A little confused about the difference between the two. Are there any advantages to one over the other especially for a college student?
A secured credit card is a credit card that requires a security deposit. Secured credit cards are generally for individuals whose credit is damaged or who have no credit history at all. On the other hand, an unsecured credit card is one that does not require a security deposit. Unsecured credit cards are intended for individuals with good or excellent credit, and many unsecured credit cards offer excellent rewards programs including cash back, miles, and points.
A secured credit card is a credit card that is funded by you meaning the amount you deposit for the card determines your limit. On the other hand, an unsecured card does not require you to fund it. Another big difference between the two is that secured cards are usually easier to get when compared to unsecured cards.
A secured credit card is usually for people with limited or damaged credit and are looking to rebuild their credit, and it requires you to put down a deposit that is to be held as collateral until the account is closed. Your monthly spending limit will equal your deposit amount. If something goes wrong, your credit card issuer can then keep the money. An unsecured credit card is the kind of credit card most people use, where you borrow money on short notice and pay it off over time with interest. There is no collateral, which makes it riskier for borrowers and therefore requires good or excellent credit. They may charge high fees, but they can also come with rewards programs and extra benefits.