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The three most important points at a glance:
- Versatile payment options: Credit cards offer flexibility and security at home and abroad, especially when spending a semester abroad or travelling for longer periods.
- Secure and convenient: Credit cards are particularly useful in countries such as the USA or Scandinavia, which rely heavily on contactless payments.
- Attractive conditions: Many providers have special offers for students, often without a regular income or high fees.
Credit cards for students 2024 – What should I bear in mind?
Many students dream of being able to spend a semester abroad. The opportunity to deepen your subject-specific knowledge in another country while also getting to know a foreign language and the country in question in its most natural form is certainly a special experience.
However, depending on the country, this can also be associated with a few worries. For example, the everyday method of paying for food, hygiene products and other purchases. Changing cash can be expensive due to exchange fees
As most countries (e.g. Scandinavian countries and the USA) are increasingly switching to contactless payment, it is worth considering a credit card. A credit card can also be a great help in everyday life in Germany.
Discover with us below why it makes sense to have a credit card and what you should bear in mind!
Why a credit card is essential for students?
A credit card can be a real all-rounder in the everyday life of students - whether in Germany or during a stay abroad.
A credit card is the ideal solution for everyday payments, online purchases or even emergencies. Even large purchases are covered by the credit limit and can be paid for later.
A credit card offers these advantages in summary:
- Accepted worldwide: Whether in Europe, the USA or Asia - credit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are accepted as a means of payment almost everywhere.
- Carefree travelling: Travel expenses for flights, car hire, accommodation etc. can be easily paid for with a credit card, even a month later.
- Emergency cover: Whether for unexpected expenses or medical emergencies, you are always on the safe side with a credit card, as they have a credit limit that does not have to be paid until the following month.
- Convenient and secure: Not having to carry cash increases security – especially in unsafe regions.
- Keep an overview of expenditure: Thanks to the monthly statement, but also current expenses in the respective apps, you can keep an eye on your finances and avoid nasty surprises.
Credit cards for students without a regular income
Many students do not have a regular income or only have a part-time job. Fortunately, there are credit card providers that do not have high monthly income requirements. Providers usually offer the following benefits:
- Favourable terms: Many of these cards have a low annual fee or offer special discounts and bonus programmes for students.
- Limits: Although the credit limits on these cards are often lower, this also helps you to keep a better eye on your own costs.
- Flexible repayment options: Some providers offer flexible repayment options, so you can repay spending according to your means.
What makes the best credit card for students?
In order for students to find the right credit card for them, they should think about their own preferences and financial means.
One key factor to keep in mind is the fees. Many banks and providers offer special conditions for students, including fee-free credit cards or cards without a regular income.
Use our checklist to see whether your chosen provider is favorable and meets these criteria:
| Annual fee? | Withdrawal fees? | Foreign currency fees? | Bonus systems and cashback? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Many credit cards for students come with low costs or an additional bank account. | Fees may apply for payments abroad. Find out in advance how high these fees are. | Additional fees may also be incurred here, especially if you use ATMs abroad. | Some credit cards offer attractive bonus programms where you collect points for your spending or receive discounts from certain partners. |
| Make sure that the conditions remain favourable even after your studies. | Ideally, you should choose a credit card with no or only low foreign currency fees | So also consider the withdrawal fees before making your decision. | Also check whether your credit card offers these rewards. |
Credit cards for the semester abroad
For many students, a semester abroad is a highlight of their studies. But before you travel to another country, you should make sure that your credit card will work there without any problems. With Visa and Mastercards, you can travel with peace of mind, as they are accepted pretty much everywhere.
In the USA, in particular, credit cards are the preferred method of payment – even for everyday purchases such as groceries.
Also check whether you can contact your bank regularly. This is an advantage if there are issues with payments, or you want to block your card due to loss or theft.
Finally, it is also extremely useful if the card is also available virtually. Be it through your own app or Apple Pay or Google Pay. This minimizes the risk of theft and loss.
Find a credit card today!
A credit card can be a great convenience for students both at home and abroad. Whether for everyday payments, larger purchases or emergencies - the advantages are many and varied. A credit card is particularly indispensable for a semester abroad, as it offers a simple and secure payment option. Take the time to compare different credit card offers to find the best credit card for your needs - whether for everyday life in Germany or an adventure abroad.
Be confident that you are well equipped with the right credit card, no matter where your studies take you!
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