Introduction
When applying for a credit card in the USA, your credit score plays the most important role in determining approval. Whether you’re looking for a cashback card, a travel rewards card, or a secured card to rebuild credit, issuers rely on your score to evaluate risk.
But not all cards require the same score. Some are designed for people with excellent credit, while others are accessible even if you’re just starting out.
In this guide, we’ll explain the credit score requirements for different types of cards and the Types of Cards available in 2025, help you understand where you stand, and show you how to improve your chances of approval.
What Is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 850 that lenders use to assess your creditworthiness. The higher the score, the more likely you are to be approved for the best credit cards with lower interest rates and higher rewards.
Credit Score Ranges (FICO)
- Excellent: 750 – 850
- Good: 700 – 749
- Fair: 640 – 699
- Poor: 580 – 639
- Very Poor: 300 – 579
Most major issuers (Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One, Discover, Wells Fargo) rely heavily on these ranges when deciding whether to approve an application.
Why Credit Score Matters for Credit Cards
- Approval Chances – A higher score increases your chances of being approved.
- Credit Limits – Better scores typically qualify for higher credit limits.
- Rewards and Perks – Premium and travel cards require higher scores.
- Interest Rates (APR) – Strong credit often secures lower interest rates.
- Annual Fees – Some high-reward cards with fees demand excellent credit.
Credit Score Requirements by Card Type
1. Secured Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 300 – 650 (Very Poor to Fair).
- Best for: People rebuilding credit or starting from scratch.
- Examples:
- Discover it® Secured
- Capital One Platinum Secured
- How it works: You provide a security deposit (usually $200 – $500), which becomes your credit limit.
2. Student Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 630 – 689 (Fair to Good).
- Best for: College students and young adults with limited credit history.
- Examples:
- Discover it® Student Cash Back
- Chase Freedom® Student Card
- Key perks: Lower income requirements, credit-building benefits, educational resources.
3. Store Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 580 – 669 (Poor to Fair).
- Best for: Shoppers loyal to a specific retailer (e.g., Amazon, Walmart, Target).
- Pros: Easier to qualify for than general credit cards.
- Cons: High APRs and limited usage outside the store network.
4. Cashback Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 670 – 749 (Good to Excellent).
- Best for: Everyday spenders who want cash rewards.
- Examples:
- Citi® Double Cash Card (requires good credit).
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® (requires good credit).
- Perks: Flexible rewards, $0 annual fee options.
5. Travel Rewards Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 700 – 749+ (Good to Excellent).
- Best for: Frequent travelers who want miles, hotel points, and luxury perks.
- Examples:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® (good credit).
- American Express Gold/Platinum (excellent credit).
- Perks: Airport lounges, no foreign transaction fees, trip insurance.
6. Premium Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 740 – 850 (Excellent).
- Best for: High spenders looking for luxury perks and elite benefits.
- Examples:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Amex Platinum Card®
- Pros: Travel credits, lounge access, concierge service.
- Cons: High annual fees ($450–$695).
7. Business Credit Cards
- Credit Score Needed: 670 – 850 (Good to Excellent).
- Best for: Small business owners and freelancers.
- Examples:
- Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
- Amex Blue Business® Plus
- Perks: Higher limits, rewards on office supplies, advertising, and travel.
Table: Credit Score Requirements by Card Type
| Card Type | Credit Score Range | Examples | Annual Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secured Cards | 300 – 650 | Discover it® Secured, Capital One Secured | $0 – $49 |
| Student Cards | 630 – 689 | Discover it® Student, Chase Student | $0 |
| Store Cards | 580 – 669 | Amazon Store Card, Target RedCard | $0 |
| Cashback Cards | 670 – 749 | Citi Double Cash, Wells Fargo Active Cash | $0 – $95 |
| Travel Rewards Cards | 700 – 749+ | Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold | $95 – $250 |
| Premium Credit Cards | 740 – 850 | Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve | $450 – $695 |
| Business Credit Cards | 670 – 850 | Ink Business Preferred, Amex Blue Biz | $0 – $95+ |
How to Check Your Credit Score Before Applying
- Free Credit Score Websites: Credit Karma, Experian, Credit Sesame.
- Bank & Card Issuers: Many issuers (Chase, Discover, Amex) offer free FICO scores.
- Annual Credit Report: Access free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Tips to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying
- Pay bills on time – Payment history is 35% of your score.
- Lower credit utilization – Keep balances under 30% of your limit.
- Avoid too many applications – Each hard inquiry can lower your score.
- Keep old accounts open – Credit history length improves your score.
- Diversify credit mix – Installment loans + credit cards help boost scores.
FAQs About Credit Score and Cards
Q1: Can I get a credit card with a 600 credit score?
Yes, but you’ll likely qualify for a secured card, store card, or student card.
Q2: What score do I need for a premium card like Amex Platinum?
Typically 740 or higher.
Q3: Does applying for a credit card hurt my score?
Yes, slightly (2–5 points) due to hard inquiry, but it recovers over time.
Q4: What if I get denied for a card?
You’ll receive an “adverse action” letter explaining why. Use this to improve your profile.
Q5: How fast can I improve my score?
With consistent payments and low balances, scores can improve within 3–6 months.
Conclusion
Your credit score determines the types of credit cards you can access. From secured cards for beginners to premium rewards cards for high spenders, there’s a credit card for every stage of your financial journey.
- Below 640: Start with secured or store cards.
- 640–699: Consider student or entry-level rewards cards.
- 700–749: Apply for cashback or travel rewards cards.
- 750+: Access premium and luxury cards.
By knowing where you stand, improving your score, and applying strategically, you can maximize approval chances and unlock the best credit card perks available in 2025