- 3%Cash back on groceries
- 1%Cash back on gas, transportation, and recurring payments
- 0.5%Cash back on other purchases
Get $50 cash back after you make your first purchase, plus earn a 10% cash back bonus on net purchases (up to $100) within the first 4 monthly statements.
Earn 3% cash back on groceries, 1% on gas, transportation, and recurring payments, and 0.5% on other purchases.
21.99%
23.99%
The BMO CashBack® Mastercard® for Students stands out as the top choice because it offers a robust cash back structure tailored for students, allowing them to earn significant rewards on essential spending categories like groceries.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- High cash back on groceries
Cons:
- Limited to specific categories
- Cash back on other purchases is lower
2.Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
Tangerine
- 2%Cash back in chosen categories
- 0.5%Cash back on all other purchases
Earn 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in everyday purchases within the first 2 months.
Earn 2% cash back in up to three customizable categories and 0.5% back on all other purchases.
20.95%
22.95%
What sets the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card apart is its flexibility, allowing cardholders to choose their cash back categories, making it a great fit for those who want to maximize rewards based on their spending habits.
Pros:
- Customizable cash back categories
- No annual fee
Cons:
- Lower cash back on non-category purchases
- Limited to three categories
3.Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card
Scotiabank
- 2%Scene+ points at Cineplex and select grocery stores
- 1%Scene+ points on all other purchases
Earn up to 10,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months.
Earn 2 Scene+ points for every $1 spent at Cineplex, select grocery stores, and Home Hardware, and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
20.99%
22.99%
The Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card shines for its ability to earn points on entertainment and grocery purchases, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently visit Cineplex or shop at select grocery stores.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Earn points for entertainment and groceries
Cons:
- Limited to specific retailers for higher points
- Points may not be as versatile as cash back
- 1%Cash back on groceries, gas, and public transit
- 0.5%Cash back on all other purchases
Earn up to $350 in value, including 10% cash back on eligible purchases for the first 3 months.
Earn 1% cash back on groceries, gas, electric vehicle charging, public transit, and recurring bills, and 0.5% on all other purchases.
21.99%
22.99%
The TD Cash Back Visa Card is a solid choice for those looking to earn cash back on everyday expenses without an annual fee, making it accessible for a wide range of consumers.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Cash back on essential spending categories
Cons:
- Lower cash back on non-eligible categories
- Limited to $5,000 annual spend per category
- 2%Cash back on groceries
- 1%Cash back on gas, transportation, and recurring payments
- 0.5%Cash back on other purchases
Earn up to $150 in cash back, including a 10% welcome bonus.
Earn 2% cash back on groceries, 1% on gas, transportation, and recurring payments, and 0.5% on other purchases.
21.99%
22.99%
The CIBC Dividend Visa Card for Students is an excellent option for students looking to earn cash back while building credit, offering competitive rewards on essential spending categories.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Good cash back rates for students
Cons:
- Limited to specific categories
- Cash back on other purchases is lower
Final Words
As you navigate the options for the best college student credit cards this February 2026 in Canada, remember to prioritize factors such as fees, interest rates, and rewards that align with your spending habits. Take time to compare these options carefully to make informed decisions that will benefit your financial future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get $50 cash back after you make your first purchase, plus earn a 10% cash back bonus on net purchases (up to $100) within the first 4 monthly statements.
Earn 2% cash back in up to three customizable categories and 0.5% back on all other purchases.
Earn 2 Scene+ points for every $1 spent at Cineplex, select grocery stores, and Home Hardware, and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Many college student credit cards have no annual fees, making them budget-friendly options. Always check the specific terms of each card to see if any fees apply.
Consider factors such as annual fees, reward rates, welcome bonuses, and your spending habits. Additionally, look for cards that offer benefits like no foreign transaction fees if you plan to travel.
To maximize rewards, use your card for everyday purchases in relevant categories where you earn higher cash back or points. Also, take advantage of welcome bonuses by meeting the required spending thresholds.
Most student credit card applications can be completed online in just a few minutes. You'll typically need to provide personal information, proof of student status, and income details if applicable.
