The best credit cards for college students

Annual fee: $0

Purchase APR: 0% APR for six months. After that, variable rate from 12.99% to 21.99%.

Why we like it: This card offers a new, unique rewards program for students who get good grades: If your GPA is 3.0 or higher at the end of the year, you'll get $20 cash back annually for up to five years. Additionally, you'll get 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, and 1% back on all other purchases.

This is also a great option for first time credit card users without full-time income, as Discover allows co-signers if you don't qualify for the card on your own.

Apply here.

Annual fee: $0

Purchase APR: 0% APR for 12 months. After that, variable rate from 14.99% to 22.99%.

Why we like it: With its travel rewards and no foreign transaction fees, this is a great option for international students traveling to and from the US, or for students planning on studying abroad.

You will earn 1.5 rewards points for every $1 you spend. Points don't expire and are redeemable for a statement credit to pay for travel-related costs, such as flights, hotels, cruises, rental cars, and baggage fees.

Apply here.

Annual fee: $0

Purchase APR: 0% APR for 12 months on purchases. After that, variable rate from 11.15% to 21.15%.

Why we like it: The Wells Fargo cash back card will give you 1% back on all purchases. You can redeem your rewards in $25 increments, and you have the option of depositing them straight to your savings or checking account, applying them as credit to qualifying products, or redeeming the rewards for travel.

Also, for your first six months as a cardmember, you'll get extra rewards: 3% back on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases.

Apply here.

Annual fee: $0

Purchase APR: 19.8%.

Why we like it: This card rewards you for punctual payments: If you make your first five payments on time, you'll get an increased credit line, plus your rewards rate will go up from 1% cash back on every purchase to 1.25% back.

Apply here.