Compare Credit Cards

No. TuitionHero’s credit card marketplace is completely free for students and families to use. You can browse, compare, and click through to card offers without paying anything to TuitionHero. We’re a student-focused, online comparison tool designed to help you see options side-by-side so you can make informed decisions.

We may receive compensation from some credit card partners when you click on links or apply for certain offers. This never changes what you pay for a card, and it doesn’t change our editorial opinions. It can impact the order in which some offers appear, but we’re transparent about that in our disclosures and always aim to keep the information accurate and up to date.

A student credit card is designed for people who are just getting started with credit. When you use it responsibly, it can help you build a positive credit history by:

• Making on-time payments every month (payment history is a major part of your credit score)
• Keeping your balance low compared to your credit limit
• Sticking with the account over time so you build a longer credit history

Good credit can help you later with things like renting an apartment, getting a car loan, or qualifying for better credit card offers.

Eligibility depends on the card issuer, but in general:

• Many student cards are intended for people enrolled in college or another qualifying program (some issuers may ask for proof of enrollment).

• You usually need to be at least 18 and able to show some form of income (this can include part-time work, internships, or certain other sources).

• Each bank has its own rules, so always check the card’s “See offer details” and the issuer’s site before applying.

Yes, that’s often the point of student cards. Many student credit cards are built for people with limited or no credit history. If you’re struggling to qualify, some students start with:

• A secured credit card, where you put down a refundable deposit

• Being added as an authorized user on a parent’s or trusted adult’s card

• Cards specifically marketed for “no credit” or “limited credit”

Just remember: getting the card is step one; using it responsibly is what actually builds your score.

When you compare cards in TuitionHero’s marketplace, pay attention to:

• APR (interest rate): Lower is generally better if you ever carry a balance.

• Fees: Annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and any other recurring charges.

• Rewards: Cash back or points on the things you actually spend on (food, gas, travel, streaming, etc.).

• Intro offers: Sign-up bonuses or 0% intro APR periods—nice to have, but not worth overspending for.

• Credit requirements: Some cards are better for “no credit” or “fair” credit; others expect good credit.

Use the filters on the page to narrow down to cards that match your credit profile and priorities.

Graduation doesn’t usually make your card suddenly close. Typically, one of a few things happens:

• You keep using the same card, just like before.

• Your issuer may automatically “graduate” your student card into a regular non-student card with a higher limit or better perks.

• You might choose to upgrade to a different card with the same bank or apply for a new card elsewhere.

In many cases, keeping your oldest card open can help your credit score because it lengthens your credit history and can keep your overall credit utilization lower.