Best Credit Cards for Students in India
Introduction to Best Credit Cards for Students in India 2025
Credit cards are no longer just for working professionals. In 2025, several banks and fintech companies in India are offering student-friendly credit cards with no income proof, easy eligibility, and attractive features. These cards help students build credit history, manage online payments, and enjoy cashback and rewards on every transaction.
Whether you’re a college student or pursuing higher education, this guide brings you the top 10 best credit cards for students in India along with benefits, eligibility, charges, and how to apply.
1. SBI Student Plus Advantage Card
Why It Stands Out: Designed specifically for students with an SBI education loan.
Key Highlights:
Annual Fee: ₹0 (with education loan)
Cashback: 2.5% fuel surcharge waiver
Reward Points: 1 point per ₹100
Global Usage: Accepted internationally
Add-on: Balance transfer, EMI conversion options
2. ICICI Bank Student Travel Card
Why It Stands Out: Perfect for students going abroad for studies.
Key Highlights:
Type: Prepaid forex-based card
Supported Currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, AUD
Benefits: Discounts on books, flight bookings
Insurance: Travel and health insurance included
Usage: ATM withdrawal + POS shopping worldwide
3. HDFC ForexPlus Card (Student Variant)
Why It Stands Out: Offers fixed exchange rates and ease for overseas students.
Key Highlights:
Forex Lock-in: No currency fluctuation
Card Fee: ₹500 approx.
Online Usage: For university fees, travel booking
Features: Free lost card liability protection
4. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
Why It Stands Out: No income proof required; backed by fixed deposit.
Key Highlights:
Minimum FD: ₹10,000
Annual Fee: ₹0
Approval: Instant, even for students
Benefits: EMI, fuel surcharge waiver, 1% cashback
5. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
Why It Stands Out: A zero-annual fee card linked to a Kotak FD.
Key Highlights:
FD Requirement: ₹15,000 minimum
Annual Fee: ₹0
Reward Points: 2X on online spends
Security: Zero lost card liability after reporting
6. BOB Financial Prime Credit Card
Why It Stands Out: Ideal secured credit card for students with no income.
Key Highlights:
Backed by FD: ₹10,000 minimum
Benefits: EMI on electronics, groceries, fuel
Offers: Discounts on food delivery, online shopping
7. Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card
Why It Stands Out: Excellent for online recharge, shopping, and students with telecom usage.
Key Highlights:
Cashback: 25% on Airtel payments
Annual Fee: ₹500
Add-on: 10% cashback on food delivery and OTT apps
Best For: Students with Airtel services
8. Slice Card (Now Slice UPI Card)
Why It Stands Out: Easy digital card for students with zero joining fees and no credit history.
Key Highlights:
Type: BNPL-based UPI card
Monthly Limit: Up to ₹10,000–₹60,000 (based on usage)
Features: EMI conversion, no-cost pay-later
Rewards: 2%–5% cashback, scratch card bonuses
9. OneCard (Secured Version)
Why It Stands Out: Digital-first credit card for students with FD-backed approval.
Key Highlights:
FD Requirement: ₹5,000 to ₹25,000
App-Controlled: Spend limits, freeze card, track in real-time
Rewards: 5X on top 2 categories
Annual Fee: ₹0
10. Fibe Axis Bank Credit Card (Previously EarlySalary)
Why It Stands Out: Good option for graduate students with early internships or part-time income.
Key Highlights:
Income-Based Approval: ₹15,000/month
Credit Limit: Up to ₹2 lakhs
Perks: Movie discounts, Amazon vouchers, 1% fuel waiver
Ideal For: Young professionals & final-year students
Conclusion
Student credit cards are a smart financial tool that teaches money management, builds credit history, and offers practical rewards. In 2025, Indian students have access to multiple options — secured cards, travel cards, and zero-fee digital cards — even without a job or income proof.
Whether you’re preparing for studies abroad, looking to pay exam fees online, or manage daily college expenses, these cards offer convenience, rewards, and growth. Always compare terms, use credit responsibly, and pay dues on time.
FAQs – Student Credit Cards in India
Q1: Can a student get a credit card without income?
A: Yes, students can apply for secured credit cards backed by fixed deposits.
Q2: Which student credit card is best for international travel?
A: ICICI Student Travel Card and HDFC ForexPlus are ideal for overseas study.
Q3: Are digital cards like Slice safe for students?
A: Yes, but always review repayment terms and avoid over-usage.
Q4: Can I build credit score with student cards?
A: Absolutely. Timely repayment builds your CIBIL score even as a student.
Q5: What’s the best way to apply for a student credit card?
A: Visit the nearest bank with your college ID, Aadhaar, PAN, and FD proof — or apply online if eligible.