Account
Open your account
before you fly out
And receive $20 sign-up bonus after making your first virtual or physical card payment*
Eligibility
If you are an international student moving to the U.S., you likely qualify.
To apply, you must have
A valid passport
Valid U.S. student visa
Top Benefits
Designed for your U.S. lifestyle
$20 sign-up bonus*
When you sign-up via Nomad you are eligible to receive a $20 sign-up bonus from Revolut after making your first virtual or physical card payment
No SSN Required
High-Yield Savings
Competitive Forex Fees
Instant Virtual Card
Early Direct Deposit
24/7 In-App Support
Additional Benefits
Financial services that help you skip stress, so you can focus on your career
One Account, 25+ Currencies
Revolut lets you hold, exchange, and spend money in multiple currencies without the hassle of opening separate accounts
USD
US Dollar
1,234.56
GBP
British Pound
567.89
EUR
Euro
890.12
INR
Indian Rupee
45,678.00
Manage Payments
Send and receive money in multiple currencies, with acceptance across US, UK, EU, LATAM and APAC
Trusted by 70 Million+
Users Globally
Virtual Cards
Student-friendly Experience
Your go to app for daily transactions
from groceries to rent Revolut
does it all
Easy International Transfers
Competitive forex rates that help you reduce your transaction costs
How It Works?
No SSN. No Branch Visit. Digital Onboarding.
Apply via Nomad
Install & Sign up
Verify Identity
Activate & Earn*
Ready to start your
credit journey early ?
Set up your Revolut account via Nomad Credit in minutes, no SSN required.
Trusted by Thousands of Students Like You
You’re in Good Company
As I was heading for MBA at Columbia, I got in touch with Nomad team regarding the financing. They were super helpful and always approachable. This involved sitting with me on calls as I fill forms, helping with US cosigner doubts, helping me process all the applications. I highly recommend them!!
I’m really grateful to Nomad team for all the help and support. From the very first step, they were always just a call away. Thanks to them, the whole process felt so much smoother and less stressful. I’d happily recommend them. They truly go above and beyond for the people they works with!
I got in touch with Anchal regarding financing options as I head for an MBA at Stanford. She helped me get to know about all the available options with utmost patience. In the end, I was able to get a highly competitive interest rate with her help, which turned out to be the best option available in the market!
Ganesh was my case manager at Nomad Credit. He helped me secure 2 student loans, 1 for each year of my MBA at UCLA Anderson. It is not always straight forward for international students to get student loans in the US, but Ganesh walked me through the whole process step by step, making it as stress free as possible. Highly recommended!
Nomad Team helped me get the best possible option for my financing needs. They made sure that I got the most updated and consistent information to make the right decision towards the most important aspect of my studies i.e. money management. They were always there to help me and have a great attitude towards helping others.
Working with your team was an incredibly smooth and reassuring experience. A special shoutout to Karan and Deepesh, who truly went above and beyond at every stage and making sure everything was on track despite tight timelines. I’m genuinely grateful to have had such a supportive team by my side, I couldn’t have done it without you!
Since, I was doing this for the first time, I had a lot of questions. The team very patiently answered all my queries and consistently supported me from filling-up my application to document verification until I had received my loan confirmation. Overall, I really appreciate Nomad’s help in navigating me through my loan application process.
Your unwavering support, particularly in navigating the challenge of securing a loan without collateral, has been truly remarkable. Special thanks to Shweta ma’am. Your service and commitment to helping students like me achieve their dreams have made a profound impact, and for that, I am deeply thankful.
I’m incredibly grateful to Poonam and the entire Nomad Team for their outstanding support throughout. Their guidance was clear, timely, and tailored to my specific needs. I highly recommend them to anyone pursuing international education. They’re knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely invested in your success.
