How to Start Building Credit as a College Student

Remember the first time you tried to ride a bike without training wheels? It was wobbly, a little scary, and yet exhilarating.

Building credit as a college student can feel like that.

But fear not, future financial gurus! We're here to help you navigate the twists and turns of establishing good credit sooner rather than later in your adult life.

A high credit score can get you cheaper loans, better credit cards, and help you rent an apartment or get a job. So let's get rolling down the road to credit success together. Keep reading to learn more about how to start building good credit!

Understanding Your Credit Score

A good credit score shows lenders that you can be trusted with money. A high credit score means you're more likely to repay loans on time and in full.

Good credit can help you in many ways. For example, you might get lower interest rates on loans, better deals on credit cards, or have an easier time renting an apartment or getting a job.

Types of Credit Scores

Many people are surprised to learn they have several different scores, not just one. This is because there are various types of credit scores. Each is calculated using different scoring models and algorithms.

Lenders and financial institutions use two primary credit scoring systems to assess a borrower's creditworthiness: FICO and VantageScore.

FICO Score

The FICO (Fair Isaac Corporation) Score is the most used credit scoring model in the United States. It was first introduced in 1989 and has since become the industry standard for evaluating credit risk. FICO scores range from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating a lower risk to lenders.

FICO scores are calculated using five main factors:

1. Payment history (35%)
2. Amounts owed (30%)
3. Length of credit history (15%)
4. Credit mix (10%)
5. New credit (10%)

VantageScore

VantageScore, introduced in 2006, is a more recent credit scoring model developed by the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Like the FICO score, VantageScore ranges from 300 to 850.

VantageScore uses six factors to calculate your credit score:

1. Payment history (41%)
2. Age and type of credit (20%)
3. Credit utilization (20%)
4. Total balances (6%)
5. Recent credit behavior (11%)
6. Available credit (2%)

Each uses its own algorithm to calculate your credit score, which can result in different scores.

FICO and VantageScore update their scoring models sometimes to reflect consumer behavior and lending practice changes. This means multiple versions of each scoring model exist, and lenders may use different versions depending on their preferences or requirements.

Variations Among Credit Bureaus

Your credit score may also differ depending on which credit bureau's data is used. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion each maintain their credit reports, and the information they have on file for you may differ. This can lead to minor differences in credit scores across the three bureaus.

Industry-Specific Scores

Some lenders use industry-specific credit scores tailored to specific types of credit products, such as auto loans or credit cards. These scores may favor certain factors more than others, resulting in a different score than your general credit score.

The Impact of Multiple Credit Scores

It may seem confusing to have multiple credit scores. But they all serve the same purpose: to help lenders assess your creditworthiness.

Regardless of which scoring model or version is used, maintaining good financial habits such as paying bills on time, keeping credit utilization low, and managing a diverse mix of credit will have a good impact on all your credit scores.

What You Need to Focus On

So what do you need to do to improve your score? Your credit score is based on five primary factors:

Payment History

Payment history is the most crucial part of your credit score. It shows if you pay your bills on time. Late payments and not paying at all can damage your score. Always pay your bills when they are due to keep a good payment history.

Amount Owed

"Credit utilization" is how much of your available credit you use. Lenders like it when you use less of your credit. Try to use less than 30% of your credit limit.

Length of Credit History

This measures how long you've had credit accounts. The longer your credit history, the better your score might be. 

You might not have a long credit history if you're a college student. You can start building it by getting a credit card or being added to someone else's account.

Credit Mix

Lenders like to see that you can handle different types of credit. A good credit mix might include credit cards, student loans, and car loans. You don't have to have every type of credit, but having a mix can help your score.

New Credit Accounts

Opening several new accounts in a short period can hurt your score. This might make it look like you're having money problems or won't be able to repay what you owe. When building credit, focus on using your existing accounts instead of opening new ones.

Get a Starter Credit Card

One of the most accessible and effective ways to start building credit is by obtaining a starter credit card.

Several types of credit cards are suitable for new college students with little or no credit history. Here are some options to consider:

Secured Credit Cards

These cards tend to have a lower credit limit and simpler approval criteria. Credit cards can provide rewards for everyday expenses like groceries, gas, and dining. They may also offer perks like cashback rewards on everyday expenses such as groceries, gas, and dining.

Retail Credit Cards

Retail credit cards are also available from some stores and affiliated brands. If you have limited credit history, these cards might be easier to approve. The downside is they often come with higher interest rates and fewer rewards. 

To pick a beginner credit card:

1. Consider annual fees, interest rates, rewards, and how easy it is to get approved
2. Research different cards
3. Choose one that matches your spending habits and financial goals 

Become an Authorized User

One effective method to kickstart your credit journey is by becoming an authorized user on someone else's credit card account. 

