Managing money wisely during college can shape your financial future. That’s why choosing the best credit card for students is an important step. Student credit cards are specially designed for young adults who are just starting their credit journey. They offer basic features like an interest-free period, rewards, cashback, and discounts — without demanding a high income or long credit history.
If you’re 18 years or older, you can apply for a student credit card in India through leading issuers like SBI Card, ICICI Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank.
Let’s explore the top options available right now.
Why Should Students Get a Credit Card?
A student credit card can help you:
Build a strong credit score early
Learn responsible spending habits
Enjoy rewards and cashback on everyday expenses
Access emergency funds when needed
Most student cards in India are secured credit cards, meaning they are issued against a Fixed Deposit (FD). The credit limit is generally 80% to 100% of your FD amount. This makes approval easier and reduces risk for both the bank and the student.
Top 6 Best Credit Cards for Students in India – February 2026
- IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card
Annual Fee: Nil
Best For: Maximum FD-based limit & zero forex markup
Key Highlights:
100% credit limit of your FD amount
ATM withdrawal limit up to 100% of FD value
4X reward points on spends
Zero forex conversion charges
Up to 48 days interest-free period
No income proof or credit history required
Minimum FD starts at just ₹2,000
This is one of the best credit cards for students who want flexibility, global usage, and strong rewards without annual fees.
- Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
Annual Fee: Nil
Best For: Online shopping rewards
Features:
90% of FD amount as credit limit
500 welcome reward points
2X rewards on online spends
1% fuel surcharge waiver
Cashback or movie tickets on annual milestone spends
Low interest rate of 2.99% per month
This card works well for students who frequently shop online or book tickets.
- ICICI Coral Contactless Credit Card
Annual Fee: ₹500
Best For: Movies, dining & lounge access
Benefits:
2 reward points per ₹100 spent
25% discount on BookMyShow & INOX tickets
Complimentary domestic lounge access
Fuel surcharge waiver
Dining discounts across 2,500+ restaurants
While not exclusively a student card, it is a good choice for students with part-time income or financial backing.
- Paisabazaar Step UP Credit Card
Annual Fee: Nil
Best For: Fully digital application process
Highlights:
90% of FD as credit limit
Instant virtual credit card
1 reward point per ₹100
Flexible FD starting ₹2,000
Earn interest on FD (up to 6.55%)
Perfect for students who prefer a paperless and instant process.
- SBI Student Plus Advantage Credit Card
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Annual Fee: ₹500
Best For: Students with SBI education loan
Key Features:
1 reward point per ₹100
10X rewards on grocery & departmental stores
Use reward points to pay outstanding bill
Fuel surcharge waiver
Global acceptance
This card is ideal if you already have an education loan from SBI.
- ICICI Bank Student Forex Prepaid Card
Joining Fee: ₹499
Annual Fee: ₹199
Best For: Students going abroad
Benefits:
ISIC membership
40% discount on excess baggage
20% discount on DHL courier
Insurance coverage
Lost card protection up to ₹5 lakh
Although it works like a prepaid card, it is very useful for international students.
Can I Get a Credit Card as a Student? (Eligibility Guide)
Yes, you can — if you meet these conditions:
Minimum age: 18 years
Have a Fixed Deposit (for secured cards)
Or hold an education loan (for certain cards)
Valid KYC documents
In addition, state-backed education schemes like the West Bengal Student Credit Card Scheme and Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme also provide financial support through concessional loans.
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Students?
When selecting the best credit card for students, check:
✔ Annual fee (prefer zero-fee cards)
✔ Credit limit flexibility
✔ Reward structure
✔ Interest rates
✔ FD requirement
✔ Extra perks like lounge access or movie discounts
If you want maximum approval chances with no income proof, a secured FD-based card is the safest option
