Credit cards that are specifically designed to meet the needs of college students are available. But beware: they carry the same risks and responsibilities as any other credit card. How you use the card will almost always be more important than what kind of card it is.

Here are some tips for using a credit card if you are a college student:

• Use the credit card only when you have to. If you're an adult with a steady income, good credit rating, and basic money management skills, it's fine to use credit cards as needed. If your credit rating and income are both low, it may be a better financial decision to use a debit card or cash.
• Use your credit card every so often. If you only use it when you can pay off the balance right away, you'll build a good credit history--which will make it easier for you to buy a house or make a vehicle purchase.
• Don't run up charges that you can't pay immediately. Pay off the balance in full, every month. If you let a balance accumulate, you'll find it very hard to pay down later--and the interest will be high.
• Look for the lowest rate of interest (APR). There can be great variation, from card to card. But, if you're going to pay the balance in full, every month, you won't be paying much interest.
• Look for credit cards that offer rewards or incentives, including instant cash back. These might tempt you to over-use the card, though, so be careful.
• Read the terms of your application very carefully. Pay special attention to what will happen if you're late on a payment, or when the initial interest rate expires.