Top 10 Credit Cards for International Students in USA – Apply

Introduction

Credit cards are important for international students in the USA. They help with purchases, bills, and credit history. In this article, we will discuss the best credit cards for international students in the USA. We’ll look at approval ease, rewards, and fees.

Why Do International Students Need Credit Cards?

Having a credit card as an international student has benefits:

1. Building Credit History: A credit history is important for future financial needs like loans or housing.
2. Financial Flexibility: Credit cards offer more convenience and protection than cash or debit cards.
3. Rewards Programs: Students can save money or get perks through credit card rewards.

How We Chose the Top 10 Credit Cards

We considered these factors to find the best credit cards for international students:

1. Acceptance Rates: Cards that are likely to approve international students.
2. Rewards and Benefits: Cards with good reward programs or useful benefits.
3. Fees: Cards with low fees, especially for foreign transactions.

Now let’s explore the top 10 credit cards and choose one that suits your financial goals as an international student in the USA.

Overview of Credit Cards for International Students in the USA

International students studying in the USA may encounter difficulties in getting credit cards from American banks because they don’t have a credit history or Social Security Number (SSN). But don’t worry, there are other options available! Here’s what you need to know:

1. Challenges faced by international students: Due to their limited financial background, international students often find it hard to meet the requirements set by traditional credit card providers.
2. Credit cards accepting ITINs: Fortunately, some credit card issuers are willing to work with international students by accepting Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) instead of SSNs.
3. Benefits of building credit history: It’s important for international students to establish a positive credit history during their time in the USA. This can greatly help them in future endeavors such as applying for loans, renting apartments, or securing job opportunities.

By understanding these aspects and exploring suitable options, international students can make informed decisions about credit cards while studying abroad.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Credit Card as an International Student

When choosing a credit card as an international student, there are several key factors to keep in mind. These factors will help you select a card that best suits your financial needs and goals. Here are the important considerations:

1. Acceptance at a wide range of merchants: As an international student, you’ll want a credit card that is widely accepted both in the United States and in your home country. This will ensure that you can easily use the card for your daily expenses, whether it’s shopping, dining, or paying bills.
2. Rewards and Benefits: Credit cards that offer cashback, points, or miles-earning features can be particularly advantageous for international students. These rewards can help you make the most out of your spending by earning valuable incentives such as cashback on purchases, redeemable points for travel or merchandise, or miles towards future flights.
3. No Annual Fees and No Foreign Transaction Fees: It’s crucial to avoid additional charges such as annual fees and foreign transaction fees. Annual fees can eat into your budget, especially if you’re a student with limited income. Foreign transaction fees can add up significantly if you frequently travel between your home country and the USA or make online purchases from foreign merchants. Look for credit cards that waive these fees to save money.

By considering these factors when choosing a credit card, you can find one that aligns with your financial needs and offers benefits tailored to international students. Keep in mind that different credit cards may excel in different areas, so it’s essential to evaluate your priorities and select a card that provides the most value for your specific situation.

Remember to compare the terms and conditions of different credit cards side by side before making a decision. This will help you make an informed choice and select a credit card that will serve you well throughout your time as an international student in the USA.

The Top 10 Credit Cards for International Students in the USA

When it comes to choosing the right credit card as an international student in the USA, there are several options available that cater specifically to your needs. These credit cards not only provide financial convenience but also offer rewards and benefits that can enhance your overall experience.

Here is a curated list of the top 10 credit cards for international students in the USA:

1. Deserve EDU Mastercard

The Deserve EDU Mastercard is designed specifically for international students with limited or no credit history. It stands out due to its easy approval process and acceptance of Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) instead of Social Security Numbers (SSNs). This card offers impressive benefits such as 1% cash back on all purchases, no annual fee, and no foreign transaction fees. It also provides complimentary Amazon Prime Student membership.

2. Petal 2 Visa Credit Card

The Petal 2 Visa Credit Card is another excellent choice for international students who are looking to build their credit history. It is a no-fee card that offers cash back rewards ranging from 1% to 1.5% on eligible purchases. What makes Petal 2 unique is its approach to creditworthiness assessment, considering factors beyond just a credit score, making it accessible to students with limited credit history.

3. Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card

If you enjoy dining out or entertainment activities, the Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card might be the perfect fit for you. This card offers:

• 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, and streaming services
• 2% cash back at grocery stores
• 1% cash back on all other purchases. With no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, it provides flexibility and rewards tailored to your spending preferences.

4. Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a straightforward and hassle-free credit card option for international students. It offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer simplicity. This card also has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, providing peace of mind when using it both in the USA and abroad.

5. Chase Freedom Student Credit Card

The Chase Freedom Student Credit Card is a great option for international students who want to earn rewards while building their credit history. It offers 1% cash back on all purchases and a $50 bonus after making your first purchase. This card also provides access to valuable resources for financial education and monitoring your credit score.

6. Discover it® Student Cash Back

The Discover it® Student Cash Back card is known for its generous rewards program, making it an attractive choice for international students. It offers:

• 5% cash back in rotating categories throughout the year, such as gas stations, restaurants, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when activated.
• 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically. Discover also matches all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.

7. Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students

If you frequently travel between your home country and the USA, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students can be an excellent companion. This card offers 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases, with no foreign transaction fees. The accumulated points can be redeemed for travel expenses such as flights, hotels, or car rentals.

8. Secured Credit Cards

For international students with limited or no credit history in the USA, secured credit cards can be a viable option. These cards require a security deposit that acts as collateral against your credit limit. By using a secured credit card responsibly, you can gradually build your credit history and eventually qualify for unsecured credit cards with better terms and rewards.

9. Home Country Credit Cards

Another alternative for international students is to continue using credit cards from their home country that do not charge foreign transaction fees. While this may seem convenient, there are some considerations to be aware of. Currency conversion rates and potential fraud protection issues should be taken into account before deciding to rely solely on home country credit cards.

By considering these top 10 credit cards for international students in the USA, you can find a card that aligns with your financial needs and goals. Remember to use your credit card responsibly by making timely payments and avoiding excessive debt. Building a strong credit history while studying in the USA will benefit you even after you graduate, opening doors to better loan offers, housing rentals, and job opportunities.

Conclusion

• Encourage international students in the USA to choose a credit card that best aligns with their financial needs and goals, based on the recommendations provided in the article.
• Emphasize the importance of using credit cards responsibly and making timely payments to build a strong credit history, which will benefit students even after they graduate from their studies.

By making informed choices and using credit cards responsibly, international students can not only manage their finances effectively during their stay in the USA but also lay the foundation for a strong financial future. So, make the most of this opportunity to build credit and set yourself up for success beyond graduation. By establishing good credit habits early on, international students can pave the way for financial stability and access to better opportunities in the future. It’s important to remember that credit cards are not free money, but rather a tool that can be used wisely to achieve financial goals. By being diligent with payments and managing expenses responsibly, students can build a strong credit history that will open doors to better interest rates on loans, easier rental applications, and even potential job opportunities. So, while studying abroad comes with its fair share of challenges, leveraging credit cards responsibly can be a valuable step towards a brighter financial future. It’s important to remember that credit cards are not free money, but rather a tool that can be used wisely to achieve financial goals. By being diligent with payments and managing expenses responsibly, students can build a strong credit history that will open doors to better interest rates on loans, easier rental applications, and even potential job opportunities. So, while studying abroad comes with its fair share of challenges, leveraging credit cards responsibly can be a valuable step towards a brighter financial future.