How to Build Credit in the U.S. as an F-1 Student (Without a SSN)
As an international student in the U.S., you may notice that credit scores affect many parts of life, from renting an apartment to applying for a phone plan. But as an F-1 student, you likely arrived without a Social Security number or U.S. credit history.
The good news is that you can still start building credit while studying, even without an SSN. With a few smart choices and consistent habits, you can lay the foundation for a strong financial future.
Why credit matters for international students
In the U.S., your credit score is a three-digit number that shows how reliable you are at managing debt. Lenders, landlords and even some employers use this score to evaluate your trustworthiness.
A good credit score can help you:
- Qualify for apartments without paying extra deposits
- Access better credit card or loan options in the future
- Pay lower interest rates
- Build long-term financial stability
Without credit history, you may face higher upfront costs or limited options. That’s why it helps to start early, even as a student.
Can you build credit without a Social Security number?
Yes. While an SSN makes it easier to track your financial activity, it’s not always required to start building credit. Many banks and credit card companies allow international students to apply using:
- A passport
- A U.S. address
- An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), if available
- A student visa and I-20
You can also add your ITIN to your credit file later, which helps link your activity across financial products.
Ways to start building credit as an F-1 student
Here are a few reliable methods international students use to start building credit:
Apply for a secured credit card
A secured card requires a refundable deposit (usually US$200 to US$500), which becomes your credit limit. Use it for small purchases and pay it off in full each month.
Look for cards with:
Become an authorized user on someone else’s card
If you have a close relative or trusted friend in the U.S., they can add you as an authorized user on their credit card. Their positive payment history may help boost your credit score.
Only use this method with someone who has good credit and low balances.
Get a student-friendly credit card
Some issuers offer student cards with no SSN requirement, especially for those attending major U.S. universities. These cards often come with low limits and require proof of enrollment.
Before applying, ask your bank or credit union what documents they accept.
Use a credit-building loan
Some credit unions offer small installment loans designed to build credit. These work by putting the loan amount into a locked account while you make payments. Once you finish, you get the money back and a positive credit history. If you’re a part of any student loan programs, those can also help build your credit history through consistent, timely repayments.
This can be a safe way to show payment consistency if you don’t need immediate funds.
Tips for building and maintaining good credit
- Pay your bills on time, every time.
- Keep your credit card balance low (below 30 percent of the limit).
- Do not apply for too many cards at once.
- Check your credit report for errors once you have a file.
- Avoid using credit for purchases you cannot afford to repay.
Credit is built slowly. Responsible use over time is more important than trying to raise your score quickly.
How MPOWER Financing helps students succeed financially
While building credit takes time, MPOWER Financing offers private student loans to F-1 visa holders without requiring a U.S. credit history or cosigner. These loans help you manage school expenses while keeping your financial record clean and stable.
An MPOWER loan can help you:
- Pay tuition and living expenses without maxing out a credit card
- Show responsible borrowing through timely payments
- Reduce stress so you can focus on academics and financial goals
MPOWER reports payments to major credit bureaus, so consistent repayment can support your credit profile over time.
Start small, think long term
Credit may not seem urgent when you first arrive in the U.S., but the sooner you start building it, the more options you’ll have later. Use simple tools like secured cards or student accounts, pay on time and avoid unnecessary debt.
A good credit history is something you can take with you beyond just financing education, whether you stay in the U.S. after graduation or not.
