Looking to build your credit score while enjoying cashbacks and rewards? HereтАЩs a handpicked list of the best beginner-friendly and student credit cards in India for 2025.
ЁЯУМ Why Students and Beginners Should Use Credit Cards
Credit cards can be a smart tool if used wisely. For students and first-time users, credit cards help:
- Build a credit score from a young age
- Get access to emergency funds
- Learn financial discipline
- Enjoy cashback, discounts, and offers
But not all credit cards are beginner-friendly. Here are some that are easy to get and loaded with perks.
ЁЯПЖ Top 5 Credit Cards for Students and Beginners in India (2025)
1. SBI Student Plus Advantage Card
- Annual Fee: тВ╣500 (reversed on тВ╣35,000 annual spend)
- Benefits:
- 10x reward points on departmental stores & groceries
- Convert purchases into EMIs
- Fuel surcharge waiver
- Eligibility: Education loan from SBI or fixed deposit collateral
ЁЯФЧ Apply Here via SBI
2. Axis Bank ACE Credit Card
- Annual Fee: тВ╣499 (waived on тВ╣10,000/month spend)
- Benefits:
- 5% cashback on Google Pay utility payments
- 4% cashback on Swiggy, Zomato, Ola
- 2% on all other spends
- Eligibility: Salaried or student with co-signer or FD
ЁЯФЧ Apply via Axis Bank
3. ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Card
- Annual Fee: тВ╣0
- Benefits:
- Lifetime free card
- Payback rewards on every transaction
- Fuel surcharge waiver
- Eligibility: Income proof or fixed deposit
4. HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card
- Annual Fee: тВ╣500 (waived on тВ╣50,000 annual spend)
- Benefits:
- 10x reward points on Amazon, Flipkart
- 2x points on online spends
- Fuel benefits & contactless features
- Eligibility: Income proof or fixed deposit
ЁЯФЧ Apply on HDFC Bank
5. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
- Annual Fee: тВ╣0
- Benefits:
- No income proof needed
- Easy approval against тВ╣15,000 FD
- 1 reward point per тВ╣100 spent
- Eligibility: Open Kotak 811 savings + FD account
ЁЯФЧ Get via Kotak
ЁЯУК Quick Comparison Table
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Best For | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBI Student Plus | тВ╣500 | EMI, rewards | Student + SBI Loan |
| Axis ACE | тВ╣499 | Cashback | Co-applicant or FD |
| ICICI Platinum | тВ╣0 | Beginners | FD or low income |
| HDFC MoneyBack+ | тВ╣500 | Online Shopping | Salaried or FD |
| Kotak 811 | тВ╣0 | FD-backed approval | Kotak FD тВ╣15K+ |
ЁЯз╛ How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Choose the card that suits your needs.
- Go to the bankтАЩs official site.
- Submit KYC documents (PAN, Aadhaar, address proof).
- Upload proof of income or fixed deposit (if required).
- Wait 3тАУ7 days for approval.
ЁЯТб Pro Tip: If you donтАЩt have income, use FD-backed cards тАФ they're easy to get!
ЁЯза Credit Score Tips for First-Time Users
- Always pay on time (set auto-debit)
- DonтАЩt exceed 30% of your credit limit
- DonтАЩt apply for too many cards at once
- Use the card every month for small expenses
тЭУFAQs
Q1. Can I get a credit card without income proof?
- Yes. You can get secured credit cards against fixed deposits (e.g., Kotak 811, SBI FD cards).
Q2. Is there any credit card specially for students?
- Yes. SBI Student Plus Advantage Card is designed for students with an SBI loan or FD.
Q3. Can I use a credit card to improve my credit score?
- Absolutely. Using your card responsibly builds your CIBIL score over time.
ЁЯТ░ Final Thoughts
Getting a credit card as a student or beginner in 2025 is easier than ever. Choose wisely based on your needs тАФ cashback, rewards, or easy approval. And remember: a credit card is a financial tool, not free money.
ЁЯСЙ Apply today and take your first step toward financial independence!