If you are a student like me in India, you know how important it is to manage money smartly. I’m in Class 10, and even though I don’t earn full-time yet, I still get pocket money, tuition expenses, and sometimes festival shopping.
Recently, I got curious about credit cards for students in India 2025. I wanted to know:
- Can students even get a credit card?
- Which credit cards are best for students right now?
- Are there hidden charges?
- How can a student use a credit card wisely?
After hours of reading bank websites, watching YouTube videos, and asking my elder cousin who’s in college, here’s my complete guide.
Why Should Students Consider a Credit Card in 2025?
1. Build a Credit Score Early
Start young, pay bills on time, and your credit score will help you later for loans or jobs.
2. Emergency Expenses
Perfect for unexpected costs like a sudden laptop repair or travel expense.
3. Cashless Lifestyle
In 2025, UPI, QR codes, and online payments are everywhere. A credit card fits right in.
4. Rewards & Cashback
Students spend on food, books, gadgets, and travel – perfect for earning points and discounts.
Can Students Get a Credit Card in India in 2025?
- Below 18: Not eligible for a standard credit card.
- 18+ without income: Possible via secured cards (FD-based) or add-on cards from parents.
- 18+ with income: Eligible for most entry-level cards.
Best Credit Cards for Students in India 2025
Here are my top 5 picks for students:
1. SBI Student Plus Advantage Credit Card
- Type: Secured (needs an SBI FD)
- Fee: ₹0 if FD exists
- Benefits: Rewards, fuel surcharge waiver, international use.
- Best For: SBI account holders and education loan students.
2. HDFC ForexPlus Student Card
- Type: Prepaid forex
- Fee: ~₹500
- Benefits: No currency risk, international discounts, easy reload.
- Best For: Students studying abroad.
3. ICICI Bank Student Forex Card
- Type: Prepaid forex
- Fee: ₹499
- Benefits: 24×7 global help, insurance, multi-currency.
- Best For: Internships and exchange programs.
4. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
- Type: Secured (FD-based)
- Fee: ₹0 with FD
- Benefits: Fuel waiver, worldwide acceptance, easy approval.
- Best For: First-time credit card users.
5. BOB Student Credit Card
- Type: Student-special card (in tie-up universities)
- Fee: ₹0 first year
- Benefits: Low interest, reward points, no joining fee.
- Best For: Universities partnered with Bank of Baroda.
How to Apply for a Student Credit Card (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Check eligibility (age 18+, FD or parent’s add-on card).
Step 2: Prepare documents (Aadhaar, PAN, college ID, FD receipt).
Step 3: Apply online or at branch.
Step 4: Wait 2–7 days for approval.
Charges Students Must Know
- Annual Fee: ₹0–₹1,000
- Late Fee: ₹200–₹1,000
- Interest: ~3% per month on unpaid dues
- Foreign Use Fee: 3–3.5%
💡 Tip: Always pay in full before the due date.
Tips for Using a Credit Card Wisely
- Spend only what you can repay.
- Pay the full amount, not just minimum due.
- Avoid impulse shopping.
- Track spending via the bank app.
- Avoid ATM cash withdrawals.
Credit Card vs Debit Card for Students
| Feature | Credit Card | Debit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Spend Limit | Higher than balance | Balance only |
| Rewards | High | Low |
| Credit Score | Yes | No |
| Interest | Yes if unpaid | None |
Verdict: Debit cards are safe, but credit cards give more benefits if used wisely.
Final Words – My Pick for 2025
For India-based students: SBI Student Plus Advantage or Axis Insta Easy.
For abroad studies: HDFC ForexPlus Student Card.
Remember: A credit card is like a cricket bat – play smart, and you’ll score big; play careless, and you’re out.
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Credit Card for Students in India 2025
Jaspal Singh is an international business professional with 19+ years of experience in the agri-machinery industry. He writes practical guides on career planning, finance, and migration.
- Jaspal Singhhttps://rupeeshastra.com/author/admin/
- Jaspal Singhhttps://rupeeshastra.com/author/admin/
- Jaspal Singhhttps://rupeeshastra.com/author/admin/
- Jaspal Singhhttps://rupeeshastra.com/author/admin/
