Credit cards for college students, what are the options?

How does a credit card for college students work?

Learn all about how credit cards for college students work. Discover the options, how to apply, and the advantages and disadvantages of this payment method!

Banks and financial institutions are expanding credit card options for college students, aiming to attract more and more young people to the economy and financial control.

There are many options on the market, so we'll help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

The University Credit Card is a type of card intended for students enrolled in public or private higher education institutions (undergraduate, postgraduate, master's or doctorate), from the 1st semester onwards.

Most college credit card options do not require proof of income and can be purchased by unemployed students.

Even for those who are already working, the university card can be used as an alternative to save money.

In the following reading, you will know exactly everything about:

• How does a credit card work for university students;
• Best credit card options for college students;
• How to apply for a credit card for college students
• What are the advantages and disadvantages?

You probably already know how a credit card works, but it's worth remembering: it's a payment method that offers the consumer a pre-established credit limit, so that they can make purchases in installments or in cash. 

As previously stated, for acquisition, in some financial institutions, proof of income is not required.

This is a benefit offered by this type of card. College-age students generally don't have formal employment or receive any type of student benefit that can't be used to prove their income.

It's a very advantageous option to acquire, as the card offers international coverage, promotional packages, and Visa benefits. Plus, there are exclusive promotions for university students and educational partnerships.

Among the benefits of the card, some banks offer discounts on shows, theaters, cinemas and parks. advantageous and relevant benefits for the leisure options of young university students.

 

Best credit card options for college students

1.Santander SX University

THE Santander SX University is a credit card from Santander bank. The card was launched with the goal of providing financial support to university students, offering a series of benefits to undergraduate students.

2. International University Caixa Card

The International University Caixa Card It's a card that offers many benefits and is issued by Caixa Econômica Federal bank. It's an option designed for university students, with benefits and fees that fit the young graduate's budget.

International coverage and the convenience of the Mastercard brand, accepted on most card machines worldwide.

The ease of acquisition is the most interesting thing: does not require a minimum income and has a 75% annual fee discount for the first month.

Furthermore, this is the ideal card for those who love to travel: You accumulate points on your purchases and can exchange them for points in the following programs: Smiles, LATAM PASS, TAP Miles&Go, In Mais and Dotz.

Only with this card can you pay for your trips in up to 24 installments.

Despite being a physical bank card, this card offers the convenience of the Caixa app. You can manage your card online, temporarily block it, adjust your credit limit, pay your bill in advance, and much more.

3. International University Ourocard

The Ourocard Universitário Internacional is a Banco do Brasil card designed for university students, with conditions and rates that are convenient for students in both private and public schools. 

This is a card with a pre-approved limit of R$ 1,200, with no need to prove income.

It's a beautiful card, in gold. It will match your wallet!

International coverage, Visa, and contactless payment are included. Additionally, the Ourocard Universitário card offers all Visa benefits, including:

• Call Center;
• Emergency Card Replacement;
• Emergency Withdrawal Service;
• “Vai de Visa” Benefits Portal and also the
• Travel information service.

You can request this card through the bank's app and customize it right there. Everything is in the palm of your hand.

4. Bradesco Visa International credit card for university students

In advance, the Bradesco Visa International University Credit Cardl is a card intended for freshmen and veterans who want to expand their borders at Banco Bradesco.

Embarking on this will bring you many benefits, as it is a card accepted in thousands of establishments in Brazil and around the world.

However, it is exclusive to university students who are Bradesco account holders.

You only need to prove that you are duly enrolled in a higher education institution, private or public.

Bradesco Bank may take up to 10 business days to approve your credit card application..

After waiting this time and receiving approval, the card can take up to 2 weeks to arrive.

To purchase the card, simply go to a Banco Bradesco branch with your CPF, ID, and proof of income and registration.

You will be assisted by a manager and don't forget to request your Bradesco International University Visa. The card maintenance fee is 12x R$12.75, with the first year being free.

5. Itaucard University (Maxi Account Package)

If you're looking for a bank to help you organize your finances, this is a great card option. Maxi Account is a package of Itaú services made especially for higher education students.

By being an Itaú Bank account holder and subscribing to the package Maxi Account, you have access to the Itaucard Universitário with exclusive benefits, as the 1st year free and a further 50% reduction up to the 6th year.

To join Maxi Conta, you must be enrolled in a university course and bring the following documents to an Itaú bank branch: CPF, RG, Proof of residence (up to 6 months) and Proof of enrollment.

It's a super secure and convenient card; you can do everything from your phone. The monthly cost is tiny: only R$7.00 per month. In addition, the card also offers benefits of half-price tickets for cinemas, theaters and soccer fields, and there are also partnerships with several stores for special discounts.

How to apply for a credit card for a college student?

As we listed above, there are a few different college credit card options.

It's important to note that how you apply for your card will depend on the institution you belong to. Some cards are simpler and can be requested on the financial institution's website or app. Others, however, require a personal request from your bank manager.

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Even though we know that college credit cards are popular among students and offer exclusive benefits, it's important to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks for those who sign up.

Therefore, consumers, it's important to clearly identify the card's pros and cons before signing up. Consider everything from the ease of approval to exclusive benefits specifically designed for college students.

Below, we've listed some of the advantages of getting a credit card for college students. Let's take a look:

• Easy approval: easier than other cards, just prove you are attending a higher education institution;
• There is no minimum income requirement: because many students do not have a job or are doing an internship;
• Benefit in leisure areas: cinemas, theaters and restaurants;
• The possibility of simpler student loans.

Regarding the disadvantages, they are:

• Some cards require you to have a bank account;
• Their limits are usually lower than those of regular credit cards;
• Some cards have a maximum age requirement for signing.

Credit cards are a widely used payment method worldwide. Now that you know some college credit card options, you can choose the one that best fits your financial situation.

For more card options, check out our next post: Reloadable Credit Card: 7 options to sign up for now!