Most international students find it difficult to get a credit card in the U.S. because they have not established a credit history and because they are not U.S. residents. For newly arrived students, you may want to try using a "secured credit card". These cards offer some of the conveniences of a credit card, except that you secure your credit card with a deposit that becomes your credit line. The best part is that your secured card is reported as a regular credit card on your credit report. Check with your bank on the secured credit card.

Because getting a major credit card is very difficult, international students should take every opportunity to establish a good credit history. For international students who have been here a little longer, obtaining credit cards becomes a little easier once they have established some sort of credit history.

• iStudentCity highly recommend American Express:
  Student credit cards have a little easier approval process than regular credit cards. iStudentCity members have been keeping good records, and American Express has been generous to issue credit cards to our members.

  Apply this card today!

  American Express Blue for Students According to our members and research, many international students receive their first credit cards from American Express. Its Student Credit Card offers: no annual fees, special airfare discounts, and two hours of free long distance calls.

  Things to know when applying for a credit card 1. Do not apply too many cards at once. Submit just one or two credit card applications, especially the cards designed for students with lower credit lines. You have better chance to get approved. If you apply for too many cards and got rejections, those records will influence other financial institutes not issue you a credit card. 2. Apply Online - Submitting your credit card application on a secured site at the financial institute is the best way to apply. The data directly goes to the financial institute. You do not want any 3rd party to obtain your application with your social security number and birth date information. Keep that info secured to prevent from potential identity theft.

  If you would like more information about credit cards, try the following links:

  • Why Should I Care About Good Credit?
  • How Do I Start Building My Credit?
  • Credit Reports and Credit Fraud
  • What do I do if I'm in Severe Debt?
  • What's the Difference Between Credit and Debit Cards?