Are you a student looking to get your first credit card but worried about no credit history? Need not to worry you are not alone. Many students across the country face this challenge but there is good news for everyone. The student credit cards are designed just for you, helping the students build a solid financial foundation, managing the expenses, and even earn rewards, all without needing a prior credit score.
In this article, we will explore the Best Student Credit Cards in India with no credit history, compare their features, and answer the common questions that may be in your mind. Whether you are a college student looking for financial flexibility or trying to build your credit profile early, this guide is for you. So, let’s get started.
What is student credit card
A student credit card is a low limit credit card which is specifically designed for the students or more accurately for college students. These cards usually have the features like:
- No income proof is required for applying
- No credit history check
- Lower credit limits like ₹5000-₹25000
- Minimal to zero annual fees.
These are the perfect steps to start building your credit score, or profile practicing responsible spending, and understanding how credits work in real life.
Key Features Of Students Credit Card
Before choosing the student credit card, keep the following in your mind.
- There is no requirements for the credit history requirement
- Low or No Annual Fees.
- Easy eligibility criteria ( age 18, student ID)
- Rewards or cashback on Transactions
- Credit score building Opportunity.
Comparison Table: Best Student Credit Cards in India:
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Credit Limit | Key Benefits | Eligibility |
| SBI Student Plus Advantage | ₹0 (with FD) | 100% of FD amount | Reward points, fuel surcharge waiver | FD with SBI required |
| ICICI Bank Student Forex | ₹0 | Prepaid (Top-up) | Secure international usage, no forex markup | Student ID & travel documents |
| HDFC Bank ISIC Student Card | ₹500 | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 | Discounts on international travel & shopping | Must have ISIC membership |
| Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent | ₹0 | ₹5,000+ (based on FD) | Lifetime free, zero interest for 48 days | FD with Kotak 811 account |
| Axis Bank Insta Easy Card | ₹0 | Based on FD | EMIs on purchases, build credit score | FD with Axis Bank |
SBI Student Plus Advantage Card
Best for students With an SBI fixed deposit
The SBI students Plus Advantage Card is a great option if you can open a fixed deposit with the bank. It’s secured, which means approval is easy even with no credit history.
Key Benefits:
- Zero annual fee (If Linked to FD)
- 10x reward points on departmental & grocery purchases of the student
- Fuel Surcharge waiver which will help you buy your fuel without any extra fee
- This will provide you the credit limit upto 100% of FD amount
Eligibility For SBI Student Plus Advantage Card
- Must have a fixed deposit with SBI
- Minimum FD amount ₹25000
ICICI Bank Student Forex Prepaid Card
This is best for the students studying abroad
Although this is not a traditional credit card, but this prepaid Forex credit card work well for students who are travelling overseas. It”s safe, widely accepted, and also avoids the currency conversion charges.
Key benefits:
- No forex markup charges are charged.
- This card is accepted globally (Mastercard/Visa)
- Can be reloaded anytime by the parents.
- Safe alternative to carrying cash.
Eligibility For ICICI Bank Student Forex Prepaid Card
- Valid student visa is required to apply.
- Proof of admission or university documents are required.
HDFC Bank ISIC Student Credit Card
This is best for the international students providing the discounts. The HDFC ISIC card is a collaboration with the International Student Identity card (ISIC). With this card you will enjoy the discounts and rewards.
Key Benefits:
- Provides Discount on airfare, shopping and Hotels.
- This card will provide you reward points on every spend.
- Provide access to student events and offers.
- Contactless payments supported.
Eligibility
- Student must be a member of ISIC member
- Available for the students aged 18+.
Kotak 811 #Dream different Credit Card
This card is best for the digital first students.
The Kotak 811 Dream different credit card is a secured card issued against an FD. It comes with no joining or annual fees and this is fully digital
Key Benefits:
- This is a lifetime free card
- There is no interest on credit for up to 48 days.
- You can build a credit score from scratch.
- You can apply for this card through mobile banking.
Eligibility
- To apply you should have Minimum FD of ₹15000 with Kotak 811
- Indian resident 18+ years.
Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
This card is best for quick approvals. This Axis Insta easy Card is another secured option where you can get instant approval based on the Fixed deposit of your account.
Key Benefits:
- This card converts the purchases to EMIs
- Credit limit up to 80% of the fixed deposit amount.
- Provides the fuel charge waiver
- SMS alerts & mobile tracking.
Eligibility:
This card require minimum FD of ₹20000 with Axis Bank
Must of Age 18+, and Indian resident.
Tips for Students Using Their First Credit Card
It is very important to use your first credit card wisely and carefully as it can build your credit score and offer financial independence. Here are some of Top tips how to get started smartly
- Always pay your bills on time.
- Keep your credit utilization below 30%.
- Avoid cash withdrawals
- Don’t apply for too many credit cards at once.
- Check statements monthly for the errors
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card for yourself as a student can be beneficial to unlock the financial independence, rewards, and a strong credit future- even with zero credit history. Whether you’re staying in India or abroad, these cards offer the right mix of the security, rewards and convenience to you.
Remember: The goal is not to just to spend, but to learn financial discipline and start building your strong credit history early.
FAQ
1. Can students apply for the credit card without income?
Yes, Students can apply for the credit cards secured against the fixed deposits, so there is no income proof required.
2. Will a student credit card build my credit score?
Absolutely, if you use card responsibly it will help you build your CIBIL score which is crucial for future loans.
3. Is a Secured Credit card safe for beginners?
Yes, as these cards are backed by the credit limit of the FDs, and the risk is low for the banks and is safe to start credit management.
4. Can I upgrade my student card later?
Yes after 12-18 months of responsible usage, you can request an upgrade to a regular credit card with better rewards and higher limits.