
The Discover it Student Cash Back card is your perfect partner for navigating student life, offering an incredible Cashback Match feature that doubles all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year – automatically!
With no annual fee, 5% cash back in rotating categories you activate each quarter, and valuable security features, this card empowers you to learn financial responsibility and get rewarded for it.
Benefits: Your Smart Start to Financial Success
The Discover it Student Cash Back card is packed with features specifically designed to benefit students, making it a standout choice for those new to credit or looking to maximize rewards.
- Earn 5% Cash Back in Rotating Categories: This is a super rewarding feature! Every quarter, you can earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places like Amazon.com, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and when you pay with PayPal, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
- Unlimited 1% Cash Back on All Other Purchases: Don’t worry about non-bonus categories! You’ll automatically earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases you make with your card, ensuring every single swipe or tap is earning you rewards.
- Unlimited Cashback Match – Only from Discover: This is an unbeatable first-year bonus! Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. There’s no limit to how much they’ll match.
- $0 Annual Fee: Build your credit and earn rewards without any yearly cost! This card has no annual fee, which is perfect for students managing a budget.
- 0% Intro APR on Purchases: Get some breathing room for your initial expenses. This card often comes with a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 6 months from the date of account opening.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: This is a fantastic perk for international students or those who plan to study abroad or travel. You can use your card for purchases outside the U.S. without incurring any foreign transaction fees, saving you money on every international purchase.
- Helps Build Your Credit History: This card is designed to help you establish or build your credit. Discover reports your payment activity to the major credit bureaus.
- Free FICO Credit Score Access: Stay informed about your credit journey! You get free access to your FICO Credit Score online and on your monthly statements, allowing you to track your progress and understand the factors affecting your score.

Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria (U.S. Students)
The Discover it Student Cash Back card is designed for U.S. students, including those who may be new to credit.
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- U.S. Residency: You must have a U.S. physical address.
- Social Security Number (SSN): You typically need a valid U.S. Social Security Number to apply. While Discover has some programs for international students, their general online applications for student cards usually require an SSN. International students without an SSN may need to explore specific Discover programs or other issuers that accept ITINs.
- Student Status: You must be enrolled in a 2-year or 4-year U.S.-based college or university. You’ll usually need to provide your school information and expected graduation date.
- No Credit Score Required (for some): This card is specifically designed for students who may have limited or no credit history. Approval is based on various factors.
How to Apply: The Application Process
Applying for the Discover it Student Cash Back card is typically done online.
- Visit the Discover Website: Go to the official Discover website and navigate to the student credit cards section.
- Select the Card: Choose the “Discover it Student Cash Back” card.
- Review Card Details: Carefully read the card’s features, the cash back program (including how to activate 5% categories), the introductory APR offer, and other terms and conditions.
- Click “Apply Now”: Start the secure online application form.
- Provide Your Information: Fill out the form with your personal details, including your full name, U.S. address, date of birth, SSN, and information about your school enrollment, as well as your income (if any) and monthly housing payment.
- Review and Submit: Double-check all your information for accuracy before submitting the application.
- Await a Decision: Discover often provides an instant decision online. If not, they will notify you of their decision via mail or email within a few business days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How do I activate the 5% cash back categories?
You need to log in to your Discover account online or through the mobile app each quarter to activate the new 5% categories. Discover will also send reminders. - What happens if I forget to activate the 5% categories?
If you don’t activate, purchases in those categories will only earn the standard 1% cash back. - Is the Cashback Match really unlimited?
Yes! Discover will match all the cash back you earn in your first year, with no cap. - What is the spending cap for the 5% cash back categories?
You earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in the activated bonus categories each quarter. After that, you earn 1%.