Thanks Sulekha & Nomad Credit for assisting me throughout. You also helped me boost my confidence personally in the entire process. I am grateful, you were there to resolve my every doubt regarding visa interview questions and any query I had. At the end, thanks once again for helping me achieve F-1 visa for the USA.
Your exceptional guidance made my master’s application process smooth and stress-free. You were always available and willing to answer my queries with patience and clarity. I highly recommend Nomad to anyone seeking professional guidance for their higher education journey.
Ready to start your
credit journey early ?
Set up your Revolut account via Nomad Credit in minutes, no SSN required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Above the Revoult
Can I open an account without an SSN?
Is Revolut a US financial app?
Revolut is a global FinTech company — not a bank. Banking services are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. Revolut serves 65M+ personal customers across 140+ countries.
How do I convert INR to USD?
Open the Revolut app, tap 'Exchange,' select INR → USD, and confirm. You'll see the rate and applicable fees upfront. Exchange during weekday market hours for the most competitive rates with no fair usage fee (based on plan limits).
What cards do I get?
You'll receive a prepaid Visa or Mastercard. You can also create virtual and disposable cards in the app for secure online shopping. Fees may apply for additional cards.
Are there monthly fees?
The Standard Plan has no monthly plan fee. Premium and Metal plans offer enhanced features — plan fees and cancellation fees apply. See revolut.com/en-US/our-pricing-plans/ for details.
How does the savings account work?
Revolut offers a High Yield Account with up to 5.50% APY (variable), paid monthly, with no withdrawal fees and no minimum balance. The High Yield Account is limited to $10,000 in user-initiated deposits. Hit the $10k maximum? Keep growing your money with up to 3.75% APY (variable) in a standard Savings account.
The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is a variable rate and may change at any time. APYs are accurate as of MM/DD/YYYY. APYs vary by plan and account type. The rates are as follows:
- Standard Plan: 4.00% APY for balances in a High Yield Account; 3.25% APY for balances in other Savings Accounts.
- Premium Plan: 4.50% APY for balances in a High Yield Account; 3.35% APY for balances in other Savings Accounts..
- Metal Plan: 5.50% APY for balances in a High Yield Account; 3.75% APY for balances in other Savings Accounts.
Revolut is not a bank. Plan fees and cancellation fees apply for Premium and Metal plans. This is a variable rate account and the APY may change without notice. T&Cs apply. No min balance to open; $0.01 min. to earn APY. Only 1 High Yield Account is permitted and is limited to $10,000 USD in user initiated deposits. The max combined balance of all Savings Accounts is $250,000 per user. Savings Account services provided by Cross River Bank, Member FDIC, insured up to $250,000.
Can I send money back home to India?
Yes. You can send money to 140+ countries including India via bank transfer, card transfer, or peer-to-peer to other Revolut users. Rates and fees are shown upfront before you confirm.
More about International Banking
And suddenly, getting a credit card feels harder than expected – especially without a Social Security Number or any credit history.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Thousands of international students on F-1 and J-1 visas face the same challenge every year.
The good news? You can still get approved – even without an SSN. And it’s much easier once you know your options.
Whether you’re looking for a student credit card in the USA, trying to understand how to get a credit card in the USA as a student, or searching for the best credit card for international students in the USA without an SSN, this guide walks you through everything step by step.
Credit Cards for International Students Without SSN
One of the first questions most international students ask is: “Can I get a credit card without an SSN?”
Yes – but not every bank makes it obvious.
An international student credit card without an SSN is possible because some lenders accept:
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
- Passport and visa documents
Some fintech companies even offer credit cards for international students in the USA, designed specifically for students with:
- No SSN
- No US credit history
- That’s exactly where most F-1 students start.
Credit Cards for International Students With SSN
If you already have a Social Security Number, things get easier.
You can apply for traditional student credit cards from major US banks, which usually offer:
- Better rewards.
- No security deposit.
- Simple approval process.
These cards are ideal if you’re starting with no credit history, helping you build your US credit score from day one.
