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Congratulations on completing your studies! As you graduate, you're probably wondering what happens to your Discover Student Card. The good news is that you can keep using it, but there are some changes to be aware of.
You can continue to use your card for everyday purchases, online shopping, and even travel abroad, as long as you have the required funds in your account. The card's terms and conditions remain the same, unless you've made any changes to your account.
Your credit limit will likely increase after graduation, as Discover Student Card's credit limit is based on your income and creditworthiness. This means you'll have more flexibility to make larger purchases.
It's a good idea to review your account regularly to ensure you're aware of any changes to your credit limit, interest rates, or fees.
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Options After Graduation
After graduation, you have several options for your Discover Student Card. You can keep using your card, especially if you like its rewards program, APR, or fee structure.
Your credit card issuer may reclassify your card as a regular card after you graduate, so you can keep using it. This is the case with the Bank of America Cash Rewards credit card and its student version, which offer the same cash-back rewards rate and APR.
Keeping your student credit card open can make sense, particularly if it's your oldest account. The age of your oldest open account can impact your credit score.
You may also qualify for a credit limit increase once you earn income from a full-time job. This can help you maintain a good credit utilization ratio.
Alternatively, you can hold on to your student card and use it only occasionally to maintain a long credit history. A lengthy credit history can demonstrate responsible credit use and positively impact your credit score.
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Closing Your Account
Closing your student credit card can be a good option if it comes with an annual fee, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons first.
You might consider closing your student credit card if you have other credit cards that offer better benefits. Closing an account can affect your credit score, which could negatively impact your creditworthiness.
Closing your student credit card can help simplify things if you have too many credit cards and are struggling to keep track of them.
What's Next?
You've graduated and are wondering what to do with your Discover Student Card. The good news is your issuer usually won't automatically close or cancel your account just because you've graduated.
You have time to decide what you want to do with your credit card as you navigate post-graduate life. This is a great opportunity to reassess your financial needs and make a plan.
Here are your options: you can keep your card as is, cancel your card, or upgrade your card. Consider your financial situation and goals before making a decision.
You might be able to switch to a non-student credit card with the same issuer, or your account may be reclassified automatically once you graduate. This is something to discuss with your issuer.
If you have no remaining balance, you can close your account with the issuer and either remain without a credit card or apply for a new one.
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Student Credit Cards
Keeping your student credit card open after graduation can be a good idea, especially if it's your oldest account. This can help your credit score by increasing the age of your oldest open account.
Closing an account can decrease your total available credit, which may increase your credit utilization ratio. This ratio is the percentage of your total available credit currently in use.
Using your student credit card occasionally can help prevent it from being closed due to inactivity. Some issuers may close cards that haven't been used for a while.
Checking your account regularly for unauthorized charges is a good habit to get into, even if you're not using the card often.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you upgrade a student credit card?
No, you cannot upgrade a student credit card once you've graduated college. Your card details remain the same, but the "student" status is removed.
Sources
- https://www.thebalancemoney.com/what-to-do-with-your-student-credit-card-after-graduation-4768106
- https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/what-happens-to-student-credit-card-after-graduation/
- https://www.chase.com/personal/credit-cards/education/basics/what-happens-to-student-credit-cards-when-you-graduate
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/graduate-student-credit-card
- https://www.citi.com/credit-cards/understanding-credit-cards/what-happens-to-student-credit-card-when-you-graduate
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