| Overview: Compare student and regular credit cards based on eligibility, features, and benefits. Learn which card type suits your income, spending habits, and financial goals. Discover key differences in credit limits, fees, and rewards to make an informed decision. |
Getting Your First Credit Card: Student vs Regular Options
According to RBI data, India’s credit card base grew by 23% in 2023, with young adults driving much of this growth. For first-time users, choosing between a student credit card vs regular options can feel overwhelming. The decision impacts your credit-building journey and financial habits for years to come.
This guide breaks down the key differences in credit card options, helping you understand which card type aligns with your current situation and future goals.
Understanding Student Credit Cards in India
Student credit cards are designed specifically for college students and young adults with limited or no credit history. These cards focus on helping users establish responsible credit habits rather than offering premium rewards.
Key Features of Student Cards
Student credit cards typically offer:
- Lower credit limits: Usually ₹10,000 to ₹50,000
- Relaxed eligibility: No income proof required, often just college ID
- Fee waivers: Many waive annual fees for the first year
- Educational resources: Credit score monitoring and financial literacy tools
- Parental oversight: Some allow parents as co-signers for added security
Student card benefits in India include building credit history early, which becomes valuable when applying for loans or premium cards later. Banks view students as long-term customers, making approval easier despite limited income.
Regular Credit Cards: Features and Benefits
Regular credit cards cater to working professionals with steady income and established credit profiles. These cards emphasise rewards, cash back, and lifestyle benefits.
What Regular Cards Offer
- Higher credit limits: ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh or more
- Reward programmes: Points on purchases, cash back, travel benefits
- Premium perks: Lounge access, insurance coverage, dining discounts
- Income requirements: Minimum monthly salary of ₹15,000-₹25,000
- Varied options: Travel, shopping, fuel, or cash back-focused cards
The Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card, powered by Airtel Finance, offers competitive features for professionals seeking rewards on everyday spending, including cash back on UPI transactions and Airtel bill payments.
| Mistakes to Avoid: Overspending, missing payments, or picking a card without checking eligibility are common mistakes. Students should focus on credit-building benefits, and professionals on rewards aligned with their spending. |
Student Credit Card vs Regular: Making the Right Choice
Your choice depends on three main factors: income stability, spending patterns, and financial goals.
| Factor | Student Card | Regular Card |
| Income requirement | None or minimal | ₹15,000+ monthly |
| Credit limit | ₹10,000-₹50,000 | ₹50,000+ |
| Primary purpose | Build credit history | Rewards and convenience |
| Annual fees | Often waived | ₹500-₹5,000+ |
When to Choose Student Cards
Pick a student card if you’re:
- Currently studying with irregular income
- New to credit with no previous history
- Looking to build credit responsibly
- Concerned about overspending
When Regular Cards Make Sense
Choose regular cards if you have:
- Steady monthly income above ₹20,000
- Existing credit history
- Higher spending on categories like dining, shopping, or travel
- Need for premium features like lounge access
| Did You Know: Using a credit card responsibly can improve your credit score by 50-100 points within 6 months, according to CIBIL data on first-time credit users. |
Building Your Credit Future
Regardless of which card type you choose, success depends on responsible usage. Pay bills on time, keep utilisation below 30% of your credit limit, and avoid cash advances.
For students, starting with a basic card builds the foundation for future financial products. Working professionals can leverage regular cards for rewards while maintaining good credit habits.
Check your current credit score to understand which card category suits your profile. This free check helps determine eligibility and guides your application strategy, or consider applying for the Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card for rewards on everyday spending.
FAQs
1. Can students get credit cards without income proof in India?
Yes, many student credit cards require only a college ID and don’t need income verification. Some may require a parent as a co-signer.
2. What student card benefits does India offer compared to other countries?
Indian student cards focus on credit building with lower fees, educational tools, and partnerships with local merchants for student-friendly discounts.
3. How does student credit card approval differ from regular card approval?
Student cards have relaxed eligibility, focusing on educational status, while regular cards require income proof and sometimes existing credit history.
4. Can I upgrade from a student card to a regular credit card later?
Most banks allow automatic upgrades once you graduate and meet income requirements. Your credit history with the student card helps approval.
5. Do student credit cards affect credit scores differently than regular cards?
No, both card types impact credit scores equally. Timely payments and low utilisation improve scores regardless of card category.
