Word Count: 653 Date: Thu, 18 Oct 2007 4:42 PM
Student credit cards
Student credit cards have been criticized over the years; people incorrectly assume that credit card companies are targeting needy students. The truth is that a credit card is much like a weapon, in responsible hands it can be useful, but in the wrong hands it can be misused. There is no denying that student credit cards are available to younger individuals, but the fact that most student credit cards usually require a co-signer ensures student credit cards are used under supervision. In addition, most student credit cards have a low credit limit making it difficult for a student to overspend.
Compared to regular credit cards, a student credit card is issued to students that usually have no previous credit history. Credit card companies generally require the student’s parents/guardians to act as co-signers, ensuring a responsible adult is part of the entire process. A credit card company takes the credit history of the co-signer (student’s parents/guardians) into account and then issues a student credit card. A typical student credit card has a credit limit of $3000 to $5000 and the credit limit can vary depending on the company that is issuing the credit card.
Student credit cards have low credit limits because they are designed for expenses like books, stationery and other expenses a student is expected to encounter on a daily basis. In addition, most student credit cards also have high APR s (Annual Percentage Rates or interest rates), making them unsuitable for purchasing expensive items. From a student’s point of view, apart from being a source of much needed cash, student credit cards also offer features like discounts at stationery stores and book stores. This allows students to put their student credit card to good use while saving money on necessary purchases.
Student credit cards also offer specialized reward point programmes. For example, some credit cards give card holders the opportunity to earn reward points that can be redeemed for discounts on travel expenses and fuel charges; students that travel frequently benefit greatly from such reward point programmes. In addition, most student credit cards also offer 0% APR for a limited period of time (as an introductory offer), students can thus use credit cards for making purchases while they settle down, without having to worry about high interest rates.
Almost all major credit card companies offer student credit cards, and student credit cards can be further categorized based on the discounts they offer. For example, some student credit cards offer fuel discounts, while others offer discounts on stationery expenses. The biggest advantage of student credit cards is that students build up a credit history by the time they graduate and are eligible for a variety of credit cards after graduation. Students can also upgrade their existing student credit card into a full fledged credit card. Student credit cards offer ready cash, discounts and specialized reward point programs that are beneficial to students. In a nutshell, a responsible card holder stands to gain a lot from a student credit card.
Tips for choosing a student credit card
The first step in choosing a student credit card is to understand the various charges and costs involved. Most student credit cards are available at zero annual fees; make sure the card you are being offered is not charging any annual fees. In addition, it is important to comprehend the various transaction charges involved, take time to understand charges like APR. Look for a student credit card that meets your individual requirements. For example, if you are planning on driving to college everyday look for a student credit that gives you fuel discounts. In essence, look for a student credit card that is a blend of features, has low operation costs and suits your individual requirements the best.
To know more about student credit cards and for student credit card offers visit www.creditcardsofferz.com
About the Author
James Millner is the author of this article on Student Credit Cards- Take One To College.
Find more information about Student Credit Cardshere.
Related to: best credit cards , bad credit , find credit cards , compare credit cards , credit , creditcards
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