Getting your first credit card in India doesn’t require a salary. In 2025, banks offer student-friendly cards linked to FDs, savings accounts, or co-applicants. These cards come with low limits but give cashback, rewards, and a head start on building your credit score.
India Snapshot
- Eligibility: Age 18+, valid Aadhaar & PAN, proof of college ID/enrollment.
- Income: Not mandatory if backed by FD or co-applicant.
- Credit Limit: Typically ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 (FD-based up to 90% of FD value).
- Payments: UPI (RuPay), NetBanking, auto-debit.
- GST Invoice: Available on spends, not on annual fee (many cards lifetime free).
Apply online for student-friendly credit cards:
Compare Cards on Paisabazaar
Find Offers on BankBazaar
Best Student Credit Cards in India (2025)
1. SBI Student Plus Advantage Card
- Lifetime free (linked to SBI FD/education loan).
- 1 Reward Point per ₹100 spent, usable against bills.
- Fuel surcharge waiver.
Best for: Students with SBI education loan/FD.
2. ICICI Bank Student Forex Card
- Preloaded with INR/USD/GBP for overseas students.
- Discounts on international shopping & travel.
- 24×7 emergency card replacement.
Best for: Students studying abroad.
3. HDFC Multicurrency ForexPlus Card
- Supports 22 currencies.
- Free ATM withdrawals abroad.
- Insurance cover for lost/stolen card.
Best for: International students & travelers.
4. IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card
- Lifetime free, no FD required.
- 1% cashback on all spends.
- Low interest rates, UPI-enabled.
Best for: Domestic students seeking first card.
5. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
- Secured against 811 FD account.
- 1 Reward Point per ₹100 spent.
- Lifetime free with minimal FD.
Best for: First-time users without salary.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Builds credit score early.
- No salary proof needed (FD/co-applicant accepted).
- Many cards are lifetime free.
- Cashback, rewards, forex benefits.
Cons
- Low credit limit compared to salaried cards.
- Misuse can hurt credit score at young age.
- Forex cards carry cross-currency charges.
Quick Tips for Students
- Start with an FD-based or lifetime-free card.
- Keep credit utilization under 30%.
- Always pay on time—avoid interest.
- Use UPI-linked RuPay variants for easy payments.
- Use GST invoices for educational reimbursements where allowed.
Ready for your first card? Compare and apply online:
See Student Card Offers on Paisabazaar
Apply via BankBazaar
In 2025, Indian students don’t need a salary to get a credit card. With FD-backed, forex, and lifetime-free options, students can start building credit safely while enjoying rewards, cashback, and travel benefits. The key is to use responsibly—your credit history begins here.
