Discover it Student Cash Back: Best Redemption Strategies
The Discover it Student Cash Back from Discover is one of the most competitive credit cards in the student credit cards category. With a rating of 8/10, it offers no annual fee and impressive rewards including 5% rotating categories up to $1,500/quarter.
In this comprehensive review, we break down everything you need to know about the Discover it Student Cash Back: rewards structure, fees, APR, welcome bonus, and how it compares to competitors. Whether you are looking for your first rewards card or adding to your wallet, this guide covers it all.
Discover it Student Cash Back Overview
The Discover it Student Cash Back is issued by Discover and is designed for consumers with Limited/No Credit. It carries a rating of 8/10 from our experts. For those with good to excellent credit, this card can be a valuable addition to your wallet.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuer | Discover |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Intro APR | 0% for 6 months |
| Regular APR | 17.24% - 26.24% Variable |
| Rewards | 5% rotating categories up to $1,500/quarter |
| Welcome Bonus | $20 statement credit each year GPA >3.0 |
| Credit Score | Limited/No Credit |
| Foreign Tx Fee | 3% |
Rewards & Benefits Breakdown
The Discover it Student Cash Back earns 5% rotating categories up to $1,500/quarter. Here is the detailed breakdown of earning rates:
| Category | Reward Rate |
|---|---|
| All Purchases | 5% rotating categories up to $1,500/quarter |
| Welcome Bonus | $20 statement credit each year GPA >3.0 |
| Intro APR | 0% for 6 months |
| Credit Score | Limited/No Credit |
Since this card has no annual fee, you can keep it forever without cost. Use it for travel to maximize value.
Fees & APR Analysis
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Purchase APR | 17.24% - 26.24% Variable |
| Balance Transfer APR | 0% for 6 months then 17.24% - 26.24% Variable |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
Discover it Student Cash Back vs Competitors
See how Discover it Student Cash Back stacks up against similar cards.
| Card | Fee | Rewards | Bonus | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capital One Quicksilver Student | $0 | 1.5% unlimited | N/A | 7/10 |
| Capital One Savor Student | $0 | 3% dining/entertainment, 1% else | N/A | 7/10 |
| Bank of America Customized Cash Student | $0 | 3% category choice, 2% grocery, 1% else | $100 after $500 in first 90 days | 7/10 |
| Chase Freedom Student | $0 | 1% unlimited | $50 after first purchase, $20/year go... | 7/10 |
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Competitive rewards rate: 5% rotating categories up to $1,500/quarter
- Welcome bonus: $20 statement credit each year GPA >3.0
- No annual fee
- Generous intro APR: 0% for 6 months
- Issued by reputable Discover
❌ Cons
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
The Discover it Student Cash Back is best for consumers who want a simple, no-fee card with solid rewards. If you have Limited/No Credit credit and spend $644/month on average, this card could earn you significant value.
How to Apply for Discover it Student Cash Back
Applying for the Discover it Student Cash Back is straightforward. Here is the step-by-step process:
- 1
Check Your Credit Score
Before applying, check your credit score. You need Limited/No Credit for the best approval odds.
- 2
Compare Your Options
Compare the Discover it Student Cash Back with similar cards from other issuers to ensure it is the right fit.
- 3
Gather Required Information
You will need your Social Security number, income information, and address to apply.
- 4
Complete the Online Application
Visit Discover.com or the Discover mobile app. The application takes about 5-10 minutes.
- 5
Await Approval Decision
Most applicants receive an instant decision. If approved, your card will arrive in 7-10 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
You need Limited/No Credit credit to be approved for the Discover it Student Cash Back. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on your overall credit profile.
Yes, with no annual fee, this card is worth keeping in your wallet indefinitely. Plus, the welcome bonus alone covers the first year's value.
The purchase APR is 17.24% - 26.24% Variable. There is an introductory APR of 0% for 6 months.
Yes, there is a 3% foreign transaction fee.
Rewards can be redeemed through your Discover online account. Options typically include statement credits, gift cards, travel bookings, and direct deposits.
Conclusion
The Discover it Student Cash Back is a solid choice in the student credit cards category. With no annual fee and competitive rewards, it offers good value for the right consumer.
We recommend this card for anyone with Limited/No Credit credit looking for cash back on their everyday spending. Compare it with other cards in our list to find the best fit for your wallet.
The Discover it Student Cash Back earns 5% rotating categories up to $1,500/quarter. With a rating of 8/10, it is one of the better options in the student credit cards space. Recommended for consumers with Limited/No Credit credit.