Best credit cards for recent college graduates

Recent graduates should look for credit cards with low annual fees and high approval rates in order to get the best use, says a W. P. Carey finance expert.

In this article published Feb. 1, 2026, on Wallet Hub:

I think a recent graduate should get a credit card as soon as possible. Credit cards can be an important tool in building credit, as well as for money management. Credit card purchases come with some protection, as charges for items that are not received or are unacceptable can be disputed, and credit cards also generally offer fraud protection. They are convenient to use, and make it easier to purchase some items, including online sales and rental cars. Credit cards can also serve as an important source of funding in case there is an unexpected event, such as a significant repair or medical cost. There are important caveats: Credit cards must be used responsibly; pay off the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges; if you must carry a balance due to something unexpected, come up with a plan to pay off that balance quickly.

— Ives Machiz, clinical assistant professor of finance