Credit Cards for International Students Without SSN

Are you an foreign student in the US seeking credit card advices? For credible suggestions on the best credit cards for international students without SSN, these are the best options to go for.

Probably one of the biggest challenges of being an international student in a foreign land could be dealing with its financial policies and procedures, more so when trying to build up a credit history.

One major barrier in accomplishing this is getting a credit card without an SSN, as most US credit applications require this.

However, there are options designed to make it easier for international students to establish credit and better manage their finances.

This review looks at the best credit card options that international students can get without an SSN, pros and cons of the cards, and how one can apply.

Understanding the Challenge

Challenges unique to getting a credit card in the U.S. are commonly encountered by international students.

The problem mainly lies in the fact that most credit card companies require an SSN, usually demanded for identity verification and the estimation of creditworthiness.

Students who do not have an Social Security Numbers (SSN) will find it hard to qualify for regular credit cards.

Another issue is that students usually do not have any U.S. credit history, which further complicates the problem in their attempt to apply for credit cards.

Alternative Credit Cards for International Students Without SSN

Notwithstanding the challenges, there are credit card issuers and programs that understand the needs of international students and offer alternatives.

These cards help students in building credit, manage expenses, and gain financial independence while studying abroad.

1. Deserve EDU Mastercard

Probably the most popular credit card for international students who do not have an SSN.

The Deserve EDU Mastercard is tailored to meet student needs and requires no SSN or U.S. credit history to be approved.

Instead, Deserve uses alternative data points such as your educational background, your financial history in your home country, and your potential for earning an income.

Benefits

No SSN Required: Deserve does not require an SSN while applying, hence is available to international students.
No Annual Fee: The card has no annual fee, which is great for a student budget.
1% Cash Back: 1% cash back on all purchases by cardholders can be very handy in covering some of the living expenses in the U.S.
Amazon Prime Student Credit: One-year free membership to Amazon Prime Student is a nice perk for students who shop often on the site.
Credit Reporting: Deserve reports to major credit bureaus, which helps students in establishing credit within the US.

Disadvantages

Limited Rewards: Although 1% cash back is good, the returns are quite minimal as opposed to other credit cards.
Moderate Credit Limit: The credit limit that Deserve extends is pretty lower compared to traditional credit cards; this might present a problem to some students.

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2. Discover it Student Cash Back

One more excellent option, especially for international students, is the Discover it Student Cash Back card.

Especially if they have been in the U.S. long enough to obtain an SSN through on-campus employment or any other qualifying reason.

For those without an SSN, one can apply with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number through Discover.

Pros

Rich Cash Back: 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories, such as at gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores, up to a quarterly maximum; and 1% on all other purchases.
First-Year Cashback Match: Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. This could be a nice perk for new cardholders.
No Annual Fee: There is no annual fee for this card, as with the Deserve.
Good Grade Reward: Rewards students with a $20 statement credit every school year when their GPA is 3.0 or higher.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: This might prove quite useful for international students who might want to buy something denominated in the currency of their home country.

Cons

Requires SSN or ITIN: If students do not have an SSN or ITIN, they will not be able to apply, so this is not as accessible.
Rotating Categories: These are 5% cash-back categories that change each quarter and require activation. This may become a hassle for some users.

3. Petal 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa Credit Card

The no-fee Petal 2 Visa Credit Card is admired for being easy to use. It’s also great for international students since it doesn’t require an SSN if applying with an ITIN.

Pros

No Fees: No annual fees, late fees, or foreign transaction fees make this card quite cost-effective.
Cash Back Rewards: Get 1% cash back right away on all purchases; get up to 1.5% after making 12 on-time payments. You can earn 2% to 10% cash back at select merchants.
Credit Reporting: It reports to all three major credit bureaus, so students can actually build credit.
Technology-Driven Application: It assesses the creditworthiness of consumers through a sophisticated algorithm that identifies how much you earn and your spending habits, not just by credit score.

Cons

Needs ITIN or SSN: Like the Discover card, Petal 2 Visa also requires an ITIN or SSN. This could not be feasible for every foreign student.
Low Initial Credit Limit: Your initial credit limit, based on the background you have, may be low and hence very restrictive in nature.

Benefits of Having a Credit Card as an International Student

Among others, the following are some benefits that accrue to students from having a credit card during their study in the United States:

1. Building Credit History

Having and using a credit card responsibly helps in building a U.S. credit history.

This is very important in future financial activities such as renting an apartment, buying a car, or applying for a loan.

2. Financial Flexibility

Credit cards can provide a degree of financial flexibility for students by helping them better manage expenses, especially in emergency situations.

The ability to pay for purchases over time could be beneficial in budgeting for unexpected expenses.

3. Rewards and Perks

A lot of student credit cards come with rewards such as cash back on your purchases, discounts, and special offers that will help give you good savings on everyday expenses.

4. Fraud Protection

They also save you from fraudulent transactions. You will not be held liable for unauthorized costs in the event that your card is either lost or stolen, provided you quickly raise a complaint.

5. Ease of Making Online Payments

A credit card will help you buy products easily from an online store and make payments to various services, which include streaming websites, flight booking, tuition, and lots more.

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How to Apply for a Credit Card as an International Student

Applying for a credit card without an SSN requires slight differences in the approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Research and Choose the Right Card

Look for ‘international student’ credit cards like the Deserve EDU Mastercard or ones that accept ITINs. Always consider factors like fees, rewards, and credit limits.

2. Gather Required Documents

Have your passport, visa, proof of enrollment, and financial documents showing your income or support handy. If you have an ITIN, be prepared to give that too.

3. Complete the Application

The card issuer will ask you to fill out an application on their website. Fill in your details in the given fields, including an ITIN in case you don’t have your SSN.

You might also be required to add the name of your school and your expected graduation date.

4. Wait for Approval

After submitting your application, wait for a response from the issuer. Some give instantaneous approval, while some may take a few days to process your application.

5. Activate and Use Your Card

Once approved, you’ll get your card in the mail. Activate it following the provided instructions, then use it responsibly to begin building your credit history.

Our Verdict

Finding the right kind of credit card becomes very important for an international student without an SSN, looking to build credit and manage finances in the U.S.

Options such as the Deserve EDU Mastercard, Discover it Student Cash Back, and Petal 2 VisaCard tend more toward benefits specifically needed by a student.

With the right card, students can bring into their lives financial independence, begin building a credit history, and make the most of their time abroad.

Just remember to use your card responsibly, pay your bills on time, and check in on your credit so you can be assured of a positive financial future.

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Credit Cards for International Students Without SSN

Understanding the Challenge