International student in the US? Learn how to get your first credit card with no credit history. Compare the best student cards, requirements, and tips for 2026.
Being an international student in the US comes with unique challenges—and one of the biggest is building credit from scratch in a country where you have zero financial history.
I know this struggle personally. When I was a student, I got rejected for multiple credit cards before finally figuring out the system.
Good news: in 2026, there are more options than ever for international students to get credit cards and start building credit. Let me show you exactly how.
Why International Students Struggle to Get Credit Cards
When you apply for a credit card in the US, the bank looks at your:
- Credit history (you have none)
- Credit score (you don't have one)
- Social Security Number or ITIN
- US income
The problem: You're starting from zero, which makes you look "risky" to banks—even if you're financially responsible.
The solution: Student credit cards and specific strategies designed for people with no credit history.
Do You Need a Social Security Number (SSN)?
Short answer: It helps, but you don't always need one.
Options for Getting an SSN:
1. On-campus job
If you work on campus (work-study, research assistant, etc.), you can apply for an SSN.
2. CPT/OPT employment
If you have work authorization through Curricular Practical Training or Optional Practical Training, you can get an SSN.
3. Off-campus employment (with permission)
In some cases, F-1 students can work off-campus and qualify for an SSN.
What If You Can't Get an SSN?
You have two options:
Option 1: Apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
Some credit card issuers accept ITINs instead of SSNs. However, options are limited.
Cards that accept ITIN:
- Some Bank of America cards
- Some credit union cards
- Secured cards from smaller banks
Option 2: Use your international credit history
A few banks (American Express, HSBC) have programs that allow you to transfer your international credit history to the US.
Best Student Credit Cards for International Students (2026)
1. Discover it® Student Cash Back ⭐ Best Overall
Who can apply: US students with an SSN
Credit needed: No credit history OK!
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: 5% cash back on rotating categories (up to $1,500/quarter), 1% on everything else
Special perk: Good Grade Reward (statement credit for 3.0+ GPA)
Why it's great:
✅ Designed for students with no credit
✅ Actual cash back rewards (rare for student cards!)
✅ No annual fee
✅ Discover doubles your cash back after the first year
✅ Free FICO score access
Requirements:
- Must be enrolled in college (part-time or full-time)
- SSN required
- Some income (part-time job, stipend, scholarships all count)
Best for: Students with an SSN who want rewards while building credit.
2. Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students ⭐ Best for International Students (No SSN!)
Who can apply: International students, even without SSN!
Credit needed: No credit history OK
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: 1% cash back on all purchases
Why it's AMAZING for international students:
✅ No SSN required! (accepts ITIN or even just passport + I-20)
✅ No credit history needed
✅ No security deposit
✅ Rewards program
✅ Free Amazon Prime Student for 1 year
Requirements:
- Enrolled at a US college or university
- F-1 visa (or other student visa)
- Passport + I-20 or similar documents
- US mailing address
Best for: International students who don't have an SSN yet.
Link: DeserveEDU.com
3. Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards
Who can apply: US students
Credit needed: No credit history OK
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: 3% cash back on dining and entertainment, 1% on everything else
Why it's great:
✅ High cash back on dining (perfect for students!)
✅ No annual fee
✅ Easier approval than regular Capital One cards
✅ Can upgrade to better Capital One cards later
Requirements:
- Enrolled in college
- SSN required
- Some income
Best for: Students who eat out frequently.
4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
Who can apply: Students with some credit history
Credit needed: Fair credit preferred (but flexible)
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases
Why it's good:
✅ Travel rewards (redeem for statement credit toward travel)
✅ No annual fee
✅ No foreign transaction fees (great for international students who travel!)
Requirements:
- Enrolled in college
- SSN required
- Some income
Best for: Students who travel or want simple, flexible rewards.
5. Secured Credit Cards (Backup Option)
If you get denied for student cards, try a secured card:
Best Secured Cards:
- Discover it® Secured: Cash back rewards + no annual fee (deposit required: $200 min)
- Capital One Platinum Secured: Low deposit option ($49-$200)
- Citi® Secured Mastercard®: Flexible deposit ($200-$2,500)
How secured cards work:
- You deposit $200-$500
- That becomes your credit limit
- Use it, pay on time, build credit
- After 6-12 months, most banks refund your deposit and upgrade you to unsecured
How to Apply for a Student Credit Card (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You'll need:
- ✅ Passport (or government ID)
- ✅ Social Security Number (or ITIN, if applicable)
- ✅ Proof of enrollment (student ID, acceptance letter, or I-20)
- ✅ US address (dorm address or off-campus housing)
- ✅ Income information (see below)
Step 2: Show "Income" (Even If You Don't Have a Job)
You can list these as income:
- Part-time job earnings
- On-campus work-study
- Research/teaching assistantships
- Scholarships and grants
- Allowance from parents
- Student loans (yes, really!)
Important: The CARD Act of 2009 says you can list "reasonably expected income" if you're under 21. If you're 21+, you can list any income you have reasonable access to (including parental support).
Step 3: Apply Online
Most banks let you apply online. It takes about 10 minutes.
