What Is the Discover it Student Credit Card?
The Discover it Student card is a rewards credit card designed for college students and recent graduates. It offers cash back on everyday purchases, a first-year cash back match, and a path to building a credit history without requiring a cosigner. Issued by Discover Bank, the card is one of the few student cards that can be obtained independently, making it a practical entry point into the credit world.
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Key Features and Rewards
The Discover it Student card includes several features aimed at helping students establish good financial habits. The core rewards structure includes 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. At the end of the first year, Discover matches all the cash back earned, effectively doubling the rewards. The card also has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, which is helpful for students studying abroad or traveling.
Credit-Building Tools
Discover provides free access to FICO scores based on TransUnion data, allowing cardholders to monitor their credit progress. The card reports to all three major credit bureaus, which is essential for students who want to build a positive credit history. Over time, responsible use can help graduates qualify for higher credit limits and better card offers.
Who Can Qualify?
Because the Discover it Student card is an unsecured card, applicants must meet standard credit requirements on their own. Students typically need a verifiable income source, such as a part-time job, and a Social Security number. Those with limited credit history may still be considered, but approval is not guaranteed. There is no minimum age requirement beyond the legal age to enter a contract, which is 18 in most states.
International Students
International students can apply if they have a U.S. Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and a qualifying income. However, approval rates can vary, and some international students may find it easier to become an authorized user on a parent's card first.
How the Cash Back Match Works
The first-year cash back match is one of the most attractive parts of the Discover it Student card. At the end of the first year, Discover will match all cash back earned, up to a stated dollar amount. For example, if a student earns $100 in cash back during the first year, Discover adds another $100. After the first year, cash back continues to accrue but is no longer matched.
Comparing Student Credit Cards
| Feature | Discover it Student | Other Student Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 | Varies; some have annual fees |
| First-Year Cash Back Match | Yes | Rare |
| Cosigner Required | No | Depends on issuer |
| Credit Score Access | Free FICO | Varies |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | None | Varies |
Tips for Students Using a Discover Card
- Pay the full balance each month to avoid interest charges and build a positive payment history.
- Set up automatic payments to prevent missed due dates.
- Use the rotating 5% categories strategically by planning larger purchases in those periods.
- Keep credit utilization low to support a healthy credit score.
- Review the monthly FICO score updates to track progress over time.
What Happens After Graduation
After graduation, the Discover it Student card does not automatically convert to a different product. Cardholders can continue using the card as long as it remains open and in good standing. Some graduates may receive offers to upgrade or transition to other Discover cards, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the issuer's review of the account.