Question 1

How are student credit cards different from travel cards?

Accepted Answer

A travel credit card is a type of rewards credit card that may earn cash back, points, or miles. You may be able to redeem travel card rewards for travel-related expenses, like flights or hotel reservations. Some travel cards are co-branded with specific airlines or hotel chains, while others offer more general travel rewards. For example, with a Discover it® Student Chrome Card, earn 2% Cashback Bonus® at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.1 Some terms and conditions may differ on travel and student credit cards, too. Because college students may not have the resources to manage a lot of credit card debt, credit limits are typically lower on student cards than travel credit cards.

Question 2

How credit cards work abroad

Accepted Answer

You may use your credit card abroad in the same way you would use it at home. While many credit cards work internationally, card acceptance varies across countries and issuers. To determine whether a credit card will be accepted in your study abroad destination, ask your credit card company or check your issuer's website. You should generally inform your credit card issuer or bank of any international travel so transactions on the other side of the world won't appear suspicious. Without a travel notice, the company may flag your international purchases as fraud and freeze your account, potentially leaving you without access to your card until you resolve the problem with your issuer. You may register your travel with Discover online or over the phone.

Question 3

Are there foreign transaction fees?

Accepted Answer

A foreign transaction fee is a charge that covers the processing and conversion costs of purchases made in a different currency. Fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the total transaction amount. Over the course of your study abroad term, these fees may add up. Not all credit cards charge foreign transaction fees. A card without foreign transaction fees may save you money throughout your time abroad.

How to Choose the Best Student Card for Study Abroad

Key Takeaways

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