Here’s my follow up to my previous post where I’ll be sharing some of the credit cards that students in Singapore can apply. The list is not exhaustive, and banks (and other merchants) are introducing cards every now and then with different eligibility criteria and perks. Here are some of the cards which I felt were the best for Singapore students, some of which I’ve signed myself. At this point however, I do have to point out that I’m not promoting any banks in particular, and whatever information I post may not be up to date. Always check with the issuing bank on the latest updates, details and information regarding the card. What I’ll provide is the general overview of the card mentioned and my thoughts about it.
No. 5 – Manhattan Credit Card (Standard Chartered)
Live Life To The Max with the Standard Chartered Manhattan Credit Card
Standard Chartered used to offer the Standard Chartered NUS Card which was only aimed at NUS students. However, it has been recently dropped by the British bank to focus on the Manhattan Credit Card, which offers similar benefits, but is open to all students over 18.
Perks includes:
- 0.25% CashBack
- Free annual fee for 1 year
- Discounts for McDonald’s, Pizza Hut and more
Once you graduate and command an income of minimum $30k p.a., you can upgrade the Manhattan Credit Card to the Manhattan World MasterCard instead.
No. 4 – The BOC F1RST Card (Bank of China)
BOC’s F1RST Card – Exciting lineup of perks and privileges
Bank of China is one of the newest banks to offer a student credit card in Singapore. It offers an exciting line-up of perks and privileges, especially for those that love online shopping . Apply before 31 October 2014 and get rewarded with a free Adventure Cove Waterpark, One-Day Adult Pass! (Terms & Conditions apply)
Perks includes:
- 2-year annual fee waiver
- 1-for-1 treats at Cathay Cineplex, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Haagen-Dazs and more
- Discounts up to 15% of total purchases at blogshops such as Eatprayshop, The Stage Walk and more
In addition to the F1RST Card, Bank of China also offers the BOC Chinese Scholars & Students Association Platinum Elite Card for members and students of the Chinese Scholars & Students Association.
No. 3 – CIMB Classic MasterCard (CIMB)
The CIMB Classic MasterCard – Enjoy a lifetime wavier on annual fees
While the Classic MasterCard do not have many perks and benefits along with it, CIMB still has one of the best cards on offer for students in the sense that it has no annual fees. This means you get to experience year after year of financial freedom, and no need to call the hotlines to request for a fee waiver every time the charges are due.
Perks includes:
- Free annual fee (for life!)
- Cross border SMART Rewards
No. 2 – eVibes Card (Maybank)
eVibes – eMPOWER and be blown away by the awesome deals
Kudos to Maybank for outperforming CIMB in this sector by launching a card that students would absolutely desire. This card fully understands the way students live and provides us with privileges that we students love.
Perks includes:
- Welcome gift when you apply for the eVibes card as a new-to-bank customer*
- 2 years (annual) fee waiver
- 1-for-1 deals on movie tickets, food outlets and more
- Free credit when you refer friends to eVibes*
- Clubbing privileges at Lunar, Rebel, Zirca and more*
*Terms and Conditions apply.
No. 1 – Citi Clear Card (Citibank)
The card that started the trend is still one of the best when it comes to student credit cards. With privileges ranging from movies, dining and partying, this is the ideal card for tertiary students to apply.
Perks includes:
- Special sign-up gift when you apply for the Citibank Clear Card*
- First year annual fee waiver
- Exclusive party privileges at nightspots such as Zouk
- Earn Citi Dollars
Furthermore, as a Citibank customer, one can enjoy the benefits of Citibank’s Gourmet Pleasures, which brings the best dining deals available on the island.
Enjoy Citi World Privileges as a Citibank customer
*Terms and Conditions apply
Honorary Mention – Live Fresh Credit Card (DBS)
Live Fresh is a card launched by DBS and is exclusive for Tertiary students. However, there hasn’t been much publicity of the card as compared to the rest which led to many not knowing that this card even exists. Even on its website, the Live Fresh Credit Card is being overshadowed by the Live Fresh Platinum Card (its adult counterpart). It’s perks however does suggest that it could very well succeed in penetrating the students and young adults segment, with discounts on AirAsia, Jetstar and Agoda, as well as a 5-year annual fee waiver.
So there you go, a quick breakdown on some of the cards that are available for application by students and young adults. Whichever card(s) that you choose to apply, always remember to spend wisely and within your limits. Control your spending and not let it control you! If you do so, I’ll assure that you’ll be blown away by the benefits that these little plastic cards bring.
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