In today’s digital India, learning financial independence as a student has become very important. A credit card is not just for shopping; it is a financial learning tool that, if you use it responsibly, can help you build a good credit score in your future. Many banks and Fintech companies are offering the Best Credit Cards for Students in India 2025.
By reading this article, we will know-
- Which card would be best for students?
- Which bank offers the best for getting a card?
- Learn How to Apply for a Credit Card Online.
Best Credit Cards for Students in India 2025
Below is a list of some of the Top 5 best credit cards for students in India 2025.
1. IDFC First Wow Credit Card:
This card is perfect for students who do not have a fixed income or proof of income.
- Lifetime free: If you get this card, you will get it for free for life, meaning there is no joining charge or annual charge that other cards charge, but this card does not.
- 4x Reward Points: If you spend ₹100, you will get 4x reward points.
- Zero forex markup
- Secure app-based control system: This means that you can control everything on this card online, completely securely, through the app.
Ideal For: So it can be said that this card is perfect for those who shop a lot online and for those who are thinking of getting a new card.
2. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
If you take this card, you will need to make an FD (fixed deposit) in your bank.
- 2 Reward Points: If you spend ₹100 on this card, you will get two reward points.
- Fuel surcharge waiver
- Free movie ticket: You will get free movie ticket offers.
Ideal For: Students with a Kotak 811 digital account or FD.
3. SBI students plus advantage credit card
If you have taken your education loan at an SBI branch, then you can easily get this card.
- Reward Points: You will get reward points from this card when you purchase something.
- Fuel surcharge waiver
- Reading Points for Vouchers
4. ICICI Bank student’s forex prepaid card
This card will be great for all students who study abroad.
- Low Forex Markup will get this benefit.
- You will also benefit from an easy online loading system.
- You will also get the benefits of secure global payments when you purchase this card.
Ideal for: Students making transactions abroad.
5. HDFC ISIC Student ForexPlus Card
- Discounts on travel, study materials.
- Insurance cover and secure transactions.
- Best for overseas students.
What Makes a Good Student Credit Card?
| Feature | Why It Matters | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Zero or Low Annual Fee | Avoid unnecessary charges | Choose lifetime-free cards if possible |
| No Income Proof Required | Most students don’t have a fixed income | Look for “secured” or FD-based cards |
| Reward Points or Cashback | Earn benefits on daily spending | Prefer 1.5–5% effective cashback cards |
| Online Shopping Benefits | Students spend mostly online | Use cards with e-commerce partnerships |
| Low Forex Mark-Up | Useful for foreign subscriptions or study abroad | Ideal <2% forex fee |
| Security Controls | Limit, block/unblock, app control | Essential for beginners |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Student Credit Cards
So when students use credit cards, there are some good aspects and some bad aspects or disadvantages. So let’s find out in this article what the good and bad aspects are.
Advantages:
So if you use a credit card, you will be able to control your own spending and, most importantly, you will become more financially responsible.
Your online shopping will be easier as you will get some reward points or cashback on every purchase. And the biggest advantage is that it will build your credit score, which will help you get loans in the future.
Disadvantages:
It’s not just about the benefits; there are some drawbacks. Many cards have low credit limits(₹5,000–₹25,000), which may cause you some inconvenience. And if you can’t pay your bill on time, you may have to pay interest and penalties.
Also, some offers are only applicable to certain expenses. So always be careful while using your card.
How to Choose the Right Student Credit Card (Step-by-Step)
- Understand your spending habits, i.e. how you shop online, what your travel expenses are, etc.
- Compare zero annual fee credit cards for students.
- And check what the reward rate is, how many points are given for every ₹100 spent.
- First, you start with a secure or FD-backed card.
And always remember to pay your bills on time, otherwise your civil score will be bad.
Conclusion
For a student, a student credit card is not just for making purchases; it is also an opportunity to start financial education. In 2025, IDFC Fast, SBI Cuttack, and HDFC banks in India are offering free, save, and perfect cards for online shopping.
No matter what credit card you get, you should always pay your bills on time and build a solid foundation for your financial future.
FAQs- FAQs – Best Credit Cards for Students in India
Which is the best credit card for students in India in 2025?
The best credit cards for students in India 2025 include IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card, SBI Student Plus Advantage Card, and Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card — all offering zero or low annual fees and good rewards.
Can a student get a credit card without income proof in India?
Yea, many banks offer student credit cards without income proof if you have a fixed deposit or an existing savings account, like the Kotak 811 or IDFC FIRST WOW card.
What are the benefits of a student credit card?
Student credit cards help you build a credit score, earn cashback or reward points, and learn money management early. Some also offer discounts on online shopping and fuel surcharge waivers.
How can I apply for a student credit card online?
You can apply through official bank websites like SBI, HDFC, Kotak, or IDFC FIRST Bank. Fill out the online form, submit ID and student proof, and link your savings account or FD if required.
What is the minimum age to get a student credit card in India?
Most banks issue student credit cards to applicants aged 18 years or above. For secured or FD-based cards, parental consent may be needed if you are below 18.