For many students, getting a credit card feels like the first big step into financial independence. But the reality is that student credit cards are not always easy to find — especially in regions like the UAE and the Middle East, where banks tend to set income requirements and prefer salaried applicants.
So, do student credit cards actually exist? And if not, what other options do young people have to build credit and handle everyday expenses? Let’s break it down.
Do student credit cards exist?
In countries like the United States, UK, and Canada, banks often provide student-specific credit cards. These cards usually come with:
- Lower credit limits
- No annual fees
- Simple rewards (like cashback on groceries or transport)
- Easier approval with limited credit history
However, in the UAE and many international markets, true “student credit cards” are rare. Most banks require:
- A minimum salary (commonly AED 5,000 or more per month)
- Proof of employment or salary transfer
- A strong credit history
That means many students won’t qualify for a standard credit card until after graduation or once they start working.
Why students struggle to get credit cards
- No regular income – Banks see students as higher risk if they don’t have salaries.
- Limited credit history – Without past borrowing, it’s harder to assess repayment behavior.
- Higher default risk – Some lenders fear students may overspend without the ability to repay.
Alternatives to student credit cards
Even if you can’t get a student-specific card, there are other ways to access credit, manage money, and build your financial profile.
1. Supplementary (Add-on) credit cards
- Many banks allow parents or guardians to add students as supplementary cardholders on their accounts.
- Benefits: You can use a credit card under the parent’s limit while starting to build credit history.
- Risk: Spending affects the primary cardholder, so responsible use is key.
2. Prepaid cards
- Works like a debit card but can be loaded with a fixed balance.
- Benefits: Safe, no risk of debt, useful for online purchases.
- Limitation: Does not build credit history.
3. Secured credit cards
- You provide a deposit as collateral (e.g., AED 3,000–5,000).
- The bank gives you a credit limit against that deposit.
- Good for building credit without income requirements.
4. Debit cards with student accounts
- Many UAE banks offer student bank accounts with debit cards for everyday use.
- While they don’t build credit, they help you learn budgeting and track expenses.
5. Small personal loans (Cautiously)
- Some banks offer micro personal loans if students have a part-time job or guarantor.
- This should only be considered if absolutely necessary, since loans carry higher costs than cards.
Tips for students who want a credit card
Even if you can’t qualify for a student card right away, you can prepare:
- Build income stability: Even part-time jobs can help establish credibility with banks.
- Keep a clean record: Pay all bills (phone, utilities, tuition installments) on time.
- Start with prepaid or secured options: They’re safer stepping stones toward traditional credit.
- Ask about student banking packages: Some banks bundle debit cards, discounts, and money management tools.
- Learn credit basics early: Understand interest rates, fees, and the dangers of overspending.
Example: how a secured credit card works for students
Imagine you’re a student with no income but some savings. You deposit AED 4,000 with your bank. The bank then issues you a secured credit card with a limit of AED 3,500.
- You use it for groceries and online shopping.
- You repay on time every month.
- Within a year, you’ve built a positive credit record.
This makes it easier to transition to a normal credit card once you start working.
The pros and cons of student credit cards and alternatives
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| Student Credit Card | Builds credit early, low limits, student perks | Rare outside US/UK/Canada |
| Supplementary Card | Easy access, builds history | Dependent on parent’s account |
| Prepaid Card | No debt risk, good for budgeting | No credit history built |
| Secured Card | Builds credit, accessible | Requires deposit |
| Student Account with Debit Card | Teaches money management | No credit-building |
| Personal Loan (small) | Access to funds | High interest, risky |
The bottom line
In many regions, especially the UAE, student credit cards don’t officially exist. But that doesn’t mean students are without options. By starting with supplementary, prepaid, or secured cards, you can still learn to manage money responsibly and begin building a financial foundation.
The key is to use these tools wisely: pay on time, avoid overspending, and treat early financial decisions as the first step toward long-term credit health. By the time you graduate, you’ll not only be ready for a real credit card — you’ll be ready to use it smartly.