Pros & cons of getting a credit card while you’re still in school because they’re simultaneously tempting & scary

College has given you a lot of freedom and you've seen plenty of people swiping their credit cards left and right. There's a ton of debate about student credit cards and you've started wondering if it's something you should be looking into. Here's the pros and cons to keep in mind before you start applying for a card yourself.

Pro: It gets your credit history started

Getting your first credit card while still being in school is a great time to start your credit history. Banks and other financial institutions like to see long credit histories. It makes you look reliable if you've kept on top of things. Your credit score will be top notch.

Con: It's the getway to wild spending

Credit cards can get dangerous when people start using them to pay for everything. Just because you don't have to pay your bill right away, doesn't mean it's not coming. We'd limit your credit card use in college to big, but necessary purchases like textbooks and shopping online. Otherwise, stick to paying for things in cash. It'll make you see how much you've been spending.

If you're really concerned about how much you could start blowing with a credit card, then don't get one. It's a choice that's really up to you and your parents since they'll likely have to co-sign if you're under 21.

Pro: It's good to have post-grad

That credit history and score will come in handy after graduation. Landlords and utility companies frequently check your finances when you apply for a place to live. If you don't have a long credit history or your score isn't in great shape, you could get turned away from renting your dream apartment.

Con: You could fall into debt

All that spending will catch up with you and the consequences could be long-lasting. Credit card debt can follow you around for years if you overspend in college. Don't throw your credit card around blindly and never spend more than you have in your bank account.

The best way to think of a credit card is as a debit card, that's just safer to use because you're protected against fraud. Keep on top of your minimal balance due dates and pay on time.

Bottom line

Basically, it's not bad idea to get a credit card if you think you can handle it. It will definitely will look good when you're trying to be an adult after graduation. If you're going to get a credit card, do your research and pick the one that works for you. We definitely wouldn't get more than one card because that's what tends to get people in trouble with spending.