Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card

Rewards Rate

Welcome Bonus

One of the standout features of the Discover it® Student Cash Back card is its exceptional welcome offer. At the end of your first year, Discover will automatically match all the cashback you’ve earned—dollar for dollar.

APR

17.49-26.49% Variable APR

Pro & Cons

• Automatic category selection simplifies earning cashback.
• High cashback rate (5%) in your top category each billing cycle.
• No annual fee keeps costs low.
• 0% intro APR period for purchases and balance transfers.

• 5% cashback is capped at $500 per billing cycle.
• Foreign transaction fees apply (3%).
• Limited benefits for frequent international travelers.

Discover it® Student Cash Back Credit Card

If you’re a student looking to build credit while earning cashback rewards, the Discover it® Student Cash Back credit card might be your perfect study buddy. With its generous cashback program, no annual fee, and a forgiving attitude for newcomers to credit, this card balances value and simplicity. Here's everything you need to know to decide if this card is the right fit for your wallet.

Rewards Redemption

With the Discover it® Student Cash Back, redeeming your rewards is as straightforward as it is versatile. Cashback can be redeemed in multiple convenient ways: as a statement credit to lower your card balance, as a direct deposit into your bank account, for gift cards from top brands, or to pay at checkout with select retailers like Amazon.com and PayPal. You can even use your rewards to donate to a charity of your choice. These flexible redemption options ensure your cashback works for you, no matter how you choose to use it.

Card Terms, Rates and Fees

• Annual Fee:
  $0 – Use this card without worrying about an annual fee.

Other Fees:

• Balance Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee for transfers made by a specified date, then up to 5% of the transfer amount.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: $0 – Perfect for students studying or traveling abroad.
• Late Payment Fee: Up to $41, but your first late payment won’t incur a fee.

Maximize Benefits and Avoid Fees 

Here are the best ways to maximize your benefits and avoid fees with this card:

• Plan Spending Around Bonus Categories: Keep track of the quarterly 5% categories and align your purchases to maximize cashback.
• Take Advantage of the Welcome Offer: Double your first-year earnings by using the card regularly and responsibly.
• Maintain Good Grades: Earning $20 a year for academic success is a great way to be rewarded for your hard work.
• Build Credit Wisely: Pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges and improve your credit score over time.

Qualification Requirements

What Makes This Card Appealing?

The Discover it® Student Cash Back card is a top pick for students, offering a combination of generous rewards, student-focused perks, and tools to build credit. With 5% cashback on rotating categories (up to $1,500 per quarter with activation) and 1% on all other purchases, plus an unmatched Cashback Match welcome offer that doubles your first year’s rewards, it’s perfect for maximizing everyday spending. 

It boasts no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and features like the Good Grades Reward and first late payment forgiveness, making it forgiving and accessible for first-time credit users. With flexible rewards redemption options, free FICO® credit score access, and Discover’s top-rated customer service, this card is an excellent choice for students starting their financial journey.