What is an Authorized User?

An authorized user is a primary credit cardholder who grants permission to use their credit card account.

As an authorized user, you'll receive a card with your name. You won't be legally responsible for making payments on the account. The primary cardholder remains responsible for paying the bills and managing the account.

Benefits of Becoming an Authorized User

Becoming an authorized user on another person's card is one of the fastest ways to build your credit. The benefits speak for themselves.

• Establishing a Credit History: If the person who owns the credit card has a good record of paying bills, you can join them as an extra user. This will help you start getting your own credit history.
• Learning Responsible Credit Habits: You can learn important money lessons by watching how the primary user manages it. This will help you to form good habits for using credit in the future.
• Gaining Access to Credit: As an authorized user, you'll have access to credit without needing to qualify for a credit card. This can be beneficial for students with limited or no credit history.

How to Become an Authorized User

Choose a family member or close friend with a strong credit history. They must be willing to add you as an authorized user on their credit card account. Ensure they have a history of responsible credit usage, as their behavior will impact your credit score.

Before someone adds you to their credit card account, make sure the card company reports it to the credit bureaus.

The primary cardholder must call their credit card company to add you as a user. They need to give your name, birthdate, and Social Security number.

Remember, if the main person with the credit card pays late or uses too much credit, it can decrease your credit score. In such cases, you should discuss the situation with them or request removal from the account.

Why Monitoring Your Credit Score Matters

A good credit score is one of many things necessary for your finances. You also need to track your credit and protect it against identity theft. Keeping a close eye on your credit score and report can help you identify areas for improvement and detect any inaccuracies or signs of fraud.

As you work on building credit, monitoring your score allows you to see the impact of your financial decisions and habits. This can help you make adjustments to improve your score over time.

Detect Errors

Credit report errors are more common than you might think and can have an adverse impact your credit score. You can spot any discrepancies and take steps to correct them by keeping an eye on your credit score.

Identify Potential Fraud

Regularly checking your credit score can help you catch unauthorized accounts or inquiries, which could be signs of identity theft. Early detection allows you to act fast and minimize the damage.

Track Different Scores

When applying for credit, be aware that different lenders might use different scoring models or versions. So it's a good idea to monitor your credit using both FICO and VantageScore systems to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of your credit health.

How to Monitor Your Credit Score

So how do you track your credit score? Here are some practical ways to keep track of your credit score:

Annual Credit Reports

By law, you're entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year. You can request your reports and review them for errors or suspicious activity. 

While these reports don't include your credit score, they provide detailed information on the factors influencing your score.

Credit Monitoring Services

Several credit monitoring services, both free and paid, provide regular updates on your credit score and report. Some popular options include Credit Karma, Credit Sesame, and Experian's FreeCreditScore.com. 

These services can also alert you to significant changes in your credit report, such as new accounts or inquiries, helping you stay on top of your credit situation.

Bank or Credit Card Issuer

Many banks and credit card issuers offer free credit score monitoring for their customers. Check with your financial institution to see if they provide this service. Some banks even have mobile apps that allow you to check your credit score.

Secure Your Credit Against Identity Theft

Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information, like your name or address, to buy things, open accounts, or do other bad things. 

Protecting your credit against identity theft involves safeguarding your personal and financial information. Follow these steps to cut the risk of identity theft:

Safeguard Your Personal Information

Be careful with your Social Security number, bank information, and other personal details. Only give it out when needed and ensure the person asking for the information is real.

Create Strong Passwords

Make passwords that are challenging to guess for your online accounts. Don't use words or numbers that anyone can easily figure out. Consider using a password manager to store and generate strong passwords.

Be Cautious With Public Wi-Fi

Do not look at or use your private financial information when using public Wi-Fi. This type of Wi-Fi may not be safe. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your data on public networks.

Always Check Bank and Credit Card Statements

Check your bank and credit card statements often. Look for any purchases you did not make. Report any discrepancies to your financial institution as soon as you notice them.

Enable Account Alerts

Tell your bank and credit card company to let you know if something strange happens or if someone spends a lot of money.

Protect Your Devices

Protect your computer, phone, and other devices with the newest security updates. Use antivirus software to keep viruses away from your devices.

If you think someone has stolen your identity, act right away. Tell your banks. Ask for a fraud alert to be put on your credit reports. Report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Learn How to Start Building Credit

With these tips in mind, you should be able to develop good habits that will help build a strong foundation for years to come.

Learn more about how to start building credit habits and manage finances wisely at HonorSociety.org.