1.9M+
Students have trusted 1st Financial Bank USA® ("1FBUSA") to start building their financial future
35+
Offering credit cards to students and helping them establish a strong financial foundation
Why building credit now is one of the smartest financial moves you can make
You might not think you need credit right now. But the truth is, a good credit history can help you get that apartment you love, the job you want, or the car you need to get to class.
And here's the kicker: if you wait until you need credit to start building it, you could find yourself scrambling to catch up.
Save money—real money
A good credit history can lead to lower interest rates on loans and credit cards. A lower interest rate means that you're spending less on the money you borrow and have more left for the stuff that really matters to you.
Get approved when it counts
Whether it's your dream apartment or a new phone plan, it's common for companies to pull your credit report to assess how financially responsible you are. Start strong now, so you're better prepared for the future.
Some employers check credit
Like it or not, your credit report can affect whether you get hired. (Crazy, but true.)
You don't need to know everything about finance. You just need a card designed for students and a few minutes to apply and get a decision.
Start building your credit today – so future you has options, not obstacles
Choosing and using a credit card is up to you. No pressure. No commitments.
Just a smart way to start building your financial future as well as a convenient option for making purchases and a backup source of funds in case of emergencies.
Think of getting your first credit card as a springboard. If you start now to build and maintain a good credit history, here are some of the key benefits you're likely to enjoy:
- Better loan terms, rewards, and perks
- Lower interest rates
- Higher loan approval rates
- Increased credit limits
- Easier rental approvals
- Lower insurance premiums
- Lower deposits for utilities (water, electricity, cable)
- More job opportunities
Peace of mind, when you need it most
Unexpected bill? Out of gas? Out of food and payday's a week away? We've got you. Apply today and - if approved - you'll see that a credit card can be a lifesaver in the case of an emergency.
Tap, track & thrive (securely)
EMV chip card payments, real-time fraud detection, and 24/7 app tracking can help keep your credit card secure and help prevent fraud.
Turn everyday taps into future freedom
Use your card for everyday purchases, make timely payments every month, stay under your credit limit, and build the credit history that can help unlock life's big steps – your first apartment, a car loan, even a job.
Don't just take our word for it
Hear from some of our amazing students who are building their credit with 1st Financial Bank USA.
"[The 1FBUSA credit card] helps me understand how much I am spending in one month, and helps me build credit."
Reagan B.
New York
"I didn't have enough to eat out with friends but with my new [1FBUSA] card I didn't have to worry about being left out."
King H.
Georgia
"Having a [1FBUSA] credit card helps me manage college costs by allowing me to cover expenses when I don't have cash."
Emily G.
California
Start building your credit today – so future you has options, not obstacles
Join the 1.9 million+ students who've trusted 1FBUSA to help them establish a strong financial foundation. Apply now and get an instant decision.
Application takes less than 5 minutes