With so many credit companies aggressively targeting college students with credit card offers, it should come as no surprise that 92% of college students today already own at least one credit card by the time they reach their sophomore year. Unfortunately for these college students, most of them end up with large debts, unpaid bills, and bad credit, even before they graduate – enough valid reasons why a college student shouldn’t get a credit card.

However, despite these concerns, college students capable of handling their finances and willing to take the responsibility of paying for their credit card bills should not be discouraged from using plastic even before they graduate. In fact, there are several valid reasons for college students to get a credit card.

So, why should a college student have a credit card?

1. They Can Start Building a Credit History
Everyone needs is a solid credit history. Whether it’s to get a car loan or a mortgage, people will always look at your credit history before anything else. For college students, getting a student credit card can be a great way to build a credit history early on. Assuming that they remember to pay their bills on time and that don’t treat their credit card as “free money”, they’ll be more likely to get approved for loans and qualify for better credit card offers once they graduate. Student credit cards can therefore be a means to this end.

2. They Can Learn To Manage Their Own Finances
Owning a student credit card while still in college is a great way to learn about finances, budgeting, and credit in a controlled environment. Provided that the student credit card has a low credit limit and the cosigner has access to the account, students can learn how to manage money and be responsible for their own bills before they really begin their lives as adults so they don’t have to learn about it the hard way.

3. Parents Can Keep Track of Their Child’s Transactions
Since student credit cards often require a cosigner before it can be approved and most credit card companies allow the cosigner access to the student account, parents can keep tabs on their child’s expenses and track their credit card transactions.

4. They Can Save More With Online Purchases
With almost every other item not only available but also cheaper online, college students can save a lot of money by purchasing anything from books to clothes over the internet. However, since most online transactions require credit cards, it will therefore benefit students to own one so they can take advantage of these savings.

5. Credit Cards Can Be A Lifesaver During Financial Emergencies
Having a credit card ready will always come handy during financial emergencies. And for college students who live out of town, a credit card becomes even more valuable when it comes to getting hotel and flight reservations, which are impossible to get without a credit card.

6. There’s No Better Time than Now
Owning a credit card is therefore just as important for students as it is for others in the adult world. It’s not only a great tool to have during financial emergencies, but it can also pave the way in preparing students for greater financial responsibilities after graduation.

Granted, there are serious concerns why students shouldn’t get a credit card during college – debts and unpaid bills. However, these concerns are no different for students than it is for adults. And with proper budgeting and management, responsible students have very little to worry about.

Remember, we now live in a credit card nation where everyone is bound to get a credit card eventually. And if you’re a college student, getting a credit card now is not only easier, it’s also a great preparation for your financial future – that is, if you manage it well.