Best Credit Cards For Young Adults And College Students

Credit cards designed for people with bad or limited credit can help you establish a positive payment history. Then use your card consistently for 12 to 18 months. Current Build Card if you want zero fees and full control over how much of your money backs the card. If you spend $300 per month on eligible categories, the right card can offset a meaningful portion of annual fees.
Fortiva® Cash Back Rewards Masterca

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit CardLinks to product page
Even if you travel only once or twice per year, you can accumulate points throughout the year to offset your airfare and hotel costs when you do go on a trip. They might not be worth it if you don’t travel enough to take advantage of perks like travel credits, lounge access, or upgrades. Unlike some other rewards cards, like cash-back credit cards, travel cards are more likely to carry annual fees in exchange for their high rewards rates and annual benefits. The spending thresholds to earn your welcome starter credit cards for young adults bonus can be high, so you may want to plan your application around your next trip. Be sure to compare different travel card options to find the combination of annual fee, rewards, benefits, and sign-up bonus that works best for your travel plans and spending. Travel rewards credit cards can make a great addition to your wallet, even if you only travel a few times per yea


If you want more options, you can take a look at the rest of our editors' picks for the best unsecured credit cards for bad credit. Cards you’re offered while checking your eligibility may have different terms, including introductory rates and bonuses, from those available elsewhere on our website. If you’re new to the world of credit or want to build your credit history, consider credit cards for fair credit, like the Platinum. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card content in this post was last updated May 28th, 2026 and reflects card details offered at that tim

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Credit scoring models determine your score based on your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, new credit, and credit mix. Some credit card issuers charge an annual fee for keeping your credit card active. Plus, you earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases–automatically. If you never or rarely carry a balance, a card’s interest rate may not be a deciding factor. To avoid owing interest, you can pay off your card in full and on time each month. If you tend to carry a balance from month to month, you want to try to avoid a card with a high interest rate.
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If you’ve just begun building credit history, you may not qualify for many premium credit cards. Your financial history—like your income, credit history, and spending habits—often plays a role in determining starter credit cards for young adults your credit card options. If you’re a young person looking to take the next step in your credit journey, consider your specific credit needs and background to find the best credit card for your busy lifestyl


It requires a deposit but works reliably for anyone, and you can graduate to unsecured cards after 6-12 months of on-time payments. After 6-12 months of responsible use, you can upgrade to an unsecured card or have your deposit returned. The Capital One Platinum Credit Card is an unsecured card that helps you build credit with responsible use, and it’s fairly easy to qualify for. Most people graduate after 6-12 months of perfect payment histor


Recommended credit ratingFair, Bad Credit / Rebuilding, No Credit starter credit cards for young adults History If you have fair credit, explore an array of credit cards with low rates, great rewards, extensive benefits and more. The advice in this article is offered by the Bankrate editorial team independent of any bank or credit card issuer. The content was confusing and hard to follow Important information was missing The page layout or design needs improvemen


But keep in mind, the cardholder is still responsible for making payments. When used responsibly, a Capital One credit card can help you build credit over time. WalletHub editorial content on this page is not provided, commissioned, reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any compan


If you receive a pre-approved credit card offer, it means you’ve met the minimum requirements for that credit card based on a soft credit check. As you research credit card options that you may qualify for, check the issuer’s benefits and terms to see if they offer rewards. Or if you order takeout a few times a week, you might get the most out of a card that offers rewards on restaurant purchases. But, even without the best credit score, you may qualify for certain cards designed for rebuilding credit history. This card accepts applicants with bad credit, and it offers 1% cash back on all purchase


But classic doesn't mean outdated, as these cards have received significant makeovers in recent years, resulting in two competitive products aimed at different market segments. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors. The material made available for you on this website, Credit Intel, is for informational purposes only and intended for U.S. residents and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. Either way, you’ll tap into valuable perks and the trusted service that comes with being an Amex Card Member. Both the Green and Gold Cards earn Membership Rewards points for every purchase while fitting different spending styles, whether you lean toward travel and commuting costs or everyday dining and groceries.
Should you get the American Express Gold Car