Best Student Credit Cards in Canada for 2025
Being a student in Canada often means managing a tight budget, building credit from scratch, and learning how to handle money responsibly. A student credit card can be your first step toward financial independence, and many Canadian banks now offer easy approval student cards with no annual fees.
In this updated guide, we list the best student credit cards in Canada for 2025, based on:
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Fees
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Rewards
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Approval difficulty
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Benefits
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Overall value for students
Whether you want cashback, travel rewards, or simple credit building, there is a card for you.
Top Student Credit Cards in Canada for 2025
1. BMO CashBack Mastercard for Students
Annual Fee: $0
Cashback:
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3% on groceries
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1% on recurring payments
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0.5% on all other purchases
Approval: Easy, great for beginners
Why It’s Great: Perfect for students with regular grocery spending. Simple, flexible, and high-value cashback.
2. Scotiabank SCENE+Visa Card for Students
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards: Earn SCENE+ points on every purchase
Bonus: More points for dining, entertainment, and travel
Why It’s Great: Best for students who enjoy movies, restaurants, and trips. SCENE+ points are flexible and easy to redeem.
3. CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card for Students
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards: Earn Aeroplan points on purchases
Welcome Bonus: Up to 10,000 Aeroplan points
Why It’s Great: Ideal for students who travel or plan to visit home during the year. Aeroplan is one of Canada’s top travel programs.
4. RBC Student Visa Credit Card
Annual Fee: $0
Benefits: Purchase protection, extended warranty, no minimum income
Extra Perks: Discounts and cashback through RBC Offers
Why It’s Great: Very beginner-friendly and perfect for everyday purchases with added insurance protection.
5. Desjardins Student Credit Card
Annual Fee: $0
Benefits: Mobile device insurance, travel insurance
Approval: Fast, simple online approval
Why It’s Great: Rare for a student card to include insurance benefits. Great for students who want solid protection.
Why Students Should Get a Credit Card
Using a student card responsibly helps you:
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Build your credit score from zero
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Qualify later for apartments, car loans, or premium cards
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Earn rewards or cashback
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Manage emergencies
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Learn budgeting and financial discipline
A student credit card is an investment in your financial future.
Tips to Avoid Credit Card Mistakes
To use your card wisely:
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Never spend more than you can afford
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Always pay your balance on time
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Keep your credit usage below 30%
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Avoid cash advances — very high interest
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Check your monthly statements
Good habits now = strong credit later.
How to Get Approved Easily
If you’re new to credit, these steps help:
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Apply for student-specific cards
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Use your student status as income
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Have proof of enrollment
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Apply online during weekday business hours
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If denied, consider a secured credit card
Secured cards guarantee approval and help you build credit safely.
Conclusion
The best student credit cards in Canada for 2025 offer no fees, easy approval, and valuable rewards. Whether you spend more on groceries, entertainment, or travel, there’s a perfect card for every student.
Start with one card, use it responsibly, and build a strong financial foundation that will benefit you for years.