When you’re just starting out with credit, it’s easy to believe everything you hear. But some common credit score myths can do more harm than good—especially for college students.
In this post, we’ll bust the top 5 credit myths that students fall for, so you can build a strong credit history the smart way.
Myth 1: “I Don’t Need to Worry About Credit in College”
Truth: The earlier you start building credit, the better. Having a good credit score after graduation can help you:
- Rent an apartment
- Get a car loan
- Land certain jobs
- Pay lower interest rates
📘 Related: How to Build Credit as a Student
Myth 2: “Checking My Credit Score Hurts It”
Truth: There are two types of credit checks:
- Soft Inquiry: When you check your own score – no impact at all.
- Hard Inquiry: When a lender checks your score for approval – small, temporary impact.
So go ahead and check your credit regularly!
🔗 AnnualCreditReport.com – Get Your Free Credit Reports
Myth 3: “I Need to Carry a Balance to Build Credit”
Truth: Carrying a balance doesn’t help your score—it can actually hurt it due to interest charges and high credit utilization.
✅ Pay your full statement balance on time every month to build good credit without going into debt.
Want a student card with no interest for the first few months? Check out: 5 Best Student Credit Cards with No Annual Fee
Myth 4: “Getting a Credit Card Will Automatically Ruin My Credit”
Truth: A credit card only hurts your score if you misuse it—like missing payments or maxing out your limit.
Using your credit card responsibly can actually improve your score.
Confused between secured and unsecured cards? Read: Secured vs. Unsecured Student Credit Cards
Myth 5: “International Students Can’t Get a Credit Card or Build Credit”
Truth: Some cards are specifically designed for international students, even if you don’t have an SSN.
✅ Cards like Deserve EDU use your education and visa status for approval.
🔗 Deserve EDU Official Site
Want to explore your options? Read: Top 3 Credit Cards for International Students
Final Thoughts
Don’t let these common credit myths set you back. Learning the truth early can save you from costly mistakes and help you build a solid financial foundation.
Credit isn’t scary—it’s a powerful tool when used wisely.
Related Reads:
- How to Build Credit as a Student
- 5 Best Student Credit Cards with No Annual Fee (2025)
- Secured vs. Unsecured Student Credit Cards
- Top 3 Credit Cards for International Students
Disclaimer: Always review credit card terms and conditions before applying
✅ FAQs:
Q1: Does checking my credit score lower it?
A: No! Checking your own score is a soft inquiry and doesn’t affect your credit.
Q2: Should I carry a balance on my card to build credit?
A: No. Paying off your balance in full is better for your score and avoids interest.
Q3: Can getting a credit card hurt my credit score?
A: Only if misused. Using it responsibly improves your score over time.
Q4: Do college students really need to worry about credit?
A: Yes! Good credit helps with future loans, renting, and even jobs.
Q5: Can international students get credit cards and build credit?
A: Yes! Some credit cards are designed for international students without SSNs.
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Avoid costly mistakes—learn the truth behind common credit myths and start building a stronger credit score in college today!
