Are you an international student in the USA trying to navigate the world of credit cards? You're in the right place! In this Flik Eco article, we'll explore the best credit cards available for international students, understand their benefits, and learn how to maximize their value. With advice catered to your needs and our fun, relatable style, you'll feel confident in selecting the perfect card to kickstart your financial journey in the United States.
Credit Cards For International Students In Usa Table of Contents
Why International Students Need Credit Cards
As an international student in the USA, you need a credit card for various reasons:
- Building a credit history: Establishing a good credit score is crucial in the United States as it affects several aspects of your life, including renting apartments, getting a cell phone plan, and even job hunting.
- Emergency expenses: Covering unexpected costs like medical bills or car repairs can be challenging without a credit card.
- Ease of payment: Credit cards offer convenience when paying for goods and services, both online and in-store.
- Rewards and cashback: Some credit cards offer rewards, such as cashback or points, that provide value back to you when used responsibly.
Credit Cards to Consider
Many credit card issuers don't require a Social Security Number (SSN) or credit history for international students. Here are some options you should consider:
1. Deserve Edu Mastercard for Students
- Designed for international students without SSN or credit history
- No annual fee and no security deposit required
- 1% cashback on all purchases
2. Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students
- No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days
- 1.5 points for every dollar spent on all purchases
3. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards
- $39 annual fee, waived for the first year
- 1.5% cashback on all purchases
- Potential access to a credit line increase after as few as six months of on-time payments
How to Apply for a Credit Card as an International Student
- Research card options and compare them to find one that suits your needs and spending habits.
- Go to the issuer's website and fill in the online application form. Provide the necessary documentation, such as passport, school enrollment verification, and proof of address.
- Wait for the issuer's decision. Some companies provide instant approval, while others take a few days to review your application.
- Once approved, your credit card will be mailed to you, and you'll need to activate it by following the instructions provided.
Credit Cards For International Students In Usa Example:
Imagine you're a first-year international student at a university in the USA. You want a credit card that offers cashback, no annual fee, and doesn't require an SSN. After researching, you decide that the Deserve Edu Mastercard for Students is the perfect choice for you.
You apply online by submitting proof of your student status, passport details, and proof of address. Within a week, you receive a card in the mail and activate it immediately.
Now, you can use your new Deserve Edu Mastercard to build a credit history, pay for various expenses, and earn 1% cashback on everyday purchases. As you continue your education in the United States, having a credit card helps you establish a financial identity and enjoy additional benefits like rewards and cashback.
Congratulations, now you know the ins and outs of credit cards designed specifically for international students in the USA! With the information and guidance we've provided, you're one step closer to making a smart financial decision. We hope this article has offered valuable insights and a clear path forward in selecting the perfect card as you embark on your educational adventure.
If you found this content useful, don't forget to share it with your fellow international students and check out other informative Flik Eco guides for more personal finance tips. Equip yourself with knowledge, and let us help you take charge of your financial destiny!