Tips:
- Apply for ONE card at a time (multiple applications hurt your chances)
- Be honest about your income
- Double-check all information before submitting
- Apply during business hours (some banks give faster decisions then)
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
Instant approval: Some student cards approve you immediately
Pending review: They might need to verify your information (7-10 days)
Denied: If rejected, wait 6 months before applying again
Step 5: Activate and Use Responsibly
Once you get the card:
- ✅ Activate it immediately
- ✅ Set up autopay (never miss a payment!)
- ✅ Make small purchases
- ✅ Pay the full balance every month
- ✅ Keep your balance under 30% of your limit (under 10% is even better)
Special Strategies for International Students
Strategy 1: Start with a Secured Card, Then Upgrade
Timeline:
- Open a secured card with $200-$300 deposit
- Use it for 6-12 months (pay on time every month!)
- Apply for an unsecured student card
- Keep the secured card open (helps your credit age)
Why this works: Secured cards are easier to get, and after 6-12 months of good history, you'll qualify for better cards.
Strategy 2: Become an Authorized User First
Ask a family member or trusted friend in the US to add you as an authorized user on their credit card.
Benefits:
- Their payment history appears on your credit report
- You build credit without applying for your own card
- You can then qualify for better student cards
Important: Make sure they have excellent credit (740+) and pay on time!
Strategy 3: Use American Express Global Transfer
If you have a credit card in your home country with American Express, you can transfer that credit history to the US.
How it works:
- Apply for a US Amex card
- Provide proof of your international Amex account
- Amex may approve you based on your international history
Other banks with similar programs:
- HSBC (if you have HSBC in your home country)
- Citibank (Citi Global Transfers)
Strategy 4: Join a Credit Union
Some credit unions are more flexible with international students. Look for:
- University credit unions (check if your school has one)
- Community credit unions near you
Pros:
- More lenient approval
- Lower fees
- Personalized service
Cons:
- You have to become a member first
- Fewer rewards than big bank cards
How to Build Credit Fast as a Student
Month 1-3:
- Open your first credit card (student card or secured)
- Make 1-2 small purchases per month
- Pay in full before the due date
Month 4-6:
- You should have a credit score by now (check with Credit Karma)
- Keep using the card responsibly
- Consider becoming an authorized user for an extra boost
Month 7-12:
- Your score should be in the 650-700 range
- Consider applying for a second card (but wait at least 6 months!)
- Request a credit limit increase on your first card
Month 12+:
- You now have established credit
- You may qualify for better rewards cards
- Keep building good habits
Common Mistakes International Students Make
Mistake 1: Applying for Too Many Cards at Once
Problem: Multiple rejections, multiple hard inquiries hurting your (non-existent) score.
Better approach: Apply for ONE card, wait 6 months, then consider a second.
Mistake 2: Maxing Out the Card
Problem: High utilization hurts your credit score.
Better approach: Keep your balance under 30% of your limit (under 10% is ideal).
Mistake 3: Only Making Minimum Payments
Problem: You pay tons of interest and stay in debt.
Better approach: Pay the FULL balance every month. Treat your credit card like a debit card.
Mistake 4: Not Setting Up Autopay
Problem: You forget to pay, get a late fee + score damage.
Better approach: Set up autopay for at least the minimum payment from day one.
Mistake 5: Closing the Card After Graduation
Problem: Hurts your credit score (lowers average age of accounts).
Better approach: Keep the card open, use it occasionally, and pay it off. It's now your oldest account!
What to Do If You Get Denied
Step 1: Call the reconsideration line
Most banks have a number you can call to ask why you were denied. Sometimes they'll reconsider if you explain your situation.
Step 2: Try a secured card
If you can't get a student card, start with a secured card.
Step 3: Become an authorized user
Build credit for 6 months, then reapply.
Step 4: Wait 6 months before applying again
Multiple applications in a short time hurt your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a credit card on an F-1 visa without a job?
Yes! Many student cards accept scholarship income, parental support, or any income you have access to. You don't need a job.
What happens to my credit card if I leave the US after graduation?
You can keep it! In fact, you should—it helps maintain your US credit history in case you return. Just make sure you have a US address for billing.
Can I get a credit card without a US bank account?
Technically possible, but very difficult. Most credit card companies require a US bank account for payments. Open a student checking account first.
How long until I have a good credit score?
With responsible use, you can reach a "good" score (670+) in 6-12 months.
Your Action Plan
This Week:
- Check if you have (or can get) an SSN
- Open a US bank account if you don't have one
- Choose the right student card (Discover if you have SSN, Deserve if you don't)
This Month:
- Apply for your first credit card
- If approved, activate it and set up autopay
- Make your first small purchase
Ongoing:
- Pay your balance in full every month
- Keep utilization under 30%
- Check your credit score in 6 months (use Credit Karma, free)
Keep Building Your US Credit
- The Complete Guide to Building Credit in America ← Full credit strategy
- How to Get Your First Credit Card ← More beginner tips
- What is a Credit Score? ← Understand the basics
International students: Which credit card did you start with? Share your experience in the comments!
Last Updated: January 2026
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