Credit cards designed for students. Build credit history, earn rewards, and enjoy no annual fee.
The American Express Green Card has no annual fee, making it risk-free to hold. It comes with a welcome bonus of 10,000 points. You earn 1x on groceries and 1x at restaurants. Estimated first-year value is $549.
Amex Membership Rewards
The BMO CashBack Mastercard for students has no annual fee, making it risk-free to hold. It comes with a welcome bonus of $100. You earn 3x on groceries and 0.5x at restaurants. Estimated first-year value is $350.
Cash Back
Ends Jun 30, 2026
The CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Students has no annual fee, making it risk-free to hold. It comes with a welcome bonus of 12,500 points. You earn 1x on groceries and 0.5x at restaurants. Estimated first-year value is $356.
CIBC Aventura
The CIBC Dividend Visa Card for Students has no annual fee, making it risk-free to hold. It comes with a welcome bonus of $150. You earn 2x on groceries and 1x at restaurants. Estimated first-year value is $396.
Cash Back
The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card has no annual fee, making it risk-free to hold. It comes with a welcome bonus of $100. You earn 2x on groceries and 0.5x at restaurants. Estimated first-year value is $338.
Cash Back
Complete Guide
Credit cards designed for students. Build credit history, earn rewards, and enjoy no annual fee.
Student credit cards are designed for young adults building their first credit history. They typically have no annual fee, lower credit limits, and may not require a credit score to apply.
Using a credit card responsibly in university builds the credit history you'll need for a mortgage, car loan, or apartment rental after graduation. Pay your balance in full every month and keep utilization below 30%.
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Cards analyzed
Jun 2026
Last updated
100%
Independent
Our team evaluates credit cards based on overall consumer value: rewards earning rates, annual fees, welcome bonuses, insurance coverage, and additional perks. Cards are ranked by estimated first-year value. We update our picks monthly.
FAQ
Yes. Student cards have relaxed income requirements. Some accept part-time income or parental support. Secured cards are another option with a refundable deposit.
Absolutely. Responsible use (on-time payments, low utilization) builds your credit score. After 6-12 months, you'll have a strong foundation for future applications.
Compare the best credit cards in Canada or calculate which card's rewards actually fit your budget.