What is an SSN and Why Does it Matter?
A Social Security Number is a 9-digit number issued by the US government primarily to citizens and permanent residents and it is used by banks to check your credit history.
Without it, you’re essentially invisible to the traditional credit system, which is why many students get rejected.
Your alternatives to an SSN:
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number): Issued by the IRS, usable for credit applications at select lenders.
- Passport + visa documentation: Accepted by some international-student-focused lenders.
- Secured credit cards: Require a refundable deposit instead of a credit check.
Important: You can legally apply for credit cards in the USA. The challenge is finding the right lender, not legality.
Best Student Credit Cards in the USA
| Card Type | SSN Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Student Card (e.g., Discover it® Student) | Yes | Students with SSN, no credit history |
| Secured Credit Card | Sometimes | Building credit from zero |
| ITIN-Based / Fintech Card | No | F-1/J-1 students without SSN |
| Authorized User on Family Card | No | Students with a trusted co-signer |
- Traditional Student Credit Cards: Designed for people with no credit history, making them the ideal beginner credit card for students USA. Offered by several lenders, usually comes with cash-back rewards and no annual fee.
- Secured Credit Cards: Deposit $200-$500 upfront as your credit limit. The easiest no SSN student credit card USA option, use it normally and start building your US credit score.
- ITIN-Based or Fintech Cards: Lenders like Nova Credit and Deserve offer credit cards for F-1 students USA using enrollment status or home-country credit, no SSN, no US credit history needed.
- Becoming an Authorized User: Get added to a US contact’s card. Their payment history helps you build credit as a student without SSN USA, no application required.
Compare Credit Card Options for Students
What to look for when comparing:
- APR (Annual Percentage Rate): Pay full balance monthly to avoid interest.
- Credit limit: Higher limit improves your score.
- Reporting to credit bureaus: Make sure the card reports to all three major bureaus, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
- No foreign transaction fees: Handy if you travel or make purchases from outside the US.
- Upgrade path: Look for cards that let you graduate from a secured card to an unsecured one after 6-12 months of responsible use.
| Feature | With SSN | Without SSN |
|---|---|---|
| Best Card Type | Traditional Student Card | Secured or ITIN/Fintech Card |
| Security Deposit | No | Sometimes ($200-$500) |
| Credit History Required | No | No |
| Rewards / Cashback | Yes | Rare to Some |
| Annual Fee | Usually None | Low / None |
| Builds US Credit Score | Yes | Yes |
Use Nomad Credit to compare student credit card options from trusted partners in one place, without needing to search bank by bank
How to Get Your First Credit Card as a Student
And the process is more straightforward than most people expect once you know the right path.
Before applying anywhere, gather what you have:
- Passport
- F-1 or J-1 visa
- I-20 or DS-2019 form
- ITIN (if you already have one)
- University enrollment letter
- US bank account details (if open)
Step 2: Understand Banking Requirements
Having a US bank account can help, but it’s not always required. Some credit cards may ask for one, while others, especially student-friendly options, allow you to apply without it.
- If you have an account, it can support your application.
- If not, you still have valid options available.
Step 3: Choose the Right Card Type for Your Situation
| Your Situation | Recommended Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Have SSN + no credit history | Traditional student credit card | Easy approval, rewards, no annual fee |
| No SSN + have ITIN | ITIN-based or fintech lender card | Accepts ITIN instead of SSN |
| No SSN + no ITIN | Secured credit card with passport ID | No credit check, deposit-based approval |
| Enrolled at a US university | Check if your university has a preferred card partner | Some universities offer pre-approved options |
| Have a family contact in the US | Ask to become an authorized user | Builds credit with no separate application |
Step 4: Apply Strategically
Apply only where you’re likely to get approved, each application affects your score.
Step 5: Common Mistakes to Avoid from Day One
- Keep your balance below 30% of your credit limit at all times.
- Pay your full statement balance by the due date every month.
