Qualifying for a credit card
If you are at least 18 years old, or 21 and have a regular source of income or savings, you’re on your way to qualifying for a credit card. You will still have to demonstrate that you are a good Customer worthy of a credit card. The proof is in your credit history, which lists the amount of credit you have received and how well you have paid it back.
If you are a full-time student, make sure to include that information on your credit application. Creditors often assign full-time students lower initial credit lines to start their credit files. As you advance through college and graduate school, you can always request increases to your credit line. Credit card companies are looking for students so you have a great chance of getting approved for a student card.
Before you submit a credit application, get a copy of your credit history to make sure it’s correct. Contact a credit bureau listed in the Yellow Pages under “credit rating and reporting.” To order a copy of your credit report, contact Equifax, Experian, or Trans Union. You can get your first credit report each year for free.