Best Grocery Cash Back Cards for Students in 2025

Smart Grocery Spending Tips for College Students

Groceries are one of the biggest weekly expenses for college students living off-campus or in dorms with kitchens. Between tuition, textbooks, and transportation, every dollar counts. That’s why grocery cash back cards for students can make a big difference. These cards reward you for buying essentials like ramen, snacks, fresh produce, and more while helping you build credit and stay within budget.

In 2025, more credit cards are tailored to students than ever before. From no-annual-fee cards to student versions of major cash-back programs, these tools are ideal for anyone trying to stretch a grocery budget while earning valuable rewards.

Grocery Shopping Patterns Among Students

Unlike large families or working professionals, students tend to:

• Spend smaller amounts more frequently
• Shop at nearby convenience stores or discount grocers
• Rely on meal kits, microwave meals, or bulk snacks
• Split purchases with roommates or friends

So, the best cards for this group offer flexible rewards, low entry requirements, and no annual costs.

Top Grocery Cash Back Cards for Students in 2025

Below are top-performing cards geared toward students or those with limited credit histories. All of them offer cash back on groceries, either as a fixed category or as your top spending area.

Discover it® Student Cash Back

• 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (includes grocery stores at least once per year)
• 1% back on everything else
• Dollar-for-dollar Cashback Match at the end of your first year
• No annual fee

Why it’s ideal: This card is designed for students and often includes groceries in its rotating rewards. Plus, the Cashback Match can double your savings in year one.

Chase Freedom Rise℠

• 1.5% unlimited cash back on all purchases
• Designed for new-to-credit applicants, including students
• Can link to a Chase checking account to boost approval odds
• No annual fee

Bonus perk: Includes access to Chase Credit Journey, helping students monitor and grow their credit score.

Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards

• 3% cash back on groceries, dining, entertainment, and streaming
• 1% on all other purchases
• No annual fee
• Designed specifically for college students

Best for: Students who want rewards across multiple lifestyle categories, not just groceries.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards for Students

• 3% cash back in a category of your choice (groceries is one of the options)
• 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
• 1% on everything else
• No annual fee, flexible category selection

Tip: Set “Online Shopping” or “Grocery Stores” as your 3% category to maximize rewards on food-related expenses.

Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students

• 1% unlimited cash back on all purchases
• No credit history or co-signer needed for international students
• No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees

Highlight: Offers 1 year of Amazon Prime Student after qualifying, which includes access to grocery delivery through Amazon Fresh.

Ways to Maximize Grocery Rewards in School

Here are three simple tactics to maximize your grocery savings while juggling school:

1. Set grocery stores as your primary category

If your card lets you choose a bonus category (like Bank of America or Citi), always choose “grocery stores” while in school.

2. Combine with student discounts or campus perks

Some university meal plans or student grocery stores offer deals; pay with your cash back card to double up on savings.

3. Stack with receipt apps

Apps like Ibotta, Fetch, or Rakuten let you scan receipts or link cards for additional cash back. Stack these with your student rewards card for bonus value.

Example Budget Breakdown With Rewards

Let’s say a student spends $100 per week on groceries:

Over the course of a school year, these savings could pay for books, tech accessories, or even a month of rent.

Student Credit Card Comparison

Final Thoughts

College students don’t need to wait until graduation to start building financial habits. With the right grocery cash back card, you’ll not only cut costs on food but also:

• Start building credit
• Learn budgeting
• Earn rewards for spending you already do

Just remember to pay your balance in full each month, and consider using budgeting apps to track grocery spending and rewards earned. By making smart financial choices early, students can save more and stress less throughout their academic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best grocery cashback card for students in 2025?

The best card depends on your shopping habits. If you want rotating categories and high first-year value, the Discover it® Student Cash Back is a strong choice. If you prefer consistent grocery rewards, the Capital One SavorOne Student card is a better option.

Can students get a credit card with no credit history?

Yes, many student cards are designed for individuals with no prior credit history. Options like the Discover it® Student and Deserve EDU Mastercard accept students without a credit score, and some even accommodate international students.

Are grocery delivery services included in rewards?

Most student cards do offer rewards for grocery delivery services, especially if the store qualifies under the grocery category. Services like Amazon Fresh typically count, but it’s important to check your card’s terms to confirm eligibility.

Can I get cash back from convenience stores or mini-marts?

Some credit card issuers exclude non-major or independent stores from earning grocery rewards. To ensure you get cash back, it’s best to shop at recognized chains or supermarkets like Kroger, Trader Joe’s, or Safeway.

Do I need to earn a lot to apply for a student grocery card?

No, most student cards have low income requirements and accept alternative income sources such as part-time jobs, scholarships, or financial support from parents. These cards are specifically created to meet the needs of students with limited finances.

Written by Sarah Newcomb Updated August 8, 2025 by Albert Fang