thumb_up Why You’ll Love the Discover it® Student Card

The Discover it® Student Cash Back Card offers generous perks with student-focused benefits. It rewards you with 5% cash back on rotating categories, matched in your first year—turning everyday purchases into big savings. There’s no annual fee, making it easy to keep long-term. You’ll also get a $20 Good Grade Reward annually and free access to your FICO® credit score. With fraud protection and U.S.-based customer service, it’s a reliable tool to start your credit journey on the right foot.

• done 5% cash back on rotating categories, up to the quarterly maximum (upon activation)
• done Cashback Match: All earned rewards doubled at the end of your first year
• done $20 Good Grade Reward annually for a GPA of 3.0 or higher
• done No annual fee and free access to FICO® Score

thumb_down What to Consider Before Applying

While the Discover it® Student Cash Back Card offers strong rewards, it has a few limitations. The 5% cash back is capped quarterly and requires category activation, which some students may forget. The APR after the introductory period can be high for those who carry a balance. International students may face difficulty qualifying, as a U.S. Social Security number is often required. Lastly, while it helps build credit, misuse or late payments can negatively impact your score. It’s ideal for responsible users who pay on time and understand the terms.

• close Requires activation to earn 5% in bonus categories
• close Cash back categories are capped each quarter
• close High variable APR after introductory period

help How to Apply for the Discover it® Student Card

Applying for the Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card is quick and can be done entirely online. Discover’s application process is student-friendly and doesn’t require an extensive credit history. You’ll need basic personal and school information, as well as your income details. Discover typically responds quickly with a decision. As long as you meet the criteria, such as being at least 18 years old, a U.S. resident, and enrolled in a college or university, you’re good to go. Just visit the Discover website and follow the prompts to get started.

1. Visit the official Discover website.
2. Navigate to the “Student Credit Cards” section.
3. Select the Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card.
4. Click “Apply Now” and fill in your personal details, school info, and estimated income.
5. Review the terms and submit your application.
6. Wait for an approval decision—often instant!

The Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card is more than just a student card—it’s a smart financial tool for those beginning their credit journey. It combines education-friendly features with robust rewards, making it a popular pick among college students. You earn 5% cash back on a variety of rotating categories—like restaurants, gas stations, and Amazon.com—after activation, along with unlimited 1% on all other purchases. Better yet, Discover will match all the cash back you earn in your first year, which can add up to serious savings.