Why College Students Are Flocking to the Discover Student Card Right Now

Breaking down the facts behind Why College Students Are Flocking to the Discover Student Card Right Now—read on to discover what experts are saying.

Q1: What happens to the Discover it Student Cash Back account after graduation?

A1: The account automatically transitions into a standard Discover it Cash Back card upon graduation. The account history, accumulated rewards, line of credit, and account number remain intact. Cardholders retain their credit tenure, protecting their average age of accounts on credit bureau files.

Q2: Can international students qualify without an established Social Security Number (SSN)?

A2: Discover requires applicants to provide a valid Social Security Number. International students studying on F-1 visas who hold on-campus employment can acquire an SSN and apply. Applicants who only hold an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) will need to evaluate alternative issuers, such as Capital One or specialized fintech platforms.

Q3: Is a co-signer required to secure first time credit card approval?

A3: Discover does not permit or require co-signers on its credit accounts. Applicants are assessed based on their own eligibility, student status, and independent verifiable income or allowances, ensuring the debt obligation and credit-building benefits belong solely to the student.

Q4: Does the card assess penalty APR if a payment is missed?

A4: Discover does not charge a penalty APR. Missing a payment deadline will not cause your interest rate to spike to 29.99%. Additionally, the issuer waives the late fee for your first late payment, though late payments beyond thirty days still incur negative reporting to credit bureaus.