There are credit cards specifically designed for students over the age of 18. American college students can begin building their credit history with student credit cards. It is also useful for everyday expenses such as utilities and groceries, apart from using it for larger purchases, rent and mortgage loans. Most student credit cards offer rewards systems for students who pay their bills in a timely manner or who score good grades. There are programs that offer points for every dollar spent or a 0% introductory APR, which is the annual percentage rate, on purchases.

DailyMarkets.com has recommended five student credit cards in particular:

Citi Dividend Platinum Select Car for College Students

• Earn 5% cash back during the first 6 months on purchases
• Earn 2% cash back in rotating categories
• Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
• 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 7 months

Citi Forward Card for College Students

• Earn 5 points or every dollar spent on book stores, restaurants, video rental stores, movie theaters & record stores
• Earn 1 point for every other dollar they spend on purchases
• Receive 100 points every month when staying within credit limit and paying bills on time
• Earn 1,000 points for signing up for paperless statements during the first 3 months
• Zero percent intro APR on purchases for the first 7 months

Discover Student Card

• Cash back card – 5% cash back on rotating categories that change every 3 months
• Earn 0.25% cash back on all purchases for the first $3,000 spent
• 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 9 months
• Hundreds of designs available

Discover Student Open Road Card

• Earn 2% cash back on the first $250 spent monthly at restaurants and gas stations
• Earn 1% cash back for every other dollar spent after reaching $3,000 in purchases
• Receive up to 20% cash back bonus when making purchases at Discover’s online mall
• 0% intro APR on purchase during the first 9 months

Journey Student Rewards from Capital One

• Capital One student rewards card
• Earn 1% cash back on all purchases
• Get 25% cash back rewards on the cash back earned each month as long as bills are paid on time
• No balance transfer fee
• Cash back does not expire
• No limits on earnings

Students should keep in mind that most student credit cards offer a 0% introductory APR. It is almost expected. However, the introductory rate will expire after a number of months and the student will have a high interest rate starting at around 12.99% or higher. Having a student credit card gives young consumers access to a line of credit and allows them to earn rewards or cash back. He or she can start building up their credit. Compare our list of some of “the best student credit cards” and make the wisest choice for your financial needs.