Can I get a credit card as a student with no income?

Yes, most student cards have lower or no income requirements. You may need to provide proof of enrollment. If you have no credit history, consider a secured card or becoming an authorized user on a parent's account first.

How do student credit cards help build credit?

Student cards report your payment history to Equifax and TransUnion. Making on-time payments and keeping your balance low builds a positive credit history. After 6-12 months of responsible use, you'll have a credit score that qualifies you for better cards.

Should I get a student card or a regular card?

If you qualify for a regular no-fee card, it may offer better rewards. Student cards are easier to get approved for and often have student-specific perks (like SPC discounts). Both build credit equally well.

Best Student Credit Cards in Canada (December 2025)

3 cards ranked

Student credit cards are designed to help college and university students build credit history while earning rewards. These cards typically have no annual fee, lower credit limits, and more relaxed approval requirements than premium cards.

Building credit during school sets you up for better rates on future loans, apartments, and even job applications. The best student cards offer competitive rewards and perks despite being entry-level products.

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Cards Analyzed

$2,000

Monthly Spend Profile

Dec 2025

Last Updated

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How We Rank These Cards

We rank student cards based on rewards value for typical student spending (groceries, dining, transit), welcome bonus offers, and credit-building features. All student cards we recommend have no annual fee and report to both major Canadian credit bureaus.

Our Ranking Formula:

Rewards Value+Perks Value-Annual Fee=Net Score

Top Best Student Credit Cards Ranked

Compare Cards

3 cards available

BMOMastercard

BMO CashBack Student Mastercard

Rewards

0.5% cash back

Interest

21.99%

Annual Fee

1st Year Value

$425

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Welcome Bonus

Up to 5% cash back in first 3 months (up to $125)

Min. credit score: Fair to Good (620+)

Official terms apply

CIBCVisa

CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Students

Rewards

1 Aventura point per $1

Interest

20.99%

Annual Fee

1st Year Value

$305

Apply NowCompare

Welcome Bonus

Up to 12,500 Aventura Points ($125 value)

Min. credit score: Good (660+)

Official terms apply

RBCVisa

RBC ION Visa Card

Rewards

1 Avion point per $1

Interest

20.99%

Annual Fee

1st Year Value

$50

Apply NowCompare

Welcome Bonus

7,000 Avion points ($50 value)

Min. credit score: Good (660+)

Official terms apply

Showing 3 of 3 cards

Tips for Choosing Best Student Credit Cards

Pro Tips

Expert advice to maximize your card benefits

1Always pay at least the minimum by the due date to build good credit
2Keep your credit utilization below 30% of your limit
3Set up autopay to never miss a payment
4Upgrade to a regular rewards card after graduation

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Student Credit Cards

The BMO CashBack Student Mastercard offers an excellent 3% cash back on groceries plus a generous welcome bonus. The CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Students is great for earning travel rewards with 1.5x points on travel, gas, and groceries.

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