Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card: Smart spending starts here
The Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card is designed with college students in mind, offering valuable rewards, no annual fee, and forgiving features to help build credit wisely. With rotating 5% cash back categories and a generous first-year match program, this card stands out as a beginner-friendly and rewarding option.
By: Zienic
Earn 5% cash back in rotating categories
Get 5% cash back on everyday purchases at places like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations—up to the quarterly maximum after activation.
Unlimited Cashback Match
Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year—no cap or minimum spending required.
No credit score required to apply
Perfect for students new to credit—Discover looks at your application holistically.
No annual fee or penalty APR
Enjoy student-friendly terms with no annual fee and no penalty APR for missed payments.
A Rewarding Credit Card for College Students
If you’re a student ready to take the plunge into the world of credit cards, the Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card is a strong starting point. It’s packed with features designed to support responsible financial habits while offering real rewards. You’ll earn 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (once activated), which often include essential spending like groceries or gas. All other purchases earn 1% cash back with no cap. What makes this card stand out is Discover’s Cashback Match: at the end of your first year, they double the cash back you’ve earned—automatically. That’s an easy way to amplify your rewards just for using the card. Plus, if you're new to credit, this card doesn’t require a credit score to apply, making it super accessible. On top of that, there’s no annual fee, and you won’t be penalized with a higher APR if you accidentally miss a payment. The card even provides free access to your FICO® Score and a suite of tools to help you build and track your credit health. Whether you’re making everyday purchases or preparing for future financial goals, this card can grow with you throughout your college journey.
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Do I need a credit score to get approved?
No, Discover does not require a credit score for the student version of this card, making it a great option for beginners.
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What are the rotating 5% cash back categories?
Categories change every quarter and can include spending at grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Amazon.com, and more. You must activate them to earn the 5% rate.
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Is there a limit to how much cash back I can earn?
You can earn 5% back on up to $1,500 in purchases in the bonus categories each quarter after activation. All other purchases earn 1% back.
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How does Cashback Match work?
At the end of your first year, Discover automatically matches all the cash back you've earned. There's no limit or need to enroll.
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Can international students apply?
Generally, international students with a Social Security Number and sufficient proof of income or financial support may be eligible, but it’s best to check Discover’s current policy.
How to Apply for the Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card
Applying for the Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card is a smooth, beginner-friendly process. You can apply online through Discover’s official website by filling out a simple application form. You’ll need to provide personal information such as your name, address, Social Security number, and income details. Don’t worry if you’re working part-time or relying on financial aid—Discover takes a broad view of your ability to pay. One of the best aspects of this card is that it doesn’t require a credit score to apply, so students with little to no credit history have a solid chance of approval. Just make sure you meet the eligibility requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and currently enrolled in college. After submitting your application, you may receive a decision in just a few minutes. If approved, your card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Discover will also give you access to a secure online account where you can manage your card, track spending, and activate cash back categories each quarter. Overall, Discover makes it easy for students to take control of their finances from day one, with a transparent application process and clear terms.