- Never miss a payment, even one missed payment can hurt your score significantly.
- Don’t apply to multiple cards at once.
- Don’t close your first card too early.
Build Credit in the USA as a Student
Building a US credit score as a student is one of the smartest moves you can make during your time in America. It affects your rental applications, job background checks, loans, and more.
Why Your Credit Score Matters
Your FICO score ranges from 300 to 850. Most landlords and lenders look for 670+. As a student credit card no credit history applicant, you’re starting from zero, not bad credit, just no record yet.
The 5 Factors That Build Your Score
- Payment history (35%) – always pay on time, every time.
- Credit utilization (30%) – keep your balance below 30% of your limit.
- Length of credit history (15%) – start early, keep accounts open.
- Credit mix (10%) – having different credit types helps.
- New inquiries (10%) – don’t apply to too many cards at once.
How Long Does It Take?
Most students see a score appear within 3-6 months and hit 670+ within 12-18 months of responsible use. Here are some quick tips to build credit faster:
- Set up autopay so you never miss a due date.
- Keep your oldest account open to maintain credit history length.
- Request a credit limit increase after 6 months, it lowers your utilization automatically.
- Monitor your score for free, many student credit cards USA include this feature.
Start Building Your US Credit Story Today
Your time in the US is an opportunity, not just academically, but financially.
Getting a student credit card USA early and using it responsibly can open doors long after graduation. Whether you have an SSN or not, the right card exists for your situation.
Just like a good study abroad consultant guides you through visas and admissions, Nomad Credit guides you through your financial setup in the US. Compare student credit card options, find cards you’re eligible for, and get matched with trusted partners, all in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students get credit cards in USA?
Yes, many lenders now offer credit cards for international students in the USA. You don’t need to be a US citizen or permanent resident. In most cases, you’ll need:
- A valid visa
- Proof of university enrollment
- An SSN, ITIN, or passport (depending on the lender) .
How to build credit as an international student?
Start by using your credit card responsibly, make on-time payments and keep your usage low. Most students see a credit score within 3-6 months and can reach 670+ (a good score) in 12-18 months. The earlier you start, the better.
What is a student credit card in the USA?
A student credit card is a beginner-friendly credit card designed for students with little or no credit history. It helps build a credit score through regular usage and on-time payments.
Do student credit cards in USA require income?
Yes, most issuers ask for proof of income. As a student, this can include:
- Part-time or on-campus jobs.
- Scholarships or stipends.
- Financial support from family.
It doesn’t need to be a full-time salary.
Can international students get a credit card without SSN?
Yes, international students can get a credit card in the USA without an SSN by using an ITIN, passport, or secured credit card. Many fintech lenders specifically support F-1 and J-1 students.
Which credit cards are best for F1 students?
If you don’t have an SSN, secured cards or fintech options like Nova Credit or Deserve are usually the best starting point. If you do have an SSN, traditional student credit cards in the USA offer better rewards and benefits.
What is the easiest student credit card to get?
A secured credit card is the easiest option. You deposit $200-$500 upfront, which becomes your credit limit, no credit history required. It’s the most accessible beginner credit card for students in the USA and a great way to start building credit quickly.
Revolut is not a bank. Savings account services are provided by Cross River Bank, Member FDIC, insured up to $250,000. Fees may apply. See revolut.com/en-US/ for details.
NO SSN Required: Government-issued ID and supported visa required. Terms and conditions apply.
Early Direct Deposit: Early salary subject to employer deposit timing and not guaranteed.
*T&Cs apply
Revolut Disclosures
Revolut is not a bank. Savings account services are provided by Cross River Bank, Member FDIC, insured up to $250,000. Fees may apply. See revolut.com/en-US/ for details.
NO SSN Required: Government-issued ID and supported visa required. Terms and conditions apply.
Early Direct Deposit: Early salary subject to employer deposit timing and not guaranteed.
*T&Cs apply
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