that accept ITINs instead of SSNs during the application process. Moreover, some student-friendly international credit cards allow applicants to apply without an SSN or ITIN.
Why Credit History Matters for F-1 Students
It is important to build a strong credit history for F-1 students who plan to stay in the United States for education, employment, or future visa transitions. Remember, a strong credit profile makes it easy to rent apartments, finance a car, and obtain personal loans; a strong credit history helps qualify for premium credit cards.
Several times, employers and utility service providers may check credit history. Despite all, starting early with responsible credit card usage allows international or F-1 students to avoid financial difficulties and get a chance to access better financial opportunities.
Safety Tips for F-1 students Using a Credit Card
For safety purposes, F-1 students must check their credit card activity on a regular basis to avoid any potential fraud and unauthorized transactions. For this, setting up account alerts, tracking monthly statements, and using only secure payment methods helps students to protect their financial information.
Also, avoiding cash advances is important because it can quickly increase debt. Despite all this, if F-1 students use their credit card only for their necessary expenses and pay the full balance every month, it ensures long-term financial stability.
Conclusion
Getting the best credit card for F1 students in the U.S is not easy due to the requirements and strict laws. However, there are several options available for students to obtain a card to manage their expenses easily. Apart from this, before going through the options to get your credit, always check the fee and eligibility criteria to grab the best deals.
Moreover, as an international student, you may receive a low initial credit limit due to limited or no credit history, which happens because of a low or no credit history. Once you get a card, you can build an attractive credit score or history by paying amounts on time and using it responsibly.
FAQ’s
Can an international student get a credit card in the USA?
Ans – Yes, an international student can get a credit card in the USA, but eligibility depends on documentation and credit history. Students with a Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN have more options, while others may need secured or student-specific cards.
What is Zolve credit card?
Ans – The Zolve credit card is a U.S.-issued card designed for international students and newcomers without a U.S. credit history or SSN. It allows early credit building, often features no annual fee, and offers rewards while reporting to major U.S. credit bureaus.
Which credit card is best for F?
Ans – For F-1 students, the best credit card is one with no annual fee, low foreign transaction fees, reports to U.S. credit bureaus, and accepts applicants without established U.S. credit. Examples: Discover it Student and Capital One Journey Student cards.
Discalimer
The information provided on this website is for general guidance on credit cards, loans, and insurance products. We do not provide financial, legal, or professional advice. Product features, eligibility, and terms may change anytime, so users should verify details directly with the provider before applying. We may earn commissions through affiliate links, but this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. Users are responsible for their own financial decisions based on their personal situation.
Hi, my name is Sachin. I am currently studying Economics in college and have a strong interest in personal finance topics like credit cards and loans. Along with my studies, I work as a content writer, where I create educational and easy-to-understand content to help readers better understand financial topics and make informed choices.
