Can a student get a credit card?

Yes, but with conditions.

Students can get credit cards, just not the same way working professionals do.

Why banks are cautious with student credit cards

Credit cards are loans. Short-term ones.

Students usually don’t have:

• Fixed income
• Long credit history

That makes banks careful. Risk comes first.

So student credit cards exist, but with limits and safeguards.

Types of credit cards students can get

Students usually have access to these options:

1. Student credit cards

These are designed specifically for students.

Features often include:

• Low credit limit
• Simple rewards
• No or low annual fees

They focus more on learning than spending.

2. Secured credit cards

This is the most common route.

A fixed deposit is created.

The credit limit is linked to that deposit.

For example:

• Fixed deposit: ₹50,000
• Credit limit: ₹40,000–₹45,000

Low risk for the bank. Good start for the student.

3. Add-on cards

Some students use add-on cards linked to a parent’s credit card.

The primary cardholder controls:

• Spending limit
• Usage type

Good for guidance. Not full independence.

Eligibility basics for students

While rules vary by bank, common requirements include:

• Age usually 18 years or above
• Valid PAN card
• Proof of student status
• Fixed deposit or co-applicant in some cases

Income is not always required. That’s the difference.

Why getting a credit card early can help

Used carefully, a student credit card helps with:

• Building credit history early
• Learning bill discipline
• Handling online payments safely

But this only works if bills are paid fully and on time.

Missed payments undo everything.

Common mistakes students should avoid

Quick tip. These mistakes cause trouble:

• Paying only minimum due
• Using full credit limit
• Treating card as extra money
• Ignoring bill due dates

Credit cards remember everything.

When a student should not get a credit card

A credit card may not be a good idea if:

• Spending control is weak
• Bills cannot be tracked
• No backup money exists

There’s no rush. Credit can wait.

FAQ

Can a student without income get a credit card?

Yes, usually through secured or student cards.

Does using a student credit card affect future credit score?

Yes, positively or negatively depending on usage.

Is a fixed deposit always required?

Often yes, but not for all student cards.

In short

Students can get credit cards.

Limits are lower. Rules are stricter.

Discipline decides the outcome.

Thinking about starting credit history early but unsure where to begin?