Credit Card - Should Student Apply For One?

Anyone who has ever been to a retail or department store knows how easy it is to apply for a credit card. Sales people offer the 10% off the purchase price to lure customers into applying. Credit card companies want you to save your cash and use their MasterCard or Visa credit cards. It is a buy now and pay later world. For those who have recently turned eighteen, this can seem like a tremendous power, especially if cash is tight due to school.

Instant approval credit cards may be a godsend when you find yourself in desperate need of school supplies or in need of the basic essentials. However, far too often the ability to easily apply and get one can lead to massive financial problems. Student credit card debt is out of control. Students are inundated with bank credit cards, MasterCard or Visa credit card offers and many do not consider the ramifications of how easy it is to abuse their use.

No one doubts that college is expensive. Tuition, room, board and associated fees can wipe out savings very quickly. You, as a student, may have such an immense class schedule that makes working part time impossible. This is especially difficult if you are involved in school activities, such as sports or academic organizations. Most parents cannot afford to pay for all the extra expenses a student incurs, not to mention if there are off campus expenses and luxuries wanted.

Don't Fall Into Credit Card Debt

It is important to remember that when you apply for a credit card and have received it, you have agreed to the lender's terms. Only use the line of credit as an emergency source of funds should you find yourself in need. You do not want to find yourself with maxed out cards and no way to meet the monthly minimum payments. Pay attention to the fine print and the interest rates.

Apply for a credit card and use it when you absolutely must. Do not continuously apply for those college student credit cards just because you can save 10% off your purchase. Eventually, you will have to pay back the balance and you may not have the funds available should a real emergency happen. Try to remember that going out with your friends for a night on the town does not qualify as an emergency!

Be Financial Responsible with Your Credit Card

On the other hand, while you want to have a good credit rating, each credit card you apply for goes against your credit score and can begin lowering it dramatically. There is a delicate balance between improving your rating and seriously hurting your credit score. Be smart, build credit ratings, use your credit wisely and you will learn how to be financially responsible.