Forbes Advisor considered dozens of credit cards that may be accessible to adults with no or limited credit history, similar to what a young adult may expect. Cards were graded based on numerous factors including:
- Annual fees
- Welcome bonus offers
- Ongoing reward rates
- Introductory and ongoing APRs
- Additional cardholder benefits
- Application criteria
Card features we expect cardholders to use the most often were weighted more heavily in our ratings. Together, the factors provided a star rating for each individual card.
Afterward, cards were compared amongst similar cards in their primary card category (e.g., student cards) and within the young adult credit card category as a whole. This allowed us to rank each card and determine the best credit cards for young adults on this list.
Forbes Advisor re-evaluates each credit card list at least every six months to determine if any cards need to be added and/or removed. However, a list could be updated sooner if significant changes are made to the mentioned cards or if a new credit card is announced that’s likely to impact the category.
To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards.