Discover Student Cash Back Credit Card – How to Apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 03/07/2025

Discover Student Cash Back Credit Card: 5% cashback and no annual fee.

The Discover Student Cash Back Credit Card is the perfect way for students to start building their credit while earning rewards on everyday purchases. 

With 5% cash back on rotating categories such as dining, gas, and online shopping, up to the quarterly maximum, and 1% on all other purchases, this card helps students earn while they spend.

Whether you’re grabbing lunch with friends, filling up your gas tank, or shopping online, you’ll be rewarded for your purchases.

This card also offers no annual fee, making it an affordable choice for students. Additionally, the cash back match feature is a standout benefit, as it doubles the rewards you earn during your first year, giving you even more value from your spending.

How does Discover Student Cash Back work?

The Discover Student Cash Back card works by offering five percent cashback on select spending categories. These categories rotate every three months, and cardholders must activate the cashback benefit to receive the bonus rewards on eligible purchases.

For all other purchases outside the rotating categories, cardholders earn a flat one percent cashback. This ensures that every purchase provides some level of reward, even if it is not within the selected quarterly category.

At the end of the first year, Discover applies the Cashback Match feature. Whatever cashback is earned during the first twelve months is doubled, providing a significant boost to the total rewards accumulated by new cardholders.

The card is designed for students with limited credit history. There is no credit score requirement, making it an excellent option for those applying for their first credit card while learning how to manage payments responsibly.

Main benefits for the Discover Student Cash Back

• Five percent cashback in select categories each quarter, allowing students to earn higher rewards on common spending areas like groceries, gas stations, and restaurants, depending on the current rotation for that three-month period.
• Cashback Match at the end of the first year, doubling the total cashback earned without any spending limit. This feature enhances the card’s overall value, making it one of the most rewarding student credit cards available.
• No annual fee, making the card an affordable option for students. Since no yearly cost is involved, all cashback earned goes directly to the cardholder without any deductions, providing a cost-effective way to earn rewards.

Cons for the Discover Student Cash Back

While the Discover Student Cash Back Credit Card offers great rewards, there are some drawbacks to consider. 

One of the main limitations is that the 5% cash back is limited to specific categories each quarter, and you must activate those categories to earn the higher rewards rate. If your spending doesn’t align with the rotating categories, you may not maximize your rewards.

The card also charges a high APR after the intro period ends, which means it’s important to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. 

Additionally, the 5% cash back is capped at a specific amount each quarter, so if you exceed that limit, you’ll earn the standard 1% cash back.

APR and Fees

The Discover Student Cash Back Credit Card offers 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 6 months. 

After that, the APR reverts to a variable rate between 14.99% and 25.99%, depending on your creditworthiness.

If you carry a balance beyond the intro period, the APR could be high, so it’s important to pay off your balance in full each month.

There is no annual fee, which makes the card an affordable option for students. However, the card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, so it’s not the best option for international travel.

How to Apply for the Discover Student Cash Back

Applying for the Discover Student Cash Back card is a simple process. Start by visiting the Discover website, navigating to the card’s application page, and selecting the option to begin the application process online.

The application requires basic personal details, including name, address, Social Security number, and estimated income. Since this is a student card, applicants without an extensive credit history may still qualify based on their current financial status.

Applicants will also be asked about their monthly expenses, including rent and other obligations. Providing accurate information ensures the application is processed smoothly, increasing the chances of approval without unnecessary delays.

Once submitted, Discover typically provides an instant decision. If approved, the card will be mailed within seven to ten business days. Upon arrival, cardholders can activate it online or through the Discover app and start using it immediately.

Who Should Apply for the Discover Student Cash Back?

This card is best suited for students who want to start earning rewards while learning responsible credit habits. The five percent cashback structure makes it appealing for those willing to activate bonus categories and track spending trends.

Students who plan to make regular purchases in essential categories such as groceries, gas, and dining will find the rewards program beneficial. The Cashback Match further increases its value during the first year of use.

However, if a student prefers a fixed cashback rate without changing categories, they may find another card more convenient. Additionally, those who frequently travel internationally should consider a backup card with wider acceptance.

By carefully evaluating spending habits and financial needs, students can determine if this card aligns with their lifestyle. If used correctly, it can be a powerful tool for financial growth and long-term credit-building.

Final Considerations

The Discover Student Cash Back card offers strong rewards and useful financial tools for students. With five percent rotating categories, Cashback Match, and no annual fee, it presents a compelling option for those starting their credit journey.

Managing the card effectively requires staying aware of category activations and spending limits. Students who actively track their purchases and maximize bonus rewards can benefit greatly from this credit card’s structure.

While the card has some limitations, such as limited international acceptance and spending caps, it remains one of the best student credit cards available. Responsible use can lead to better credit opportunities in the future.

If you are looking for a rewarding and accessible credit card designed for students, the Discover Student Cash Back card is a solid choice. It combines strong benefits with valuable financial management tools to support students’ financial independence.