Student Credit Cards Guide
Key Benefits:
- No annual fees
- Lower minimum income requirements
- Student-specific benefits
- Build credit history
Compare Student Credit Cards
| Card | Interest Rate | Annual Fee | Interest Free | Min Income | Features | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ANZ Student Visa ANZ | 13.9% | $0 | 55 days | $12,000 |
| Learn More |
ASB Visa Light Student ASB | 12.95% | $0 | 55 days | $12,000 |
| Learn More |
BNZ Student Advantage BNZ | 13.95% | $0 | 44 days | $12,000 |
| Learn More |
Why Get a Student Credit Card?
Advantages
- Build credit history early
- Lower fees than standard cards
- Emergency funds access
- Learn financial responsibility
Considerations
- Lower credit limits
- Higher interest rates
- Requires income proof
- Careful management needed
Eligibility Requirements
What You Need
- Full-time student status
- 18 years or older
- NZ citizen/resident
- Part-time income (usually $12,000+)
- Valid student ID
Building Credit Responsibly
1. Pay on Time
Set up automatic payments to never miss a due date.
2. Stay Under Limit
Keep your balance below 30% of your credit limit.
3. Monitor Activity
Check your account regularly and track spending.
4. Avoid Cash Advances
Higher fees and interest rates apply to cash withdrawals.
Student Card Features
- No annual fees
- Lower minimum payments
- Student discounts
- Mobile payments
- Purchase protection
- Online banking tools
Managing Your First Credit Card
Create a Budget
Track your income and expenses to avoid overspending.
Understand Interest
Learn how interest is calculated and when it applies.
Use Interest-Free Days
Pay full balance within interest-free period to avoid charges.
Set Spending Limits
Create personal limits below your card's credit limit.
Common Questions
Do I need a job to get a student credit card?
Most banks require part-time income of at least $12,000 per year, though requirements vary.
What happens after I graduate?
You can continue using your student card or upgrade to a standard credit card with better benefits.
Can international students get credit cards?
Yes, but additional documentation and higher income requirements may apply.
Important Tips
- Never use credit card for daily expenses
- Create a realistic budget
- Build emergency savings
- Understand all fees and charges
- Check statements monthly