Moving to the United States as an international student can be both exciting and overwhelming. Between managing your studies, making new friends, and adjusting to a new culture, there’s also the important task of building your financial footprint. One of the most effective ways to do that is by getting a credit card.
For many international students, the idea of owning a credit card in the US might feel out of reach. After all, most credit card companies require a Social Security Number (SSN), a US credit history, or proof of income. However, the good news is that several financial institutions have introduced credit cards specifically designed for newcomers, including international students with limited or no credit history.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best credit cards available for international students in the US in 2025, along with what you should consider before applying and how to use your card wisely.
Why International Students Should Get a Credit Card
Getting a credit card as a student isn’t just about convenience—it’s about setting yourself up for future financial success. Here’s why having a credit card in the US is beneficial:
Build US credit history: Your credit history is crucial for renting apartments, getting car loans, or even applying for jobs in some industries.
Safer than debit cards: Credit cards offer fraud protection and better security.
Emergency backup: Having a line of credit can help in unexpected situations.
Rewards and perks: Some cards offer cashback, travel points, or discounts that can be helpful for students.
What to Look for in a Student Credit Card
Before diving into the list, here are the key features international students should look for:
No SSN requirement (or at least flexibility for students who don’t yet have one)
No annual fees
Low or no foreign transaction fees
Credit-building features (like reporting to credit bureaus)
Easy online application
Option to start with a low deposit (if secured)
Now let’s take a look at some of the top credit card options that meet these needs in 2025.
Deserve EDU Mastercard – Designed for International Students
The Deserve EDU Mastercard is one of the most popular credit cards for international students in the US, and for good reason. Unlike most traditional cards, Deserve does not require a Social Security Number to apply, which is a huge advantage.
Key Features:
No SSN required for international students
No annual fee
1% cashback on all purchases
Free Amazon Prime Student (1 year) after spending $500 in the first 3 months
Reports to all three major credit bureaus
The Deserve EDU card is especially useful for newcomers because it’s designed specifically for students without a US credit history. You can apply online easily and track your credit-building progress through the app.
Apply here: Deserve EDU Mastercard
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards – Cashback Made Simple
Capital One is one of the few major US banks that is international student-friendly. While they do typically ask for a Social Security Number, you can sometimes apply with alternative documents if you already have a US bank account and proof of school enrollment.
Key Features:
1.5% unlimited cashback on every purchase
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fees
$50 welcome bonus after your first $100 in purchases
This card is ideal if you plan to travel or shop online internationally. It’s simple, with no categories to track, and the cashback adds up fast. If you already have a bank account with Capital One, it may increase your chances of approval.
More info: Capital One Quicksilver Student
Discover it Student Chrome – Best for US-based Spending
Discover has long been known for offering solid beginner credit cards. While it typically requires a Social Security Number, many students report success using their Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or applying after receiving their SSN post-arrival.
Key Features:
2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (on up to $1,000 per quarter)
1% cashback on all other purchases
Cashback Match: they match all the cash back you earn in your first year
No annual fee
US-based customer service
If you plan to stay in the US long term or already have an SSN, this is one of the best reward-earning cards for students. Discover also has a strong reputation for helping students build credit and learn financial responsibility.
Visit: Discover it Student Chrome
Petal 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa – Great for No Credit History
Petal is a fintech company offering credit cards to people with no credit history. It uses modern data like your banking activity to evaluate your creditworthiness, rather than relying solely on a credit score. You’ll need an SSN or ITIN, but the application process is more flexible than traditional banks.
Key Features:
No annual fee
$300–$5,000 credit limits
Up to 10% cashback at select local merchants
No deposit required
Reports to all major credit bureaus
Petal is a great option if you’re already earning income or receiving regular financial support and want a more modern, app-based experience.
Apply at: Petal Card
Secured Credit Cards – A Good Starting Point with a Deposit
If none of the above cards work for your situation, consider applying for a secured credit card. These require a refundable security deposit (usually $200–$300) but work like normal credit cards and help you build credit.
Options include:
Capital One Secured Mastercard
Discover it Secured
OpenSky Secured Visa (does not require credit history or SSN)
Secured cards are often overlooked, but they’re one of the most reliable ways to start building credit, especially if you’re still waiting for a Social Security Number or just moved to the US.
Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly as a Student
Getting approved is just the first step. Using your card wisely is what builds good credit.
Always pay on time: Even one late payment can hurt your score.
Pay in full: Try to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
Keep usage low: Use less than 30% of your credit limit.
Set up auto-pay: This helps avoid missing payments.
Track your credit score: Use free tools to monitor your progress.
By following these tips, you can build a strong credit profile that will help with future goals like renting an apartment, buying a car, or even applying for a business loan.
Additional Resources to Help You Get Started
If you’re an international student new to the US, your financial journey might feel overwhelming at first. Here are a few helpful resources and tools to guide you:
NerdWallet: Compare credit cards, check reward rates, and read user reviews
Credit Karma: Track your credit score for free and get credit card recommendations
InternationalStudent.com: Offers advice on banking, housing, and finances for students in the US
Getting your first credit card as an international student is a smart move. It may take some research and patience, but the long-term benefits are worth it. Start small, use it responsibly, and you’ll be laying a solid foundation for your financial future in the US.