In the 1990s, we couldn’t think of credit cards as students. But this is not hard at this time. Now, a student’s credit card needs to manage money wisely is as important as studying hard. A credit card can help in both—by offering short-term financial flexibility, building credit, and even rewarding you for everyday spending. But with dozens of cards out there, not all are student-friendly.
We make the list of the 5 best credit cards for Indian students, for both domestic and international needs.
Top 5 Credit Cards For Indian Students
1. SBI Student Plus Advantage Card
As a student, you can take the SBI Student Plus Advantage Credit Card. This will help to build credit scores. Get this card at Rs. 25,000 fixed deposit.
Eligibility
- Must have an SBI fixed deposit (minimum ₹25,000)
- Student age should be 18+
Benefits
- Annual fee: ₹500 (reversed on annual spend of ₹35,000)
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent
- 2.5% fuel surcharge waiver across petrol pumps
- Convert transactions over ₹2,500 into EMIs
- Balance transfer facility from other cards
2. ICICI Bank Student Forex Prepaid Card
If you are studying abroad then the ICICI Forex Prepaid Card is one of the best options. This is a budget-friendly credit card that supports multi-currency.
Eligibility
- Indian citizen studying abroad
- KYC and university admission proof required
Benefits
- This card supports multi-currency (USD, GBP, EUR, etc.)
- Comes with an ISIC card (International Student Identity Card)
- Discounts on travel, study material, and international student services
- Block/unblock card via application
- Free replacement in case of loss/theft abroad
3. HDFC Bank Multicurrency ForexPlus Card
Students in foreign countries can use the HDFC Multicurrency ForexPlus Card. This credit card uses 23 currencies. Also, get complimentary insurance for lost cards, baggage delays, and personal accidents.
Eligibility
- Indian student going abroad
- Passport, visa, and admission letter required
Benefits
- Supports 23 currencies including USD, GBP, EUR, AUD, CAD
- Zero currency conversion charge if swiping in loaded currency
- Complimentary insurance (lost card, baggage delay, personal accident)
- Real-time balance check via mobile app
4. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
Get instant Axis Bank Insta Easy Card approval at a minimum ₹20,000 FD. Use credit limit for 50 days interest-free period. This credit card is accepted globally.
Eligibility
- Minimum FD: ₹20,000 with Axis Bank
- Age: 18 or above
Benefits
- Instant approval (if FD exists)
- 50-day interest-free period
- Accepted globally (Mastercard/Visa network)
- SMS/email alerts for transactions
5. IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card
One of the best lifetime free cards is the IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card. Students can get this card without a credit score. You can pay bills with one click. Enjoy 4x reward points on online shopping.
Eligibility
- FD with IDFC Bank (min ₹5,000)
- Student age should be 18+
- No credit score is required
Benefits
- No annual/joining fee ever
- 4x rewards on online spend
- Free ATM withdrawals up to 300/month
- Lifetime validity
Also Read: 6 Best Student Loan Apps in India
How to Choose the Right Student Credit Card
You should focus on below points whenever choose a student credit card:
Type of card: Secured (based on FD) or prepaid (for overseas use).
Fees & Charges: Annual, joining, forex markup, and ATM withdrawal fees.
Rewards Point: Cashback, points, or discounts on daily spending.
Usability: Domestic vs. international acceptance.
Credit building: Go for secured credit cards to build credit score early.
FAQs
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Can I get a student credit card without a credit score?
Yes, students can easily get a credit card without a credit score. Obtain credit card against FD (fixed deposit) which helps to build credit score.
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What is the minimum age requirement for a student credit card?
A borrower minimum age of 18 years old is required to apply for a student credit card.
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Is IDFC First Bank WOW Credit Card good?
IDFC First Bank WOW Card is a good choice for students and individuals. This card has zero annual and joining charges. Also, earn 4x reward points on online shopping.